Heat-tolerant rice varieties now available for farmers

With the recent rise in temperatures to record levels, the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) wants farmers to test the adaptability of rice varieties that can withstand high temperatures in their locality.

- 

According to PhilRice scientist Norvie Manigbas, data spanning 50 years suggest a temperature increase of one to two degrees in the future, highlighting the need to utilize NSIC Rc 600 and 602 to the fullest as these varieties can endure temperatures up to 38 degrees Celsius.

"The country's first high-temperature-tolerant rice seeds, NSIC Rc 600 and 602, display exceptional traits crucial for resilience in high-temperature conditions. These can withstand temperatures up to 37 degrees and even up to 38 degrees in controlled environments like glasshouses," he said.

NSIC Rc 600, under heat stress, yields 6.3 tons per hectare and in normal conditions, it yields between 6.5-7 t/ha. It matures in 110 days and exhibits resistance to both deadheart and whitehead. On the other hand, NSIC Rc 602 yields 6.2 t/ha, matures in 109 days, and shows resistance to whitehead.