Adlai - Episode 6

In the final episode of the Negros Island Ark of Taste series, we talk about Adlai with Natural Farmer Mr Gerry Ledesma of Araal Natural in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, Philippines.

Adlay or Adlai (Coix lacryma-jobi), also known as Job’s tears, is a tall grain-bearing plant of the Poaceae family native to Southeast Asia. In the Philippines, it is usually grown in Davao and Northern Mindanao. Today, it also grows in Negros Occidental as part of the diversification program of the Provincial Government. Adlai can grow over 2 metres in height when planted in fertile soil, but can survive under any type of climate conditions in tropical countries. Its round flowers develop into seeds – which can be violet, yellowish or white – with a hard and shiny shell.

Adlai is similar to corn because of its leaves and roots, as well as its growth. Local indigenous communities use it as a substitute to corn and rice flour, which is a key ingredient in the preparation of local sweet delicacies such as biko, suman and kutsinta. It is also a good source of feed for livestock.

Adlai can be harvested 5 to 6 months after planting and, aside from its importance in local cuisine, it is also said to help prevent and treat colon, lung, liver and breast cancer. It can also treat allergies and boost the immune system.

In addition, adlai is used to prepare food during harvest time for the rituals to thank the communities’ Gods.

This ingredient under the ark of taste is facing extinction as agribusiness are encroaching indigenous agricultural lands to make space for mining.

This event is part of Terra Madre 2020 and was organized in partnership with Slow Food Community in Negros, Department of Tourism, Province of Negros Occidental and AFEDI.

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