MANILA - State-run PNOC-Alternative Fuels Corp yesterday said it has won a $1.3-billion deal with British firm NRG Chemical Engineering to build biofuel facilities in the Philippines.

PNOC-AFC said it will establish a new firm with NRG to invest in the sector over a five-year period. The British firm would own 70 percent of the venture, while PNOC-AFC will have 30 percent. "NRG has been looking for a possible partner in the region and they have decided to invest in the Philippines," PNOC-AFC president and chief executive Peter Abaya said.

The two firms plan to build a 3.5 million metric ton bio-refinery at a cost of $455 million, and a $600 million plantation for jatropha, a plant material which is used in producing biofuels.

All set for 2nd Cebu Auto Show

High-end car makers, retailers, distributors and automotive industry players will converge in Cebu City on June 1-3 for the 2nd Cebu Auto Show.

The event, organized by Worldbex Services International, hopes to bring forth world-class exposition that will alter the flea market-like approach among local auto shows, a press release from the company said.

Along with off-road demonstrations, test drives, instructive seminars on motor sports and auto performance upgrades and road safety, the 2nd Cebu Auto Show is expected to set a whole trend in automotive industry. Organizers said it can break records with the participation of the biggest and brightest names in the motoring industry in the south. Joseph Ang, WSI Founding Chairman, said the Auto Show will unfold an extraordinary experience for all car aficionados and enthusiasts in Cebu.

NHI endorses Lopez Jaena
name for new Iloilo airport

The National Historical Institute has endorsed the resolution of the Dr. Graciano Lopez Jaena Foundation to rename the new Iloilo airport in Cabatuan-Sta. Barbara after Graciano Lopez Jaena, Antique Governor Sally Zaldivar-Perez of the Western Visayas Cultural and Historical Council told Rolly Espina.

NHI chairperson Ambet Ocampo said the naming of the airport in Cabatuan after the national Ilonggo hero is a worthy tribute to this great Filipino. The NHI, Ocampo said, considers Lopez Jaena as one of the pillars of the reform movement in the late 19th century which eventually contributed to the struggle for the country's independence.

A copy of the resolution was submitted to the NHI on March 19 and was promptly endorsed by the historical institute to the Office of President.

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