Philippine Local Government Officials Participate in Biotech Seminar

More than 200 local officials from municipalities in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines learned about biotechnology and Bt eggplant during the Seminar-Workshop on Agri-biotechnology towards Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture in a Changing Climate last February 17, 2012 at the Asturias Hotel, Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Scientists and regulators discussed and introduced the Philippine and global biotech scenario; the basic science and applications of biotech, biotech regulatory framework in the country, public sector efforts, and the global potential and impacts of biotech crops. Speakers from the farmer sector also gave talks on their experiences from planting biotech corn to partnerships. 

The participants expressed their interest in bringing Bt eggplant to farmers to their municipalities. During the workshop, the Pangasinan officials concluded that there is a need for more information outreach activities in the region, to raise awareness and understanding of the benefits and potentials of biotechnology among key stakeholders. Similarly, the local policymakers identified proper policies on biotech as a requirement for its advancement. They looked forward to the commercialization of biotech products such as flood and drought tolerant, as well as pest resilient crops, recognizing biotech as a tool for agricultural development in the country.

For more information about the seminar, visit http://www.bic.searca.org or e-mail bic@agri.searca.org.