By: Keith Clores – @inquirerdotnet

MANILA, Philippines – The locally-grown Dinorado rice, formally known as “Mabango,” received second place honors at the World’s Best Rice Award in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.

“Out of 30 entries from rice powerhouses like Thailand, India, and Australia, Mabango outshone 27, proving it has both the substance and the scent to stand among the planet’s finest grains,” the DA said in a statement on Wednesday.

Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) submitted the rice entry, developed by the DA’s Philippine Rice Research Institute in 2009, known for its aroma, tenderness, and taste.

This development, according to PRISM’s founder Rowena Sadicon, is an upgrade from 2024’s third-place finish.

“This win isn’t just about quality, it’s about identity—a reminder that the Philippines is not only the world’s largest rice importer, but also a nation capable of producing world-class, sustainable, and export-worthy rice,” Sadicon said as quoted in the statement.

“This is proof that our local farmers and scientists can hold their own against the world’s best,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said.

Dinorado placed just behind a two-way tie for gold awarded to Vietnam’s three-time champion ST25 rice, and Cambodia’s seven-time champion Phka Rumdoul rice. /gsg

Published Date: November 13, 2025