Coffee farmers in Davao del Sur province and across Mindanao are working tirelessly to ensure their crops thrive despite challenges like climate change, pests, inadequate infrastructure, low market prices, and high labor costs. Their perseverance is now being rewarded with the establishment of the Regional Coffee Innovation Center & Museum (RCIC), a groundbreaking initiative by Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) aimed at revitalizing the region’s coffee industry.
Launched on Feb. 20, the RCIC seeks to advance coffee science, enhance production, and celebrate the rich history of coffee in Davao del Sur and beyond. For farmers, the center offers hope by providing tools to evaluate their produce and determine its potential in local and international markets.
“We envision a thriving coffee industry that empowers communities, inspires innovation, and preserves cultural heritage for future generations,” said DSSC president, Dr. Augie E. Fuentes, in an interview Wednesday.
The PHP5-million facility, funded through the 2022 General Appropriations Act, features a coffee museum, training room, coffee cupping room, and a coffee shop. It also includes a sensory laboratory where farmers can submit samples for analysis.
“We analyze the coffee samples to determine if they are commercial or specialty grade. Specialty coffee, which scores 80 percent or higher, commands higher prices in the market,” Fuentes explained. “Luckily, many of our farmers follow good agricultural practices and produce specialty coffee.”
The RCIC also serves as a hub for education and experiential tourism. Visitors can participate in the “seed to cup” experience, learning about coffee cultivation, processing, and tasting.
“We want visitors to appreciate the taste and aroma of coffee while understanding the hard work behind every cup,” said Dr. Regie Patagoc, RCIC head.
The global coffee industry is booming, with over 2.25 billion cups consumed daily, according to Perfect Daily Grind. In the Philippines, coffee is not just a beloved beverage but also a source of livelihood for thousands of farmers. The Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Coffee Industry Roadmap 2021-2025 highlights the country’s potential to produce high-quality coffee, thanks to its ideal growing conditions.
With the RCIC, Davao del Sur is poised to become a key player in the global coffee market, offering farmers a brighter future and preserving the region’s coffee heritage. (PNA)
