Fine Robusta, a specialty-grade, locally grown coffee variety, will be showcased at the Philippine Coffee Expo on May 9–11 at One Ayala in Makati City.

The emergence of Fine Robusta, which scored 80 and above on the cupping scale system used to rate the quality of coffee beans, represents a significant shift in the local coffee industry as producers and consumers experience its unique flavor and climate resilience—a key advantage amid growing global concerns over Arabica’s sustainability.

The Philippine Coffee Expo will feature Curve Coffee Brew Bar, which will present the Fine Robusta beans alongside live brewing and cupping competitions.

Farmers Reyjohn Basco of Sultan Kudarat and Mabini Ubuan of Ilocos Sur took top honors at the 2024 Philippine Coffee Quality Competition.

Basco’s Robusta, cultivated at 960 meters above sea level, earned a cupping score of 86.45 to top its category. With tasting notes of wine, citrus, dark chocolate, and berries, it redefines the Robusta species, which is typically known for its bitter, earthy profile.

Leading the Fine Robusta movement is Curve Coffee Collaborators, a Filipino farm-to-cup company founded by Cherry Cruz, the first Filipino certified as both a Q Arabica and Q Robusta grader. 

“Robusta isn’t just on the rise—it’s the future,” says Cruz, who works directly with local farmers to elevate quality and market reach. “Its ability to thrive under changing conditions, combined with skilled farming and processing, is unlocking an entirely new experience for coffee lovers.”