Northern samar: A lawmaker in Northern Samar expressed support for the House Committee on Energy's recent approval of a substitute bill aimed at temporarily suspending the mandatory use of biofuels for up to one year due to the global increase in fuel prices. The bill seeks to address the immediate impacts on fuel costs and consumer protection.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bill, supported by Northern Samar 2nd District Representative Edwin Ongchuan, proposes an amendment to Section 5 of Republic Act No. 9367, also known as the Biofuels Act of 2006. Ongchuan explained that this measure would empower the President, upon recommendations from the National Biofuels Board and the Department of Energy, to temporarily halt the mandatory use of biofuels if blended fuel prices rise by at least five percent compared to pure gasoline or diesel.

The substitute bill, which merges House Bills 4151 and 5788, was deliberated during the Committee on Energy's session on Wednesday. Ongchuan expressed his intention to become a co-author of the measure. The Committee on Energy, led by Chairman Jose C. Alvarez and supported by Deputy Speaker Kristine Singson-Meehan and Representative Eric L. Olivarez, endorsed the bill.

The lawmaker highlighted the bill's relevance amid the fuel supply challenges faced by the Philippines due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The temporary suspension provision aims to protect consumers from abrupt fuel price hikes while still supporting the local biofuel industry. Ongchuan emphasized that the substitute bill seeks to balance the promotion of renewable energy, energy security, and consumer protection from fluctuating fuel prices.

The committee's endorsement marks a significant step forward in the legislative process, bringing the measure closer to becoming law.