PHILIPPINES COFFEE INDUSTRY AND BACOFA'S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

We are always searching for incredible coffees with rich histories and deep community impact. Our Philippines Mt. Apo coffee comes from the Balutakay Coffee Farmers Association (BACOFA) in Davao del Sur, a region known for its high-altitude farms and commitment to quality. But before we dive into what makes BACOFA’s coffee special, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history of coffee in the Philippines.

The Rich History of Coffee in the Philippines

Coffee has been woven into the fabric of Filipino culture for centuries. Introduced in 1740 by Spanish friars, coffee plants thrived in the country’s volcanic soil and tropical climate. By the 1800s, the Philippines had become one of the world's largest coffee producers, with the town of Lipa in Batangas earning the title “Coffee Capital of the Philippines.”

However, disaster struck in the late 1800s when the coffee rust disease devastated crops, wiping out nearly the entire industry. While Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia emerged as dominant coffee producers, the Philippines shifted its focus to other crops. For much of the 20th century, coffee farming remained small-scale, primarily for local consumption.

The revival of Philippine specialty coffee began in recent decades, thanks to the dedication of local farmers, cooperatives, and government support. Today, regions like Mindanao, Benguet, and Batangas are once again producing high-quality Arabica and Robusta, earning recognition in the global specialty coffee scene.

A Unique Growing Region

Our Mt. Apo coffee from BACOFA is part of this revival. Grown at 1,300 to 1,700 meters above sea level in Davao del Sur, this coffee benefits from volcanic soil, cool mountain air, and careful farming practices. BACOFA farmers cultivate Arabica Catimor, a variety developed by crossbreeding Caturra and Timor to enhance resistance to disease (especially coffee leaf rust) and pests. This variety produces fruit quickly and yields high volumes, making it both a sustainable and high-quality choice for specialty coffee.

The BACOFA Cooperative

BACOFA was founded in 2013 and now includes 150+ farmers dedicated to improving coffee quality and sustainability. The cooperative provides farmers with access to a centralized processing center, which features:

• Raised drying beds for even drying
• Huller machines to remove parchment layers
• A roaster and storage facility for quality control
• A hauling truck to transport coffee efficiently

For specialty lots, farmers process coffee at the co-op’s facility, while for regular specialty lots, BACOFA purchases cherries from farmers and hires local workers to handle processing and sorting. Thanks to a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), BACOFA has been able to further improve coffee quality and consistency.

Women-Led Quality Control

One of BACOFA’s most impactful initiatives is its hiring of 15 community members—most of them women—to hand-sort coffee beans. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures that only the best beans make it into BACOFA’s premium specialty lots. This process not only elevates coffee quality but also creates economic opportunities for women in the community.

Beyond Coffee: A Sustainable Farming Community

BACOFA farmers don’t just grow coffee. They also cultivate cabbage, lettuce, spring onions, and potatoes, helping to diversify income and maintain soil health. This approach supports environmental sustainability and rural cultural revitalization, reinforcing BACOFA’s commitment to long-term success.

Community Impact

Through its work, BACOFA is transforming the local coffee industry while making a positive impact on farmers and their families. The cooperative contributes to:

• Increased household income
• Community development
• Women empowerment
• Rural cultural revitalization
• Environmental sustainability

Experience This Unique Coffee

The result of all this hard work? A coffee with bright tropical fruit notes, caramelized sweetness, and a smooth finish. Whether you brew it as a pour-over, French press, or espresso, this coffee offers a complex and rewarding cup.

You can try our Philippines BACOFA coffee at our pop-ups in Wilmington or order online for local pickup at Huxley & Hiro Booksellers. Stay tuned for more updates on when it will be available at our 601 North Market Street café!