Behind The Origin: Allan and Catherine of Mudaan ni Pamilja

Allow us to introduce you to Allan and Catherine, the heart and soul behind Mudaan ni Pamilja. These passionate coffee producers from Shilan, La Trinidad, are committed to creating delicious Philippine coffee through hard work, skill, and a deep love for their craft.

We were fortunate enough to join Allan and Catherine at their farm during 2024’s harvest season. Our time there offered us a firsthand look into the intense care and attention to detail they pour into every step of their coffee production.

Harvesting

The journey of their coffee starts with the meticulous harvesting of ripe coffee cherries. Only the ripest cherries are selected for the premium and specialty grade batches, while those that don't quite make the cut are processed separately as commercial grade. This rigorous sorting ensures a consistently high-quality flavor that shines through in every cup.

Processing

Allan and Catherine prefer the anaerobic natural processing method for their cherries. This method, where fermentation occurs without oxygen, enhances flavor development and offers a natural solution for controlling pests like coffee cherry borers. By fermenting the cherries anaerobically, pests are effectively suffocated and eliminated, reducing the need for pesticides.

Twice a day, Allan and Catherine monitor the fermentation process to ensure that the cherries don’t over-ferment, maintaining an optimal balance for flavor development.

Drying and Hulling

After fermentation, the cherries are carefully dried on raised beds, allowing air to circulate evenly for uniform drying. Allan and Catherine meticulously monitor the drying process, which takes about a month until the cherries reach the ideal moisture level.

Once dried, the cherries are hulled to remove the outer layers and then sorted again for any defects. Only then are they ready to be sold to roasters who can appreciate the remarkable quality and story behind each bean.

Appreciating the Craft Behind the Cup

Our visit to Mudaan ni Pamilja left us with a deep appreciation for the commitment that Allan and Catherine invest in their coffee. Their hard work behind the scenes transforms Philippine coffee into an exceptional experience for coffee lovers everywhere. By sharing this journey, we hope more people come to recognize the dedication of these farmers and the significance of supporting local coffee producers.