Experts Weigh in on the Benefits of Biotechnology

What is a genetically modified (GM) crop?

The forum began with an introduction by Dr. Reynante Ordonio and Dr. Vinvencio Mamaril giving a summary on how biotechnology is applied in agriculture, and how it’s produced and regulated. Put simply, a genetically modified crop is a traditionally farmed plant that has had specific genes inserted into it from other similar organisms to give it new beneficial traits. These can range from resistance to pests and disease, higher yield, higher nutrition, and even better aesthetics.

Resistance to pests and diseases mean farmers don’t have to spend as much money on pesticides, lowering production costs and lessening the toxins absorbed by people and animals. Higher yield and nutrition means being able to feed more people and keep them healthy by staving off malnutrition prevalent in many poor areas. Each GM crop is made to tackle a specific problem while minimizing any possible risk or harm it may do.

Why do we need GM crops?

With population growth and climate change constantly looming over us, farmers face increasing challenges in the form of supply and demand, and having the production capacity to meet it. With the increasing demand for food supply that comes with population growth, farmers are choosing to use varieties of crops known to have higher yield when harvested. With climate change, farmers are facing harsher droughts, stronger monsoons, and new variants of pests and diseases.

For over 20 years, scientists in the Philippines have been developing GM crops that directly address these challenges, from high-yield rice varieties, to the pest resistant BT corn, as well as ongoing development of crops with increased nutritional value to address the prevalent malnutrition issue in poverty-stricken areas of the country. Many experts agree that development and production of GM crops is key to attaining food security and sufficiency in the country, as relying on importation leaves us vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market.

Are GM crops safe for us and the environment?

What if I told you that GM crops in the Philippines have a history of safe-use spanning over 20 years? Or that you most likely consume GM crop products in your day-to-day? As stated by Ms. Merle Palacpac, about 80% of the corn and soy beans produced in the US is genetically modified, and the Philippines is a net importer of corn and soybeans from the US. This means that a majority of soy bean products in the Philippines are made of GM soy bean, and most livestock is fed with GM corn. To date, there are no substantiated reports of government approved GM crops having any more of a harmful effect on people or the environment as compared to their traditional counterparts.

In the Philippines specifically, there are five government agencies that handle approval of any GM product before it goes to market. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) all form the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP). Scientists rigorously examine every aspect of a GMO and submit their findings to the NCBP for approval, so there can be no doubt as to their safety. And should it turn out that a GMO is harmful, decisions can be reversed as necessary.

In Conclusion…

GM crops are not only safe for us and the environment, but are needed in order to achieve food security and sufficiency. They offer a myriad of benefits, all tailor made to meet a specific challenge. From growing in an otherwise difficult environment, to being able to feed and nourish an ever-growing population, all the while providing farmers a viable, respectable way of life. We must adapt to the changing conditions of the future, and our food must adapt with us.