Capitol gets broad support for lifting GMO ban

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – The Negros Occidental provincial government has received manifestos of support and position papers from various livestock and poultry industry stakeholders backing the proposed Negros Occidental GMO Regulatory Ordinance.

Among those expressing support were the Negros Occidental Layers Association (NOLA), Negros Occidental Hog Raisers Association (NOHRA), Negros Occidental Swine Inseminators (NOSI), Association of Broiler Integrators of Negros Occidental (ABINO), Alliance of Hog Raisers Association of Negros Occidental (AHRANO), United Cattle Raisers Association in Negros (UCRAIN), and individual farmer Joval V. Gargantiel.

In a joint manifesto dated Sept. 5, 2025, and posted on the provincial government’s official social media page, the groups described the ordinance as a “balanced and practical solution” to challenges in the animal production sector, especially the high cost of feeds caused by the province’s long-standing ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

They pointed out that corn, which comprises about 70 percent of animal feed, remains expensive because raisers must source it from outside the province.

“This situation has significantly increased our cost of production, reduced our competitiveness, and constrained the growth of our industry,” the statement read.

The groups said regulated GMO corn production—particularly Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) corn for animal feed—could reduce costs, create more livelihood opportunities for farmers, boost the local economy by minimizing imports, and strengthen food security by ensuring a stable supply of pork, poultry, beef, eggs, and other products.

“We appeal to our provincial leaders to consider the long-term benefits of this ordinance for farmers, animal raisers, and consumers alike,” the manifesto added.

The stakeholders said that supporting regulated GMO corn production in Negros Occidental would uplift the agricultural economy and contribute to the overall welfare and food sufficiency of the province.

On the other hand, opposition to the amendment comes from church leaders, civil society organizations, scientists, and organic farming advocates who are urging provincial and local governments, national agencies, and academic institutions to retain the GMO-free policy without exemptions.

Among those opposing the ordinance are 3rd District Rep. Javi Benitez and the National Democratic Front.

Earlier, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Negros Occidental pledged a balanced and inclusive review of the GMO regulatory ordinance, amid growing debate on the proposed changes.

Board Member Andrew Montelibano, chair of the SP Committee on Food and Agriculture, said during a public hearing Tuesday that anti-GMO groups have been given a week to submit their final position papers.

Montelibano acknowledged the firm resistance from organic farming advocates but emphasized the importance of addressing the diverse practices of local farmers.

“I have no problem supporting organic farming, but at the same time, not everyone in Negros Occidental wants to go organic,” he said.

He noted that while many farmers use organic methods, a larger group relies on conventional or biotech farming practices.

“We should harmonize this,” Montelibano added, pointing out that GMOs are already present in the agricultural supply chain.

“Whether you like it or not, GMO is everywhere,” he said.

“We believe organic alone is not sufficient; at the end of the day, the people of the province have a choice.”

Montelibano emphasized that the goal is to ensure clear separation between organic and GMO farms to avoid cross-contamination.

“They say that GMO is not allowed at all — what happens then if other places are already using GMO?” he asked.

He assured stakeholders that the provincial government would implement safeguards and consider all perspectives.