Philippines Seeks Alternative Feedstocks for Bioethanol Production

The Philippine government is seeking alternative feedstocks to boost bioethanol production and make locally produced bioethanol more competitive with imported fuel. In a meeting between Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, the agencies discussed ways to reduce the costs of feedstock, maximize idle distillery capacity, and expand domestic ethanol production.

The departments are looking at utilizing molasses and sugarcane juice, locally produced corn, and palm oil as alternative feedstocks to support higher bioethanol production. Tiu Laurel stated that these options have potential to help bring down gasoline prices.

Currently, the country's ethanol blend is 10 percent, but there are plans to raise it to 15 percent. The Philippine National Standard for bioethanol is being finalized, with a draft now undergoing public consultation.