The Senate did not approve amendments to the Biofuels Act, even after the measure was certified as urgent by Malacañang, underscoring that such a designation does not guarantee swift passage.

As reported by RH Raymund Dadpaas, the proposed amendments aimed to allow the importation of fuel additives as a way to help reduce soaring oil prices, which have surged sharply due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Senator Win Gatchalian emphasized the need for careful consideration, noting that roughly 400,000 farmers, workers, and consumers could be affected by the changes. He added that temporary fare hikes could trigger inflationary pressures as manufacturers and employees adjust to increased costs.

“Kapag nagtaas ang fare hike sigurado ako itataas ng mga manufacturers ang kanilang produkto. Kasi pass on yan eh, magkakaroon ng pass on. Inflationary talaga ang fare hike,” Gatchalian said.

“Hindi naman ito pangmatagalan na suspension. Temporary lang ito para mabigay yung ibang mekanismo tulad ng pantawid pasada at iba pang mga direct subsidies,” the senator added.

Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri cited concerns from various sectors, including coconut and sugar farmers, ethanol producers, and biodiesel manufacturers saying that many of their colleagues fear significant impact on these industries.

“Maliit lang ang blend ng biodiesel tsaka ng ethanol, so our colleagues, particularly the minority and some members of the majority wanted a longer discussion on the floor. So hindi talaga kaya ng 1 day lang,” Zubiri explained.

The measure was initially certified as urgent by President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on March 16, highlighting the administration’s intent to address rising fuel prices and strengthen energy supply stability.

Despite the urgency, senators opted for extended deliberations, leaving the bill’s fate pending further discussion.