Heirloom rice are seeds passed from generation to generation. The indigenous communities in uplands were able to sustain their terraced wet-rice cultivation and were protected from Spanish interference.
<p>Heirloom rice is harvested using traditional farming methods especially in remote communities of the Cordilleras. Since these varieties grow in rice terraces in high elevations, they can only be planted and harvested manually with little to no help from carabaos or machinery. Moreover, maintaining the stonewalled terraces in the rugged and steep mountainous landscape is also an arduous task.
</p><p>The planting of these rice varieties is also an intricate affair. Aromatic native varieties tend to attract rats in the field. Because of this, all aromatic varieties must be planted with a synchronized method within the area.
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The indigenous peoples of the Cordilleras are deeply connected to their agricultural heritage. The heirloom rice varieties are the heart and soul of the terraces and have been part of their cultural practices for hundreds of years. Several of the planting sites of native rice have even been recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
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