An ongoing weeklong festival here is a boost to the development of Robusta coffee farmers in the Caraga Region.

Twelve associations of Robusta farmers are showcasing their products at the 2nd Caraga Coffee Festival, which runs from Sept. 2 to 8 at Robinsons Mall here.

It is spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry – Caraga Region (DTI-13) and the Department of Agriculture (DA-13).

“By showcasing the coffee products of the region, our farmers will be given business opportunities and even markets for their products,” Dailin Mamalis, DA-13 high-value crops development program coordinator, said in an interview Monday.

At least 5,048 hectares of land areas in the region are already devoted to Robusta coffee farming involving 2,800 farmers, Mamalis said.

Major activities during the weeklong festival are the Café Exhibit, Latte Art and Brewer’s Cup Competition, Coffee Quality Competition and farm tours.

“Known professional graders on the coffee bean, roasting and quality from Mindanao and the country are joining the festival, and most will serve as judges during the competitions,” Mamalis said.

The graders, she noted, will also help spread information about the coffee products in the region to other parts of the country.

Likewise, a market matching activity will be facilitated on the final day of the festival where Robusta farmers will engage buyers and business groups from Mindanao.

Nilo Calipayan, chair of the Caraga Coffee Council, thanked the government for its continued support of coffee farmers.

“The various government agencies are now working together to help the coffee farmers and other stakeholders. The Caraga coffee industry has come a long way,” he said. (PNA)