Dinorado, a rice variety developed in the Philippines, has brought pride to the country after winning the silver award at the World’s Best Rice 2025 Awards.
The recognition was announced by Turismo Central Luzon on November 13, following the World Rice Conference held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia from November 7 to 9. Dinorado placed second to entries from Vietnam and Cambodia.
Judges evaluated the participating rice varieties based on aroma, taste, texture, and grain shape. Chef Robert Nieto, widely known as Chef Buttercup and current “Lord of Rice,” served as head judge.
Dinorado, officially registered as PhilRice-bred NSIC Rc 218 SR (Mabango 3), impressed the panel for its soft texture, fragrant quality, and sleek grain appearance.
The variety was developed by Thelma F. Padolina and Emily R. Arocena of the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) and was approved for commercial cultivation in 2009. It is one of the milestones of PhilRice’s 40-year commitment to producing high-yield, quality, and climate-resilient rice.
Farmers favor Dinorado for its productivity, harvesting up to eight tons per hectare in as fast as 120 days—faster than many other varieties.
