In 2013, Uncle Alwin Dinoy planted approximately 500 Excelsa coffee trees in their barangay. His Indigenous Bagobo neighbours gifted his family with these seedlings, who had long grown and enjoyed Excelsa coffee in the area. The variety was well-suited to the local climate and landscape, making it a natural choice for their farm.

For many years, the family sold their coffee to local traders, as market access and specialty buyers were limited. Their journey changed when they became part of the network supported by Coffee for Peace, creating new opportunities to connect with buyers who value the story, quality, and potential of Philippine coffee.

Today, we’re proud to share their Excelsa coffee here in Canada and the US (and beyond!) — a milestone that reflects years of dedication, patience, and hard work.

As their son Whisler, shares:

"Before, we only sold our coffee to local traders because we didn't have many buyers. Now, we're grateful that Coffee for Peace (in partnership with Kapé), has helped bring our coffee to Canada."

Their story is a reminder of how market access can transform opportunities for smallholder coffee farmers, allowing unique Philippine coffee varieties like Excelsa to be shared with the world.

This Excelsa is a very unique and remarkable cup that reminds us of bourbon whiskey, bignay (Philippine wild cherries), and a nice dark chocolate finish.