TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Coffee lovers and curious travelers are invited to discover the distinct taste of Bohol’s homegrown Liberica coffee at the LiBe Coffee Product Presentation on July 15, 2026. The free event at Island City Mall promises an immersive journey into the island’s thriving coffee culture.
A Bold Bean Steps into the Spotlight
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bohol is showcasing a variety that is as rare as it is flavorful. Liberica, known locally as Barako, accounts for less than two percent of the world’s commercial coffee, making this a unique tasting opportunity. Guests will learn how this climate‑resilient crop is empowering local farming communities.
The presentation will explore the bean’s journey from seedling to cup, highlighting its woody, smoky aroma with hints of dark chocolate. Attendees can meet the producers who are transforming Bohol’s agricultural landscape one harvest at a time. It’s a rare chance to taste something truly distinct while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Part of a Larger Gastronomic Fiesta
The LiBe event is embedded within the week‑long Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo, running from July 14 to 19 at the Island City Mall Activity Center. The expo gathers the best local products from across Bohol, turning the mall into a bustling marketplace of flavors, crafts, and heritage. For food‑focused travelers, it is the perfect pit stop during the Sandugo Festival.
The coffee experience doesn’t end on July 15. A follow‑up session titled “The Bohol Coffee Movement: Coffee Cupping and Coffee Brewing” will take place on July 16, also at 4:00 PM. Together, these sessions transform a simple cup of coffee into a deeper understanding of Bohol’s agricultural potential and the passion driving its farmers.
A Climate‑Resilient Crop for the Future
Liberica is gaining global attention as a sturdy alternative to Arabica, which is increasingly threatened by rising temperatures. Bohol’s farmers have embraced this robust variety, with plantations like the one in Mabini nurturing over 20,000 Liberica trees. These projects are revitalizing rural economies and offering a sustainable path forward for agriculture.
The DTI, along with the Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office, is actively building the market infrastructure for this emerging industry. Events like the LiBe Product Presentation connect farmers directly with café owners and retail buyers, cutting out middlemen and ensuring that more income stays in the community. It is a model of inclusive growth driven by a humble bean.
Where Culture and Cuisine Meet
The Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo is a cornerstone of the larger Sandugo Festival, which commemorates the historic 1565 blood compact. While the festival is famous for street dancing and reenactments, the expo highlights the province’s creative and culinary soul. Visitors who explore the expo discover that Bohol’s heritage is not only seen and heard but also tasted.
Admission to the expo and all coffee presentations is completely free, making it an accessible and enriching addition to any itinerary. Whether you are a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a unique souvenir, the LiBe Coffee Product Presentation offers a warm and welcoming introduction to the island’s boldest brew.
