The Sugar Regulatory Administration’s (SRA) decision to no longer handle the P0.10 per liter bioethanol research, development and extension (BRDE) lien from all producers using sugarcane-based feedstock is a welcome development for the sector, according to the Ethanol Producers Association of the Philippines (EPAP).
The SRA, under Sugar Order 5 released last January 30, provides that the agency will no longer collect the mandatory BRDE lien and all future payments, including past due accounts, if any, shall be paid or remitted directly to EPAP.
The collection of the lien became effective in January 2016.
SO 5, with the approval of the Sugar Board, endorses all bioethanol related projects to EPAP for evaluation and funding, provided this falls under sugarcane research, development and extension of purely sugarcane agricultural research and development efforts, among others.
SO 5 also provides that SRA and EPAP should now agree on the general terms and conditions for the implementation of bioethanol related projects.
The monitoring fee of P0.05 per liter collected by SRA continues as this serves as regulatory fee for bioethanol producers, however.
Gerry Tee, EPAP chairman, said the SO 5 is a positive development for the group.
