Group pushes for stronger biofuel law to safeguard PH energy security

The Philippine Biodiesel Association (TPBA) on Monday pushed for stronger biofuel law as it highlighted the critical role of the industry in safeguarding the country's energy security amid the oil price shocks brought by the Middle East tension. 

In a press release, the TPBA said that Republic Act 9367, also known as the Biofuels Act of 2006, remains the country's most reliable defense against its inherent vulnerability when it comes to imported fuels.

The group urged legislators to strengthen further, rather than dilute or suspend, the current policies of the original law.

"Given RA 9367’s multiplier benefits - from fortifying the local coconut industry, to increased mileage and proven emissions reduction, we call for the continued implementation of the blending mandate and to maintain local sourcing of biofuels, which supports millions of coconut farmers who form this country’s backbone," TPBA director Ramon Taniola said. 

"The Biofuels Act was enacted two decades ago with the foresight to prepare the nation for this very crisis, and we must now, more than ever, protect the progress we have made towards cleaner air, climate readiness and import independence,” he added.

The group said that at present, a total of 14 biodiesel facilities utilize 100% locally-sourced coconut oil to produce coconut methyl ester, which is a cleaner, environmentally friendly, locally sourced biofuel that is used as the country’s alternative to fossil fuel-based diesel. 

''By creating a consistent local market for Philippine-made coconut oil, the Biofuels Act has also provided coconut farmers and the entire copra-coconut oil value chain a domestic alternative to the volatile export market,'' the TPBA said. 

''Its continued implementation ensures the country not only directly supports Filipino agricultural communities but also helps shift the country’s position towards reducing import dependence,'' it added.

The TPBA is the leading organization representing the country’s biodiesel producers. It seeks to promote the use of sustainable, coconut-based fuels to drive economic growth, environmental stewardship, and energy independence.

Another round of massive oil price hikes are expected to be implemented this week, with diesel projected to rise by P19 to P22 per liter and gasoline by P12 to P16 per liter.

The conflict in the Middle East escalated after the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran on February 28, causing consecutive increases in fuel prices. —AOL, GMA Integrated News