Rice paddy art launched as tribute to Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos

MMSU and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Batac launched a paddy art in the university campus as a tribute to President Ferdinand E. Marcos who was behind the establishment of the two institutions.

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis (right), together with other MMSU officials planted rice at MMSU Extension Demo Area. These plants will grow as part of the MMSU-PhilRice Rice Paddy Art.

MMSU and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Batac launched a paddy art in the university campus as a tribute to President Ferdinand E. Marcos who was behind the establishment of the two institutions.In a ceremonial planting held August 14 at the Extension Demo Area near the university twin gates, MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis said the paddy art does not only seeking to unite productivity with creativity using two excellent varieties of rice, but as a tribute to farmers, the Ilokano spirit, and the president who was behind the establishment of the two institutions that have “become very dynamic with significant contributions in agriculture.”

Dr. Agrupis led MMSU officials, faculty, research and extension staff and students in planting rice, while the PhilRice Batac staff were led by Director Reynaldo Castro. Hon. Domingo Ambrocio, Sangguniang Panlalawigan member and chair of the SP Committee on Agriculture, delivered a message on behalf of Senior Board Member Matthew Manotoc.

The rice paddy art used IR 1552, a traditional purple rice variety; and PSB Rc82, which is a high-yielding inbred variety.

To create the paddy design, the planters used the anamorphosis principle, a technique used in 3D art that makes a picture look distorted but appears normal when viewed from a certain angle.

The PhilRice design artists adjusted the image to the vantage point of the viewing area and they processed it into grids to determine where to plant the rice varieties on a certain coordinate in the field. (MMSU)