When it comes to local coffee, Bukidnon will always be known for its exceptional quality.  In March 2022, six farmers from Bukidnon won in the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC). Five of them came from Bayanihan Millennium Multipurpose Cooperative (BMMPC) in Pangantucan while the other one is from MILALITTRA Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (MILFACO) from Talakag.

The coffee production is also promising in the province. According to the latest figures of the Philippines Statistics Authority, Northern Mindanao, which includes Bukidnon, makes up 14.7% of the total coffee production in the country. 

With both the quality and quantity opportunities provided by the Bukidnon’s coffee industry, support is pouring in to help the local farmers achieve their aspirations of a better life. 

Making coffee sweeter for farmers

During the stakeholders’ meeting co-organized by the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) and BMMPC on June 6, 2022, representatives from different people’s organizations, the civil society organizations, the local government, and line agencies shared their initiatives, challenges, and future plans to boost production and increase the income of farmers in the towns of Pangantucan, Talakag, and Impasugong. 

“Priority namin sa ngayon na magkaroon ng farm tourism sa area at tumaas pa ang volume ng aming specialty coffee at robusta,” BMMPC Manager Leonila Secadron said. 

According to Kauyagan Savers Multipurpose Cooperative Manager Imelda Esteban, there are still challenges plaguing coffee production.

“As a consolidator, we have to compete with the local traders as they are able to provide the needs of farmers. We are looking to change that. Also, some farmers are still unable to apply  good farming practices,”

As coffee producers and consolidators presented their challenges and plans, discussions also centered around what collaborative partnerships can be done to address them. 

Pangantucan Mayor Miguel Silva Jr., who graced the meeting, has offered his support to help the coffee farmers. 

“Thankful ako dahil sa ganitong mga partnerships. Sana magbunga pa ang ating pagtutulungan,” he said. 

In his message, PEF Chair Senen Bacani said that PEF will continue its support to the farmers in the province. 

“Kami sa PEF ay laging makikinig sa inyong suhestyon, patuloy na pag-aaralan ang mga dynamics ng  inyong komunidad, at susuporta sa mga susunod na hakbang na ating tatahakin.”