Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija – Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) here launched the rice paddy art of the FiLay loveteam of Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, Feb. 23 at the FutureRice Farm.
In an effort to increase rice appreciation among the youth, over 100 transplanters including Grade 5 and 6 students from Maligaya Elementary School, took part in the initiative.
“This is the children’s first experience in rice planting. I’m sure that the students will value the importance of not wasting rice with this experience,” Teacher Rogelio Mariano Jr. said.
The rice paddy art, planted with PSB Rc10 and IR1522, used the 3D anamorphosis principle – an art technique used for distorted artwork that appears normal when viewed from a certain angle. IR1522 is a traditional variety with purple leaves.
Before rice planting, students were oriented on the correct way of transplanting and on the parts of the rice plants.
DA-PhilRice recommends 40kg per hectare for transplanted rice while 60-80kg per hectare is promoted for direct-seeded. This seeding rate helps rice plants grow healthier because it can receive sufficient sunlight and evenly absorb nutrients from the soil. The usual seeding rate of farmers ranged from 200-250kg/ha.
