• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said yesterday he welcomes and respect the opinion of those opposing the proposed genetically modified organism (GMO) regulatory ordinance, including Third District Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez.
“I know it is not a popular move, but everybody is entitled to their own opinion,” Lacson said.
Environmental groups on Monday held a protest in front of the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City, displaying placards and streamers expressing their opposition to the entry of GMO crops in Negros Occidental.
In a statement, Tim Managuit, spokesperson of the groups, said that GMO threatens the province’s agricultural heritage, biodiversity, and livelihood of farmers.
“This demonstration aims to challenge the provincial government in allowing the entry of GMO and advocate for sustainable, traditional farming practices,” Managuit said.
Lacson said they already expected the gathering of people, who are against GMOs.
“For as long as they just stick to the issue, we welcome them. What is important is that their voices have been officially heard during the public hearing,” the governor said.
Meanwhile, Benitez shared the sentiments of organic farming advocates and environmentalist groups in opposing the proposed GMO regulatory ordinance.
Benitez noted that Negros Occidental had the ordinance since 2007.
“It is now 18 years. The question is, why only now, and why the need to change?”, he asked.
The provincial government’s legal-scientific team, which supports the enactment of the GMO regulatory ordinance, maintained that the measure would “safeguard food security, protect farmers, and embrace science-based innovation while upholding the province’s organic identity.”
Asked if he is willing to reach out to Benitez to discuss the matter, Lacson said “if there is a need to, we can explain later.”
Negros Occidental is hosting the 2027 Organic World Congress.
Bacolod City is hosting the inaugural Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific on Nov. 19 to 23 this year with the theme “From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Taste and Traditions”.
The organizers are advocating for organic farming and are against GMOs.
Lacson said the provincial government is ready to support or host Terra Madre.
“It really depends on the proponents, whether they would like Negros Occidental to host the Terra Madre or not,” the governor said. | GB
