LUNA, Apayao – Apayao celebrated National Rice Awareness Month with the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office-Cordillera Administrative Region and provincial government, Provincial Office of Agricultural Services, Provincial Health Office, Philippine National Police and different farmers associations through joint activities to raise awareness on food sufficiency and the importance of sustainable rice production.
The event conducted on November 9, 2023 included a marathon, clean-up drive, and a get-together of various sectors to discuss rice production and agri-relevant matters.
The National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) is a nationwide campaign to highlight the importance of rice as the country’s staple food, promote pesticide free- local rice varieties, and encourage consumers, farmers and policymakers to help achieve rice self-sufficiency in our country. Its theme of ” RICEponsible” encourages everyone to be RICEponsible by buying local rice, not wasting rice, and eating brown rice mixed with other staples, among others.
The celebration tackled a short discussion about the benefits of brown rice. Brown rice is a nutrient-rich whole grain that is naturally gluten-free and versatile which can help prevent type 2 diabetes, help with weight management, and boost heart health. The antioxidants and other nutrients in brown rice are primarily found in the bran. Reach for brown rice over white rice to up your intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and to potentially reduce disease risk.
The celebration of NRAM aims to raise awareness to the public of the value of rice and lessen poverty and malnutrition in the country while ensuring a steady supply of rice for the country. The friendly race aims to raise consciousness and promote a healthier lifestyle among the consumers through the responsible consumption of rice and its alternatives. By Michelle Acantilado
