By Kenneth Marcos 
Imagine a future where cows are healthier, chickens grow faster, and fish are more resistant to disease—all thanks to science. This is no longer just a dream. Gene-editing, a powerful new technology, is now being explored in the Philippines to help improve food security and animal health. But before any decisions are made, the government wants to hear what the Filipino people think.
The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), together with the Department of Science and Technology’s National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (DOST-NCBP), has launched a nationwide survey to gather public opinions on the use of gene-editing in animals.
This initiative is in partnership with the DA’s Biotechnology Program Office. The goal is to create science-based policies that are guided by the values, questions, and concerns of ordinary citizens.
The online survey is open to all Filipinos, whether you’re a farmer, student, teacher, worker, or parent. It is available in both English and Tagalog:
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Tagalog Survey: https://bit.ly/GESurvey2025-1
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English Survey: https://bit.ly/GESurvey2025
What is gene-editing?
Gene-editing is a modern scientific method used to make precise changes in the DNA of animals, plants, or even humans. In agriculture, it can be used to produce animals that grow faster, are more resistant to diseases, or produce more milk, meat, or eggs. Unlike genetically modified organisms (GMOs), gene-editing doesn’t involve inserting foreign genes. It edits existing genes in the animal’s DNA.
For example, scientists can use gene-editing to make pigs less likely to catch viral diseases, or to help goats survive in extreme heat. These benefits could lead to more stable food supply and lower production costs—helping both farmers and consumers.
But this kind of science also raises important questions:
Is it safe?
Is it ethical?
How will it affect small farmers and the environment?
This is why the government is calling on the public to share their thoughts through the survey. The feedback will be used to shape future rules and communication efforts regarding animal biotechnology.
According to the DA, transparency and public engagement are essential. They want to make sure that new technologies like gene-editing are introduced responsibly, with the trust and participation of the people.
This is not the first time the Philippines has consulted the public on biotechnology. In previous years, national dialogues were also held on genetically modified crops. But this is the first survey focused on gene-edited animals, making it an important step for Philippine agri-science policy.
Anyone aged 18 and above can participate in the survey, which only takes about 10–15 minutes to complete. All answers will be kept confidential and used only for research and policy development.
In a world where food security, climate change, and public health are growing challenges, biotechnology could offer new solutions. But these solutions must be developed with care—and with the voice of the people in mind.
The agencies behind the survey encourage everyone to take part and be informed. This is your chance to help shape the future of Philippine agriculture.
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