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Biotech Updates

NCBP Reviews Public Information and Transparency of Biosafety Framework with Media and Scicom Experts

March 25, 2026

The National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) convened media and science communication experts to review the current mechanisms for public information and transparency within the National Biosafety Framework (NBF) through a focus group discussion (FGD). The activity was held on March 25, 2026, at the Department of Science and Technology main office in Manila, Philippines.

Established under Executive Order No. 514 (Series of 2006), the NCBP is the lead body responsible for harmonizing inter-agency biosafety policies. The NBF itself provides a science-based system for evaluating risks associated with modern biotechnology and genetically modified organisms. As a signatory to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, the Philippines utilizes this framework to ensure the safe and responsible application of biotech nationwide. Periodic reviews allow the NCBP to address regulatory gaps, incorporate lessons learned, and align the system with the latest scientific developments.

As a leading global biotech information source, ISAAA, Inc., was invited to join the FGD and was represented by Ms. Kristine Tome, Manager of the Global Knowledge Center on Biotechnology, and Ms. Clement Dionglay, Program Officer II.

“Our studies show a significant increase in Filipino's knowledge regarding biotechnology and biosafety regulations. From 2000 to 2023, we've also observed a significant decline in ‘fear appeal' within media reportage,” Ms. Tome noted.

The discussion was facilitated by Ms. Sonny Tababa, former Director of Biotechnology Affairs at CropLife Asia. Participating organizations also included the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture, International Rice Research Institute, Business Mirror, Broad Streamcast Communicator Multimedia Services, CropLife Philippines, and the Department of Agriculture Biotech Program Office.

For more information, contact knowledgecenter@isaaa.org.


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