MANILA, Philippines - High consumer spending amid the country's robust economic growth lifted sales of vehicle assemblers belonging to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (Campi) in 2012.

The group announced in a statement on Thursday, January 10, its sales grew 11% last year to 156,659 vehicles, from 141,170 in 2011.

The growth was achieved despite parts supply constraints experienced by most brands in the first quarter of 2012 as a result of heavy flooding in Thailand, where main production plants are located.

The growth was also boosted by high take-up in December, a traditionally strong period for the industry because of the Christmas season.

Campi members sold 15,369 units in December, 48% higher than the 10,358 units sold in the same month of 2011.

Demand for passenger and commercial vehicles remained strong both in December and throughout the year.

Passenger car sales jumped 76% in December and 8% in 2012. Commercial vehicle sales, on the other hand, climbed 37% in December and 12.2% in 2012.

Toyota Motor Philippines dominated the market last year with a share of 42%, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Co., with 22%, and Honda Cars Philippines Inc., with 8%.

Other Campi members include Asian Carmakers Corp. (BMW), CATS Motors Inc. (Mercedes Benz, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge), Columbian Autocar Corp. (Kia), Eurobrands Distributor Inc. (Peugeot), Isuzu Philippines Corp., Nissan Motor Philippines Corp., Suzuki Philippines Inc., and Nissan-Universal Motors Corp. - Rappler.com