MANILA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine Department of Agriculture said Tuesday that its chief Francisco Tiu Laurel has called for renewed action to curb rice wastage across the country, noting the current levels could feed 2.8 million Filipinos annually.
Data from the Philippine Rice Research Institute showed that household rice wastage decreased to 255,000 metric tons in 2019, down from 340,000 metric tons in 2009. "This progress is encouraging, but the numbers remain alarming," said Laurel.
The agriculture secretary highlighted the need to revisit the "half-cup rice" proposal "to encourage more responsible consumption."
The "half-cup rice" initiative promotes serving smaller portions to reduce waste and diversify meals.
Laurel said the renewed call for mindful rice consumption highlights its potential to conserve resources and improve health outcomes for Filipinos nationwide. ■