ILOILO — The Iloilo Specialty Coffee Fair opened its sixth edition on September 28, 2026, at the Northpoint Event Area of SM City Iloilo. The week-long celebration runs until October 4, bringing together 20 specialty coffee merchants and honoring the region's finest growers.
From Seed to Cup: A Celebration of Craft
This year's theme, "Halin sa Liso, Tubtob sa Baso," translates to "From Seed to Cup," highlighting the full journey of coffee from farm to table. The fair recognizes the farmers, roasters, baristas, and communities behind every brew. It also celebrates Iloilo's rapidly growing specialty coffee culture.
DTI Region VI Acting Regional Director Mutya D. Eusores led the grand opening, joined by local leaders, partners, and coffee enthusiasts. In her message, she emphasized the importance of supporting local coffee growers. The ceremonial ribbon cutting signaled the start of a full week of coffee talks, workshops, demonstrations, and competitions.
Honoring Western Visayas' Best Coffee Growers
A highlight of the opening was the Award and Recognition of the 2026 Regional Coffee Quality Competition winners. The competition was conducted last April 14 to 15, 2026, and evaluated coffee entries from across Western Visayas based on international standards.
Rommel Cabristante of Leon, Iloilo, clinched first place with an impressive score of 86.31. Teddy Echalar of Igbaras, Iloilo, secured second place with 83.56, while the Sitio Buyu-an Baras Abaca and Coffee Growers Association, represented by Anita Emano, also of Igbaras, placed third with 83.37.
These winning producers showcased the world-class quality of coffee grown in the region. Their recognition inspires other farmers to pursue excellence and elevates Western Visayas' standing in the national coffee industry.
A Week of Discovery for Coffee Lovers
The fair offers something for everyone, whether a seasoned connoisseur or a casual coffee drinker. Visitors can explore booths from 20 specialty coffee merchants offering beans, brews, and equipment. Live demonstrations will showcase brewing techniques, latte art, and roasting methods.
Workshops and talks will cover topics such as coffee farming, sustainable practices, and the business of specialty coffee. National coffee champions are expected to share their expertise, giving attendees a rare chance to learn from the best.
Supporting Local Farmers and Communities
The event serves as a platform for local farmers and producers to connect with consumers, buyers, and industry partners. By showcasing their harvest, farmers gain visibility and access to new markets. The fair also strengthens the coffee value chain from production to consumption.
Organizers hope the event will encourage more Filipinos to appreciate locally grown coffee. Supporting homegrown producers keeps money within the community and creates jobs in farming, processing, and retail. Every cup poured represents a farmer's labor and a community's pride.
A Growing Specialty Coffee Community
Iloilo's specialty coffee scene has expanded significantly over the past six years. The annual fair has become a cornerstone event for the industry, drawing participants from across the region. It reflects the growing demand for high-quality, traceable, and ethically sourced coffee.
As the fair continues through October 4, visitors are encouraged to drop by SM City Iloilo Northpoint. Admission is free, and the experience promises to delight the senses. Whether you come for the aroma, the knowledge, or the community, the Iloilo Specialty Coffee Fair offers a warm and flavorful welcome.
