PB signs resolution on use of biofuel for government vehicles

The Provincial Board approved during last Monday's session a resolution which urged all mayors of different municipalities and component cities of Cebu to enjoin the use of coco-methyl ester (CME) commonly known as coco-biodiesel in all its diesel-run vehicles and machineries owned by these respective LGUs.

The resolution authored by PB member Jose Ma. Gastardo came after Flying V Corporation, a major player in the Philippine oil industry, was the first to introduce and provide the safe alternative diesel fuel in its different gasoline outlets here in the province.

In fact a separate resolution also authored by Gastardo was passed last Monday lauding Flying V Corporation for being the first to introduce the product to the Cebuano consumers. This is part of the company's commitment to provide cheap and safe alternative diesel fuel. Gastardo deemed it appropriate for such move to get merits and formal commendation from the PB.

Gastardo in his separate resolution also said that by directing the use of coco-biodiesel in all diesel-run government vehicles, the mayors in the different municipalities and component cities will not only manifest their compliance of the memo-circular signed by President Arroyo, but it also affords themselves both the opportunity to enjoy the economic and environmental benefits of the use of coco-biodiesel.

In February 9, 2004, GMA signed Memo Circular No. 55 directing all departments, bureaus, offices of the government including all government-owned and controlled corporations to incorporate the use of 1% by volume coconut methyl ester (CME) in their diesel requirements.

The circular was issued after DOE confirmed several findings and data supporting the safe use of coco-biodiesel in conventional diesel-fed transport vehicles. According also to DOE, coco-diesel is not only cheaper than fossil-based diesel but it also "provides even better engine performance and maintenance than conventional fuels resulting in greater economy and added savings." - Flor Z. Perolina