The First Philippine Aroma Master Championship was a celebration of the artistry and science behind coffee aromas, bringing together passionate competitors, industry experts, and coffee enthusiasts. A heartfelt congratulations to Ricca Sharymaine, the inaugural champion, who will proudly represent the Philippines at the World Aroma Master Championship in Vietnam this March. This milestone event highlights the vibrant Philippine coffee culture and its growing presence on the global stage.

Coffee prices have surged to levels not seen since 1977, yet Filipino coffee farmers continue to struggle with rising production costs that far outpace their earnings. Despite coffee’s growing global demand, the benefits rarely trickle down to the hardworking farmers who cultivate this beloved crop.

This blog explores the stark realities of the coffee value chain, from the undervaluation of Philippine coffee to the harmful practices of cafés selling cheap coffee that undermine sustainability. It highlights the urgent need for fair pricing, ethical sourcing, and support for local coffee to ensure that farmers receive the compensation they deserve.

Every cup of coffee tells a story of resilience—let’s make sure that story includes the farmers who make it all possible. Read more about the challenges and solutions to support the Philippine coffee industry.

Climate – The Environmental Conditions That Shape Coffee’s Flavor

Climate is not just a backdrop to coffee cultivation; it’s the dynamic force that defines the essence of every bean. From the crisp mountain air of Ethiopia to the misty highlands of Benguet, the interplay of altitude, temperature, rainfall, and seasonality creates the signature profiles that coffee lovers cherish. These environmental conditions don’t just influence how coffee grows—they shape its soul, determining the unique flavors, aromas, and textures that emerge in the cup.

In this third part of The Journey to an Exceptional Cup of Coffee, we delve into the critical role climate plays in coffee’s story. Explore how cooler high-altitude regions slow down cherry maturation to develop vibrant acidity, how steady temperatures in tropical zones create smooth, balanced profiles, and how innovations are helping farmers adapt to climate change. With every sip of coffee, we taste not only the bean but the delicate balance of nature that makes it exceptional.

Join us as we uncover the art of climate’s influence, revealing how it harmonizes with soil, varietals, and human ingenuity to craft the extraordinary experience in your cup.

As I reflect on the journey we’ve taken in the coffee industry, I am reminded of the immense responsibility we carry—not only to our team but to the communities that support us. Our work goes beyond coffee; it is a commitment to the families who depend on us, to the coffee farming communities we work closely with, and to the countless lives touched by every product we create.

This pledge is more than a statement. It is a reflection of our core values—growth, customer experience, innovation, accountability, courage, and kindness. It’s a call to stay true to what defines us and to build a future we can all believe in, together.

Read our full manifesto to learn more about our vision, our dedication to community, and the promise we uphold each day.

The journey to an exceptional cup of coffee begins long before it reaches your mug. From lush haciendas filled with vibrant greens to the distinctive terroirs of coffee-growing regions worldwide, each coffee plant’s species and varietal play a critical role in shaping the flavors, body, and aroma we savor. Join me as I explore how species like Arabica, Robusta, and the rare Eugenioides, along with varietals such as Bourbon, Geisha, and SL28, add layers of complexity to every sip. Discover how master growers like Wilton Benitez carefully select and cultivate varietals in specific microclimates to unlock their full potential. This journey through the world of coffee varietals reveals not only the unique flavors within each bean but also the artistry behind every exceptional cup.

The Journey to an Exceptional Cup of Coffee: Part 1 – The Soil

What makes your coffee taste so good? The answer lies in the careful journey from soil to cup. In this first installment, we explore the foundation of coffee flavor—the soil. Guided by insights from coffee expert Wilton Benitez, we uncover how nutrient-rich soil provides the essential elements that bring out the complex flavors in every coffee bean. Dive in to learn how sustainable practices and dedicated care transform soil into the starting point of exceptional coffee.

As we open the doors to the second branch of The Giving Café, we invite you to experience a place where exceptional coffee meets a legacy of kindness, community, and giving. Inspired by the life of my grandfather, Juan Bautista Lee, this café is more than just a space to enjoy coffee—it’s a tribute to family, tradition, and the spirit of generosity. With every cup, we support Filipino coffee farmers through our #IndulgeInGiving advocacy, creating a positive impact on local communities. Whether you’re celebrating life’s special moments or simply savoring a quiet meal, The Giving Café offers a warm, inviting space for families and friends to build lasting memories. Join us in honoring the past and creating a beautiful future, one cup at a time.

Colombia’s Granja Paraiso 92: A Coffee Lover’s Wonderland

My quest to elevate Philippine coffee led me to the heart of Colombia, where I spent two transformative weeks at Granja Paraiso 92, the farm of renowned coffee innovator Wilton Benitez. Immersed in the world of coffee farming and processing, I learned about advanced fermentation techniques, the importance of terroir, and the diverse varietals that make Colombian coffee world-class. From cupping sessions in Wilton’s lab to enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the farm, this journey deepened my love for coffee and renewed my commitment to bringing exceptional beans back to the Philippines. Join me as I share the story of my time in Colombia and explore the magic behind every cup.

Dive into the world of precision pours and the fluidity of milk meeting coffee with the KRUVE CREATE Latte Art Pitcher. Join me on a journey from the unboxing of this elegant tool to mastering the delicate dance of latte art. Discover how this pitcher could become the barista's ultimate companion, transforming every cup of coffee into a work of art. With a design as sleek as the night and a performance that sings with each pour, this isn't just a review—it's a story of passion poured into practice.

Discover the journey behind Barista's Choice Oat Milk, a local creation crafted to perfection for every coffee aficionado. Dive into a tale of innovation borne out of a quest for a lactose-free, barista-friendly milk alternative. Now available at The Giving Cafe and online, it's more than just a dairy substitute—it's a step towards a more inclusive coffee culture. Grab a liter for just ₱168.00 and join us in redefining the coffee experience, one latte at a time.

My journey to Gesha Village in Ethiopia was more than a trip; it was a revelation. Amidst the towering trees and serene isolation of the highlands, I discovered the depth of what coffee truly represents—its craftsmanship, the labor behind each bean, the unique flavors, and the innovation it inspires. In the Philippines, we have the potential to cultivate our own version of this magic, creating a sustainable ecosystem where our coffee farmers thrive and every cup tells a story. This dream goes beyond just producing coffee; it’s about building a legacy of pride, respect, and purpose—one that connects people, uplifts communities, and celebrates the profound value in each sip.