The association will lead AAF-TC5 until March 2029, giving the Philippine motorcycle industry a stronger voice in regional discussions on standards, regulation, and sustainability.
The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) has been elected to lead the ASEAN Automotive Federation’s Technical Committee for Motorcycle (AAF-TC5), giving the Philippine motorcycle industry a key leadership role in regional discussions and initiatives affecting the sector.
The appointment took effect during a gathering of the Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries in Boracay in March 2026 and will run until March 2029. During that period, MDPPA is expected to help lead regional work on motorcycle standardization, regulatory harmonization, and environmental sustainability.
Representing the Philippine motorcycle industry
Representing MDPPA in its leadership of AAF-TC5 is Alexander Cumpas of Kawasaki Motors (Phils.) Corp., who serves as chairman, while MDPPA secretary general Gilmar De Castro serves as secretariat. MDPPA is also represented in the ASEAN Automotive Federation by Andrew Angeles of Honda Philippines, Inc. and Joselito Ang of Suzuki Philippines, Inc.
AAF-TC5 serves as the principal organization representing the motorcycle industry across ASEAN member states. As chair, MDPPA will represent the regional motorcycle industry in key discussions involving the ASEAN Automotive Product Working Group and the Private Public Forum.
The role gives MDPPA an opportunity to bring the Philippine motorcycle industry’s perspective into discussions with government bodies and policy makers across ASEAN. It also allows the association to contribute more directly to regional conversations that may influence the future direction of the motorcycle sector.
“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,” said Alexander Cumpas, AAF-TC5 chair.
“Motorcycle markets across ASEAN share many opportunities and challenges especially with regard to harmonization and standardization. We are positive that this cooperation allows us to learn from one another while working toward approaches that support the continued development of the industry.”
Working across ASEAN markets
AAF-TC5 forms part of the ASEAN Automotive Federation, which is an affiliate of the ASEAN Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The committee brings together national associations and organizations recognized as representatives of the motorcycle business sector in their respective countries.
Alongside MDPPA, members include the Asosiasi Industri Sepeda Motor Indonesia (AISI), Motorcycle & Scooter Assemblers and Distributors Association of Malaysia (MASAAM), Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA), and Vietnam Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (VAMM). The committee also works with guidance from the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).
The group photo on page 1 of the release shows representatives from FAMI member organizations in Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, underscoring the regional nature of the committee’s work.
“ASEAN is an important region for the motorcycle industry, and collaboration among its member associations is essential as the sector continues to evolve,” said Gilmar De Castro, AAF secretary.
“We look forward to working closely with our regional counterparts, sharing knowledge and representing the interests of the Philippine motorcycle industry as we contribute to the responsible and sustainable growth of mobility across ASEAN.”
Extending MDPPA’s regional role
MDPPA represents leading motorcycle manufacturers Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha in the Philippines. Its work covers areas such as road safety, regulatory compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through consultation and engagement with industry stakeholders.
The association has also been involved in rider-safety initiatives such as Tropang MAALAM, or Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino, which focuses on education, awareness, and training.
More information about MDPPA and its programs is available through the MDPPA website.