Kapeng Barako and the roots of Batangueño Identity: A cultural, historical, and ethnographic study

Abstract

This study explores Kapeng Barako—the distinct Coffea liberica variety cultivated in Batangas, Philippines—as a symbol of Batangueño identity and cultural resilience. Through a qualitative approach combining historical analysis, ethnographic interviews, and cultural documentation, the research examines how coffee transcended its agricultural function to become a core component of Batangueño heritage. Drawing on archival records and oral histories from farmers, historians, and local residents, the study traces the historical trajectory of coffee from its ancient origins in Ethiopia and Yemen to its introduction and flourishing in Batangas during the Spanish colonial era. The findings illustrate how Kapeng Barako not only served as an economic commodity but also evolved into a cultural emblem associated with strength, hospitality, and community solidarity. The discussion highlights key historical transformations—from the 18th-century coffee boom in Lipa to the catastrophic decline caused by coffee rust in the late 19th century, followed by postwar revitalization and contemporary sustainability efforts. Moreover, the paper contextualizes Kapeng Barako within the global coffee narrative, emphasizing its unique characteristics and its potential use as a base for specialty coffee beverages. The research underscores the need for renewed local and governmental support to sustain Coffea liberica cultivation, integrate it into agro-tourism, and preserve Batangas’ cultural heritage. Ultimately, Kapeng Barako emerges as both a product and a metaphor of Batangueño endurance—linking agricultural history, cultural identity, and economic revitalization. The study calls for continued appreciation and promotion of Kapeng Barako as a symbol of regional pride and a living tradition in Philippine coffee culture.