LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Seven coffee farmers from Benguet gained recognition from the provincial government and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for showcasing Benguet coffee in two national competitions.
Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas and DTI Baguio-Benguet Provincial Director Felicitas O. Bandonill personally presented certificates of recognition to the coffee farmers during the July 8 flag raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol.
Six of the said farmers participated during the 2024 Philippine Coffee Quality Competition held last May 3-16 at the Barista and Coffee Academy of Asia, Incorporated. Under the Arabica category, Chud Wesson Bumakil’s beans earned a place in the top 11 among hundreds of entries and achieving the Green Grade of Specialty Arabica quality.
Joining him were Allan B. Canam, Catherine Joy Alipit-Canam, and Shirley Palao-ay, whose entries also garnered the Green Result of Specialty Arabica Quality. Fernando Pito received recognition for his Fine Robusta quality beans, while Rodyio T. Tacdoy was recognized as the youngest farmer entrant.
“The Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC) is a prestigious event aimed at showcasing and celebrating the best coffees produced in the Philippines,” Provincial Director Bandonill said.
“This annual competition brings together coffee farmers, roasters, and enthusiasts from across the country, highlighting the diverse and high-quality coffee varieties grown in different regions.”
She added that participants included farmers, cooperatives, associations, and universities, who submitted their best coffee samples, which were rigorously evaluated by a panel of local and international judges based on aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and aftertaste.
It can be recalled that the first winner of the Arabica category in the history of this competition was Oliver Oliem from Caliking, Atok, Benguet, way back in 2018.
Meanwhile, Robert Caesar G. Kiswa was also recognized for winning First Runner-up during the Robusta Manual Brewing Competition held on June 9, 2024 at the Philippine Coffee Expo 2024 in One Ayala, Makati City.
Diclas extended his congratulations to all the award-winning coffee producers, thanking them for their dedication and for showcasing Benguet coffee at the national level. By SAP Jr.
