The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) is partnering with Foundation University to launch the National Rice Year 2013 during the “Rice is Life” Dumaguete Adventure Marathon (DAM) on Nov. 18.
Hazel Antonio, project leader of the NRY 2013, said they have seen the DAM as an ideal event to launch the National Rice Year because of the marathon’s advocacy for rice conservation. The DAM, which is now on its fourth year, is the only marathon in the planet that celebrates rice–the golden grain of life. Before the run, runners recite a pledge to help conserve rice. A cookfest also follows the marathon, participated by various schools in Negros Oriental, which prepares various rice-based dishes.
The DAM is also the only marathon that gives away rice as prizes.
The PhilRice has been a regular partner of Foundation University in its advocacy for national rice sufficiency.
Antonio said the NRY 2013 campaign will focus on two problems in the Philippines: We are eating way too much rice and we are wasting too much rice.
She cited a survey which revealed that on average, Filipinos eat almost five cups of rice when one cup a meal is enough. The study also said that Filipinos are eating more rice than any other food groups. Rice, she said, should only constitute one-fourth of a meal — not one-half.
Antonio said that Filipinos are devoting too much energy to rice when there are other equally or more nutritious energy from potatoes, cassava, sweet potato and corn.
She said that by partnering with Foundation University, PhilRice hopes to encourage the public to be better rice consumers for less wastage and better health.
