The Philippines now produces less than 1% of the world's coffee - unlike a century ago - but there is hope that it will become a net exporter in the next decade.
The civet ( alamid ) selects the best coffee beans which are fermented in its stomach. The excreted beans are collected from the forest floors in several mountainous areas, thoroughly washed and roasted. This provides an unusual source of income when there may be few other employment opportunities.
"Civet coffee" / kape alamid has become one of the world's most exclusive coffees, selling in Japan, USA, and Europe for up to $800 / 500 GBP per kilogram or $ 30 a cup
Not everyone's cup of tea, and it's to be hoped the alleged health benefits outweigh any health and safety risks
Read more at www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-12959381
Far cheaper, and safe in moderate amounts, are other local coffees such as Bohol coffee. This is a high altitude (over 1000 metres) Arabica specialty coffee, with a unique aroma and taste. Could help the local economy and might lessen the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease
