Region 2 DA scientist supports Bt corn field tests

Dr. Val Perdido, Chief of Crops Division for Region II of the Department of Agriculture, yesterday expressed his approval for the field testing in Cagayan Valley of Bacillus thuringiensis corn, popularly known as Bt corn.

Dr. Val Perdido, Chief of Crops Division for Region II of the Department of Agriculture, yesterday expressed his approval for the field testing in Cagayan Valley of Bacillus thuringiensis corn, popularly known as Bt corn.

We should support Bt corn field tests, and then evaluate results first before coming up with a decision whether to commercialize Bt corn or not, said Dr. Perdido. What if there are significant benefits of this technology? Are we going to deprive farmers of this chance to alleviate themselves from poverty?

The corn specialist said that those opposed to the technology have yet to strengthen their allegations with proven evidence that Bt corn is toxic to humans.

Bt corn is toxic only to the corn borer because its stomach has an alkaline environment, whereas our stomachs are acidic so we are not affected by it."

Bt corn is a genetically modified crop which has been proven to be resistant to the Asiatic Corn Borer (ACB), a common pest known to be responsible for up to 80% destruction of corn crops.

The fact that Bt corn has been field tested for over 15 years and has been commercialized in the US since 1996 without any reports of unfortunate incidents is a clear indication that it is safe to human health," said Dr. Perdido during a Biotechnology and Bt corn lecture-presentation held recently in Bgy. Mabuhay, Echague.

Bgy. Captain Jose Cadauan of Mabuhay, Echague stated, I am personally in favor of field tests by Pioneer Hi-Bred Philippines in our barangay. Since it was already approved by government regulatory agencies, I see no reason why we should oppose the trials."
Following Dr Perdidos presentation, the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) of Echague, Isabela passed a barangay resolution supporting Bt corn field tests by Pioneer Hi-Bred.

Pioneer Hi-Bred is one of the seed companies applying for government permits for field trials of this new corn variety, which produces high crop yields and means reduced pesticide use, resulting in improved economic advantages for farmers.

Pioneer Hi-Bred Philippines, Inc. is the countrys top agricultural genetics company and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.-the leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics and hybrid seed corn to farmers worldwide. The company markets a full line of seeds, microbial products and services to grain and livestock producers, grain processors, and other customers in over 120 countries worldwide.