The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) for agriculture sector, in partnership with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is driving efforts to promote food security and sustainability through the Brown Rice/Single-Pass Rice Initiative and the Half-Cup Rice Initiative.
The group discussed these programs during the 8th PSAC meeting at Malacañang on Wednesday, focusing on reducing rice waste, encouraging healthier consumption habits and boosting the nation’s rice self-sufficiency.
“These efforts address more than food security. They are a meaningful step toward sustainability, healthier living, and resource efficiency. By increasing awareness of brown rice’s benefits and addressing rice wastage through the Half-Cup Rice Initiative, we can create impactful change,” said PSAC lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz.
The Brown Rice Initiative promotes brown rice as a healthier, more sustainable alternative to white rice.
With its nutritional advantages, higher milling recovery, and lower production costs, brown rice has the potential to increase the country’s rice self-sufficiency from 80 percent to 90 percent.
The Half-Cup Rice Initiative aims to reduce rice waste by introducing smaller portions in government institutions and encouraging responsible consumption through public campaigns.
“Simple changes, like serving half-cup portions, can have a profound impact. By reducing rice waste, we can save enough rice to feed millions of Filipinos and optimize our resources more effectively,” Aboitiz said.
Both initiatives highlight the importance of collaboration among government agencies, private sector leaders, and local communities.
PSAC is optimistic that concerted efforts promoting the two programs will deliver meaningful results.
