ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat — The Department of Agriculture (DA), Nestlé Philippines, and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) jointly marked a new milestone for the Philippine coffee industry as they celebrated International Coffee Day and the successful conclusion of Project Coffee++—a multi-sector initiative that has transformed livelihoods and strengthened sustainable coffee farming in key regions of the country.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. hailed the event as a “meaningful milestone” in fostering partnerships that empower farming communities and elevate Philippine coffee to global competitiveness. He emphasized that collaboration among the public sector, private industry, and farmers remains crucial to revitalizing traditional agriculture and linking local producers to premium markets.
Implemented in the coffee heartlands of Sultan Kudarat and Bukidnon, Project Coffee++ has introduced climate-resilient and high-yield coffee varieties, enhanced farming practices, and improved incomes for thousands of growers. Through initiatives like the Farmer Business School and Regenerative Agriculture Training Program, the project has bolstered farmers’ technical and entrepreneurial skills, promoted soil health, and advanced sustainable, climate-smart production.
“These efforts directly contribute to our shared vision of masaganang agrikultura, maunlad na ekonomiya — a productive and resilient agriculture that uplifts every Filipino farmer,” Secretary Laurel said.
He also commended Nestlé Philippines for sourcing nearly 80 percent of its local green coffee beans from Sultan Kudarat, the country’s recognized “Coffee Capital.” This, he noted, demonstrates how inclusive value chains can empower rural economies, strengthen cooperatives, and renew national pride in Philippine Robusta coffee.
Project Coffee++ aligns with the Philippine Coffee Industry Roadmap 2021–2025, which envisions a globally competitive and sustainable coffee sector built on productivity, quality, and shared prosperity. Laurel noted that success stories from Regions 10 and 12 serve as inspiration for other coffee-producing areas nationwide.
“As we close Project Coffee++, we celebrate its transformational legacy — fostering sustainable practices, fair trade, and stronger communities,” he added. “The DA remains steadfast in supporting our coffee farmers, ensuring access to markets, technologies, and financing that will sustain this momentum.”
Secretary Laurel expressed gratitude to Nestlé, GIZ, local government units, and Filipino coffee farmers for their unwavering dedication and partnership in shaping a brighter future for the Philippine coffee industry.
NPO News Team | DA Press Office
