The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its bureaus and implementing agencies including the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), annually celebrates the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) every November.

The celebration aims to encourage every Filipino to do their share of RICEponsibility by valuing every grain of rice and eating healthier rice to benefit themselves, other consumers, rice farmers, and the country as a whole.

NRAM's theme for this year, "Buy Local, Eat Local", encourages consumers to support local rice farmers by patronizing and promoting local produce.

On November 4, ATI kicked off the celebration at the central office in Quezon City with an exhibit showcasing rice products from different parts of the country. Free seminars will also be held for the public, partner schools, and communities in observance of the month-long celebration.

Through these activities, DA and ATI aim to raise public awareness on the importance of the rice industry and rice itself for every Filipino and empowerment of our rice farmers.

NRAM festivities are held by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 524 Series of 2014. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/atiinteractive.