In a concerted effort to bolster sustainable farming practices in relation to Bt corn, CropLife Philippines conducted an extensive Insect Resistance Management (IRM) survey across multiple regions in the country. The survey, which gathered valuable insights and engaged hundreds of participants, aligns with the goals outlined in the Department of Agriculture Memorandum Circular No. 17 series of 2003.
The IRM survey covered several key agricultural regions, including Tuguegarao in Cagayan, Cauayan in Isabela, Valencia in Bukidnon, Koronadal in South Cotabato, Isulan in Sultan Kudarat, and San Carlos in Pangasinan. The participation of these regions underscored the nationwide commitment to responsible pest management and the preservation of BT corn's effectiveness. In Isabela, over 500 farmers and officers from municipal, provincial, and city agriculture offices actively engaged in the survey. In Valencia City, Bukidnon, 200 individuals participated in the survey, while Koronadal in South Cotabato and Isulan in Sultan Kudarat brought in 100 and 200 participants. One hundred participants from Pangasinan also joined the initiative. Farmers from different regions participate in the IRM Survey.
The success of the IRM survey was made possible through collaborative efforts with key partners, including the Bureau of Plant Industry and the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority. Officers and representatives from various municipal, provincial, and City Agriculture Offices played a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating the survey. The IRM survey aligns with the objectives outlined in the Department of Agriculture Memorandum Circular No. 17 series of 2003, which was designed to prevent the development of insect resistance to Bt corn. Bt corn is genetically modified to produce a protein that targets specific insect pests, but there is a risk that these pests may develop resistance to the BT protein over time. The key objectives of the memorandum include establishing Bt Corn IRM requirements, promoting diverse control measures, monitoring and reporting on the effectiveness of IRM strategies, providing education and training, ensuring compliance, fostering collaboration and research, and ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of Bt corn cultivation. By conducting the IRM survey, the Philippines demonstrates its commitment to responsible pest management and sustainable agriculture. The survey results and insights gained from these regions will inform future strategies to address insect resistance and promote sustainable agriculture practices, further strengthening the nation's agricultural resilience. |