The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) is seeking government approval on the commercial propagation of Bt cotton in the country.
This cotton variety is deemed more beneficial and can withstand cotton bollworm pests.
Based on a public information sheet (PIS) applied by PhilFida at the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and published on 20 April, Bt cotton is deemed safe for human and animal health as well as to the environment.
PhilFIDA said if allowed to proceed, Bt cotton will be imported from India, and with the plant resistant to bollworm may then cut or eliminate the use insecticide and lower the cost of cotton production in the country.
Countries that already allow commercial propagation of Bt cotton include the United States, India, China, Pakistan, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Paraguay, Colombia, Costa Rica, South Africa, Myanmar, Sudan and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Although initial findings show Bt cotton is safe to use, the BPI invites the public to submit comments on the proposed propagation of the crop in the country.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show the country produced 33.28 metric tons (MT) of cotton last year, up 21 percent from only 27.46 MT in 2021.
