Antipoverty agency: No to golden rice

The genetically modified organism (GMO) known as golden rice will not reduce hunger or cure vitamin A deficiency in the country, according to a government agency.

The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has joined a coalition of farmers, consumers and environment activists from different countries in rejecting the entry of golden rice into the Philippines.

Liza Maza, NAPC secretariat head, said aside from not being proven to cure vitamin A deficiency, golden rice was also feared to have health risks, citing reports gathered by the NAPC from communities.

The Philippine Rice Research Institute has applied for a permit to test golden rice in Philippine farms. —Karl R. Ocampo