MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON – The Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-NorMin), through its Research Division, and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) recently held a Farmers’ Forum for Malusog Rice Production at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex (NMACLRC), in this city

In a press release, the DA-10 stated that prospective farmer-cooperators were acquainted with Malusog Rice in terms of production and marketing potentials, taking into account Bukidnon’s climate and market opportunities as a new rice variety for the Filipino palate.

Dr. Gerardo Estoy, Jr., DA-PhilRice Agusan branch director, emphasized the potential of Malusog Rice farming, whose production is nearly equal to that of ordinary rice kinds.

Malusog Rice, formerly known as Golden Rice, is a beta-carotene-enriched rice variety created by PhilRice primarily to alleviate malnutrition.

Preschool children, pregnant and nursing moms, and those at risk of Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) can all benefit from Malusog Rice.

PhilRice, in collaboration with DA-NorMin, is stepping up its promotion of Malusog rice in Northern Mindanao, notably in Lanao del Norte, which has a high prevalence of VAD.

Carmelito R. Lapoot, CEO of NMACLRC, stressed the market potential of Malusog Rice as the preferred healthy staple for locals.

He urged rice seed producers and commercial rice growers in Bukidnon to venture into Malusog Rice production not only as a viable source of income but also to assist the community in generating healthier food options.

DA-NorMin Regional Executive Director Carlene C. Collado stated that the agency has created two demonstration farms in its research stations in Bukidnon, one at NMACLRC and the other at the Research Center for Upland Development (RCUD) in Dangcagan, Bukidnon, to support the Malusog Rice Program.

The demonstration farms, located in Southern and Northern Bukidnon, which range in height and rainfall patterns, will demonstrate the province’s climatic adaptability for extensive Malusog Rice cultivation. (ATT/melbmadera)