Philippines upbeat on biotech

The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) views biotechnology as the key to attaining food security in the face of dwindling farm resources for a growing population, and natural threats such as droughts and typhoons that often hit the country. The DA has been very supportive of genetically modified crops and has been funding research on the development of GM rice. It has also provided subsidies to growers of Bt maize.

 

While inaugurating the third national biotechnology week commencing November 26th, Agriculture Undersecretary for Field Operations, Jose Emmanuel M. Paras stated that the DA is linking hands with the private sector to boost biotechnology. He cited the promise of Bt maize to reduce infestations of Asian corn borers (Ostrinia furnacalis). In the pipeline are a number of transgenic crops including: two types of GM papaya displaying a delayed-ripening trait and resistance to papaya ring spot virus; insect-resistant Bt aubergines (brinjal); a multi-virus-resistant tomato; and virus-resistant varieties of banana and abaca. Paras also mentioned the need to follow China's example of growing genetically-engineered fast growing trees with a view to cover the country's bald forests. Eucalyptus camaldulensis, genetically engineered for bioremediation of heavy metal contaminated soils, may be introduced in the Philippines as it is quite suitable for growing in polluted mining areas