By CESAR JOLITO III

The Negros Occidental Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has temporarily shelved discussions on the proposed ordinance regulating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) amid strong opposition from organic farming advocates.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson confirmed that the SP will prioritize budget deliberations until the end of November, putting the controversial proposal on hold for now.

Third District Board Member Andrew Montelibano, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, said another public consultation will be scheduled once the board resumes deliberations.

The move aims to ensure that both proponents and opponents of the ordinance are heard before any decision is made.

“The committee will listen to all sides and refrain from making any comment. For me, our decision will depend on the many, not on the few,” Montelibano emphasized.

The proposed ordinance seeks to regulate the entry and use of GMOs in the province while maintaining strict separation between GMO and organic farming areas.

It also intends to align the province’s policies with the Joint Department Circular No. 1 of 2021, which outlines biosafety regulations for GMO crops.

While the provincial government has expressed support for harmonizing its policies with national guidelines, organic farming groups remain firm in their opposition, citing potential threats to the province’s reputation as the “Organic Agriculture Capital of the Philippines.”

The renewed discussions are expected to take place after Negros Occidental hosts the Terra Madre Asia and Pacific 2025 from November 19 to 23 at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City.

The five-day event, organized under the global Slow Food movement, will gather more than 2,000 delegates from over 20 countries across Asia and the Pacific.

Advocates say the timing highlights the province’s critical role in promoting sustainable and organic agriculture — a stark contrast to the divisive debate over GMOs now looming in local policy circles./CJ, WDJ