The Philippines has saved an estimated P3.6 billion worth of uncooked rice due to a significant reduction in rice wastage, according to the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI). Data from 2018-2019 shows that daily rice wastage per household dropped from 53g of cooked rice to 6g per person by 2024, translating to a substantial savings at the current market price of P43/kg.
Dr. Hazel V. Antonio-Beltran, NRAM lead and head of the Development Communication Division of PhilRice, emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to eliminate rice waste. Despite these savings, she noted that the amount of rice still wasted could feed 2.79 million people for a year, underscoring the need for further advocacy on responsible consumption.
As part of its ongoing initiatives, PhilRice launched the “Half-Cup, Full-Heart” challenge in November to encourage smaller rice servings in both households and food establishments. This campaign, which included a raffle and partnerships with restaurants and telecommunications companies, aims to curb waste and promote mindful consumption. The challenge was supported by various stakeholders, including GMA-7 and the Department of Agriculture, and will continue until 2028 under the “BeRICEponsible” theme.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. called for more sustainable rice consumption practices, highlighting that 300,000 tons of rice are wasted annually. National bills and local ordinances mandating smaller rice portions are gaining momentum, with nine provinces, 21 cities, and 17 municipalities already on board.
