NABUNTURAN, Davao de Oro — The Regional Coffee Expo 2026 officially opened today, October 1, at Nabunturan, bringing together coffee industry stakeholders for three days of learning and collaboration. The event runs until October 3 under the theme "Brewing a Golden Future from Farm to Community."
A Golden Opening for Davao Coffee
Governor Raul Mabanglo led the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Agriculture Regional Executive Director Macario Gonzaga and Regional Technical Director for Operations Marie Ann Constantino. The formal opening unveiled exhibits showcasing coffee products, innovations, technologies, and offerings from growing communities and industry players across the region.
Held in celebration of International Coffee Day, the gathering highlights the value of coffee from farmers who cultivate it to communities that bring Davao coffee closer to consumers. The three-day format allows participants to explore, learn, and forge partnerships that extend far beyond the expo floor.
Farmers Gain Direct Market Access
The expo bridges the gap between local coffee growers, highland farming cooperatives, and commercial buyers, roasters, and exporters. Eliminating middleman reliance allows farmers to command fairer prices for their raw green beans and processed coffee. This direct connection strengthens the entire value chain.
Farmers and agri-cooperatives gain exposure to modern farming technologies, post-harvest processing techniques, quality grading, and sustainable crop management. These skills help improve bean yields and quality, ensuring that Davao coffee remains competitive in national and international markets.
From Raw Beans to High-Value Products
Historically, smallholder farmers lose out on profits by selling unrefined, low-margin raw agricultural products. The expo's emphasis on "Farm to Community" encourages value-adding through roasting, branding, packaging, and direct consumer sales. This approach keeps more economic value inside local communities.
Small and medium enterprises, local café owners, roasters, and baristas gain a regional platform to launch products and showcase unique flavor profiles. The expo expands their consumer base while celebrating the diverse varieties Davao produces, including highland Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica.
Agritourism and Local Pride
The Davao Region contributes roughly 18 percent of the country's total coffee supply, making it one of the Philippines' top producers. Events like RCE elevate Davao's reputation as a high-value specialty coffee origin. Promoting farm-to-cup experiences positions local farms and specialty cafés as emerging agritourism destinations.
Hosting the event in Davao de Oro brings economic activity to local hospitality, transport, and food service sectors. It also celebrates rural culture and agriculture on a day dedicated to coffee lovers worldwide. Rural communities gain visibility and pride as their products take center stage.
Livelihood Sustainability and Economic Resilience
Coffee is a vital cash crop for thousands of rural families in Mindanao. Upgrading agricultural skills, expanding trade links, and adopting smart farming methods insulate farming communities against market volatility and climate challenges. These efforts foster long-term food security and income stability.
The expo represents a strategic milestone for Region XI, reinforcing its position as a premier coffee hub. By connecting farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers, it builds a more resilient and prosperous future for all.
