Philippines approves commercial use of genetically engineered rice

13 Sept 12:15 Key points summarised by AI

The Philippines has become the first nation to approve the commercial propagation of genetically modified, Vitamin A-enriched Golden Rice after more than a decade of field tests.
This initiative aims to address Vitamin A deficiency, with initial deployment planned for high-prevalence areas by the third quarter of 2022.
Despite strong opposition from anti-GMO activists, the Department of Agriculture and PhilRice confirmed the grain's safety, backed by extensive data and food safety approvals from several other countries.

Uthenthawai students and alumni declare truce with Pathumwan rivals

Yesterday 20:34 Key points summarised by AI

Uthenthawai students and alumni have pledged to cease violent clashes with Pathumwan Institute rivals, coinciding with their campus's reopening after a 90-day closure.
The Minister of Higher Education is mediating the long-running conflict, while the campus closure has significantly disrupted in-person classes and laboratory work for over 1,000 students.
Uthenthawai resists relocation from its current site, citing a historical land grant from King Rama VI, despite Chulalongkorn University's plans to reclaim the land for an educational hub.
Concerns are mounting over the legality of the campus closure, its detrimental impact on uninvolved students, and the potential commercial development of the land, which critics argue contradicts the late King Rama VI's intentions.