Thursday, September 28, 2006 Councilor wants regulation of banana industry By Barbara Carla R. Quiero
AMID the controversy to ban aerial spraying in the city or not, a member of the City Council has suggested the creation of a body that will regulate the banana industry not only in the city, but in the whole country.
Aerial spraying is a method of chemical application used by cavendish banana plantation companies.
Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang said the banana industry has contributed much for the government and the people.
In Mindanao, he said it is the main foreign exchange earner.
Dayanghirang said in his privilege speech Tuesday that a Philippine Banana Industry Authority (PBIA) is needed.
The PBIA will determine the policies of the banana industry and promote scientific and environmentally friendly practices among plantations.
"Its role must go beyond regulation. It must also act as the central agency that will bolster the importance of the banana industry in the country's socio-economic objectives," Dayanghirang said.
He added that the PBIA will also act as the sole authority on agricultural practices that affect or involve the industry.
It will also monitor, regulate and control the industry's practice by formulating policies, guidelines and rules that will strengthen and promote advancement of said industry.
Dayanghirang said he will furnish the three Davao City lawmakers his proposal for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"It is now a big challenge for Davao City and the Davao City congressmen to look into this matter that the PBIA is beneficial," he added.
