NABUNTURAN, Davao de Oro – The Provincial Capitol lobby was abuzz with activity on October 1, 2025, as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) spearheaded “GOLD BREW: Golden Opportunities and Leveraging on Development to Bring Rich Espresso Wonders” in celebration of International Coffee Day.

The day-long event brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, government officials, and academics to encourage collaboration and innovation in the local coffee value chain. The program included a plenary discussion with industry professionals, as well as a significant presentation on academic contributions by Mr. Jupite Mark U. Banayag, MSc, Director of the Research and Development Division at Davao de Oro State College (DDOSC).

Mr. Banayag’s presentation, titled “Academic Contributions to Strengthening the Coffee Industry,” described DDOSC’s strategy to strengthen the local coffee sector. He described the college’s efforts to generate knowledge through research, such as the “Coffee 2050” roadmap, to develop human capital through specialized training and curricula, and to establish critical infrastructure, such as the Maragusan Cupping Laboratory and the Davao de Oro Coffee Center. He underlined that bridging the gap between academic research and on-the-ground implementation is crucial for solving difficulties like as low production and uneven quality, consequently strengthening the province’s place in the global coffee value chain.

The event also included messages of support from provincial leaders, the oath-taking of new officers for the Provincial Coffee Farmers Association of Davao de Oro (PCOFADDO), and practical workshops on coffee grading and mixology. The event served as a compelling call to action, reflecting Mr. Banayag’s concluding sentiment for improved collaboration among government, industry, and academia to ensure a sustainable and successful future for Davao de Oro’s coffee sector. (Eric Palmerola)