Story by Carlo Gianni Barcelona
On a recent visit to the lush rice farm lands of Butig, I was armed with my camera, ready to capture the industrious rice farmers during their planting season. My mission was to document their hard work, the backbone of the municipality’s agriculture. However, sometimes serendipity has other plans, and what I found myself focusing on was a delightful surprise: a flock of domestic ducks known as “itik” leisurely paddling in a nearby field.
Curiosity aroused, I inquired William, our project agroenterprise trainor, about these ducks and their purpose. To my amazement, I discovered that they are the natural pest controllers of rice snails. These highly invasive snails can wreak havoc on rice paddies, devouring the tender rice seedlings. The ducks, with their insatiable appetite for snails, act as the perfect, eco-friendly solution to this agricultural problem. It’s an example of a harmonious, time-honored tradition that beautifully weaves nature into the fabric of farming life.
As I continued to watch these ducks, I couldn’t help but be amused by their cuteness. Their cheerful, albeit faint, quacks and synchronized paddling were like a charming ballet on water. Every now and then, as they strutted along the narrow path between paddies, they would wiggle their tiny bums in an endearing yet humorous display, me chuckling at their delightful march on their webbed feet. However, beyond their undeniable charm, these ducks serve a vital role in the ecosystem of the rice fields.
While duck meat is enjoyed in many Filipino dishes, I couldn’t help but think of the culinary notoriety of “balut,” a somewhat dreaded dish among many that has been featured on various Fear Factor shows. This popular street food is made from fertilized duck embryos and is famous for its unique combination of textures and flavors, ranging from savory to creamy. It’s a delicacy that takes courage to try, but for Filipinos, it’s a cherished part of our culinary heritage. Try one if you haven’t.
One of my favorite moments was watching baby ducks following their mother as she led them from one paddy to another. It was a fun, heartwarming sight, reminding me that in this countryside setting, nature thrives in tandem with the hard work of farmers. As I left the rice farms that day, I couldn’t help but marvel at the simple yet profound partnership between the farmers and their feathered friends.
And while the ricefield ducks play their part in preserving the rice paddies, there’s another story waiting to be told. The snails, localy known as “kuhol,” might not be as endearing as the ducks, but they too have a role in this ecosystem. So I gathered they’re not just invasive pests; they are also a local delicacy that graces the tables of many Filipino families. But perhaps that’s a tale for another day.