100 signatures reached
To: Governor Eugenio "Bong" Lacson
PROTECT FARMERS, PROTECT BIODIVERSITY: KEEP NEGROS GMO-FREE
PETITION TO UPHOLD PROVINCIAL ORDINANCE NO. 007, SERIES OF 2007: THE SAFEGUARD AGAINST LIVING GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS
WE, THE PEOPLE OF NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, SAY: PROTECT OUR SAFEGUARD AGAINST LIVING GMOs!
We recognize and respect the Provincial Government’s efforts to review policies so that they remain relevant and aligned with national guidelines. However, we strongly urge that Provincial Ordinance No. 007, Series of 2007—our existing safeguard against living genetically modified organisms (GMOs)—be maintained in full force.
This ordinance does not ban all GMO-related products. Instead, it specifically prohibits the entry, planting, growing, and field testing of living GMOs within Negros Occidental. This focused safeguard is crucial to protecting our vision and our future.
Here is why this protection must remain intact:
1. Protecting Our Dream: Negros as the “Organic Food Island”
Negros Occidental has long aspired to be recognized as the Philippines’ “Organic Food Island.” Ordinance No. 007 was carefully crafted to protect this vision and to safeguard the province’s unique biodiversity. Allowing living GMOs could undermine both our brand and the organic industry we have worked so hard to build.
2. A Targeted Safeguard that Works
Our ordinance is not a blanket ban on all GMO products. Rather, it applies specifically to living GMOs—plants and animals capable of reproduction. By prohibiting their entry and cultivation, the ordinance prevents risks of genetic contamination and unintended ecological consequences. This safeguard is proportionate and effective in keeping our farming systems safe and aligned with our organic goals.
3. A Thoughtful Decision by Our Leaders
The passage of Ordinance No. 007 was a deliberate and unanimous choice by our provincial leaders, reflecting a precautionary approach. Recognizing the uncertainties around the long-term effects of GMOs, they acted decisively to protect public welfare, food security, and the environment. That wisdom remains valid today.
4. Our Right to Stronger Local Protections
National laws provide broad guidance, but local governments have the authority to enact measures that reflect their unique context and aspirations. Ordinance No. 007 demonstrates the province’s right—and responsibility—to go beyond minimum standards in protecting its people and environment.
National laws provide broad guidance, but local governments have the authority to enact measures that reflect their unique context and aspirations. Ordinance No. 007 demonstrates the province’s right—and responsibility—to go beyond minimum standards in protecting its people and environment.
5. Strong Enforcement is Already in Place
The ordinance is not symbolic; it has built-in enforcement mechanisms. Monitoring stations at ports of entry and a multi-sectoral committee ensure compliance and accountability. These safeguards are already effective, and replacing them with weaker regulations would put our systems at risk.
The ordinance is not symbolic; it has built-in enforcement mechanisms. Monitoring stations at ports of entry and a multi-sectoral committee ensure compliance and accountability. These safeguards are already effective, and replacing them with weaker regulations would put our systems at risk.
We therefore respectfully call on Governor Eugenio “Bong” Lacson and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to:
- Reject the proposed GMO Regulatory Ordinance.
- Retain and strengthen Provincial Ordinance No. 007, Series of 2007.
- Unite government agencies, LGUs, civil society organizations, farmers’ cooperatives, and all stakeholders in protecting Negros Occidental’s standing as the Philippines’ Organic Food Island.
Let us keep Negros Occidental safe, sustainable, and proudly organic.
Why is this important?
The ordinance is our strongest shield in protecting our natural environment, supporting our organic farmers, and securing our future as an organic food Island of the Philippines.