Libanan Pushes for Aid to 3.5M Coconut Farmers as Biofuel Blending Suspension Looms

by Miriam G.Desacada

Tacloban City–Minority Leader Nonoy Libanan is calling for direct subsidies for 3.5 million coconut farmers and workers who might be hit hard by the possible suspension of biofuel blending .

He wants agencies like DSWD, DOLE, and DA to distribute aid quickly.

“We must mobilize the DSWD, DOLE, and DA to deliver direct cash support, emergency employment, and agricultural assistance to cushion the impact on vulnerable communities,” he added.

Biofuel blending refers to the practice of mixing a certain percentage of biofuels—such as coconut-based biodiesel—with conventional petroleum fuels like diesel or gasoline.

The policy supports local farmers, reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, and promotes cleaner energy.

However, suspending the mandate could reduce demand for coconut-derived biofuels, potentially lowering copra prices and affecting farmers’ incomes.

Citing Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) figures, Libanan said some 3.5 million registered coconut farmers nationwide work across 3.6 million hectares of plantations.

The PCA also estimates that around 25 million Filipinos derive income or economic support from the coconut industry, whether as farmers, laborers, or participants in related value chains.

Libanan pointed out that more than 60 percent of coconut farmers and workers live below the poverty line, making them especially vulnerable to any downturn in copra prices.

“These numbers underscore the urgency of protecting our coconut farmers. A sudden drop in demand for coconut-based biofuels could trigger a decline in copra prices, pushing already struggling families deeper into poverty,” Libanan warned.

“We cannot pursue economic relief in one sector at the expense of another. A balanced approach is needed—one that stabilizes fuel prices while preserving the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos,” he concluded.

Last week, the House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a bill that would allow the temporary suspension of mandatory biofuel blending, in a bid to ease the upward pressure on fuel pump prices.House Bill No. 8469 seeks to amend the Biofuels Law of 2006, and grants the President the authority to suspend the required use of locally sourced biofuels for up to one year if blended fuel prices exceed those of pure diesel or gasoline by at least five percent.

The Senate, however, adjourned for the Lenten break without passing its counterpart measure, despite the bill having been certified as urgent by Malacañang.—-Miriam G.Desacada