Manila, Philippines: Japan is considering the Philippines as a key partner in developing bioethanol sources, as Tokyo expands cooperation on sugarcane research and low-carbon fuel initiatives.
Speaking at the Sustainable Development of Sugarcane Cultivation Symposium at The Sugarland Hotel in Bacolod, Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya said Japana sees significant long-term potential in the country’s sugarcane sector, reported philstar Global.
He expressed hope that the project “will bring long-lasting benefits by improving food security, strengthening farming systems, and most importantly, supporting farmers and their communities.” The project is a five-year joint research effort between Japan and the Philippines, involving Japanese universities and local institutions.
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) had signed an agreement with the University of Tokyo to advance practical research on sugarcane.
The collaboration seeks to create new technologies, enhance existing systems and explore how sugarcane can support multiple industries, including bioethanol production.
Kazuya said current studies, covering climate-resilient varieties, better planting practices and improved cane-to-ethanol conversion, could help boost productivity across sugar-producing areas and eventually support new export-focused value chains.
He also noted that Japanese researchers are coordinating with local agencies to identify areas suitable for expanding bioethanol feedstock production and to evaluate how small farmers can be included in future supply arrangements.
One key outcome of the partnership, according to the SRA, is the introduction of a Japanese “deep planting” technique to local farmers, resulting in higher yields.
