Ing Gintung Abias, Mangamateng Ortelanu, ampong Maranup a Tau (Golden Rice, Dying Farmers, and Hungry People) A situation analysis of farmers and consumers in Barangay San Jose Matulid, Mexico, Pampanga and their perception towards GM crops particularly Golden Rice

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to determine the current situation of stakeholders of Barangay San Jose Matulid and determine their perception and willingness towards Genetically Modified crops particularly the Golden Rice. Methods: This study was conducted in Barangay San Jose Matulid, Mexico, Pampanga where farming is a prominent livelihood of its citizens. The researcher, with the help of the barangay’s farmers’ association, identified nine (9) farmers as respondents. A semi-structured interview was conducted with the respondents. The questions consisted of their demographics, state of living and their perception and willingness towards GM crops particularly the Golden Rice. On the consumer side, the researcher conducted Focus Group Discussions with the consumers. The roster of consumers consisted of housewives, financial providers and students. The researcher aimed to have various answers, thus, respondents of varying categories were selected. Lastly, the research also conducted secondary research using documents provided by the LGU of Mexico and various organizations like MASIPAG and Greenpeace. The data gathered from the respondents were analyzed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and thematic analysis. Results: The researcher found out that the farmers are struggling with the high price of farming inputs and low selling price of their harvest. The respondents are open to GM crops if it is safe for consumption and it means greater profit. The farmers are having doubts with Golden Rice since they don't have the facility and technology to store the crop. On the other hand, the researcher found out that the consumers are experiencing food insecurity and that they are using methods to ration their food such as increasing the salt or flavorings of the dishes. This practice can cause health issues and it reflects on their families’ current health status. The consumers are open to GM crops if they are 100% safe for human consumption. They said that they are willing to consume GM crops just to meet their daily food requirement. Meanwhile, they don’t agree with the consumption of Golden Rice because they find it unnecessary for their diets because they already consume Vitamin A from other food sources. They also fear the possible side effects that the Golden Rice might inflict. Conclusion: The stakeholders are open to the idea of GM crops especially if they are fit for human consumption. On the other hand they oppose Golden Rice because it has possible negative health effects to the consumers and the input needed for it to grow is not achievable and sustainable according to the farmers.