BAYBAY CITY, Leyte - In observance of National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM), the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC 8) held an exciting educational activity for students dubbed as “Mesmerice: Every Grain has Healthy Gain” at the Visayas State University (VSU) Eco Park in Baybay City, Leyte, on November 11, 2024. The said activity aimed to raise awareness about the importance of rice in achieving food security, improving farmers' income, and promoting better health among rice consumers.
During the activity, Ms. Ma. Helen P. Seco, the ATI-RTC 8 Rice Focal Person, led the learning activity with an insightful presentation on the health benefits of rice, the A-B-K-D principles of being "Riceponsible," and Eastern Visayas' Ricelytics or the current status of rice industry in the region.
To make the session even more interactive, the VSU Chapter of the 4-H Club added a fun twist with inteRICetive games that incorporated colored rice and educational items as prizes. The event was not only informative but also served as a lively platform for students to learn about the value of rice and the importance of responsible consumption.
This activity was just one of the many initiatives for NRAM, which seeks to cultivate a more rice-conscious society and support the country’s rice farmers. The theme for NRAM 2022-2028, “Be RicePonsible: Everyone has a part to play!” emphasized the role every individual plays in promoting sustainable rice consumption and supporting local rice farmers. As the Philippines continues to push for food security and sustainable agriculture, events like this are crucial in empowering the younger generation to be more mindful of their rice consumption habits and contribute to the local economy.
ATI-RTC 8 is helping to ensure that the message of NRAM resonates far and wide, inspiring more individuals and communities to join the movement of being RicePonsible.
