The MPSPC Montañosa Coffee Center (MCC) team, led by College President Dr. Edgar G. Cue, VPRDE, Dr. Epiphania B. Magwilang, and MCC Director Dr. Alver W. Claudio, recently participated in the highly anticipated 2023 Philippine Coffee Expo held from June 2 to 4 at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila. Accompanying them were Director for Research, Ms. Luzlyn M. Agwilang, Nursery Manager, Mr. Domingo L. Lawaguey, and In-House Arabica Q-Grader for the MCC Cupping Laboratory, Mr. Rolando M. Tawanna Jr.
During the three-day event, Dr. Magwilang delivered an engaging presentation on MPSPC's remarkable journey in the coffee sector and the establishment of the Montañosa Coffee Center. She highlighted the various activities the college has undertaken to enhance the quality of coffee in Mountain Province through dedicated research, extension services, and the production of high-quality coffee seedlings.
Notably, Mr. Rolando M. Tawanna Jr., the In-House Arabica Q-Grader, received a prestigious CQI Merit Award from the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI). This recognition was bestowed upon him for his exemplary volunteerism, collaboration, and valuable contributions to the Philippine Coffee sector within his community. The award specifically acknowledged his outstanding efforts as the lead of the "Development and Evaluation of Colorimetric Chart for Coffee Fruit (Coffea Arabica L.) Ripeness Determination" project. Other deserving Q-Graders from the Cordillera Administrative Region were also honored, including Ms. Jennifer A. Rimando from Sagada, Mountain Province, Ms. Marrieta D. Claver and Mr. Jeffrey Pasikan from the Province of Kalinga, and Mr. Robert Caesar G. Kiswa from La Trinidad, Benguet. Together, these esteemed coffee professionals have made significant contributions to the region's coffee industry.
The MPSPC Montañosa Coffee Center team's participation in the 2023 Philippine Coffee Expo served as a platform to showcase their achievements, exchange knowledge with industry peers, and strengthen their commitment to elevating the coffee sector in Mountain Province and beyond.
By actively engaging in events like the Philippine Coffee Expo, MPSPC and its dedicated team continue to play a vital role in transforming the local coffee landscape, ensuring the sustainable growth and prosperity of the coffee industry in the region. Their unwavering efforts and passion for excellence serve as an inspiration to all those involved in the pursuit of exceptional coffee production.
