Pakil town starts planting Adlai to help farmers increase their crop diversity

By Lily Gut Pakil Mayor Vince Soriano (5th from left) with DOST officials and representatives from various government agencies during the vi...

By Lily Gut

Pakil Mayor Vince Soriano (5th from left) with DOST officials and representatives from various government agencies during the visitation to discuss Adlai and its potential as a high-value crop in the municipality. (Photo from Mayor Vince Soriano)

PAKIL, Laguna - Adlai or Job’s Tears is a type of grain that is known for its high nutritional value and resilience to harsh weather conditions. It has been found to have potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

In a Facebook post, Mayor Vince Soriano announced that the town started planting adlai recently with the help of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and that they are expecting a bountiful harvest in the coming months.



The initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture and provide alternative crops for local farmers. The DOST has provided technical assistance and training to ensure the successful cultivation of adlai in the town.

Soriano said adlai is a healthy alternative to rice because it is gluten-free and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels. It is also rich in fiber and nutrients such as iron and magnesium, which contribute to better digestion and overall health.

But aside from this, it will help farmers earn more income as adlai is a high-value crop that has a growing demand in the market.Cultivating adlai requires less water and pesticides compared to rice, making it an environmentally sustainable option for farmers.

Right now, this initiative, which was planned by Municipal Agriculturist Thess Payumo a few years ago, is gaining traction and support from local farmers. The goal is to promote adlai as a viable alternative to rice farming, providing farmers with a more profitable and sustainable source of income.

St. Isidore Farmer Learning Center Inc. is one of the organizations that supported the adlai farming initiative. They express their belief that adlai farming can help improve the livelihoods of farmers in the community.