Dr. Gladys Mae R. Laborde, Graduate Public Health department chair, received the 2025 Outstanding Scientific Paper Award from the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL-DOST) during the 47th Annual Scientific Meeting at the Manila Hotel on July 11, 2025.

Laborde received recognition for their pioneering study, “Brown Rice Consumption and Changes in the Metabolic Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases in Selected Overweight and Obese Filipinos,” published in the Philippine Journal of Science. This milestone marks a historic first for the Adventist University of the Philippines, as it receives its inaugural NAST recognition, highlighting its growing role in nutritional science and public health research.

Dr. Laborde shared that the research journey began as a challenge from Dr. Jolly Balila, the University research director, to pursue studies that would make meaningful contributions to the university. She noted that her inspiration came through prayer and a providential encounter with existing research on brown rice.

“During a seminar, I prayed for direction and was drawn to a brown rice study on lab rats. The idea of conducting human trials felt daunting, but Philippians 4:13 reassured me,” Laborde said.

She added that a remark from a Korean friend also shaped the mission behind the study. “My friend observed that Filipinos seem to love their pets more than themselves, pointing out that pet feeds were brown and nutrient-rich, while people continued to eat nutrient-stripped white rice,” she explained. “That realization helped spark the research.”

“For Filipinos, ‘rice is life.’ So why not make life healthier?” Laborde expressed. The study’s findings showed that individuals who consumed brown rice experienced more significant improvements in body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol compared to those who only shifted to a vegetarian diet. The results affirm the value of whole, plant-based foods in disease prevention, aligning with biblical health principles. “This affirms God’s original design for nourishment in Genesis 1:29 and the health counsel found in The Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White,” she said. “Brown rice isn’t just a healthier alternative—it’s a wiser choice your body will thank you for.”

Laborde emphasized that the recognition reflects scientific integrity, faith, teamwork, and mission. She acknowledged the guidance of her co-authors and mentors, Dr. Miriam Estrada and Dr. Marissa Romero, supported by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research, PhilRice, and the involvement of the participants and research team.

As Laborde concluded, “It’s still the same kanin we love, packed with fiber, vitamins, healthy oils, and phytochemicals, which are lost in refining.”