Coffee Table Book Launch by Roberto Francisco

I first met him in 2003, back when Starbucks was just starting to crop up in Manila and I was starting my first coffee program (which failed). Coffee was already running in Roberto Francisco's blood, and it was infectious. Fast forward to 2006, I called him again, this time with a more comprehensive program and he still supported our initiative (which succeeded this time). Nowadays, he gives some of his time training our area managers coffee appreciation via his COFFEOLOGY sessions, and sharing his passion for coffee.








If you visit his roasting facility in Pioneer corner Sheridan Street in Mandaluyong, take the time to enjoy the coffee and view some of his pictures posted on the wall, souvenirs from his life-long search for the best coffee in the Philippines, and in other countries. He tells stories of the alamid, yes, the wild cat-eating and pooping beans which are (que horror) being kept in cages in Quezon to harvest these overpriced coffee beans, of Lipa and Batangas being one of the richest cities in the old times because of our coffee plantation, of the struggles of the present coffee industry. I am eagerly anticipating his book launch because of two things, the rich history (I appreciate great stories) of coffee (yes I am addicted). What's better than combining two of my favorite topics?


















Roberto Francisco's coffee book launch will be held on November 7, from 6:30 to 9 PM at the Museum Cafe at the Ayala Museum, by invitation only (each invite has a coffee photograph at the back). The book, A COFFEE JOURNAL, will be available at Powerbooks and National Bookstore for P2000 pesos. A good read, and a good gift for coffee lovers!