The Philippine government may suspend the increase in the biodiesel blend ratio

The Philippine government is considering suspending the planned October increase of the biodiesel blending rate to B4, containing 4% coconut methyl ester (CME), in an attempt to address the sharp rise in fuel prices, reports Business Inquirer. "The National Biofuels Board (NBB) recently held a meeting where it was proposed to suspend the implementation of B4 in October," said Celia Rakepo, head of laboratory services at the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), as reported on June 12. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the goal of increasing the level to B4 is to promote cleaner energy and economic growth. Rakepo reported that the recommendation was made during a meeting of the National Biofuels Board (NBB), as the planned increase in CME content in all diesel fuels sold in the country could lead to rising coconut prices. She added that although the country has sufficient coconuts, copra prices are increasing. As Business Inquirer writes, the NBB proposal was to be ...