Baristas unite at the 1st PH National Assembly

It was a day of fun and learning about coffee last September 20 at the 1st PH National Barista Assembly held at SM Aura SMX Convention Center. 

World coffee experts and leaders sees a brighter future for the country's baristas, as they join together in a day of learning and fellowship over cups of the country's best tasting coffees, at the first-ever Philippine National Barista Assembly.

The event, which happens at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig City, aims to unite Filipino baristas and bring back the Philippines on the global coffee spotlight through a sustainable coffee economy.

Renowned world barista experts lead the line-up of speakers at the Assembly. 2018 World Barista Champion Head Judge, Ross Quail, talks about the "Factors affecting Speacialty Coffee," 2014 World Barista Champion, Hidenori Izaki, shares about the, "Ten tips to win in the World Barista Championship," 2016 Berlin Comandante Champion, Joe Mc Taggart, discussed about "Grinding and Brewing," and the 2014 Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) awardee and business speaker, Francis Kong, delivers a 2-hour free training on leadership.

A very inspiring and motivating talks from a business speaker,  Francis Kong. 

The topics discussed at the Assembly are aimed at honoring the barista's skills and character that will guide them to build a successful career and to be at par with baristas worldwide.


To provide a platform for coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and baristas to showcase their skills, the Assembly features various competitions happening simultaneously, such as the Ultimate Barista Challenge, Comandante Grind and Brew Cup, and Latte Art Throwdown. The competitions aim to encourage baristas to bring out their potentials, creativity, and skills in coffee crafting and related art. Moreover, it is also about inspiring everyone to elevate their skills and aim for excellence in their service and presentation to meet world-class standards.

Here are some photos taken at the event.

Guests enjoyed the free coffee samples from the exhibitors, freshly brewed by Baristas.

Guests can also purchase coffee in a discounted price. 

The Barista Assembly spearheaded by Michael Harris Conlin, President and CEO of Henry & Sons, and the country's 2019 National Barista Champion and first Filipino to qualify at the World Barista Championship. Conlin is determined to spearhead activities that would bring together baristas from all over the country.  Baristas who joined the pocket events, dubbed "Baristas Quest," in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, are joininh the event.


The event was carried out with support from Collins, Acaia, Comandante, Slayer Espresso, Astoria, Eurotel, Fujifilm Philippines, Fundador, The Bar Gin, Zabana, Lia's Cakes in Season and Manila Standard.


For more information regarding the 1st National Barista Assembly, visit www.facebook.com/baristasquest or contact Tony Dy at 0917.153.1188