Gm Abaca

GMO Abaca

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

“A genetically modified organism (GMO) or genetically engineered organism (GEO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. These techniques, generally known as recombinant DNA technology, use DNA molecules from different sources, which are combined into one molecule to create a new set of genes. This DNA is then transferred into an organism, giving it modified or novel genes. Transgenic organisms, a subset of GMOs, are organisms that have inserted DNA from a different species. GMOs are the constituents of genetically modified foods” (Wikipedia).

These GMOs are said to have desirable traits such as resistant to pests or diseases, and improved nutritional value. These GMOs, specifically transgenic crops, have been a great help to attain increase in farm productivity and profitability, and to attain food security (Halos, 1999)

GMO in the Philippines

In December 2002, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn, the first GMO to be approved in the Philippines, was released and until now are cultivated in the country. The Philippines is the first country in Asia to approve GM crop for consumption and processing.

There are three institutions in charge in the bio safety, risk assessment, and regulation for all GMOs that enter the Philippines for contained use (laboratory/experimental use), food, feed and processing (direct use), and propagation:

1. The National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) with the aid of the Departments of Agriculture (DA), Environment (DENR) and the Health (DOH);

2. The Department of Agriculture (DA) via the Bureau of Plant Industry’s (BPI) Biotech Core Team (BCT); and

3. Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP).

Here are some of the regulations involving GMO:

* Philippine Regulatory System for Biotech Products Department of Agriculture...