IS IT TIME TO PUSH FOR A HIGHER BIODIESEL BLEND?

IS IT TIME TO PUSH FOR A HIGHER BIODIESEL BLEND?

The question of pushing for a higher biodiesel blend has suddenly become very timely. As of early 2026, the Philippines is currently implementing a B3 blend, meaning that diesel sold in the market contains 3 percent coco-methyl ester (CME) derived from coconut oil. The plan of the government is to gradually increase the blend to B4 and eventually B5 by October 2026 under the Biofuels Act of 2006.

But perhaps the bigger question now is this: Are these targets already outdated?

The global oil situation has changed dramatically. Wars in the Middle East, supply disruptions, and volatile oil markets have once again reminded us how vulnerable we are to imported fuel. The Philippines imports the vast majority of its petroleum needs. Every spike in global prices quickly translates into higher transport costs, higher food prices, and higher electricity costs.

So why not look closer to home?

At the center of this opportunity are the estimated 2.5 million Filipino coconut farmers. For decades, they have remained among the poorest sectors of our agricultural economy. Coconut farming communities have often been trapped in a cycle of low farmgate prices and limited markets.

Biodiesel—also known as cocodiesel—could change that.

When coconut oil is processed into coco-methyl ester and blended with diesel, it improves fuel performance. Studies by the Department of Energy have long shown that CME has a higher cetane number and better lubricating properties, resulting in cleaner combustion and potentially better mileage. In fact, some industry estimates suggest that increasing the blend could improve mileage by around 3 percent or more, depending on the engine and driving conditions.

But the potential benefits go far beyond engine efficiency.

Higher biodiesel blends could create a stable domestic market for coconut oil, generating new income for farmers while reducing our dependence on imported petroleum. This means more jobs not only in coconut farming but also in processing plants, transport logistics, and fuel distribution.

If that sounds ambitious, consider what our neighbor Indonesia has already achieved. Indonesia is currently implementing a B35 biodiesel program, meaning diesel fuel contains 35 percent biodiesel, with plans to move toward B40. Their biodiesel program, largely based on palm oil, has already reduced billions of dollars in fuel imports while supporting millions of farmers.

If Indonesia can do it, why can’t we?

Of course, there are legitimate concerns. Coconut oil prices have been volatile in recent years. At one point in 2025, global prices increased by more than $300 per metric ton, prompting authorities to delay the scheduled increase in biodiesel blending because of fears that it could push fuel prices higher.

There are also technical considerations. While most modern diesel engines can safely operate on blends up to B20, older vehicles may encounter fuel filter issues because biodiesel acts as a solvent that cleans deposits inside fuel systems.

Still, these concerns should not stop us from thinking bigger.

Perhaps the real issue is not whether biodiesel works. The science for this  has already been established for decades. The real issue is whether the Philippines is ready to pursue a more ambitious strategy.

What if we aim not just for B5, but for B10 or B20 within the next decade?

What if we set a national target to replace 10 percent or more of imported diesel with locally produced biodiesel?

Such a program would require a whole-of-government approach. The Department of Energy would obviously lead the fuel policy. But the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Science and Technology, and the Department of Trade and Industry would also have crucial roles to play in increasing coconut productivity, improving processing technology, and expanding biodiesel infrastructure.

More importantly, it would require strong political will.

Perhaps someone should bring this idea to the attention of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Instead of endlessly scrambling for imported diesel and gasoline, maybe we should look into our own backyard.

Because sometimes the solution to an energy crisis may already be growing on our trees. 

RAMON IKE V. SENERES

www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com senseneres.blogspot.com 09088877282/05-07-2027

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