Philippines Pushes for B5 Biodiesel Blend to Support Coconut Industry

Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has endorsed a proposal to expand the country’s biodiesel blending mandate to 5% coconut-based biodiesel (B5). The move has also received support from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Coconut Industry Council, both of which have called for its immediate implementation.

According to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the B5 mandate would help strengthen the country’s coconut industry by increasing demand for coconut oil, benefiting millions of coconut farmers across the nation. The policy is expected to boost farmers’ incomes and provide new growth opportunities for the agricultural sector.

In addition to supporting rural livelihoods, the proposed increase in biodiesel blending is expected to create new jobs, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the country’s energy security. By increasing the use of domestically produced biofuels, the Philippines could reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products and improve resilience against global oil price volatility.

Tiu Laurel emphasized that the B5 biodiesel program represents an important investment in the future of both Filipino farmers and the country’s coconut industry. As one of the world’s leading coconut producers, the Philippines is well-positioned to expand the role of coconut-based biodiesel in its energy mix.

If implemented, the B5 mandate would mark another step forward in the country’s efforts to promote renewable energy, support agricultural development, and advance its long-term sustainability goals.