Negros Occidental defers GMO talks, prioritizes 2026 budget

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental has deferred discussions on the proposed Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) Regulatory Ordinance to focus on deliberations for the proposed 2026 provincial government budget.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson told reporters that the Provincial Board is prioritizing budget hearings with various Capitol departments.

These hearings are part of the budget process expected to run through November, with the goal of approving the proposed PHP 7.6 billion annual budget before December.

Negros Occidental has maintained a ban on the entry of GMOs for the past 18 years, earning the province the title “Organic Agriculture Capital of the Philippines.”

The proposed GMO Regulatory Ordinance aims to establish a regulatory framework that would, according to the provincial legal-scientific team, ensure food security, protect farmers, and promote science-based innovations while preserving the province’s organic integrity.

The proposal has received mixed reactions from the public.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has committed to a balanced and inclusive review of the GMO ordinance amid ongoing debates over proposed amendments.

Provincial Board Member Andrew Montelibano, chair of the SP Committee on Food and Agriculture, said anti-GMO groups have been asked to submit their position paper.

Montelibano acknowledged strong opposition from organic advocates but stressed that the province must consider the diverse preferences 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 practice organic methods, an even larger group relies on conventional or biotech farming approaches.

“We should harmonize this,” he said, adding that GMOs are already widely used in agriculture.

Several groups continue to oppose amendments to the existing ban, citing risks to the province’s organic status, while others support regulation to open opportunities for agricultural research and development.

The Provincial Board is expected to revisit the proposed ordinance after the conclusion of budget hearings.

Negros Occidental’s GMO ban was established in 2007 through Provincial Ordinance No. 007, which prohibits the entry, introduction, and propagation of GMOs in the province.

The measure was enacted to protect the province’s organic farming industry and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Over the years, various stakeholders—including farmers’ groups, scientists, and business sectors—have called for a review of the policy to allow research and controlled use of biotechnology.

However, organic advocates and environmental organizations have consistently opposed changes, warning that such steps could undermine the province’s long-standing organic reputation.