Negros Occ lawmaker opposes lifting of GMO ban

By Glazyl M. Jopson

TALISAY CITY, Negros Occidental — “Why now?”

This was the question raised by Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez as he voiced strong opposition to a proposed ordinance seeking to lift the province’s 18-year ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

In a media interview on Sunday, Benitez questioned the rationale and timing behind the proposal, asking, “Why does it need to be changed?”

He called the question “simple but loaded,” implying deeper issues at stake.

Benitez emphasized that Negros Occidental’s status as a GMO-free province has brought international recognition and pride.

He noted that this reputation helped the province secure hosting rights for the 2027 Organic World Congress and the upcoming Terra Madre Asia-Pacific Slow Food Advocacy event in November.

The GMO ban, enacted through Provincial Ordinance No. 07 in 2007, prohibits the entry, planting, sale, and distribution of GMO plants and animals within the province.

While acknowledging the potential of GMOs to increase yields, Benitez warned of long-term consequences, especially for future generations.

“This isn’t just about the next few years,” he said.

“It’s about the next generations of Negrenses who will suffer for this.”

He also raised concerns about the risk of cross-pollination with organic crops, which could harm the province’s organic farming industry.

“What’s dangerous is that we might not notice GMO crossbreeding or mixing with crops from farmers who have been growing organic and healthy, nutritious food for a long time,” he added.

Although he was not present at the recent public hearing, Benitez said he has received numerous appeals from constituents urging him to oppose the ordinance.

He stressed the importance of broader consultation and called for all stakeholders’ views to be considered before any final decision.

The proposed ordinance, which would allow the regulated entry of GMOs, passed its first and second readings on Aug. 26.

A public hearing was recently led by 3rd District Board Member Andrew Montelibano, chair of the agriculture and environment committees.

Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II expressed support for the measure on behalf of the provincial government.

In an interview on Monday, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson acknowledged that the proposal may be unpopular but maintained that everyone is entitled to their opinion.

“As I’ve said, I will only make a full comment once the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) makes its final decision—whether to move for GMO or to maintain the status quo,” Lacson said.

He added that the provincial government is prepared to explain its position to Benitez if needed, but he will refrain from further comment until the SP finalizes its decision.

Regarding the upcoming Terra Madre event, Lacson said the province remains ready to support or host it.

However, he noted that the final decision lies with the event’s proponents—whether they still want Negros Occidental to host.

Lacson said protests against the proposal were anticipated.

“As long as they stick to the issue, we welcome them,” he said.

“It’s no different from welcoming the same groups who participated in the public hearing.”

He added that what matters is that these voices were formally heard during the official public consultations.