The Archdiocese of Manila has urged its parishes to collect used cooking oil and convert it into biodiesel, aiming to promote environmental sustainability and reduce waste.
In a circular issued by the Archdiocese, the initiative is part of the Church's commitment to care for creation. Parishes are encouraged to set up collection points where residents can drop off their used cooking oil, which will then be processed into biodiesel fuel.
The move comes as the Philippines seeks alternative energy sources and ways to manage waste. Biodiesel produced from used cooking oil is a cleaner-burning fuel that can be used in diesel engines, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Father Carmelo Arada, Jr., head of the Archdiocesan Social Action Center, said the program is a practical step towards ecological conversion. "We can turn something considered waste into a resource that helps the environment and creates livelihood opportunities," he said.
The collected oil will be processed by partner organizations, and the resulting biodiesel will be used for Church vehicles and perhaps sold to generate funds for charitable projects. The Archdiocese hopes this initiative will inspire other dioceses to adopt similar programs.