Dumaguete: The Department of Science and Technology - Negros Island Region (DOST-NIR) has pledged to assist coffee farmers in Dauin, Negros Oriental in enhancing their production to increase market competitiveness. DOST-NIR officer-in-charge, Assistant Director Gilbert Arbon, announced plans to provide support to the Baslay Highland Agriculture Cooperative (BASHACO) as their coffee production requires further refinement.

According to Philippines News Agency, Arbon emphasized that the DOST aims to transform Dauin into a 'smart municipality,' incorporating a ridge-to-reef sustainability model that includes Apo Island and Baslay. BASHACO, located in Dauin's Barangay Baslay, faced challenges in coffee production due to the El Ni±o-triggered drought last year and a typhoon, which led to a decreased yield. Arbon highlighted the issue of high moisture content in the cooperative's coffee beans, affecting post-production and necessitating improved storage solutions.

In terms of support, Arbon mentioned that the DOST's Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARD) has funded the development of a technology called "smart agriculture." The goal is to incorporate Baslay into the implementation of this project, focusing on coffee production and post-harvest facilities. He praised the local government of Dauin for its support of BASHACO, as its Baslay Highland Brew Coffee is recognized as the One Town, One Product (OTOP) of the municipality.

BASHACO is participating as one of 30 exhibitors in the 3rd Dumaguete Coffee Festival, which began on Thursday at Robinsons Place mall in Dumaguete. The event features participants such as coffee shops, baristas, coffee producers and suppliers, farmers' groups, and equipment retailers. The festival will continue until July 23 and includes three competitions organized by the Department of Trade and Industry in collaboration with Teamskills Technological Institute, Inc.