By Othel V. Campos

The aromatic rice variety Mabango 3, officially known as NSIC Rc218, demonstrated strong tolerance to early-stage flooding, according to a study published in the February 2026 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science.

Fresh from winning silver at the World’s Best Rice Award in Cambodia, the variety tolerated oxygen-deprived conditions. This characteristic makes it ideal for flood-prone direct-seeded rice systems in a region where flooding affects about 25 percent of rice-growing areas annually and trims regional yields.

In a study titled “Anaerobic Germination Tolerance Trait of Philippine Rice Elite Lines and Varieties for Direct Seeding,” Philippine Rice Research Institute researchers tested 56 elite lines and 38 released varieties for germination, seedling length and vigor under submergence.

The study focused on anaerobic germination tolerance, which enables rice seeds to push shoots upward in low-oxygen conditions. Scientists used molecular markers to detect the AG1 locus linked to the trait.

NSIC Rc218 emerged as a top performer, showing high germination, vigorous seedlings and positive AG1 markers. The results highlight its potential as both a commercial variety and a breeding donor. Another recently-approved non-glutinous variety, NSIC Rc638 SR, recorded 87 percent germination under stress, while breeding line PR52390ILR-2-1-3-B showed similar promise.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said developing climate-resilient varieties has become an integral factor in sustaining rice production as rainfall patterns grow more erratic.

“If we want to increase rice production while strengthening climate resilience and food security, we must invest in varieties that can survive real field conditions, not just ideal ones,” Tiu Laurel said.

Researchers noted that the ability to combine grain quality, yield and stress tolerance would be critical for the future of the industry. While the economic impact of these varieties is substantial, the department continues to monitor the costs associated with seed distribution, often involving investments of several million pesos per province to ensure farmer access.

Published Date: February 26, 2026