
In a significant move towards advancing biofuel use, the Philippines has recently permitted fuel retailers to mix up to 20-percent ethanol (E20) with gasoline, a policy that positions it among the leaders in global biofuel integration. This new mandate has spurred the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and Illinois Corn to invite a delegation from the Philippines to explore the U.S. ethanol value chain and witness its sustainability and quality first-hand.
The visit, which began on August 4, included representatives from the Philippines National Biofuels Board and was designed to strengthen the relationship between the Philippines' burgeoning biofuel market and U.S. ethanol producers. The delegation toured several key facilities in Illinois, gaining insights into the entire ethanol production process from corn farming to fuel blending.
Caleb Wurth, USGC's regional director for Southeast Asia and Oceania, highlighted the environmental and consumer benefits of the E20 blend rate, expressing hope that the Philippines' progressive stance could inspire similar policies worldwide.
During their visit, the officials engaged in high-level meetings and tours at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s bioprocessing research laboratory, Illinois Corn’s headquarters, and Marquis Energy, the world’s largest dry-milling ethanol facility. They also met with U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski and representatives from the American Lung Association to discuss the health benefits associated with higher ethanol blends.
The delegation's itinerary also included visits to the Consulate General of the Philippines in Chicago, discussions with U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emmanuel, and presentations at the University of Illinois - Chicago’s Energy Resources Center on the role of biofuels in reducing carbon emissions and improving gasoline quality.
Further interactions included stops at Archer Daniels Midland and Honeywell UOP to discuss their investments in the Philippines and sustainable aviation fuel market developments in Southeast Asia and Oceania, respectively.
This educational journey concluded with visits to a Kinder Morgan fuel terminal and a retail fuel station, offering the delegation a comprehensive view of the ethanol distribution and retail network in the U.S.
Through such immersive experiences, the U.S. Grains Council and Illinois Corn aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of U.S. ethanol, ensuring the Philippines feels confident in the quality and sustainability of U.S. biofuels to meet its new demand.