By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Dutch electronics giant Philips is expanding its presence in the Philippines by entering the country’s air-conditioning market, banking on the rising demand for energy-efficient cooling systems amid soaring temperatures and increasing electricity costs.
The company will distribute its residential air-conditioning units nationwide through Mulson’s Trading Corp., its exclusive Philippine distributor.
“The Philippines is not simply a new market for us. It is a market where we are committed to investing, growing, and succeeding together with our partners for the long term,” said Philips Air Conditioner Chief Executive Officer Wu Xiao Tu during the product launch at the Philconstruct Expo 2026 in Pasay City.
Industry data from Vyasa Intelligence estimates the Philippine air-conditioning market at more than $800 million, with households accounting for about 60 percent of total demand. The market is currently dominated by several established brands, including Panasonic and Carrier.
Philips believes growing consumer preference for inverter technology presents a significant opportunity as Filipino households seek to reduce electricity consumption without sacrificing comfort.
Francis Serrato, Business Unit Head for Air Conditioning at Mulson’s Trading Corp., said rising power rates have accelerated consumer demand for energy-saving appliances.
“With electricity prices continuing to rise, buyers are increasingly looking for inverter-type air conditioners that offer greater energy efficiency and long-term savings,” Serrato said.
For its initial rollout, Philips is introducing its Air Series and Classic Series inverter split-type air conditioners, along with a selection of window-type units.
The company said premium models under the Noble Series and Elite Series will be launched in the Philippine market at a later date.
The initial inverter lineup will be available in 1.0-, 1.5-, 2.0-, and 2.5-horsepower variants to cater to different residential cooling requirements.
Philips Air Conditioner manufactures its cooling products at its integrated production and research complex in Chuzhou, Anhui Province, China, which produces both residential and commercial air-conditioning systems.
To support its nationwide expansion, Mulson’s Trading said it will strengthen its after-sales service network by training dealers, installers, and technicians, ensuring reliable maintenance and customer support as Philips seeks to establish a stronger foothold in the highly competitive Philippine cooling market.
ia/xf
