PNOC unit to start jatropha plantation in Palawan

The alternative fuels arm of the Philippine National Oil Co. (PNOC) is set to sign an agreement with a Palawan-based biodiesel firm for the plantation of jatropha in the province. Philippine National Oil Co.- Alternative Fuels Corp. (PNOC-AFC) Chairman Renato S. Velasco said the firm’s deal with the Royal Green Co. would involve 10,000 hectares of farmlands in Iwahig. Royal Green is a consortium between Palawan Biodiesel Development Corp. and a Korean firm. Jatropha, known locally as tuba-tuba, is a non-edible shrub that is being developed as a feedstock for biodiesel. PNOC-AFC General Manager Clovis T. Tupas said the development of the project would cost between Php30,000 and Php50,000 (US$660 to US$1,100) per hectare, depending on certain properties of the terrain. He added that the project may produce about 3,000 liters of blended diesel fuel per hectare. The state-owned firm will engage in research and development to ensure good quality jatropha seeds. Royal Green will then help by sharing its technology and expertise in producing biodiesel. The plantation is expected to generate at least 5,000 jobs. (August 27, 2007)