Bacolod: Major homegrown restaurants and hotels in Negros Occidental, under the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Negros Occidental (HRANO), have united in opposition to a proposed ordinance that would permit the entry of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the province.
According to Philippines News Agency, the association, led by president Roberto Magalona, owner of Caf© Bob's, submitted a position paper to the Provincial Board, with at least 39 signatories opposing the ordinance as of Wednesday. The group emphasized that their opposition stems from concerns over the impact of GMOs on the hotel and restaurant industry, which relies heavily on safe, authentic, and locally sourced ingredients.
HRANO highlighted the intrinsic connection between their industry and the tourism sector, noting that Negros Occidental has established itself as a leader in organic agriculture and sustainable gastronomy. They stressed that tourists are drawn to the province not just for its natural attractions but also for its unique culinary experiences, which feature fresh, local, and chemical-free food.
The group warned that allowing GMO crops could jeopardize Negros Occidental's reputation as the "Organic Capital of the Philippines" and the "Organic Food Bowl of Southeast Asia," affecting the competitiveness of local hotels, restaurants, and food-based tourism events.
The proposed "Negros Occidental GMO Regulatory Ordinance" seeks to overturn the province's 18-year-old GMO ban established under Provincial Ordinance No. 07, Series of 2007. The provincial government's joint legal-scientific team has argued for amending the ordinance to align with national GMO regulations, emphasizing food security, farmer protection, and science-based innovation.
HRANO has called on the provincial government to focus on sustainable solutions for food security and economic stability, rather than allowing GMO crops. They suggested investments in infrastructure, support for local farmers, and stronger market connections between producers and hospitality businesses as viable alternatives.
The stand of HRANO is supported by several local establishments, including Bob's Restaurant, Aboy's Restaurant, Inaka Restaurant, Azucarera, Maria Kusina, Mushu, and many others, collectively voicing their commitment to maintaining the province's organic integrity.
