By PR | 11:19 AM September 28, 2023
The Provincial Government of Bohol has enacted an ordinance that will effectively prohibit the use and planting of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the province.
Provincial Ordinance No. 2003-010 is seen as a significant step in supporting organic food farming and discontinuing the distribution and cultivation of genetically modified food.
To enforce this ordinance, Gov. Aris Aumentado issued Executive Order No. 30, which mandates the recall of all distributed GMO corn in the province and the reactivation of the GMO monitoring committee.
In commemoration of International Organic Day on Sept. 22, Board Member Lucille Lagunay took the lead in harvesting the only Philippines-certified organic red rice in Balilihan.
Lagunay actively participated in the rice harvest to gain a firsthand understanding of the labor-intensive process involved in producing this valuable crop.
She expressed her pride in Bohol’s distinction as the first global geopark in the Philippines, emphasizing that the organic red rice from Bohol is an authentic geo-food that symbolizes the province’s rich heritage.
The first district solon highlighted the significance of this achievement for Bohol and its residents.
“This brings pride to Bohol especially that Bohol has been declared as the first global geopark in the Philippines, so this organic red rice is really an authentic geo-food from Bohol, Philippines,” Lagunay said.
During the harvest, Lagunay, together with Emmanuel Gamonez, shared their expertise on crop production and processing.
Gamonez, the owner of Green Gardens of Hope, emphasized the importance of providing an excellent medium for organic farming.
This medium serves as the foundation for producing healthy food that is free from herbicides and pesticides.
He revealed that the key to successful organic farming lies in using high-quality organic fertilizer.
Green Gardens of Hope has become the first in the Philippines to obtain the Organic Soil Amendment, utilizing chicken manure that undergoes Mesophilic and Thermophilic processes.
Lagunay’s initiative strongly aligns with the governor’s call to action and the implementation of the anti-GMO ordinance.
Their collective efforts aim to protect the health of the Boholanos and maintain an ecologically balanced province.
Lagunay urged the people of Bohol to support organic farming by cultivating their own food in their backyards.
She aptly described this practice as akin to “printing your own money,” emphasizing the economic and health benefits of growing one’s food.
Lagunay expressed hopes that more individuals will embrace the organic way of living, leading to a healthier lifestyle for all.
The collaboration between local farmers and government agencies under the Aumentado-Balite administration is fostering the growth of organic, sustainable, and climate-smart agricultural practices in the province.
These efforts hopefully will contribute to the availability of healthier food options, protect the environment from harmful chemicals, and promote the overall well-being of the Boholanos. (PIMO/ML)
