Group hits delay in Biofuels Act

The Philippine Biodiesel Association (TPBA) has expressed disappointment over the Department of Energy’s pronouncement of a possible delay in the implementation of the Biofuels Act.

TPBA convenor Cris Michelena said the possible delay would truly disappoint coconut farmers.

"I do not know how Bicolano and Visayan coconut famers will take that since they have relied on the law to take effect as mandated on April 12, 2007, or three months after its signing," Michelena said.

He said that "the consultations being undertaken about the law a few days ago seem to indicate that a majority of our people want it implemented soonest and there are no problems we see."

Michelena said the election period should not be seen as a major obstacle to the implementation of such important legislation which concerns the welfare of not only the coconut farmers but the entire economy.

"I think, in fact, that early implementation will boost credibility and trust. A delay may prove the opposite – a discredit," he said.

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla earlier hinted the possibility of a delay in the implementation of the Biofuels Act as this may be done a few days before the elections.

Lotilla said consumers may be preoccupied with the elections and may not be able to focus on the law admitting that they are still looking for a "convenient time" to roll out its implementation.

Despite the possible delay in the implementation, it was learned that the DOE has already been discussing the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRRs).

Sources said if the IRR would be ready soon, there would be no need to delay the implementation and in fact, roll out the Law earlier than expected.

Under the Biofuels Act, which was signed January this year, a one percent biodiesel blend should be available in the market three months after its signing.

Further, a five percent bioethanol blend, is expected to be carried out two years after the effectivity of the law.