New greenhouse facility to aid RP biotechnology efforts

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna – A research structure envisioned to scientific studies in biotechnology in the country has been turned over to the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) here.

Called physical containment level (BL2) greenhouse, the facility was constructed at the UPLB Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB). It was funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCARRD) and the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA).

The BL2’s design conforms with the containment guidelines set by the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP).

The building is made up of approved and standard material such as fiberglass, impact-resistant glass, and aluminum. Added features are walls with double sidings and double door at the back of the main greenhouse.

The special structure and materials ensure the biological safety of the environment while genetically modified (GM) or transgenic crops are being evaluated. The facility also prevents the spread of the pollen from transgenic crops to non-transgenic plants outside the BL2 greenhouse.

Speaking at the inauguration and turnover of the structure to UPLB-IPB recently, DOST Secretary Estrella F. Alabastro stressed that the BL2 "symbolizes our determination to pursue with vigor the generation and adoption of new technologies that have the potential to uplift the lives of our people."

Moreover, it ensures that such technologies will not adversely affect the health and well-being of the people nor the environment which should be preserved for the next generation of Filipinos.

PCARRD Crops Research Division director Dr. Jocelyn Eusebio also emphasized that the BL2 greenhouse "is part and parcel of our attempt to harness the potential of biotechnology to solve urgent and pressing needs of agriculture.

She also acknnowledged that the construction of the building would not have been possble if not for the efforts of UPLB led by Chancellor Wilfredo David and IPB director Dr. Desiree Hautea, ISAAA through its global coordinator Dr. Randy Hautea, and PCARRD headed by executive director Patricio S. Faylon.

"For us," said Dr. Eusebio, "this structure is not only a symbol of an advancement in science in the Philippines but also a symbol of cooperation."

She concluded: "We hope that in the future more BL2 greenhouses will rise not only here in IPB but also in other research institutions in the country to accommodate modern crops biotechnology project."