It's sad that many disagree with the Bio-Fuel law. If we look beyond our parochial concerns we will see that it benefits the entire nation. It is one of the few laws passed in this decade that placed the welfare of the many over the concerns of the few.

In the long term, the positive impact of bio fuel use on the environment in terms of reduced harmful emissions far outweighs the impact it may have on a portion of the population who owns vehicles that might be adversely affected. Let's not forget that our vehicles burn fuel, and each time we drive, we contribute to polluting the environment. By reducing our carbon footprint we're decreasing the risk of ill-effects to millions of other non-car owning Filipinos.

Add to that the beneficial effect to our agricultural sector. Let's not forget that ethanol is derived from crops like corn which we grow locally. Contrast this to petroleum which we import, a burden that contributes to the depletion of our country's limited dollar reserves.

But the resentment is understandable. Laws such as this that places national interest over sectoral concerns goes through a phase of unpopularity, that is until the long term effects are felt. If we look at other countries, we will see that the Philippines is late in joining the bandwagon. Ethanol mix is higher in other countries and they're starting to feel the benefits in terms of cleaner air and reduced dependence on imported oil.