Philippine government may halt biodiesel blend increase

The Philippine government is considering suspending the planned October increase in the blending rate of biodiesel to B4, which contains 4 percent coco methyl ether (CME), in a bid to address the sharp rise in fuel prices, Business Inquirer reported.

“The National Biofuel Board (NBB) recently held a meeting to propose suspending the implementation of B4 in October,” said Celia Raquepo, head of the laboratory services division of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), according to a report dated June 12.

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the objective of raising the level to B4 is to promote the use of cleaner energy as well as economic growth.

Rakepo said the recommendation was made during a meeting of the National Commodity Board (NBB) because the planned increase in CME content in all diesel sold in the country could lead to an increase in coconut prices.

She added that although the country has sufficient coconuts, the price of copra is rising.

According to Business Inquirer, the NBB proposal had to be approved by the Energy Secretary, who is the chairman of the board.

In October last year, the CME diesel content was increased from 2% to 3%, with a subsequent increase to 4% scheduled for October 1 this year and 5% by October 1, 2026.

The US Department of Energy has previously said that the higher CME content would benefit coconut farmers, biodiesel producers and other stakeholders in the coconut industry.

Tags: Philippines