Dumaguete: The 3rd Dumaguete Coffee Festival is set to enhance the local coffee industry and create more sales and market opportunities in Negros Oriental, according to an official from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

According to Philippines News Agency, Maribel Sumanoy, DTI-Negros Oriental division chief for SMEs and DTI Region 7 focal person for coffee, stated that the festival aims to support coffee farmers, businesses, and individuals involved in the industry. Sumanoy highlighted that the event serves as a marketing platform for coffee farmers, coffee shops, retail suppliers of coffee equipment, and other stakeholders to come together in one venue.

The Coffee Festival will feature 25 exhibitors and is scheduled to take place from July 17 to 23 at the Atrium of Robinsons Place shopping mall in the capital city. Sumanoy noted that the first Coffee Festival had only 10 exhibitors, while last year's event included 22, indicating a growing interest and participation in the local coffee industry.

Sumanoy expressed optimism about the increasing number of industry players who are striving to compete both nationally and internationally. The festival will also showcase three competitions focusing on brewers, latte art, and the barista challenge.