Bacolod expands conversion of used cooking oil into biofuel

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — To address surging fuel prices, Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez is expanding an initiative involving the conversion of used cooking oil into biofuel, which will be sold to small-scale fishermen.

Benitez, who led the launch of the scaled-up “Collect, Recycle and Renew” project in Barangay Taculing on Monday, said the initiative aims to promote biofuel as a viable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, particularly among fishermen, who typically spend 80 percent of their earnings on fuel alone.

With global oil prices remaining volatile, the project offers immediate relief while promoting long-term sustainability, Benitez said.

“It is also expected to help reduce pollution, improve waste management and promote renewable energy practices in the city,” he said.

Raw materials for the project will be sourced from restaurants, hotels and catering services.

When he was mayor of Bacolod, Benitez tapped the IF Green Technologies to convert into biofuel oil sludge that clogged the city’s drainage system.

Ian Fred Solas, IF Green Technologies chief executive officer, said farmers and fisherfolk can buy biofuel at P35 to P40 per liter.