The Philippine Biodiesel Association (TPBA) has urged lawmakers in the Philippines to strengthen the country’s biofuel law, highlighting the sector’s role in protecting energy security amid rising oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East, GMA News reported.
In a statement, the group said Biofuels Act of 2006, also known as Republic Act 9367, remains the country’s most reliable safeguard against its dependence on imported fuels. The association called on legislators to reinforce the law rather than dilute or suspend its existing provisions.
Ramon Taniola, director of TPBA, said the law has delivered multiple benefits, including support for the local coconut industry, improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. He urged the government to continue enforcing the biodiesel blending mandate and maintain the use of locally sourced biofuels, which support millions of coconut farmers.
The association said the Biofuels Act has also helped create a stable domestic market for Philippine coconut oil, reducing the industry’s reliance on volatile export markets.
According to TPBA, the country currently has 14 biodiesel plants that use 100 per cent locally sourced coconut oil to produce coconut methyl ester, a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-based diesel.
The group said continued implementation of the biofuel policy would help support rural agricultural communities while also reducing the country’s dependence on imported fuel.
Fuel prices in the Philippines are expected to rise further this week, with diesel prices projected to increase by 19 to 22 pesos per litre and gasoline by 12 to 16 pesos per litre.
The latest price surge follows escalating tensions in the Middle East after the United States and Israel carried out coordinated strikes on Iran on February 28, triggering volatility in global oil markets.
