The first genetically modified (GM) crop bacillus thuringiensis (Bt corn), may soon be commercialized in the Philippines within three months from its anticipated approval before the end of the year.

The Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP) that checks on safety aspects of GM commercialization endorsed favorably the health, food, and environmental components of Bt corn.

Blo Umpar Adiong, director of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), told reporters during a congressional budget hearing that two of three members of the STRP approved of the health, food, and environmental aspects of Bt corn while one member has a minor question on the environment.

"It's only minor and Monsanto has to answer this question in two days," he said.

Newly-appointed Agriculture Secretary Luis P. Lorenzo Jr. said the STRP is completely independent in deciding on the fate of Bt corn based on scientific findings. He stressed further the need to enforce strict safety screening procedures on the crop before its release.

"Whatever conclusion they (STRP) have, one way or the other, (will stand). They went through a very extensive process. It's very clear in my mind that we should be careful in approving of this. You see, my late father died of luekemia and I know of 20 other who people died of chemical (contamination-related disease)", he said explaining that stringent scientific examination of the crop is a necessity.

Bt corn has the gene that makes corn resistant to pest Asiatic corn borer (ACB) that eats up close to 100 percent of farmers' harvest.

Juan Agustin Fereira, MPI country director, said the company is confident government will approve its application for commercialization, enabling the company to sell the goods around three months after approval from the crops' planting to harvest.