HOW COFFEE CULTIVATES COMMUNITY AND HEALTH

A silent revolution is brewing in Batangas, where the earth yields a bounty of flavors and stories.

- MYLENE MENDOZA-DAYRIT

Known for kapeng barako, a variety of Liberica coffee, Batangas plays an important role in the local coffee industry.

Coffee cultivation in the province dates back to the 18th century when the Spanish friars first introduced it. It soon became the local specialty. While other varieties have evolved due to the challenges of cultivation with barako, Batangas is still strongly associated with it.

Kapeng Barako, a specific type of Liberica coffee native to Batangas and Cavite, is popular for its strong and bold flavor and aroma. Lipa City, in particular, was once labeled as the coffee capital of the Philippines. The title is currently held by Amadeo, Cavite, but Batangas seeks to return to its coffee capital proficiency.

In the last few years, Sultan Kudarat has entered a bid to claim that throne since data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that 35 percent of the country's total coffee supply comes from the municipality. According to the Philippine Information Agency, coffee production from Sultan Kudarat has surpassed the combined output of Cavite, Batangas, and Bukidnon in 2023.