The Department of Agriculture, led by PhilRice, has expanded its Be RICEponsible drive to a year-round call to action, urging Filipinos to avoid rice wastage, buy local produce, and choose healthier rice to strengthen national food security and support farmers. Originally launched in 2014 and observed each November, the campaign now frames responsible consumption as a daily discipline rather than a seasonal reminder. Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. noted every grain reflects a farmer’s labor, while Undersecretary Christopher Morales stressed that higher production alone cannot offset widespread waste. PhilRice estimates each Filipino discards roughly two tablespoons of cooked rice daily, totaling 10.85 million sacks worth ₱24.4 billion yearly—enough to feed 5.17 million people annually. The initiative also promotes the Half-Cup Rice Ordinance for smaller servings, encourages PhilGAP-certified local rice, and highlights nutrient-rich options like brown rice and blends with corn, saba, camote, or adlai. PhilRice will deploy community events, market visits, and social media to advance the message that every grain saved builds stronger livelihoods and a more secure food supply.
DA makes ‘Be RICEponsible’ year-round: Cut rice waste, boost food security
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