A rice variety developed by Filipino scientists has earned global acclaim after securing silver at the World’s Best Rice 2025 Awards held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia—further solidifying the Philippines’ rising reputation as a producer of premium-quality rice.
NSIC Rc 218 SR (Mabango 3), bred by experts at the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice), stood out among international competitors for its soft texture, aromatic fragrance, and superior grain quality. The recognition was given during the Global Rice Trade Conference held from November 7 to 9.
Global Competition Featuring the Finest Rice Varieties
This year’s competition showcased 30 rice entries from major rice-producing countries including Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Australia, and the Philippines. The varieties were evaluated through a double-blind judging process led by Chef Robert Nieto, winner of the prestigious Lord of Rice contest.
Mabango 3: A Trusted Favorite Among Filipino Farmers
Known in markets as Dinorado, the award-winning Mabango 3 has long been favored by Filipino farmers and households for its fragrant aroma and tender texture. It often commands a higher buying price compared to other varieties due to its premium quality.
The variety offers impressive advantages for farmers:
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Yield potential: Up to 8 tons per hectare
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Maturity: 120 days from seeding
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Plant height: Approximately 106 cm
These traits make it highly adaptable and ideal for widespread cultivation across the country.
A Milestone for Philippine Rice Research
PhilRice Executive Director Dr. John C. de Leon celebrated the achievement, saying:
“This affirms that our research program at DA-PhilRice is fully capable of delivering products—varieties, in this case—that genuinely advance the welfare of our rice farmers and the Filipino people. World-class na bigas, kaya ng Pinas.”
The NSIC Rc 218 SR variety, developed by breeders Thelma F. Padolina and Emily R. Arocena and their team, was approved by the National Seed Industry Council in 2009 for commercial use. It is among the 121 rice varieties produced by PhilRice over its four decades of research—highlighting the Institute’s dedication to developing high-yielding, aromatic, and climate-resilient rice options for Filipino farmers.
Philippine Entry Shines on the Global Stage
The celebrated variety was submitted to the competition by Rowena Sadicon of the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM). Hosted annually by The Rice Trader (TRT), the World Rice Conference gathered more than 400 delegates, including global industry leaders, policymakers, traders, and supply-chain experts.
The event serves as a premier platform for strengthening rice trade relations and honoring excellence across the agricultural sector—bringing together key players in rice production, marketing, logistics, and policy.
With this silver win, the Philippines proudly showcases its capacity to produce world-class rice, further empowering local farmers and elevating the country’s standing in the global rice market.