By Kenneth Marcos 
In a proud moment for Philippine agriculture, a homegrown rice variety developed by Filipino scientists has been recognized as one of the finest in the world. The award highlights the country’s growing reputation for producing high-quality, aromatic rice that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in Asia.
The variety, NSIC Rc 218 SR, also known in local markets as Mabango 3 or Dinorado, was named one of the winners in the World’s Best Rice Awards 2025 held from November 7 to 9 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The competition, part of the annual Global Rice Trade Conference, featured 30 entries from leading rice-producing countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, India, and Australia.
Mabango 3 impressed judges with its soft texture, natural fragrance, and premium grain quality. The international panel, led by Lord of Rice contest winner Chef Robert Nieto, conducted a double-blind taste test to ensure fairness in judging.
For Filipino farmers and consumers, Mabango 3 is no stranger—it has long been a favorite in local markets for its distinct aroma and fine texture. Traders often buy it at a higher price compared to other varieties, while farmers benefit from its strong yield potential of up to eight tons per hectare. The variety matures in about 120 days and grows to an average height of 106 centimeters, making it adaptable and suitable for wide-scale farming.
“This award affirms that our research program at DA-PhilRice is capable of delivering products that truly uplift the lives of our rice farmers and benefit the Filipino people,” said Dr. John C. de Leon, Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice). “World-class rice, kaya ng Pinas,” he added proudly.
Developed by breeders Thelma F. Padolina and Emily R. Arocena, along with their PhilRice team, the NSIC Rc 218 SR was officially approved for commercial cultivation in 2009 by the National Seed Industry Council. It is one of 121 rice varieties developed by PhilRice in its 40 years of service to Filipino farmers. The institute continues to focus on producing high-yielding, climate-resilient, and high-quality rice varieties that meet both local and global standards.
The Philippine entry was submitted by Rowena Sadicon of the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM), representing the country in this year’s prestigious international competition. The World Rice Conference, organized annually by The Rice Trader (TRT), brings together over 400 participants from around the globe, including policymakers, traders, producers, and agricultural experts. The event serves as a platform for strengthening trade ties and recognizing excellence in rice innovation and production.
This international recognition serves as a reminder of what Filipino research and farming can achieve with perseverance and innovation. As the country continues to aim for rice self-sufficiency and food security, the success of Mabango 3 stands as proof that world-class rice truly grows from Philippine soil.
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