The group said decisions on whether to suspend blending should look beyond short-term fuel price gaps and account for rural income, energy resilience and cleaner-air benefits.
More than pump prices
HB 4151 proposes temporarily halting biodiesel use when blended diesel becomes 5 percent more expensive than pure fuel.
TPBA noted that coco-biodiesel’s 6–10 percent mileage gain can offset cost differences and argued that its value is clearer when viewed through long-term economic and public-health outcomes.
A steady pillar for coconut communities
Under the Department of Energy’s B3 mandate, biodiesel demand has provided consistent income for farmers, millers, haulers and rural supply chains.
The association acknowledged energy chief Sharon Garin’s role in maintaining standards that support both rural livelihoods and fuel quality.
“When you remove stability from the coconut market, you don’t just affect companies — you affect families, entire communities, and 25 million Filipinos whose livelihoods depend on coconuts,” said Ramon Taniola, executive director of TPBA.
Health and efficiency in one policy
TPBA highlighted data showing up to 95 percent soot reduction from biodiesel use, which could help ease pollution-related health burdens.
“Cleaner air is a national benefit, not an industry perk. The health savings alone outweigh any temporary difference in pump price. Protecting biodiesel means protecting the health of every Filipino,” Taniola said.
Mileage efficiency also provides P17–32.6 billion in estimated annual savings.
“Motorists save, farmers earn, and Filipinos breathe cleaner air — this is what B3 already delivers,” he added.
“Protecting biodiesel means protecting people. And in the end, that is what national policy should always stand for,” Taniola concluded.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
