'It's time to recognise the true value of Philippine specialty coffee': Filipino roasters highlight coffee farmers' hard work in a film

As the global demand for specialty coffee continues to rise, the Philippines stands poised to make its mark on the industry. Advocates for Philippine specialty coffee are actively supporting coffee farmers by raising awareness through the film 'Ma'am Tere.'

A glimpse into the world of specialty coffee and the individuals driving its growth, "Ma'am Tere" takes viewers on a journey through the landscapes of the Philippines, exploring the relationships forged between the team at Kalsada Coffee and their partner farms throughout the country.

Key Points

• The Philippines is one of the few countries that can cultivate four types of coffee such as Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.
• A film introducing Philippine origin coffee from Benguet and Bukidnon will be shown in Australia this March 2024. This film is directed by Paul Baretto, a Filipino-American coffee roaster.
• 'Ma'am Tere' aims to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the beverage, its processes, the people behind the products, and to showcase pride in Philippine coffee.

Ang 'Kape Serye' ng SBS Filipino ay isang koleksyon ng mga sulatin nakatuon sa mga Filipino-owned cafés; Filipino baristas, producers, distributors at coffee aficionados; at siyempre, sa Philippine-grown coffee bean.

Behind every cup of Philippine specialty coffee lies a story of perseverance and resilience.

"It's time to recognise the true value of Philippine specialty coffee," says Tere Domine, the co-founder of Kalsada Coffee and a prominent advocate for the industry. "These beans represent more than just a commodity; they embody the dedication and expertise of our farmers."

To raise more awareness, Paul Baretto, a US-based coffee roaster, created an observational style of film showcasing the strong relationships cultivated between Kalsada Coffee and their partner farms.

My hope is that it sparks people to critically think about where their coffee comes from and the hands it passes before it gets to our cup.

Paul Baretto, Film Director

"Ma'am Tere" offers viewers an intimate journey through the intricate process of Filipino specialty coffee production, from the humble farm to the exquisite cup. The documentary follows a group of US-based coffee professionals as they traverse the coffee-rich landscapes of Bukidnon in the south and Benguet in the north of the Philippines. At the forefront of this expedition is Tere Domine, affectionately known as 'Ma'am Tere' among locals and a passionate advocate for ethical trade and sustainable farming practices.

The film 'Ma'am Tere' can be viewed at the following locations and dates:

2 March 2024

Time: 11:00 am –2:00 pm

Venue: The Coffee Commune

82 Abbotsford Rd, Bowen Hills QLD 4006

3 March 2024

Time: 4:00 –6:00 pm

Venue: Thornbury Picture House

802 High St, Thornbury VIC 3071

9 March 2024

Time: 3:00 –5:00 PM

Venue: Max Webber Library Function Centre

61 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown NSW 2148