Understanding Farmers Preferences in Central Luzon for Rice Variety Development (2025)

The development of new rice varieties revolve on understanding farmer preferences. In Central Luzon, insights from five decades of farm household surveys reflects the important role of high yield, early maturity, and grain quality in varietal selection. Farmers prioritize varieties with long, slender grains, high milling recovery, and intermediate amylose content, reflecting evolving consumer demands and market trends. Notably, the declining trend in amylose content underscores the importance of adapting to changing preferences, suggesting a need for new varieties with intermediate amylose content or softer rice. Furthermore, new varieties must address challenges such as low head rice recovery, chalkiness, and susceptibility to pests and diseases. The differences between recently developed varieties and desired traits highlights the ongoing need for targeted breeding programs aligned with farmer needs and market demands. Insights from widely adopted varieties and feedback from stakeholders and environmental characterization inform the development of new varieties tailored to farmer needs and market demands, maximizing adoption rates. With over 200 Modern Varieties (MVs) developed, optimizing breeding resources is crucial. Moreover, broader insights into regional preferences and environmental stressors aids in crafting resilient varieties. This comprehensive approach will enhance the sustainability and economic viability of rice farming in diverse agricultural landscapes.

Key trait: High Yield; Early Maturity; Grain Quality
Reference document: Farmers’ Preference for Rice Traits: Insights from Farm Surveys in Central Luzon, Philippines, 1966-2012
Link: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0136562
Publication year: 2015 | Data year: 1966-2013 | Sample size: