BACOFA Coop: Empowering Balutakay Coffee Farmers Association

Arabica Specialty Coffee: An Overview of BACOFA Coop’s Farming Practices

Balutakay Coffee Farmers Association, also known as BACOFA Coop, is a coffee farmer group in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. As a cooperative, they work together to promote their farming practices and find better opportunities as a group. BACOFA Coop is home to farmers who cultivate Arabica specialty coffee, which is grown in special volcanic soil with a cool climate and high elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level.

BACOFA Coop is located in the mountainous area of Purok Pluto, Bansalan, in Davao Del Sur, which serves as a haven for small coffee farmers who banded together to form the association. The association’s mission is to provide high-quality coffee to the world while promoting sustainable farming practices and supporting their local community.

BACOFA Coop’s commitment to promoting sustainable farming practices is evident in its cultivation of Arabica specialty coffee. They take pride in their farming practices, which include using organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods. The association’s dedication to producing high-quality coffee has earned them recognition in the coffee industry, and they continue to strive for excellence in their farming practices.

History and Background

Formation of BACOFA

The cooperative was formed in May 2013, with only 20 members, to promote their coffee farming work and find better opportunities as a group. By 2017, the membership had reached around 200, and they renamed the organization the Balutakay Coffee Farmers Agriculture Cooperative.

BACOFA’s primary goal is to improve small coffee farmers’ livelihood by providing them access to better markets, training programs, and resources. To achieve this, BACOFA has partnered with various government and private organizations to provide the farmers with the necessary support. One of their notable achievements is their participation in the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition, where they have won awards for their high-quality coffee.

Balutakay’s Coffee Heritage

Balutakay is a barangay in Bansalan, Davao del Sur, known for its fertile ground for Arabica coffee. The small coffee farmers in Balutakay have been growing coffee for generations, and it is deeply ingrained in their culture and heritage.

BACOFA Coop has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the coffee heritage of Balutakay. Their training programs teach farmers about sustainable and…