In Laoag City, excitement is brewing as nearly 40 participants, including 23 exhibitors from different local areas, prepare for Ilocos Norte’s inaugural coffee and food festival. Scheduled for December 13-14 at the picturesque Arte Luna near the historic Paoay Church Complex, this event promises to be a vibrant celebration of local flavors and talents.
CJ Peregrino, a representative from the Provincial Tourism Office, shared in a recent interview that they’re collaborating with Dovetail, an Australian suburban cafe and bakery, and the locally-famed One Coffee Studio to host this festival. This initiative aims to elevate the region’s coffee and culinary scene.
Peregrino expressed excitement about the enthusiastic response, noting that the event’s limited slots have already attracted a considerable number of participants. Over two days, attendees can look forward to an array of activities, including a competitive coffee brew showdown, sampling sessions for newly launched coffee and pastry offerings, and a spirited cook-off between local government units.
This festival aligns with the provincial government’s broader strategy, as outlined by Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc, to transform Ilocos Norte into a key commercial and cultural hub in Northern Luzon. Part of this vision includes fostering innovative, value-added local products to stimulate economic growth.
A notable initiative is the collaboration between Piddig and Pagudpud municipalities to promote ‘Kapeng Ilokano,’ a unique homegrown coffee brand. This endeavor reflects the burgeoning coffee culture in the region, with several coffee plantations across the province starting to produce high-quality Arabica, Excelsa, and Liberica beans.
Further bolstering this growth, in 2021, the Environment and Natural Resources Office dedicated PHP 3 million to rejuvenate coffee cultivation in the lowland and hilly regions of Ilocos Norte. This investment, part of the National Greening Program, aims not only to enhance the landscape but also to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for the local community.
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