Just ask - Is kalinga coffee has organic certification ? Where is Kalinga

Hi May 

We attach a independent report regarding about the organic certification.

kalinga is located about an hour drive from Gamu where we are situated, Our company purchase the supply direct from the farmer association, so as to pass the saving back to our customer oversea. Attach is the the Map of Kalinga and some video clip of the trip for your viewing pleasure. 

Kalinga coffee goes organic

by Larry Lopez

TABUK, KALINGA (9 June) -- Because of luring markets here and abroad, the province is gearing towards getting organic on its renowned Kalinga coffee, which has gained value for its delectable aroma and taste.

Through the efforts of DTI-Kalinga, coffee farming in the province is becoming organic, and is now being piloted in 3 identified areas, 1 in Pinukpuk town and 2 in upper Tabuk.

This new technology on coffee is in line with the OTOP program of government and global trend, which gives high demand on organic products.

Today, there is the advocacy about organic farming with the essence of nurturing the soil with un-harmful fertilizers and pesticides and in return will produce products very safe for human consumption.

According to Noryn Bagano of DTI-Kalinga, ready markets in Europe, US and other parts of the world await the sale of Kalinga coffee, once it gets certified as organic.

In pursuit of this, there is an on-going organic certification on the Kalinga Coffee being done by ECOCert, an international certifying body and the Organic Certification Center of the Phil. (OCCP).

Before issuing the certification, certain requirements have yet to take place like installation of the International Quality Control System in the area, conduct of adequate training on coffee farmers and series of product inspection.

Coffee is one of Kalingas' major cash crops. In 2003, the province produced about 2.460MT or 70% of CARs total production. At least 8,345 hectares is planted with coffee, and still a wide area is open for expansion.

At the local market, a kilo of good dry coffee sells from P45-55.

Kalinga Coffee comes in 3 varieties, Robusta, Arabica and Excelsa. Robusta thrives well in lower Tabuk because of its warmer climate, while Arabica and Excelsa are better grown in the upper towns of the province, for cooler climate.

Excelsa and Arabica, because of their strong and distinct flavor are much sought by coffee lovers from the Middle East.

There is a perfect blend of the 3 the Kalinga Brew, now found in markets, locally and abroad, sold in 500-gram packs. This is a product of unique roasting and grinding, which is the secret of the aromatic and tasty Kalinga Coffee. (PIA-Kalinga)