ROBUSTA coffee farmers in Caraga (Region 13) lead the roster of participants of a weeklong coffee farmers festival that kicked off last September 2 in Butuan City.
Twelve associations of Robusta farmers are showcasing their products at the 2nd Caraga Coffee Festival, which runs from September 2 to 8 at Robinsons Mall in Butuan City.
The festival is spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Agriculture (DA) offices in Region 13.
"By showcasing the coffee products of the region, our farmers will be given business opportunities and even markets for their products," said Dailin Mamalis, DA-Region 13 high-value crops development program coordinator.
At least 5,048 hectares of land in the region are already devoted to Robusta coffee farming involving 2,800 farmers, Mamalis said.
Major activities during the weeklong festival are the Café Exhibit, Latte Art and Brewer's Cup Competition, Coffee Quality Competition and farm tours.
"Known professional graders on the coffee bean, roasting and quality from Mindanao and the country are joining the festival, and most will serve as judges during the competitions," Mamalis said.
The graders, she noted, will also help spread information about coffee products in the region to other parts of the country.
Likewise, a market matching activity will be facilitated on the final day of the festival where Robusta farmers will engage buyers and business groups from Mindanao.
Nilo Calipayan, chairman of the Caraga Coffee Council, thanked the government for its continued support of coffee farmers.
"The various government agencies are now working together to help the coffee farmers and other stakeholders. The Caraga coffee industry has come a long way," he said. PNA
