Manila’s Coffee Champions: 10 Years of Excellence

A Decade of Mastery in Manila

The global coffee community is turning its attention to Manila for a landmark event that marks a full decade of regional competition. The Philippines is proudly hosting the 10th anniversary of the Starbucks Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championship, a historic first for the country. This gathering is not merely another local meet but a continental showcase of skill and passion, bringing together the finest talent from across the region.

The stakes are incredibly high, yet the atmosphere remains electric and charged with anticipation. Four finalists have emerged from a pool of more than 25 competitors to take the stage and represent their home markets. They embody the pinnacle of barista craft in Asia Pacific, having undergone a rigorous selection process that tested their limits. The event serves as a celebration of ten years of pushing boundaries and inspiring one another to reach new heights in coffee excellence.

Meet the Finalists

Jetro, a shift supervisor and district coffee master from Starbucks Philippines, stands out as one of the four finalists. He has been a barista for four years and recently won the 2026 Market Finals after being the 1st Runner-Up in 2024. His journey reflects a rapid ascent through the ranks, driven by a deep understanding of coffee techniques and a relentless drive to improve his skills daily.

Hai, a shift supervisor from Starbucks Vietnam, claimed the Vietnam champion title in 2025, bringing a fresh perspective to the competition. Meanwhile, Seven, a store manager from Starbucks Hong Kong and Macau, has been competing since 2018 and became the Hong Kong market champion in 2023. Their long tenure in the competitive scene brings a wealth of experience and technical precision to the final stage of the championship.

Noina, a shift supervisor from Starbucks Thailand, secured the Thailand champion spot after placing second in 2024, demonstrating consistent growth and resilience. Each of these baristas has a distinct journey to this final stage, shaped by their unique cultural backgrounds and professional experiences. Their stories reflect years of dedication and a relentless pursuit of perfection in their craft, making them formidable opponents on the international stage.

The Special Blend

To celebrate the 10th regional championship, a unique coffee blend was created specifically for the Asia Pacific region. The Sejati Blend features beans from Sumatra, Papua New Guinea, Sulawesi, and Java, representing the diverse coffee landscapes of the area. This careful selection of origins ensures a rich and complex flavor profile that honors the heritage of each region involved in the blend.

The blend offers distinctive notes of calamansi, white pepper, and marigold, creating a sensory experience that is both vibrant and sophisticated. This combination of flavors serves as a tribute to the rich coffee heritage of the region and highlights the unique characteristics of Asian coffee. It is more than just a drink; it is a statement of pride and a symbol of the championship’s legacy, encapsulating the spirit of the event.

The finalists had the opportunity to taste the Sejati Blend during a special session at the Starbucks Reserve in Bonifacio Global City. This experience allowed them to appreciate the depth and quality of the beans, which were selected to represent the best of what the region has to offer. The blend’s creation underscores the commitment to excellence and the celebration of coffee culture in Asia Pacific.

A Stage for Excellence

Laura Elphick, director of Coffee Excellence at Starbucks International, emphasized the importance of this competition in fostering talent. She noted that the event provides a crucial platform for baristas to shine and showcase their passion and skill on a global stage. Her insights highlight the company’s dedication to recognizing and nurturing the best in the industry, ensuring that excellence is always celebrated and rewarded.

Chanda Beppu, president of Starbucks Asia Pacific, highlighted the role of baristas in connecting coffee craft with human connection. She stressed that the championship has been a vital platform for partners to push the boundaries of their craft for ten years. This perspective underscores the belief that great coffee is not just about taste but also about the relationships and experiences built around it.

The event stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence and the development of its workforce. It is a celebration of the talent and dedication of the baristas who make Starbucks what it is, recognizing their contributions to the brand’s success. By providing such a high-profile stage, Starbucks reinforces its value for employee growth and professional achievement in the coffee industry.

Looking Ahead

The 10th anniversary of the Regional Barista Championship is a milestone that reflects the growth and evolution of coffee culture in Asia Pacific. It is a testament to the commitment of Starbucks to fostering talent and celebrating the art of coffee. The event marks a decade of innovation and improvement, showing how the region has become a hub for coffee excellence and professional development.

The finalists are not just competing for a title; they are representing the best of what the region has to offer. Their journey to this point is a story of perseverance, skill, and passion, inspired by the support of their teams and the broader coffee community. As the competition unfolds, the world watches with anticipation, eager to see who will rise to the occasion and claim the top honor.

This celebration of the coffee community highlights the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in driving the industry forward. The event serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and the joy of sharing a great cup of coffee. With the stage set in Manila, the future of barista competition looks bright, filled with promise and the potential for new records in coffee excellence.