The research cited also suggests that "there is strong evidence from over 4,500 studies that a plant-based diet, composed predominantly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes prevents many kinds of cancers." In the Philippines, a high-fiber diet is achieved through the Pinoy’s staple food which is rice.

However, there is not enough awareness that among the rice varieties, the less polished brown rice is healthier, since it retains most of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are lost during the milling and polishing process that makes rice "white."

Studies conducted on brown rice have shown that it has a concentrated source of nutrients and minerals – especially fiber which is essential in reducing the amount of time for cancer-causing substances to stay in contact with the cells of the colon.

Although brown rice contains the same amount of carbohydrates as the popular white grain, there is a significant difference in the amount of dietary content like fiber. The fiber in brown rice is a potent factor which helps reduce symptoms of diseases such as colon cancer, atherosclerosis, constipation, diarrhea and gallstones.

With just a cup of brown rice, vital nutritional benefits can be absorbed by the body, among them manganese (anti-oxidants and energy booster), phytonutrients (anti-cancer and protects against heart disease), and 21 percent magnesium – which not only lessens symptoms of asthma, migraine, heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure but also keeps the body fit and alert. It also has selenium, a trace mineral that has been shown to significantly diminish the risk of acquiring colon cancer.

These dietary advantages are noted by former food minister and NFA administrator Jesus T. Tanchanco Sr., an advocate and regular consumer of Doña Maria Jasponica brown rice for four years now.

Basically known as the less polished Jasponica rice – a cross between the long-grained and fragrant Thai Jasmine rice and the sticky, soft Japanese rice – it has a distinct nutty flavor and have grains that are much smoother.

"Consumers may benefit greatly from eating Jasponica brown rice, as research and scientific findings show that brown rice is a healthier option for those who need proper nourishment and the nutritients that rice can provide," said SL agritech chairman and CEO Henry Lim Bon Liong.

Doña Maria Jasponica brown rice is now available in two and five kilo packs in supermarkets and rice retailers in Metro Manila.