P-Noy, Binay extol biotechnology

MANILA, Philippines –  President Aquino and Vice President Jejomar Binay led other government officials in extolling the vital role of biotechnology in boosting the national economy, particularly the agriculture sector.

They cited the benefits that this high-end science can bring in messages they had issued on the occasion of the celebration of the just-ended National Biotechnology Week (NBW) (Nov. 2-28).

Aquino and the other officials also lauded the journalists who won the Jose G. Burgos Jr. Awards for Biotechnology Journalism 2010

The conferment of the Burgos awards was among the activities during the observance of NBW 2010 led by the Departments of Agriculture (DA), Science and Technology (DOST), and Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The Award was launched five years ago in honor of the late press icon who, in the words of Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., “not only fought for freedom and democracy during a time of despotic oppression (martial law) but also advocated the advancement of the country’s agricultural industry.”

Belmonte also commended the Jburgos Media Services Inc. for holding the annual event “that pays homage to both the late journalist and those who carry on the ideals he espoused.”

“The awardees embody the finest in responsible journalism and carry on the legacy of the late journalist,” the Speaker added.

The STAR won the third prize in the Awards’ institutional category. Also, The STAR science reported Helen Flores received a special citation while Rudy A. Fernandez won the third prize in the Best Feature category.

President Aquino said that this year’s awardees join the rank of media men “who have pushed the frontiers of scientific inquiry by featuring the latest and most relevant biotechnology research and discoveries in their articles.”

As this branch of knowledge (biotechnology) becomes more accessible to the larger populace, the Filipino people can integrate biotechnological developments into various sectors, particularly the agriculture industry, he pointed out.

The Chief Executive further stressed: “Our farmers now have more alternatives for sustainable profitability. The writer-awardees have not only shown excellence in journalism but have also contributed greatly to our collective task of nation-building.”

Vice President Binay also lauded the awards which, he said, recognizes journalists and newspapers that take time to delve into and feature the progress in the field of biotechnology and promote science reporting in the country.

He noted that biotechnology and agriculture are often given less importance in media, which is somewhat “ironic since we are an agriculture country.”

“As a people, we must be made aware of the advancements in biotechnology for it is a key factor in the growth and development of our nation,” he stated.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said DA has been open to biotechnology’s adoption in food production, “provided that it is proven such technology has no ill-effect on the environment and the produce is safe for consumption.”

He reported that developments in this “good science” has encouraged DA to utilize biotechnology further.

But, Alcala stressed, “we cannot take full advantage of this without the help of media companies and practitioners. Explaining the breakthroughs with words that can easily be understood is no small feat, as you serve as a bridge between scientists and the farmer and fisher.”

DA-Bureau of Plant Industry Director Clarito Barron also stressed: “With help from our journalists, we believe that science-based agriculture and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in the country will enter a new era of vibrant, dynamic, and responsible technology for program development of Philippine Agriculture.”

Dr. Barron commended the media for allaying what maybe an “unfounded fears” of biotechnology while at the same time guiding policymakers “towards an abiding prudence for our people’s welfare.