News Details

DA Strengthens National Rice Awareness Drive, Urges Filipinos to ‘Be RICEponsible’

NPO

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November 20, 2025

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying the nationwide celebration of National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) this November, rallying Filipinos to embrace the theme “Be RICEponsible” in support of healthier consumption habits and stronger local rice production.

Observed every November, NRAM promotes awareness on the importance of rice, the need to reduce malnutrition and poverty, and the collective effort required to achieve national rice self-sufficiency.

According to Philippine Rice Research Institute Supervising Science Research Specialist Charisma Love Gado-Gonzales, the observance traces its roots to the United Nations’ declaration of the International Year of Rice in 2004, later institutionalized through Proclamation No. 524.

“Layunin po nito na hikayatin ang bawat Pilipino na may magagawa tayo in our simple ways for ourselves, the farmers, and the country,” Gado-Gonzales said in a radio interview Wednesday.

She pointed out that irresponsible consumption practices—such as wasting rice, overlooking healthier varieties, and the growing preference for imported rice—continue to hurt the country’s local rice sector.

A central feature of this year’s campaign is the “A-Ba-Ka-Da” movement, which promotes four mindful rice habits:

• Adlay, mais, saba, atbp. ay ihalo sa kanin – Mix rice with other staples like adlai, corn, and saba;

• Brown rice ay kainin – Choose brown or unpolished rice;

• Kanin ay huwag sayangin – Avoid wasting rice;

• Dapat bigas ng Pilipinas ang bilhin – Support locally produced rice.

The DA encourages households, schools, government agencies, and communities to adopt these practices to “make every grain count,” support local farmers, and cultivate healthier diets.

Gado-Gonzales emphasized that the pursuit of rice self-sufficiency cannot rest on government programs alone. Public cooperation and lifestyle shifts are essential—especially as fast food and highly processed meals become more common.

“Gusto natin yung mabilis kaya mas prefer natin ang fast food…” she noted, explaining that the campaign seeks to remind Filipinos of better, more nutritious food choices anchored on responsible rice consumption.

She added that buying Filipino rice strengthens the livelihood of local farmers and reduces the country’s reliance on imported stocks.

Now marking its 10th year, the “Be RICEponsible” campaign continues to uphold sustainable and health-conscious consumption patterns—recognizing rice not only as a daily staple but as a cultural treasure and a cornerstone of national food security.

NPO News Team | PNA–PR