United States (US) diplomat in Japan, Ambassador Rahm Emanuel, is suggesting a trilateral partnership involving the US, Japan, and the Philippines in biofuels.
In a report by Philippine Star, Emanuel proposed a “win-win-win” plan that would benefit all three countries.
Under the planned partnership, environmentally friendly ethanol would be produced in Illinois and processed at facilities in the Philippines, which in turn could create jobs.
This ethanol would then be used in biofuel-ready vehicles manufactured in the US and Japan, contributing to fuel affordability, guaranteeing energy security, and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the transportation sector.
The Philippine delegation, which included members of the National Biofuels Board, was joined by representatives from the US Grains Council and the Illinois Corn Marketing Board in the meeting with Emanuel, who is also a former mayor of Chicago.
Consul General Susana Paez welcomed the delegation to Chicago and thanked the US Grains Council and Illinois Corn Board for organizing the study tour.
The tour aims to provide the Philippine delegation with insights into the US bioethanol supply chain, quality control, and the monitoring processes, in line with the new Philippine fuel standard that allows 20% ethanol (E20) in gasoline products starting October 1.
Paez expressed optimism that this will support food security and enable the Philippines fulfill its obligations to combat climate change and meet biofuel requirements.
