By Minerva BC Newman
ILOILO CITY — The Department of Energy (DOE) has stepped up efforts to convince public transport to use auto-Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Auto-LPG) as fuel.
DOE-VFO holds 2nd Auto-LPG TWG Meeting for Region VI
(DOE / MANILA BULLETIN)
During the second Western Visayas Auto-LPG Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting recently in Iloilo City, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said the department must establish the necessary framework, policies, rules, and guidelines to ensure the safe and effective use of LPG as an automotive fuel not only in Metro Manila, but nationwide.
“We continue to explore the viability of auto-LPG as a transport fuel option in line with our efforts to help seek affordable and environment-friendly fuel alternatives to public transportation groups,” Cusi said.
DOE Visayas Field Office OIC-Director Jose Rey Maleza emphasized the need for the group to come up with ways to boost the use of auto-LPG in Western Visayas.
Among the issues discussed during the meeting was the apparent decrease in auto-LPG end-users. Maleza attributed it to the spread of inaccurate information, such as supposed adverse health effects on drivers and commuters.
“This has negatively affected the public’s perception on auto-LPG,” Maleza said.
DOE VFO Energy Resource Development and Utilization Division Chief Lourdes Arciaga also recommended the inclusion of the fast-tracking of the training and certification of the region’s auto-LPG technicians in the group’s plan.
The group members include representatives from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Energy Management Bureau (EMB), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).