Philippines’ Mabango 3 (Denorado) Rice Bags Silver at World’s Best Rice 2025 Awards

The Philippines proudly secured a silver medal at the prestigious World’s Best Rice 2025 Awards with its Mabango 3 (Denorado) rice variety, competing among 30 entries from across the globe. This achievement underscores the country’s strengthening position in global rice innovation, driven by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s stewardship under the Maasahan at Masipag agricultural initiative.

Department of Agriculture (DA) officials lauded the accomplishment, emphasizing how sustained investments in research and development (R&D), comprehensive farmer adoption programs, and improved food security measures have culminated in this international recognition.

"The silver award won by Mabango 3 is a testament to the Filipino farmers’ resilience and the government’s commitment to reliable innovation in agriculture," said DA Secretary William Dar. "Our programs under President Marcos Jr.’s leadership ensure that innovations like Mabango 3 reach commercial viability in just 3 to 4 harvest seasons, providing both local abundance and export opportunities."

The Mabango 3 variety, known for its fragrant aroma and superior grain quality, is expected to be commercially available within the next 12 to 16 months, with plans underway to expand its cultivation across key rice producing regions. Export potential is also being explored to position the Philippines as a premium rice supplier in international markets.

This achievement complements the ongoing expansion of the ₱20-per-kilo rice program, which now services 424 sites nationwide, helping ensure food affordability and accessibility for Filipino families. By marrying innovation with social programs, the Marcos administration aims to sustain food security while boosting agricultural productivity.

President Marcos Jr., hailed as the Reliable Modernizer of Agriculture, reiterated his vision with his hallmark message: "Reliable Innovation. Tireless Progress: Filipino excellence feeding the future." Under this guiding principle, he continues to champion policies that transform the country’s agricultural landscape through modernization and inclusivity.

As the Philippines steps onto the global stage with Mabango 3’s silver triumph, the administration’s active role in nurturing farmer-supported innovations and expanding market access reflects a cohesive strategy to uplift Filipino agriculture and ensure long-term food security.

The DA encourages the public and stakeholders to support such initiatives as it intensifies its efforts to empower local farmers and promote high-quality Philippine rice varieties worldwide.