Wellness and long life are included in the top 10 aspirations of farmers as shown by a 2022 study of the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute. However, the realization of these aspirations may be affected by chemical use, which is detrimental to health when utilized injudiciously.

The 2024 Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Annual Review cum PhilRice RCEF Seed and Extension General Assembly gathered representatives of implementing agencies, Offices of Senator Cynthia Villar and Congressman Wilfrido Mark Enverga, key officials from the Department of Agriculture, and Institute’s RCEF operations personnel at the CBC Plenary Hall on Feb. 4-7.  As the extended RCEF marks its 6th and final year of Phase 1 implementation, the review examined its […]

Filipinos looking for healthier food options may soon enjoy a new take on yogurt, as food technologists at the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) have infused it with nutrient-rich rice bran to enhance its health benefits. Developed by food technologist Dr. Henry M. Corpuz and his team, the improved yogurt incorporates stabilized rice bran—the outer layer of red and black rice known for its high dietary fiber, vitamins, […]

The Philippine agriculture sector is steadily advancing, driven by the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) research-for-development (R4D) initiatives, particularly through the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).  These initiatives are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, food security, and public health, while boosting productivity and resilience in the country’s agricultural systems. Through PhilRice, the DA has introduced climate-resilient rice varieties, cost-efficient technologies, and sustainable farming systems, contributing to record-breaking […]

The Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) is set to collaborate with Japan-based Sagri Co., Ltd. and the National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (NIA-UPRIIS) Division 1 to pilot a smart agriculture initiative aimed at reducing methane emissions in rice farming while providing carbon credit opportunities for farmers. Under a newly signed Memorandum of Agreement, the research project will utilize Japan’s satellite-based big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning […]

Farmers and seed growers are pushing for the continuation of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program, set to end after the 2025 cropping season, citing its role in boosting yields and lowering production costs. Since its launch, RCEF has improved rice yields by ensuring access to quality seeds, training, and modern machinery. However, as the program’s initial six-year phase nears completion, stakeholders stress the need to sustain its […]

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying efforts to achieve the country’s 20.46 million metric tons (MMT) rice production target for 2025, aligning the National Rice Program (NRP) with the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program to improve seed distribution and optimize yield. During a planning workshop at DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), key stakeholders reviewed strategies to enhance seed allocation, synchronize distribution schedules, and address production bottlenecks. “We […]