First-ever coffee summit brews success

By Nimfa Estrellado Governor Helen Tan, joined by key stakeholders and coffee industry experts, officially opens the first-ever Quezon Coffe...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Governor Helen Tan, joined by key stakeholders and coffee industry experts, officially opens the first-ever Quezon Coffee Summit and Expo. This momentous event marks a significant step towards revitalizing the province's coffee industry and promoting its unique coffee culture. (Doktora Helen Tan/FB)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - The aroma of freshly brewed barako coffee, known for its strong and bold flavor, filled the Quezon Convention Center. This marked the beginning of the province's first-ever Coffee Summit and Expo on November 15. This inaugural event, themed "Transforming Artisan Knowledge, Rehabilitating and Advancing Coffee Productivity and Enterprise," aims to invigorate the local coffee industry and position Quezon as a key player in the Philippine coffee market. 

Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan, joined by key figures like Provincial Agriculturist Liza Mariano, Department of Agriculture (DA) OIC Chief Field Operations Felix Joselito Noceda, and Dean Maricel Herrera of Manuel S. Enverga University, officially opened the expo. The event has attracted a diverse audience, from coffee enthusiasts and stakeholders to exhibitors, processors, and producers, all eager to engage with the burgeoning Quezon coffee scene.



The summit serves as more than just a showcase; it's a rallying point for the province's coffee community. Coffee farmers, local chief executives, and key stakeholders from across Quezon have gathered with a shared goal: to bolster coffee production and revitalize the industry. This collaborative spirit was palpable in the numerous discussions and workshops held throughout the event.

Furthermore, this collaborative atmosphere culminated in a momentous pledge signing, where local government leaders and industry stakeholders committed to collective action towards increasing coffee production by 2025. "This is a historic moment for Quezon coffee," said Governor Tan. "We are committed to supporting our coffee farmers and creating a thriving coffee industry in our province."

One of the highlights of the summit was the launch of the Arabica Coffee Project, a collaborative effort with Prof. Valentino Macanes of Benguet State University. This initiative seeks to elevate the quality and profile of Quezon-grown coffee by introducing new Arabica varieties and providing farmers with the necessary technical assistance.

The project aims to increase the production of high-quality Arabica beans, which are in high demand both domestically and internationally. "Partnering with experts like Prof. Macanes, we hope to not only improve the livelihoods of our coffee farmers but also put Quezon on the map as a top coffee-producing region," Governor Tan emphasized. "Through this project, we are excited to contribute to the growth and sustainability of our local coffee industry."

In addition to the project launch, the summit features a comprehensive Techno Forum, offering a deep dive into critical topics such as coffee production and rehabilitation, product development, and marketing strategies. Experts are leading discussions on CFIDP projects for coffee growers, coffee plantation management, and the art of the barista.

Attendees can learn about sustainable farming practices, innovative processing methods, and the latest trends in coffee brewing. The Techno Forum provides a valuable opportunity for coffee stakeholders to gain new knowledge and skills, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the industry.

This landmark event serves as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and market access, while also celebrating the ingenuity and artistry of Quezon's coffee producers. The Quezon Coffee Summit and Expo is poised to stimulate growth and solidify the province's position in the Philippine coffee industry. The expo continues until November 17, offering attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Quezon coffee.