It's been a long time coming, but after several years, Ayala Corporation's Automobile Central Enterprise Inc. (ACEI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AC Industrials, has formally agreed to conclude its partnership with Volkswagen AG in distributing vehicles in the Philippines.

This new development from Ayala Corporation comes after the company officially ended its Maxus distributorship in the country last month. As this chapter comes to a close, both companies are moving forward with strategies toward the continued evolution of the automotive space in the country.

“Over the past years, we’ve been proud to have brought the heritage and innovation of Volkswagen to the Filipino market. As we continue our transformation towards electric and sustainable mobility solutions, we recognize this as a natural point of evolution for both companies. While our paths are now taking different directions, we part ways with mutual respect, deep appreciation, and with optimism as both organizations pursue new opportunities,” said Dana Uson, Head of Strategy at ACMobility.

As part of the transition, Volkswagen's selling activities in the Philippines will officially end, and the brand's final dealership in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) will cease operations by the end of the month.

While the company will stop distributing Volkswagen vehicles soon, the automaker is fully committed to supporting existing customers in the country. Vehicle servicing, maintenance, and warranty support will continue to be available through the Alabang Service Center, Pampanga Service Center, and other authorized service touchpoints. Customers may book service appointments via this [email protected]. For Pampanga customers, please contact 0918 8542379 or email [email protected].

Volkswagen AG expressed its gratitude to ACEI for its stewardship and contributions over the years.

“We value the strong relationship built with ACEI and the loyalty of our Filipino customers. As we move forward, our priority remains to provide uninterrupted service and support, ensuring Volkswagen owners continue to enjoy peace of mind. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility in the Philippines,” said Vassil Stavrev, Director, Sales Region India & ASEAN at Volkswagen AG.

Ayala took distributorship of Volkswagen vehicles back in September 2013 and introduced models, such as the Jetta, Touran, Tiguan, Touareg, and the New Beetle, which followed in August 2014. In February 2015, Volkswagen Philippines decided to bring the much-revered Golf GTI, much to the pleasure of enthusiasts. Other Volkswagen models, such as the CC, Passat, and Caddy, also made their way to the Philippine market.

Then in 2018, Volkswagen Philippines shifted direction by offering China-made models in a bid to offer more affordable vehicles to the Philippine market. They brought nameplates such as the Santana, Santana Plus, Santana GTS, Lavida, and the Lamando. With new and unfamiliar nameplates, some buyers were wary about the PRC-made vehicles. The automaker then followed up its offerings with the T-Cross, Multivan Kombi, and the Tharu, which was the last new model Volkswagen introduced in the Philippines.

What Volkswagen models do you think stood out the most from the brand's varied lineup? Let us know in the comments.