Two Young Female Baristas Advocating for Iloilo's Specialty Coffee Scene

 

In Iloilo City, specialty coffee has blossomed into a vibrant niche market, with baristas who masterfully craft it earning well-deserved recognition. Among the rising baristas in the local coffee scene are Ajelyn May Huyo and Dane Narte, who have become passionate advocates for specialty coffee.

Huyo and Narte share humble beginnings in the world of coffee. Both started with little knowledge of the craft but strongly desired to learn and grow.

“Before, my knowledge about coffee was limited. A friend told me about TESDA's Barista Training, so I joined. Later, I applied as a barista at Saigon Brewers. That became my first exposure to specialty coffee,” Huyo recalls.

Narte shares a similar story: “I used to drink [commercial] coffee every day. I eventually bought an espresso machine. But I didn’t understand much about its technicalities.”

Specialty coffee refers to coffee that is grown, processed, and brewed with exceptional quality standards at every step of the production chain. The term typically applies to coffee rated 80 points or higher on a scale of 100 by certified coffee graders. What makes specialty coffee unique is its focus on origin, flavor profiles, and sustainability.

The two young baristas credit their supportive employers for their career growth, as well as the vibrant Iloilo coffee community. Thanks to encouragement from fellow baristas and coffee professionals, they have experienced invaluable guidance on their journey.

Both Huyo and Narte are active members of the Iloilo Specialty Coffee Association Inc. (ISCAI), an organization that fosters connections within the specialty coffee sector.

Driven by their enthusiasm for learning, the pair has participated in brewing competitions to hone their skills further. One notable event they joined was the Pakiburak Manual Brewing Competition.

Pakiburak, founded by Ariel Lastica, serves as a coffee-sharing platform that supports stakeholders across the coffee value chain—from farmers to coffee shop owners. Through initiatives such as brewing contests and farm tours, the platform nurtures growth and collaboration in the community.

Huyo secured first place during the competition's first leg, held on March 2, 2025, at Iloilo Coffee House. Despite registering late and having no expectations to win, she embraced the experience wholeheartedly. Her employer at Saigon Brewers encouraged her to participate, and the feedback she received from fellow competitors and judges proved vital to her growth.

Meanwhile, Narte claimed victory in the competition's second leg on April 6, 2025, at Bruskoffee. Grateful for the recognition, Narte expressed how winning the event introduced her to the wider local coffee scene. She appreciates the opportunities to meet new friends and build a strong network within the industry. She also thanked Luna Maxine, the owner of Ñuwave Coffee, for her mentorship and encouraging words.

Working in specialty coffee shops, Huyo and Narte acknowledge, comes with its challenges. One key aspect of their role is educating customers about specialty coffee. While not everyone is receptive to learning, they focus on engaging those who show interest.

Both baristas admit that their journey in the coffee industry is still evolving. They remain committed to pursuing knowledge and sharing their insights with others, ensuring the continued growth of Iloilo’s coffee community. With their passion and dedication, Huyo and Narte are contributing significantly to the flourishing specialty coffee scene.

 

 (All photos from Iloilo Specialty Coffee Community & Pakiburak Facebook pages)*