Benitez to launch biodiesel project in Bacolod

Bacolod City is set to unveil a community biodiesel initiative led by House Deputy Speaker and Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez on March 30, 2026, at the Community Center on Dallas Street, Las Palmas Subdivision, Barangay Taculing. The effort places circular economy practices at the heart of local energy use, turning everyday waste into cleaner fuel for people who rely on small engines and boats to make a living.

A local energy solution rooted in recycling

The project centers on collecting used cooking oil from households, eateries, and neighborhood businesses and converting it into biodiesel. By designing a simple pathway—from community collection points to localized processing and distribution—the program aims to cut dependence on conventional diesel while giving new value to a problematic waste stream.

Organizers say this approach blends practical climate action with waste reduction. Instead of ending up in drains, waterways, or landfills, used oil can become a cleaner-burning alternative fuel. The plan underscores a broader shift: energy that starts not in faraway refineries but in kitchens and food stalls across Bacolod.

Support for fisherfolk and coastal livelihoods

One of the initiative’s early targets is the city’s coastal and fishing communities. By making biodiesel available to local fisherfolk, the program seeks to ease fuel expenses and improve energy reliability for daily trips at sea. Lower operating costs can be the difference between a marginal and a sustainable livelihood, and cleaner-burning fuel can reduce smoke and odor around crowded shorelines and markets.

Leaders behind the rollout emphasize that better fuel choices support both people and nature: less pollution for coastal habitats and mangroves, and more predictable expenses for boat owners and small-scale traders.

“Collect, recycle, renew” in action

At its core, the program invites participation. Households and businesses are encouraged to store used cooking oil in clean containers and bring it to designated drop-off points. From there, the oil will be filtered and processed into biodiesel for distribution to community users, with priority for sectors that rely on small engines.

Key goals include:

• Reducing pollution by keeping waste oil out of waterways and drains
• Lowering fuel-related costs for vulnerable livelihoods
• Demonstrating practical, local-scale renewable energy
• Building skills and awareness around recycling and clean energy

Partnerships powering the rollout

The launch highlights collaboration among local government units, community groups, and private stakeholders. Each plays a role—collection logistics, processing technology, training, and distribution. This shared framework is designed to keep the system resilient and scalable, so more neighborhoods can join as the model proves itself.

What residents can expect

The event at the Community Center in Las Palmas Subdivision will introduce the collection process, provide guidance on proper storage of used oil, and outline how biodiesel distribution will work in the pilot phase. Information materials will help residents separate suitable feedstock, avoid contamination, and understand the benefits of community-made fuel.

Beyond launch day, organizers aim to maintain consistent collection schedules, transparent quality checks, and open feedback channels to ensure that the biodiesel meets user needs and that the system remains safe and reliable.

A cleaner, more resilient Bacolod

The project signals a practical pathway for cities seeking tangible climate and waste solutions. By linking waste management with renewable energy, Bacolod can cut pollution at the source, lessen strain on waste systems, and demonstrate how community action can reshape local energy use. Residents, businesses, and civic groups are encouraged to take part—one container of used cooking oil at a time.