Every Grain Counts - Be Riceponsible

IN CELEBRATION of National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) 2025, the Depart-ment of Agriculture (DA)-Regional Field Office IX launched the "Be Rice-ponsible" campaign in Pagadian City to remind every Filipino of a simple yet powerful truth: every grain of rice matters.

During the activity held at Napolan National High School, students and par-ticipants learned the A-Ba-Ka-Da of Be Riceponsible A for Adlal, corn, saba mixed with rice; Ba for Brown rice should be eaten; Ka for Rice should not be wasted; and Da for Buy rice produced in the Philippines. Beyond being a catchy acronym, this message stands as a heartfelt reminder that rice is more than Just food on our plates. It is the fruit of our farmers' hard work, a symbol of our nation's resilience, and now, more than ever, a measure of our compassion and solidarity:

As we observe this year's Rice Aware-ness Month, many of our kababayans in Cebu, Luzon, and other affected areas continue to suffer from the impact of Ty-phoons Tino and Uwan. Countless fami-lles have lost their homes, livelihoods, and even access to food and clean wa-ter. In times like these, being "Riceponsible" carries a deeper meaning. Each spoonful we save, each leftover we avoid, and each sack of rice we choose to buy from local farmers represents empathy, unity, and care for our fellow Filipi-nos who face hunger and hardship.

At the DA Regional Office in Barangay Lenienza, Pagadian City, officials led by OIC-Regional Executive Director Vener L. Dillig began the month-long ce-lebration by reciting the Pledge for Responsible Rice Consumption and sharing a simple bowl of arroz caldo made from brown rice-a symbol of nourishment, sustainability, and support for the local rice industry. It is a humble act that reminds us that true abundance lies not in excess, but in gratitude and mindful consumption.

Let us take this month as an opportunity to reflect on our habits. Cook only what is needed, avold food waste, and support our local rice farmers who work tirelessly despite floods, droughts, and rising costs. In a nation where millions still struggle to put food on the table, valuing every grain of rice is both a sign of respect and a moral duty.

"Ang bawat butil ng bigas ay may kwento-huwag sayangin, pahalagahan." Every grain tells the story of a farmer's hope, a family's meat, and a nation's strength. By being Riceponsible, we honor our farmers, protect our resources, and help ensure that no Filipino goes hungry-one responsible plate at a time.

Philippine People's Press | In Truth We Prevail