Detail

Philippines

Biofuels

Biodiesel

01/07/2013

Renewable energy

Renewable energy policy

Comitted to increased the country’s mandated biodiesel blend from currently 2 percent to 5 percent by end 2013 – two years ahead of the original target.

PHILIPPINES – biofuel policy: The National Biodiesel Board (a body composed of representatives from six ministries, the country’s Coconut Authority and the Sugar Regulatory Administration) has approved an increase in the country’s mandated biodiesel blend from currently 2 percent to 5 percent by end 2013 – two years ahead of the target set in the Biofuels Act of 2006 (see also MPPU Jul. & Nov.’12). The planned increase would raise domestic demand for coconut methyl ester to about 350 000 tons per year, compared to 140 000 tons at present. Ministry officials said they were confident that the country’s coconut sector was able to supply the required amounts. Reportedly, in recent years, the country’s coconut sector has suffered from oversupply, falling export demand for coconut oil and declining domestic copra prices. The proposed shift to a higher mandatory blend is expected to bolster domestic demand, thus helping to stabilize prices. Reportedly, consultations with all concerned sectors will be held and specific technical test carried out before proceeding with nationwide introduction of the higher blend.