The Philippine Biodiesel Association (TPBA) is urging lawmakers to consider the broader effects of House Bill 4151, saying any changes to the coco-biodiesel mandate must account for its impact on farmers, public health, and long-term energy security.

TPBA noted that the biodiesel program supports the livelihoods of around 25 million Filipinos in the coconut industry, providing market stability for replanting, modernization, and productivity initiatives. The association also pointed to the health benefits of coco-biodiesel, which can reduce soot emissions by up to 95%, contributing to the avoidance of an estimated PHP 1.86 to 2.2 trillion in annual health costs.

House Bill 4151, or the Murang Langis bill, seeks to amend the Biofuels Act of 2006 by allowing the President to temporarily suspend the blending requirement for up to one year. This authority may be exercised upon the recommendation of the National Biofuels Board and the Department of Energy if the price of blended gasoline or diesel becomes at least 5% higher than pure fuel.

TPBA said these proposed changes should also be viewed alongside the practical benefits consumers already receive from biodiesel. Studies by the Department of Energy (DOE) and UP-NCTS show that higher blends can deliver 6–10% mileage gains, translating into PHP 17 to 32.6 billion in annual consumer savings.

The association also clarified that blended diesel is not consistently more expensive than pure diesel. It said that during periods of global oil volatility, coco-biodiesel has been at price parity or even cheaper. Under current conditions, the B3 blend adds PHP 0.71 per liter over B2, or less than 2%, while a future B5 blend may add roughly 3%.

TPBA reaffirmed its support for DOE Secretary Sharon Garin, citing her leadership in advancing energy security, farmer welfare, and cleaner air. Executive Director Ramon Taniola said, “The DOE has done an excellent job ensuring energy security and balancing stakeholder needs… Biodiesel continues to give Filipinos more value per peso.”

The association said it ultimately supports the consumer-protection intent of HB 4151, but emphasized the need to evaluate the proposal within the full context of its economic, environmental, and sectoral implications.

Should changes to the biodiesel mandate consider impacts on farmers, motorists, and public health as part of the national energy discussion?

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.