UP Ibalon Bicol: Catholic bishops complain against aerial spraying

Catholic bishops complain against aerial spraying

11/05/2009 | Posted by mesiamd | Edit Post

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the drift of aerial pesticide sprayed over an area can cover 3.2 kilometers. If this is applied to aerial use of pesticide in Davao, it is estimated that at least 200,000 people is exposed to disease-causing chemicals in Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley and Davao City.

At least each week, residents and farmers in plantation areas in Mindanao hear the sound of planes which spray pesticides. The hovering planes are warnings that farmers below have to stop their work--- stay indoors and take cover to avoid chemical exposure.

In Davao City, a city ordinance prohibits the use of aerial spraying, but the legislatin locks in the government, the small farmers, and residents in legal battle with influential plantation companies.

Catholic bishops namely Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales, Auxiliary Manila Bishops Broderick Pabillo and Bernardino Cortez and Caloocan Bishop Deogracias Yñiguez petitioned the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) to stop the practice of aerial spraying in agricultural plantations in Mindanao because they are immoral and “infringes upon human health and dignity.”----Inquirer (11/04/09, Tupas, J. M.)

The bishops and their supporters obviously refer to the toxicity of pesticide which the people are exposed to. There is medical basis to their opposition to the harmful pesticides. Depending on the amount, duration, and susceptibility, chemical pest busters can be deleterious to one's health. Helpful in insect and agricultural pest control, the pesticides are helpful in keeping farm productivity. Plantation companies however tend to downplay their adverse effects.

Many people on the site of spraying may not be aware of the real danger of poisons. They don’t even know what diseases and complications can arise from such pesticide exposures. Planters using these hazardous agents must take people's health with respect and responsibility. (Photo Credit: greenpeacesoutheastasia.wordpress.com; greengreenbottle) =0=

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Labels: Agriculture, Davao, EPA, insecticide, pesticide, Totie Mesia, toxic chemicals

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Catholic bishops complain against aerial spraying

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