PhilRice to discuss safe use of biotech

The Philippine Rice Research Institute has teamed up with the Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines for a discussion on the responsible use of modern biotechnology to increase farm yields.

A day-long seminar on modern biotechnology is set on May 29 at the University Training Center of the Mariano Marcos State University's main campus to cover important issues surrounding the use of modern biotechnology on agriculture.

Biotechnology can be used as an option to raise farm output, increase farmers' income and contribute to rural development, said Abraham Manalo, executive secretary of BCP.

He said PhilRice and BCP have been involved in education and information activities that promote safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology.

"We believe that safe and responsible use of biotechnology can help the country attain food security, poverty alleviation, improved healthcare, environmental protection, sustainable development and a progressive Filipino society," he said.

The seminar is expected to lay down the following topics: overview of biotechnology and ensuring the safety of biotech crops; regulation of biotech crops in the Philippines; and a presentation of the Golden Rice project: a biotech initiative for nutrition.

Biotechnology (sometimes shortened to "biotech") is a field of applied biology that involves the use of living organisms and bioprocesses in engineering, technology, medicine and other fields requiring bioproducts. It also utilizes these products for manufacturing purpose.

Biotechnology has been the subject of debate primarily due to its associated potential risks food safety, animal welfare industrialized agriculture and the role of private corporations. - PIA — ARA