The 2nd Philippine National Barista Championship
Last week, I had the privilege of being invited to learn about a barista competition in the Philippines. Together with fellow bloggers, I was introduced to the world of professional coffee preparation and the skills needed to compete domestically and internationally. As it happens, the Philippines will hold its second Philippine National Barista Championship this coming October 15-17, 2014 at Resorts World Manila.
The Philippine National Barista Championship is the country’s most prestigious barista competition. PNBC, as the local counterpart for World Barista Championship (WBC), echoes the goals of WBC. It wants to elevate the profession of being a barista, increase the appreciation for specialty coffee, and re-evaluate the skills of being a barista. Thus, the competition.
To showcase the art and skill in preparation and service of espresso beverage, among others, baristas should serve twelve drinks: four espressos, four cappuccinos, and four original espresso-based specialty beverages. All these should be accomplished within fifteen minutes. There would be seven judges in the competition consisting of four sensory judges, two technical judges, and one head judge. The winner of the Second Philippine National Barista Championship will then represent the Philippines in next year’s 2015 World Barista Championship in Seattle, USA.
Allegro Beverage Corporation (ABC) is the official organizer of the PNBC. It is the only coffee event sanctioned in the country by World Coffee Events, the organizers of World Barista Competition. ABC later announced that Resorts World Manila will be the venue and platinum sponsor of PNBC.
In our press briefing, we were joined by Allegro Beverage Corporation president and General Manager, Mr. Leo de Leon, and the reigning Philippine National Barista Champion Kevin Israel Fortu. Mr. de Leon happily introduced Mr. Fortu; as a winner, Fortu successfully gave an excellent exposure of our country’s coffee industry in the previous WBC. Since it was the first time for the Philippines to enter such prestigious world event, it was really remarkable and inspiring to all Filipino baristas.
Fortu, on one hand, shared his experience in joining the WBC. He mentioned that it was a huge responsibility to carry the Philippine flag and represent the country and all Filipino baristas. He did his best to put up an excellent performance and even used local fruits for his specialty coffee. Overall, it was a memorable journey in making his country proud.
Latte art
Overall, it was a new and interesting experience for me. Even though I prefer my tea leaves over coffee beans, I appreciate the skill and passion in creating coffee beverages.
afternoon snacks
Thumbs up to The Terrace at Maxims Hotel for the delicious snacks served during the press briefing. Also, special thanks to Kathy Kenny Ngo of Life is Kulayful for inviting me.
How do you like your coffee? I like mine handed to me.
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