The Philippines is making strides towards promoting the use of genetic modification to address challenges in agriculture and public health. However, the promotion of GMOs in the country is met with challenges and concerns. Safety concerns surrounding GMOs, particularly with the approval of Golden Rice, have sparked opposition from farmers, activist groups, and critics. Socio-economic issues in the agricultural sector are also highlighted as factors that need to be addressed in promoting genetic modification. Furthermore, market acceptance and the success of Golden Rice as a solution to vitamin A deficiency remain uncertain. Advocates for local and organic farming also argue for a farmer-centric approach to agricultural research. Regardless, advances in GMO research and technologies have the potential to uplift different industries and may be utilized to improve food security and public health in the country. Here are some updates and an overview of the current trends in GMOs in the Philippines:

 

What Is Genetic Modification?

Genetic modification is a method of transferring a piece of DNA from one organism to another for the purpose of changing the characteristics of a plant, animal, or microorganism (Wageningen University & Research, 2023). Genetically modified foods (GM/GMO foods), genetically engineered foods (GE foods), and, more recently, bioengineered foods (BE foods) are terms used to describe foods that involve genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Combinations of animal, plant, bacteria, and virus genes are created through genetic modification of living things, which is not often found in nature or through natural recombination.
 

How is It Applied In The Philippines?

The Philippines has embraced genetic modification as a tool to address agricultural challenges and improve crop production. Here are some key applications of genetic modification in the Philippines:

1. Bt Corn: The Philippines approved the commercial cultivation of Bt corn in 2003. Bt corn is genetically modified to express a protein derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that provides resistance against certain pests, such as the Asiatic corn borer. By incorporating the Bt gene into corn plants, farmers can reduce the need for synthetic pesticides, leading to lower production costs and potentially higher yields.

2. Bt Eggplant: The Philippines is also conducting field trials for Bt eggplant. Similar to Bt corn, Bt eggplant has been genetically modified to produce the Bt protein, providing resistance against the eggplant fruit and shoot borer. The aim is to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and increase crop yield.

3. Golden Rice: Golden Rice is another genetically modified crop being developed in the Philippines. It has been engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health issue in many developing countries, including the Philippines. Golden Rice aims to address this deficiency by providing a dietary source of vitamin A. These applications of genetic modification in the Philippines focus on improving crop traits, such as pest resistance and nutritional content, to enhance agricultural productivity and address specific challenges in food security and public health. It is worth noting that a specific regulatory framework and safety assessments are in place to ensure the responsible deployment of genetically modified crops in the country.

 

Public Perception, Ethics, and Laws

The public's perception of GMOs in the Philippines is divided. Some experts and lawmakers stand in favor of GMOs, highlighting their potential benefits in addressing issues such as malnutrition, food security, and poverty alleviation. They argue that GMOs have positive impacts, citing studies that show higher yields, reduced pesticide use, and economic benefits for farmers. On the other hand, there are critics who express concerns about the potential negative impacts of GMOs. They raise issues related to the environment, economic sustainability, and health. Some lawmakers argue that GMOs may compromise the environment, the livelihoods of farmers, and the health of consumers. They question the sustainability of genetically modified crops and argue for a more farmer-centric approach to agricultural research.

 

Furthermore, there are ethical considerations regarding GMOs, involving issues such as the potential long-term effects on biodiversity, ecological balance, and the rights of farmers and consumers. Some ethical concerns include the concentration of power in the hands of biotech companies, the patenting of genetically modified seeds, and the potential for unintended consequences in the ecosystem. Nevertheless, supporters of GMOs argue that the potential benefits, such as increased crop yields and nutritional improvements, outweigh the ethical concerns. Critics, on the other hand, may emphasize the need for transparency, safety assessments, and the precautionary principle in GMO research and commercialization.

 

In a nutshell, despite concerns and opposition, the safety and potential benefits of genetically modified organisms should not be ignored. Research and advancements in genetic modification have the potential to assist various industries and address pressing global issues such as food security and climate change. However, precautions should be taken to ensure the safety of the environment and human health. The promotion of genetic modification should also take socio-economic factors into consideration and support sustainable agriculture practices that empower local farmers and preserve traditional farming methods. Overall, a balanced approach that considers both the potential benefits and risks of genetic modification is necessary for its responsible use and promotion.