MDPPA Heads ASEAN Motorcycle Technical Committee

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) has been elected to lead the ASEAN Automotive Federation’s Technical Committee for Motorcycle, placing the Philippine motorcycle sector at the center of regional talks on standards, regulation and environmental policy.

The three-year appointment took effect during a Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries gathering in Boracay in March 2026 and runs until March 2029.

Alexander Cumpas of Kawasaki Motors (Phils.) Corp. represents MDPPA as chair of the committee, known as AAF-TC5. MDPPA Secretary General Gilmar De Castro serves as secretariat.

Andrew Angeles of Honda Philippines, Inc. and Joselito Ang of Suzuki Philippines, Inc. also represent the association in the ASEAN Automotive Federation.

AAF-TC5 is the federation’s main body representing the motorcycle sector across ASEAN member states. Under MDPPA, it will join discussions of the ASEAN Automotive Product Working Group and the Private Public Forum.

The chairmanship gives the association a larger role in bringing industry concerns before ASEAN government bodies and policymakers. Regional cooperation will focus on harmonizing standards and regulations while supporting more sustainable mobility.

“Taking on this role is an opportunity for MDPPA to contribute the experience and perspective of the Philippine motorcycle industry to a broader regional conversation,” Cumpas said.

He said ASEAN motorcycle markets face many of the same opportunities and challenges, particularly in harmonization and standardization. Cooperation can help member groups learn from one another and develop approaches that support the industry, he added.

AAF-TC5 brings together national associations representing motorcycle businesses in their countries. Its members include Indonesia’s AISI, Malaysia’s MASAAM, Thailand’s TAIA and Vietnam’s VAMM. The committee also receives guidance from the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

“ASEAN is an important region for the motorcycle industry, and collaboration among its member associations is essential as the sector continues to evolve,” De Castro said.

He said MDPPA would share knowledge and represent Philippine industry interests as the committee works toward responsible and sustainable mobility across the region.

MDPPA members include Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha. The association works on road safety, regulatory compliance, environmental protection, technology and innovation.

Its recent programs include Tropang MAALAM, which promotes rider safety through education, awareness and training.