A CATHOLIC BISHOP ON SATURDAY expressed optimism Pope Benedict XVI would issue this month a statement taking a favorable stance toward the use of biotechnology to address world hunger.
In a statement posted on the Catholic Bishops? Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) website, Malolos Bishop Jose Oliveros, CBCP Episcopal Commission on Bioethics chair, said the Vatican is set to release its statement in early July.
Oliveros pointed out the Vatican had been neutral on the issue, but could be swayed by scientific evidence of biotechnology?s safety and its potential to solve world hunger.
The CBCP, at present, is against the use of biotechnology.
Biotechnology includes the field of genetic engineering, or the manipulation of plant or animal reproduction processes to suit a desired result such as increased output or pest resistance. Genetically modified (GMO) food products, however, have sparked controversy among environmental activists and religious groups who are against any attempt to tamper with nature.
?Reports said the concern of the Holy Father was the fact that there were millions of people who went to bed hungry every night. So how do we solve the question of hunger? Biotechnology gives us an answer,? the Malolos bishop said in the statement.
He said the use of biotechnology would not contravene man?s nature ?because we are created by God with a mind that can improve nature.?
Nevertheless, he said that even with the anticipation of the possible acceptance of biotechnology, the Church?s concern on the safety and proper regulation of biotechnology products would remain.
Oliveros previously expressed his willingness to dialogue with advocates and stakeholders of biotechnology and invited all concerned organizations, including groups against biotechnology, to join the discussion.
Last week, the Malolos bishop met with officials of the Department of Agriculture Biotechnology Program Office to discuss updates on the agency?s projects.
The Vatican?s support for biotechnology would be a major boost to advocates of GMO technology who claim that it can help secure the world?s food supply by increasing crop yield.
