PROTESTING AGAINST GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS

PROTESTING AGAINST GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS

Just when I thought the battle against genetically modified organisms (GMOs) was a lost cause, something unexpected happened on an island in the Philippines that could turn the tide.

Why did I think it was lost? Because GMO products and byproducts are practically everywhere now—on grocery shelves, in processed foods, and even in restaurant menus. Many of us have resigned ourselves to the thought that there is no point in fighting anymore. But suddenly, the people of Negros Island Region (NIR) stood up, and what was meant to be a local cry has now become a global rallying point.

What makes this story remarkable is that it is not led by politicians, celebrities, or big corporations. It is led by ordinary people—farmers, advocates, and community leaders like Ramon Uy Jr., who simply cares about livelihood, food security, and long-term health. Their spark has lit a fire, and the world is now watching.

Negros: The GMO-Free Island

For almost two decades, Negros Island has proudly worn the badge of being GMO-free. Through Provincial Ordinance No. 07, Series of 2007—known as The Safeguard Against Living Genetically Modified Organisms—Negros built a global reputation as the “Organic Capital of the Philippines” and even the “Organic Food Bowl of Southeast Asia.”

Now, that identity is under threat. The Provincial Board is considering a new ordinance that could repeal the ban and open the doors to living GMOs. Local groups fear this will undermine years of effort, investments, and trust in organic farming.

And the world agrees. Over 50 international organic organizations have expressed solidarity with the GMO-Free Negros Coalition. At the 8th Organic Asia Congress in Vietnam, leaders like Edgardo Uychiat of IFOAM Organics International and Mathew John, President of IFOAM Organics Asia, warned that Negros risks diluting its hard-earned reputation. As John put it: “After building up such a strong identity and statement to the rest of the world, it’s a pity that GMOs are now weakening the strength of organic agriculture.”

In fact, Negros has been chosen to host the Organic World Congress in 2027—a prestigious event that could highlight the Philippines on the global organic map. Why throw that away for short-term experiments with GMOs?

The Bigger Battle

Supporters of GMOs argue that genetic modification can increase crop yields, resist pests, and help feed a growing global population. But critics point out that GMOs bring long-term risks:

  • The loss of biodiversity, as monoculture crops replace native varieties.

  • The dominance of multinational seed companies, which could trap farmers in cycles of dependency.

  • Uncertain health effects, as studies on GMO consumption remain contested.

  • The weakening of organic industries, which rely on GMO-free certification to maintain consumer trust.

Do we really want to risk all this, when Negros already has a thriving organic economy and global recognition?

David vs. Goliath

This is beginning to look like a modern-day David versus Goliath battle. On one side are small farmers, organic advocates, and local leaders. On the other side are big corporations, lobbyists, and even some policymakers who are eager to “modernize” agriculture.

But let us not forget: in the biblical story, David won. And perhaps Negros could, too. After all, the global tide is not entirely in favor of GMOs. Europe remains cautious, with many countries imposing restrictions. Consumers worldwide are demanding organic, natural, and GMO-free products. This is the market Negros has already positioned itself for.

What Can Be Done

First, the Negros Provincial Board should listen to its people. When farmers, NGOs, and citizens rise in protest—backed by international allies—shouldn’t that weigh more heavily than industry lobbying?

Second, national agencies like the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health must take a clearer stand. It is not enough to allow GMOs in by default while ignoring the concerns of local organic producers.

Third, ordinary citizens should care about this issue, even if they don’t live in Negros. Why? Because food is everyone’s concern. If Negros falls, other provinces may follow. And once GMOs spread, there is no turning back—cross-pollination can erase decades of organic farming in a single season.

Final Thoughts

What began as a “silent cry” in Negros is now echoing across the globe. The lesson here is simple: even when the odds seem overwhelming, people who care can still make a difference. Negros Island has shown that resistance is not futile—it is necessary.

The GMO debate is not just about crops. It is about identity, health, sovereignty, and the future of food. And perhaps, just perhaps, this small island in the Philippines will remind the world that sometimes, it is worth fighting Goliath.

Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres

iseneres@yahoo.com, senseneres.blogspot.com 

12-28-2025

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