Enthusiastic and passionate Sangguniang Kabataan members underwent a barista crash course, setting the stage for the official launch of Arabica Philippines’ barista internship program at the Arabica Manila Roastery in BGC, Taguig City.
With their mantra “See the World Through Coffee,” Arabica Philippines is opening its doors and bags of coffee beans to passionate young Filipinos for an immersion in the barista profession and Arabica culture.
“It excites me that we get to kindle the same affinity that drives us towards the rich stories and flavors that define Filipino coffee culture in Arabica, especially to the youth. I do hope that, through the program, we get to introduce the barista profession as a great creative outlet and a viable career option,” Arabica Philippines chief operating officer Koko Tamura said.
The Valentine’s Day workshop saw 12 participants from the Katipunan ng Kabataan ng Katuparan, under the administration of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Katuparan in Taguig, joined by influencers and barista trainers. Divided into groups, they learned under the guidance of Arabica Philippines head barista Lawrenze Marcella.
“We take great pride in our meticulous process here at Arabica Philippines. Our strict adherence to steps and procedures, particularly those focused on food and hygiene safety, is what truly sets us apart. This ‘Arabica way’ of manually crafting a cup of coffee, ensuring the highest quality and relying on the expertise of our highly trained baristas, is just one aspect that we aim to share with our participants,” Marcella said.
Post-workshop, SK Brgy. Katuparan Taguig chairman Jerome Paolo Gonzales expressed his gratitude to Arabica Philippines for extending the invitation to young coffee enthusiasts to engage in the industry and encouraged peers to seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by the brand.
Despite its global acclaim, Arabica Philippines remains rooted in local culture, exemplified by the “See the World Through Coffee” program. Gonzales urges other industry leaders to follow Arabica’s example, underscoring that Arabica Philippines is a “global brand with a local heart.”