AN INTERNATIONAL environment group urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to stop the production of genetically modified (GM) rice, claiming it is dangerous to man and the natural vegetation.
Greenpeace said DA has carried out researches in the country that will soon be doing field trials of bacillus thuringiensis (BT) rice, or simply known as “golden rice,” primarily because it is the solution for Vitamin A deficiency (VAD).
Daniel Ocampo, Greenpeace campaigner in Southeast Asia, said a research from the US has already proven that genetically modified rice poses great harm to both people and the environment.
The group showed the results of 90-day laboratory tests conducted by genetically modified organisms (GMO) proponents on mice fed with BT rice, which showed signs of toxicity in the liver and kidneys of the test subjects.
"It is still uncertain until now if GMO is really safe because studies do show so," he said.
Ocampo said they are also promoting diversity of food and technology. He noted, however, that this should not compromise the quality of food and nutrition safety because of promoting breakthroughs.
"We have nothing against genetic engineering as long it does not threaten our food and nutrition security," Ocampo added.
According to Geonathan Barro, advocacy officer of agricultural group Masipag, the Philippines has recorded over 2,000 varieties of rice and other species.
Barro also urged farmers to use these available varieties to prevent contamination with the lands they use which may come from the golden rice.
According to Beau Bacongis, country manager of Greenpeace, they have sent several petitions to the DA. The latest has been pending in the office since January this year.