In the cool highlands of Region 11, Dione F. Ellaga has quietly tended to his coffee trees for the past 17 years. A proud coffee farmer and steward of the land, Dione believes that farming is more than just a source of income—it’s a way of life he was raised into, and one he continues with purpose.
Growing up in a family of farmers, Dione learned the rhythm of the land from a young age. “Sinanay na kami ng aming papa at mama,” he recalls. Farming came naturally, and coffee felt like the right path. What drew him in was not just familiarity but the promise of a steady livelihood and the long-term value of nurturing something that gives back to the environment.
He remains in coffee farming because of its sustainability and the stability of its market. Over time, he also saw how coffee could help care for Mt. Apo. With its strong, deep roots, coffee helps prevent erosion and contributes to cooling the surrounding environment. For Dione, every seedling planted is part of a bigger picture.
This year, the fruits of his work have taken on complex flavors—notes of orange, cacao, tamarind, apricot, and a winey, fruity brightness. The quality of the beans speaks for itself. He suggests pairing his Arabica with something simple and native, like biko or suman cupcakes, especially since his coffee doesn’t need sugar to stand out.
Despite his dedication, the work is not without difficulty. Dione faces the harsh realities of climate change, unpredictable heat, typhoons, and destructive pests. These challenges can affect both the health of the coffee trees and the quality of the harvest. Still, he continues with patience and resilience.
What gives him hope is seeing more people choose local coffee. “Kapag umiinom sila ng kape mula sa Pilipinas, alam ko na sinusuportahan nila ang mga tulad naming farmer,” he says. “At alam din nila na masarap at dekalidad ang iniinom nila.”
Dione believes that recognition in the premium coffee space often begins with quality. He also sees the importance of support—through buyers, education, and real partnerships. Some farmers still choose other crops because coffee takes time to yield returns, while others lack the means to fully care for their trees. But when a farmer receives the right support, it changes everything.
For Dione, working with brands like Intuit Coffee has helped expand the reach of his coffee farm, both locally and internationally. “Mas nakilala kami dahil sa kanila,” he says. He hopes that more people will see that Filipino farmers are capable of producing world-class coffee with consistency and care.
This release featuring Dione Ellaga’s harvest is more than a seasonal offering. It’s a reflection of quiet strength, family tradition, and the unwavering hope of a farmer who believes in the future of Philippine coffee.