LAPU-LAPU CITY — Coffee enthusiasts, curious beginners, and community members gathered at the MAHI Center on September 11, 2026, for the official opening of The MAHI Reset: Coffee Festival. The three-day celebration of coffee culture runs until September 13 under the theme "Sip. Discover. Create. Compete."
A Celebration of Coffee Culture
The festival launched with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting that welcomed visitors to various coffee exhibitor booths. Organizers designed the event to offer multiple engaging experiences tailored for both seasoned coffee lovers and general visitors. The opening day program featured a vibrant cultural dance performance, coffee showcases, and a unique Coffee and Chess competition where participants tested their strategic skills over fresh brews.
The event brings together a strong network of local and featured brands. These include Farm to Fresh, Sanremo, DeManù, Cimix, Fairfield, Dunkin', and various artisanal roasters and local cafes. Their presence underscores the vibrant coffee community thriving in Cebu and across the region. Visitors can explore different brewing methods, taste distinct flavor profiles, and learn directly from the people behind the brands.
Day One Highlights and Activities
The first day, themed "Open and Celebrate," set a festive tone for the weekend. Beyond the ribbon-cutting and exhibitor booths, the cultural dance performance added a local flavor that resonated with attendees. The Coffee and Chess competition emerged as a standout attraction, blending mental strategy with the comfort of a warm cup.
Participants engaged in friendly matches while sipping freshly brewed coffee. The unique pairing drew curiosity from passersby and encouraged interaction among strangers. Organizers hope such activities will foster a deeper appreciation for coffee as more than just a morning ritual. It is a social experience that brings people together.
Immersive Experiences on Day Two
The second day, themed "Sip and Discover," offers a deeper dive into coffee appreciation. Live busking performances will fill the venue with music while fresh brewing demonstrations showcase techniques from expert baristas. Coffee painting sessions invite visitors to explore their artistic side using coffee as a medium.
Coffee appreciation workshops will teach participants how to identify flavor notes, understand bean origins, and improve their home brewing skills. A trivia night caps the evening, testing knowledge about coffee history and culture. These activities cater to both casual drinkers and aspiring connoisseurs, ensuring there is something for everyone.
The Latte Art Throwdown Finale
The third day, themed "Pour and Compete," features the festival's highlight: a Latte Art Throwdown. Thirty baristas will go head-to-head across four rounds, demonstrating precision, creativity, and speed. The competition carries a total prize pool of ₱40,000, raising the stakes for participants.
The throwdown is expected to draw a crowd of supporters and fellow baristas. It celebrates the artistry behind every cup and recognizes the skill required to pour perfect patterns. For the audience, it is a chance to witness the region's top talent in action. The energy and camaraderie make this event a fitting finale to the festival.
Supporting the Local Coffee Community
Organizers emphasized that the festival is more than a trade show. It is a platform to support local coffee farmers, roasters, and café owners. By connecting them with consumers and enthusiasts, the event helps grow the market for homegrown coffee. Every booth visited and every cup purchased contributes to the livelihood of those in the industry.
Everyone is invited to head to the MAHI Center in Lapu-Lapu City throughout the weekend. Visitors can explore the booths, join the interactive sessions, and support the local coffee community. The festival offers a welcoming space for learning, networking, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a well-brewed cup.
