TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Coffee enthusiasts, café owners, and farmers are gathering at Island City Mall on July 16, 2026, for a hands‑on exploration of Bohol’s local coffee scene. The free event, part of the Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo, promises a journey through the island’s distinct single‑origin flavors.
A Sensory Adventure Awaits
The afternoon begins with a guided coffee cupping session, where participants will learn to identify the nuanced notes in freshly roasted beans. Trained professionals will walk the audience through the aroma, body, acidity, and aftertaste of different samples. It’s a rare opportunity to develop a refined palate right in the heart of the city.
The cupping table will feature beans harvested directly from Boholano farms, each representing a specific municipality’s terroir. Attendees will discover how soil, altitude, and processing methods create wildly different flavor profiles. The experience transforms a simple coffee break into an educational tasting journey that celebrates place and craftsmanship.
Brewing Skills for Beginners and Pros
Beyond tasting, the session will include live brewing demonstrations designed to elevate anyone’s home coffee game. Experts will showcase methods like pour‑over, French press, and traditional cloth filtration, explaining how each technique affects the final cup. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned barista, there will be practical tips to take home.
Participants will also learn about grind size, water temperature, and extraction time—the science behind a perfect brew. These skills empower consumers to appreciate quality coffee and reduce reliance on instant mixes. For aspiring café owners, the demonstrations offer a glimpse into the standards expected in the specialty coffee industry.
Connecting Farmers to the Market
The event serves a larger purpose: bridging the gap between rural coffee growers and urban consumers. Farmers will have the chance to present their harvests directly to potential buyers, eliminating costly middlemen. This direct‑trade model ensures that more of the profit stays in the hands of the families who cultivate the beans.
Government agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program are actively supporting these linkages. By creating a platform for farmers to meet café owners and retailers, the event strengthens the entire local supply chain. A thriving coffee industry means revitalized rural communities and a unique product that can put Bohol on the global coffee map.
Part of a Bigger Gastronomic Celebration
The Coffee Cupping and Brewing Session is a highlight of the week‑long Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo, running through July 19 at Island City Mall. The expo offers a one‑stop shop for Bohol’s finest products, from handicrafts to processed foods. It is a perfect destination for tourists and locals looking to experience the province’s rich culinary heritage.
Visitors can pair their coffee tasting with other local delicacies, creating a full sensory experience. The Sandugo Festival itself, which commemorates the historic 1565 blood compact, provides a festive backdrop. As the province celebrates its past, events like this ensure that its agricultural future is equally bright.
