Philippines raises biodiesel blend to 2%

The Philippines is projected to consume 134 million liters of coconut methyl ester (CME) in 2009, twice as much as in 2008, with the introduction of a 2% biodiesel blend, an increase from 1%, on February 6. While current production from the country’s 11 CME producers are below their plants’ rated capacity of 384 million liters, the National Biofuels Board (NBB) expects Senbel Fine Chemicals Co. Inc., Chemrez Inc., Golden Asian Oil International Inc., Pure Essence International Inc., and other biofuel companies to raise their production. To further encourage boost CME consumption, the NBB is deliberating whether to increase the mandatory CME blend to 3%. The proposal is being reviewed by the NBB’s Technical Consultants on Petroleum Products and Additives. (February 12, 2009)