By CESAR JOLITO III
Farmers and fisherfolk could save up to 50 percent on fuel expenses through the use of biodiesel, according to project proponents, following the relaunch of a renewable energy initiative at the Barangay Taculing Community Center in Bacolod City yesterday.
Ian Fred Solas, chief executive officer of Green Solutions, said the revived biodiesel project —spearheaded by Deputy Speaker and Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez — offers a practical response to the continuing rise in fuel prices.
Solas noted that the project was first introduced in 2023 when Benitez was still city mayor.
He emphasized that the initiative is now expected to provide greater economic relief, particularly to fuel-dependent sectors such as agriculture and fishing.
The biodiesel is produced from used cooking oil collected from restaurants, hotels and other establishments.
These are processed through a specialized machine and treated with a chemical formula to convert the waste oil into usable fuel.
The production process involves filtering used cooking oil to remove impurities before mixing it with methanol and a catalyst such as sodium or potassium hydroxide.
The mixture is then heated and agitated inside the brewer, triggering a chemical reaction that separates biodiesel from glycerin.
After separation, the biodiesel undergoes washing and drying to remove remaining impurities, resulting in a cleaner, renewable fuel that can be used either in pure form or blended with conventional diesel.
According to Solas, biodiesel may be sold at around P35 to P40 per liter.
However, some farmers and fisherfolk beneficiaries receive it for free through corporate social responsibility programs supported by partner establishments.
He added that biodiesel can also be used for diesel engine vehicles, making it a versatile and cost-effective alternative fuel.
A single biodiesel brewing machine can produce up to 100 liters in three hours, with a daily output capacity ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 liters.
Benitez revealed that each biodiesel brewer costs around P60,000, with the first three units funded during his tenure as mayor three years ago.
He said plans are underway to expand the project by coordinating with barangay officials interested in setting up their own biodiesel facilities.
The lawmaker described the initiative as an “immediate solution” to rising fuel costs, adding that scaling up operations will depend on the availability of machines and the provision of training.
Solas is expected to assist in conducting technical training and orientation for communities.
Meanwhile, Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya assured Benitez of the full support of the Bacolod City government for the continued implementation and expansion of the biodiesel project./CJ, WDJ