Xavier, Energy department launch cassava ethanol research

THE Department of Energy (DOE) has granted Xavier University (XU) a P3.3-million fund for research and development on cassava as source of bioethanol.

The research project seeks to evaluate the potential of several varieties of cassava in Northern Mindanao region for the development of a pilot scale cassava bioethanol plant.

“We are very hopeful that the testing will yield positive results. This will be a game changer for Mindanao,” said DOE Undersecretary Jose Layug during the launching of the project last week.

Layug said one of the priorities of DOE is the promotion of alternative fuels to answer the 300 million liters deficiency of biofuels in the country.

“The study with XU’s Agricultural Engineering Department can contribute to the country’s attempt to become energy self-sufficient,” he said.

Bro. Noel Cantago, SJ, XU vice president for Mission and Ministry, said the research is in accordance with XU’s promotion of sustainable development, part of which is to align with the thrusts of the government.

“Through this project, we hope to bring more development to Northern Mindanao,” Cantago said.

Northern Mindanao is one of the major cassava producing regions in the Philippines.

Cassava is being used for food, feeds and for other industrial activities while ethanol is produced from the fermentation of cassava using bacteria, fungi and yeast. (PR)