Health of Mindanao farmers adversely affected by Bt corn — Norwegian scientist

Agriculture Secretary Luis Lorenzo Jr. has instructed experts of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to verify reports that 39 farmers in Mindanao developed immunity to anti-bodies as a result of exposure to the Bacillus thuriengensis (Bt) corn.

"We want to know if the reports are true so that we could take appropriate measures," Lorenzo said.

Lorenzo said the farmers are being tracked down by the field proposal of the DA in Mindanao, particularly in South Cotabato where Bt corn is being planted.

The report was released by Norwegian scientist Terje Traavik who spoke earlier this week at the international talks on trade in genetically-modified crops in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Traavik said some farmers in Mindanao, "living by a field planted with genetically modified maize showed signs of exposure to the plant’s anti-pest toxin three months after the pollen season."

He said blood samples taken from these farmers later showed increased levels of three different target antibodies. It identified the corn variety as the Bt corn. Lorenzo said he has not yet seen a copy of the report but he has asked the department’s science and technical experts to conduct an investigation."

Lorenzo also called on Traavik to collaborate with the DA and identify specific areas where the problem allegedly surfaced.

"I would like to encourage these persons or groups who are aware of this incident to coordinate with the government so that we can make the necessary and appropriate action at the soonest time possible."

Traavik will be in Manila next week to explain the report he presented at the talks in Kuala Lumpur.