Biotechnology school-on-the-air in Region 2 [Cagayan Valley, Philippines]
2003
Matalang, R.P. (Cagayan State Univ., Echague, Isabela (Philippines))
An awareness campaign on biotechnology was launched in Region 2 through radio. Modules prepared by the Philippine Foundation of Rural Broadcasters entitled "Biotechnology School-on-the-Air" were aired in different radio stations across the region. The author conducted a listenership survey to assess the level of awareness, knowledge, understanding, perception, and attitude of the listeners on biotechnology before and after being exposed to the school-on-the-air. The survey of 114 respondents was conducted in Cagayan (52), Isabela (32), and Nueva Vizcaya (30). Findings showed that prior to the airing of the program, almost all repondents in Nueva Vizcaya, about one-half in Isabela, and one-third in Cagayan were not aware of biotechnology in general. The radio program significantly reduced from 55% to a mere 4% of the total number of respondents who were not aware of biotechnology and its various aspects. All the respondents became aware of the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn, Bt corn field testing, biosafety, and the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP). The respondents' level of knowledge also improved. Fifty-five percent of the respondents gained knowledge on biotechnology by listening to the program. Of all the respondents, 20% claimed to have gained "very much knowledge" on biotechnology in general, the NCBP, and Bt corn; 8% on Bt corn field testing; 21% on transgenic crops and their benefits. The perception and attitude towards biotechnology is generally favorable with the highest level noted in Isabela particularly for Bt corn biosafety, GMO field testing, and transgenic crops and their benefits. Although personal biases and oppositions had been noted due to strong opposition by NGO [nongovernment organizations] in the region, the overall observations suggest that the radio program had been effective in altering the negative perception and attitude toward biotechnology in the region
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