The Philippines is one of the few countries that produces the four varieties of commercially-viable coffee – Arabica, Liberica, Excelsa and Robusta, because its climatic and soil conditions, whether in the lowland or the mountain regions, make the country suitable for all four varieties.1 Robusta is the most commonly produced variety, contributing 69% of the Philippines’ total 2019 coffee bean production.2 It is mainly used in espresso and instant mixes.
Arabica, which contributed 23% of the total production in 2019, is mostly cultivated in high elevation areas (1000 meters above sea level) and sells at a premium price.It is primarily used for brewing or blending. The other varieties are Excelsa (7%),with berries bigger than Arabica but smaller than Liberica, and more drought and pest resistant than other varieties, and Liberica (1%), also known as Kapeng Barako, which has a strong flavor and sharp aroma.