ILOCOS SUR – A 65-year old coffee grower in this province was adjudged grand champion for second straight year in the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition.
Mabini Ubuan clinched the title for the Robusta category of the prestigious, first-of-its-kind annual quality competition highlighting coffees of Philippine origin.
Two other fellow Ilocanos, Erlinda Dao-ayan and Juana Bitongan, finished 6th and 9th, respectively among the 10 finalists.
Based on competition format, organizers received green coffee beans from Philippine farmers and producer organizations engaged in coffee farming as entries which were graded, roasted and cupped by certified Quality Coffee Graders.
Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Luis Singson gladly acknowledged Ubuan’s second straight win in the competition.
The governor praised the achievements of the coffee farmers, saying that their success is proof that the region is capable of producing high-quality coffee beans that can rival the best.
“Mr. Ubuan’s second straight win only goes to show that hard work and dedication will be rewarded. He has dedicated two decades in his craft and his accolades are a result of his continued effort to maintain the quality of his coffee,” Governor Singson said.
Governor Singson also cited that Sigay’s reputation as the Coffee Capital of Ilocos Sur is well-deserved and that he hopes that other coffee farmers would be inspired by Ubuan’s achievements. (Robbie Pangilinan)