MANILA - President Arroyo is expected to study closely a proposed ban on aerial spraying of pesticides in plantations supposedly due to concerns on health hazards, a Palace official said Tuesday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesman Gary Olivar said the President values the opinion of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), which has lobbied for the suspension on aerial spraying, and would act on the matter soon.

Olivar said it was also prudent for the Department of Agriculture (DA) to review such controversial practice and submit a recommendation to the President as soon as possible.

The CHR earlier proposed a ban on aerial spraying pending a study on its impact on the health of residents in surrounding communities. The watchdog said the government must come up with sustainable solutions in lieu of aerial spraying to minimize loss of lives and destruction of environment.

“This is something that she will duly consider. If it comes from the CHR, that will be given ample consideration,” Olivar said.

Olivar however said he could not say if the CHR proposal, made last January 22, has formally reached the President’s desk.

But while it has raised its concerns to the President, Olivar said the CHR should also consider sending its proposal to the agriculture department so it could start an appropriate review on the matter.

“That’s part of the process,” he added.

In 2007, the Davao City Council passed an ordinance banning aerial spraying in banana plantations in its area. The case was elevated to the Supreme Court after an appellate court declared the measure as unconstitutional.