The Department of Agriculture (DA) has filed a motion for reconsideration before the Court of Appeals (CA) against its decision to halt the commercial propagation of Bt eggplant and golden rice. Agriculture Undersecretary Asis Perez stated that if the motion is denied, the DA plans to escalate the petition to the Supreme Court.
Additionally, Perez mentioned that the DA is taking steps to improve its regulatory system for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in response to one of the CA’s rulings. This decision came after a hearing where Sen. Imee Marcos expressed concerns about the impact of the CA ruling on the country’s agriculture sector.
Despite the setback, President Marcos has declared July of every year as Philippine Agriculturists’ Month to honor the contributions of agriculturists to food security and environmental protection. Proclamation 544 aims to raise awareness about the importance of the agricultural sector and engage professionals in advocacy and community development efforts.
The proclamation, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, directs various government agencies and the private sector to support the observance of Philippine Agriculturists’ Month and participate in the programs and activities outlined to celebrate the occasion.
