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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider Northern Samar solon backs substitute biofuels bill amid oil crisis

Northern Samar solon backs substitute biofuels bill amid oil crisis

Published Mar 12, 2026 04:07 pm
TACLOBAN CITY – A lawmaker in Northern Samar welcomed on Thursday the House Committee on Energy's approval of a substitute bill to temporarily suspend the mandatory use of biofuels for up to one year amid the global rise in fuel prices.
The bill, according to Northern Samar second district Rep. Edwin Ongchuan, amends Section 5 of Republic Act No. 9367, also known as the Biofuels Act of 2006.
“The measure allows the President, upon recommendations from the National Biofuels Board and the Department of Energy, to temporarily suspend the mandatory use of biofuels for up to one year if blended fuel prices rise by at least five percent compared to pure gasoline or diesel,” Ongchuan stated.
The substitute bill, which consolidates House Bills 4151 and 5788, was discussed during the Committee on Energy hearing on Wednesday.
During the hearing, Ongchuan signified his intent to be a co-author of the measure. The bill was endorsed by the Committee on Energy, chaired by Rep. Jose C. Alvarez, with support from Deputy Speaker Kristine Singson-Meehan and Rep. Eric L. Olivarez.
“The bill is particularly significant as the Philippines faces fuel supply challenges caused by the ongoing war in the Middle East. The temporary suspension provision ensures that consumers are protected from sudden fuel price increases while supporting the local biofuel industry,” Ongchuan added.
The lawmaker said the substitute bill provides a practical balance between promoting renewable energy, ensuring energy security, and protecting consumers from volatile fuel prices.
The committee’s endorsement advances the measure towards becoming law.

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Northern Samar Rep. Edwin Ongchuan Biofuels
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