Philippines Seeks Cheaper Feedstocks for Bioethanol Production
The Philippine government is exploring cheaper feedstocks to boost local ethanol production as it aims to increase the bioethanol blend in gasoline. The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) met recently to discuss ways to lower feedstock costs, maximize idle distillery capacity, and expand local ethanol production.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said that they are studying different feedstock options, including molasses and sugarcane juice from the sugar industry and locally produced corn. He noted that locally sourced feedstocks cost more than imported supplies, while locally produced bioethanol prices are double those of imported bioethanol.
The DA is also looking at bolstering corn output through better seeds, mechanization, and contract farming between producers and ethanol plants. However, the agency warned that higher demand from ethanol producers could raise corn prices for livestock raisers.