Philippines

Coffee production in the Philippines began as early as 1740 when the Spanish introduced coffee in the islands. It was once a major industry in the Philippines, which 200 years ago was the fourth largest coffee-producing on earth.

As of 2014, the Philippines produces 25,000 metric tons of coffee and is ranked 110th in terms of output. However local demand for coffee is high with 100,000 metric tons of coffee consumed in the country per year. The Philippines is one of the few countries that produce the four main viable coffee varieties; Arabica, Liberica (Barako), Excelsa, and Robusta. 90 percent of coffee produced in the country is Robusta. 

There have been efforts to revitalize the coffee industry, but most coffee grown in the Philippines is consumed in the Philippines! There is little available for export. While the general quality of taste is basic due to the species, cultivars, and moderate altitudes, I have tasted some old arabica varieties that are being rejuvenated in the Philippines and planted at good altitudes. They are quite nice, a clean mild cup with a delicate sweetness. 

You can read more about this origin on our Philippines Coffee Library page.