For many years, coffee in the Philippines was an overlooked part of the agricultural landscape. But thanks to individuals like Richard Watanabe, Philippine coffee is finally stepping into the spotlight. Watanabe, a long-time coffee advocate and founder of the Coffee Heritage Project, has worked tirelessly to preserve the cultural and environmental value of Filipino coffee, believing it can serve as a bridge to peace and a cornerstone of sustainable living.
Historically, coffee was simply a part of daily life for Filipino farmers, often unnoticed by both locals and outsiders. Over time, Watanabe’s efforts have helped elevate coffee-growing regions, such as Sagada, Batangas, and Sultan Kudarat, to international recognition for their unique and high-quality beans. Philippine coffee is now winning awards at global coffee competitions, showcasing its distinctive character and rich heritage.
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More Than Just Coffee
Watanabe's mission extends beyond just coffee. His work has grown to include promoting sustainability and preserving Filipino culture. Through initiatives like the Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival, Watanabe is helping to protect indigenous crafts and traditional farming methods. The festival, set to be held in Parqal, Parañaque, will bring together over 200 exhibitors, including coffee farmers, weavers, and local artisans. The event will feature workshops, fashion shows, and live demonstrations of traditional Filipino crafts, all aimed at promoting both sustainability and cultural heritage.
The Biyaya Festival’s goal is to create a lasting connection between producers and consumers, uniting culture, commerce, and community. As festival director Tatti Fortuna-Miranda explains, it is crucial to keep the flame of Filipino traditions alive for future generations.
Coffee for Peace
In conflict zones like Mindanao, coffee farmers have negotiated temporary ceasefires with militants to harvest their crops. These brief periods of peace, though fleeting, allowed farmers to gather their coffee without fear, showing how something as simple as a shared appreciation for the land can help melt away hostility. Watanabe has tasted coffee from these areas and describes it as “floral and fragrant,” a testament to the land’s beauty and the people’s resilience.
For Watanabe, heritage coffee is not just a product—it's a living story. It represents the deep connection between people and the land, passed down through generations. This cultural bond is at the heart of his work, as he seeks to promote coffee as a symbol of Filipino identity.
Through the efforts of passionate advocates like Richard Watanabe, the future of Filipino coffee looks bright; it’s becoming a symbol of hope—representing sustainability, cultural pride, and even peace.
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