DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — Davao del Sur stands as a premier coffee-growing province in the region, renowned for producing some of the country’s highest-quality Arabica beans. For local farmers, every coffee bean tells a story of hard work, patience, and livelihood deeply rooted in the land. The agricultural sector here serves as a major economic driver for countless households.
Brewing a Better Future for Farmers
Recognizing the need to empower these farmers, the Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) established the Regional Coffee Innovation Center (RCIC) and Coffee Museum. The facility aims to help producers create higher-value and more competitive coffee products in the global market, moving beyond simple raw bean sales.
RCIC Director Regie A. Patagoc emphasized that the goal goes beyond merely increasing production volume. The center focuses on elevating bean quality to ensure profitability. Officially inaugurated on February 20, 2025, the hub serves as a prime center for research and development for the region.
Equipping the Hub with Science and Tech
With crucial support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the CEST program, the center acquired essential equipment. This includes roasting and grinding machines, a roast color analyzer, and a professional espresso machine for advanced testing and product development.
Originally starting as a Coffee Cupping Laboratory, the facility has evolved into a comprehensive service hub. It now offers post-harvest services, sensory evaluation, and technical support for processors, local entrepreneurs, students, and researchers across the region. This evolution represents a significant leap in local infrastructure.
Empowering Over a Thousand Local Producers
Since its establishment, the RCIC has successfully assisted over 1,000 farmers from the Davao Region and nearby provinces. The center offers free training services designed to improve coffee quality, roast consistency, and distinct flavor characteristics. This hands-on approach ensures farmers understand the true value of their harvest.
By evaluating the potential market value of coffee products, the center provides a solid, science-based foundation for agricultural interventions. Patagoc welcomes everyone to attend these lectures, provided they coordinate with the college for scheduling. The initiative ensures vital knowledge is shared widely.
From Seed to Cup: An Experiential Journey
Beyond technical support, the RCIC and Coffee Museum offer experiential learning through its complementary coffee shop. Visitors can immerse themselves in a "seed-to-cup" journey, gaining a deeper understanding of the full agricultural cycle and the cultural significance of local coffee.
Dr. Cherry Ann P. Roxas of DSSC noted that DOST's support strengthened their research capabilities and brought practical science directly to communities. The project was one of the key sites visited during the RSTW celebration in Davao on October 15-17, 2026, highlighting its success.
