Coffee traders benefit from DTI project

TABUK CITY – Coffee producers in Cordillera region are expecting a boost in their production after the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) infused funds for the improvement of equipment and facilities.

DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo handed out funds for coffee processing equipment and facility improvement of Lenneg Timpuyog Tribal Association in Apayao; Kordilyera Arabica Products Enterprise in Benguet; Hojap Multipurpose Cooperative in Ifugao; and Balawag Multipurpose Cooperative in Kalinga.

Domingo said they are eyeing some 1,000 more Shared Services Facility all over the country with a budget of P700 million.

He added that the funds for facilities and equipment help increase production and improve the quality of coffee.

The Cordillera region’s beneficiaries are the first recipients of the SSF this year as the coffee from the region continue to face challenges such as low production contributing only five percent of the Philippine production.

He stressed that Cordillera coffee growers and producers must be able to meet the demands of the country to be able to export in the future.

He said improving the quality and quantity of coffee production is important to reach the export potential and finally claim that the regional OTOP is globally competitive.

The secretary also highlighted the importance of segregating coffee according to grade and varieties so as not to mix high quality with average quality. This way, he said, coffee produced may command higher prices especially if it is aimed at high-end markets.

Providing assistance to Small and Medium Enterprises remains as core of the development strategy of DTI since the Aquino administration started, he added.