Going Beyond Rice: How Breadfruit is Changing the Game in the Philippines

Source: DAR 

   The vibrant and diverse world of Filipino cuisine is welcoming an exciting new player into the fold—breadfruit. Known locally as "rimas," "kamanzi," or "kolo," this South Pacific gem is carving out its niche in the gastronomical landscape of the Philippines as a potential alternative for rice.

   A recent visit to the South Pacific Islands by Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, and Senator Cynthia Villar marked the beginning of the breadfruit revolution in the country. This fruit, which has been a staple in places like Hawaii, Palau, Samoa, and Marqueses, is now poised to make a splash in Filipino diets.

   Breadfruit's appeal lies not just in its delightful taste or its potato-like texture when cooked, but also in its nutritional profile. This fruit is a rich source of dietary fiber, providing five times the fiber found in brown rice and a staggering sixteen times more fiber than white rice.

   Secretary Estrella sees enormous potential in breadfruit. He believes that introducing this fruit to the Philippines may not only diversify the country's food palette but also significantly impact its agricultural landscape. 

   Given that the Philippines and the South Pacific Islands share similar climatic conditions, cultivating breadfruit locally could be a feasible and cost-effective option.

   Introducing breadfruit to local cultivation could reduce the country's reliance on rice imports, thereby improving food security—a critical issue in a country that is a heavy consumer of rice.

   To turn this vision into reality, Secretary Estrella plans to establish nursery farms for breadfruit seedlings and demonstration farms to educate farmers about this new crop's benefits and cultivation methods.

   The introduction of breadfruit is about offering a nutritious alternative to rice, contributing to a diverse food landscape that suits the local climate.

   Secretary Estrella's vision is to integrate breadfruit into local agriculture, a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and secure food future for the Philippines.

    As we open our arms to the breadfruit revolution, we don't just embrace a new flavor—we welcome the potential for a healthier, more diverse, and sustainable food culture.