Coconut group backs biodiesel blend hike

The United Coconut Association of the Philippines (UCAP) is in support of the proposed increase in biodiesel blend next year, fueled by confidence that coconut production will recover from weather-inflicted setbacks.

- By DEXTER BARRO II

UCAP Vice Chairman Dean Lao Jr. said the industry group is open to lifting the suspension of the hike in the threeto four-percent biodiesel blend, or B3 to B4, once domestic coconut supply “normalizes.”

“We expect that to happen next year because of our beneficial rates this year, and that the trees have rested this year. They should come back with higher productivity next year,” said Lao in a press conference.

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dexter Buted disclosed last month that the government is evaluating the market situation to determine when the suspension of the increase will be lifted.

Buted, a member of the National Biofuel Board (NBB), said the body is keen on initiating the increase to B4 within the first quarter of 2026.