SC and GMO

 

Research and technology makes a country advance with on every aspect. A country that excel or be the first to research on a particular thing will somehow have a step ahead. But what if a certain research which can lead to the development of crop which can potentially give advantage ordered to be stopped by the court?

Genetically modified organism (GMO) is a technique that a DNA will be introduced to alter the genetic structure of an organism to remove an undesirable feature; the technique can also be used to add a desirable feature to the organism.

The Supreme Court recently ruled on the halt of the testing of a genetically modified eggplant which is said to have a feature to repel or to kill pest. Farmers from the very beginning have the problems of pest in their crops, to address the problem farmers spray insecticides. However, it is also proven that insecticides have harmful effects on humans. GMO can address the problems with insecticide and can save the farmers of their cost on buying insecticides. Such advantage should be promoted by the government. It is also in question whether GMO is safe for human consumption or not.

In the Philippines we already have three bodies that regulate the GMO and I believe that these governmental bodies which are in-charge know to address on the safety of whether GMO is safe for the consumption of the public. With regard to ruling of Supreme Court to halt the testing of GMO eggplant because of the question of public safety, I believe it is for the bodies’ in-charge to know if it is safe or not. For me it is a cross to the border of the power given by the constitution.

The court should leave such things to the governing bodies and stay on the border given by the constitution.