Hot or not: Why Filipinos still love their coffee during the scorching summer season

Why do Filipinos hold such a deep love for coffee, especially our locally produced brews? And why do we continue sipping on hot coffee, even when the summer heat is relentless?

It's a question even foreigners often ask—how can we still enjoy a steaming cup of coffee under the unforgiving tropical sun? For many of them, the idea of drinking something hot in such weather seems counterintuitive. But for us Filipinos, the connection to coffee runs much deeper than temperature or weather.

As a coffee-loving Pinoy, I am proud of my country's reputation for producing some of the finest coffee in the world. From the warm and comforting taste of a cup of coffee to the unique flavor profiles of beans from across the provinces, we Filipinos cannot get enough of our beloved beverage.

In this listicle, I will explore the reasons why we love drinking locally produced coffee, as well as why we continue to drink hot coffee even during the scorching Philippine summer season.

Cultural preference

Coffee was introduced to Philippine agriculture by Spanish friars in 1740, and it quickly captivated Filipinos with its enticing aroma and energizing effects. Its popularity deepened during the American colonial era with the introduction of robusta, further cementing its place in Filipino daily life. Despite the summer heat, our love for coffee remains unwavering—an enduring affection that is deeply rooted in our culture. Coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a social connector, shared during chikahan, merienda, or family bonding, and a comforting presence in both quiet mornings and lively conversations.

What makes it even more fascinating is that the Philippines is one of the few countries cultivating four distinct coffee varieties. This diversity offers a broader selection to suit various preferences, whether hot or iced, sweet or strong, making our coffee culture both rich and inclusive, and the local coffee landscape even more intriguing.

Regular habit

For many Filipinos, drinking coffee is more than just a craving—it’s a comforting ritual and a vital source of energy, almost like taking vitamins. It fuels our mornings, offers a refreshing pause during work hours, and sometimes even caps off our meals in the evening. We look forward to that first sip each day, whether it’s to kick-start productivity or simply to relax.

Even when the summer sun makes hot coffee less appealing, the habit doesn’t go away. Instead, we turn to iced coffee, frappes, or coffee jelly drinks. Regardless of the temperature or time of day, coffee remains our go-to companion, offering both comfort and an energizing lift that fits seamlessly into our everyday routine.

Health benefits

Coffee is not only delicious, but also comes with a host of health benefits. It helps boost metabolism, aids digestion, and is a great source of antioxidants—making it more than just a comforting drink, but a functional beverage for many Filipinos. These perks explain why we continue to enjoy our daily brew, even during the summer heat.

While it can be tempting to drink more coffee during long, hot days, moderation is key. Too much caffeine can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to balance coffee intake with plenty of water. Thankfully, coffee is also a lighter and less sugary alternative to many cold drinks, making it a smart and refreshing choice—as long as we don’t overdo it.

Enjoying coffee in cool places during summer

In the Philippines, where the tropical heat and humidity can be draining, air-conditioned spaces in homes, offices, restaurants, and malls provide the perfect escape from the sweltering weather. This cool indoor environment often creates the perfect setting to enjoy a hot cup of coffee. Interestingly, some Filipinos even turn on the air conditioning specifically to indulge in their favorite warm brew, using it as a small justification to enjoy that comforting cup.

At the same time, others prefer iced coffee as a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks like soft drinks, even when they're already cooling off indoors. Whether hot or cold, the craving for coffee doesn’t disappear with the seasons—it simply adapts to the environment and personal preference.

All about the climate

The Philippines' favorable growing conditions, such as volcanic soil, elevation, and microclimates, give rise to a variety of regional coffees with distinct flavor notes. Barako from Batangas, Arabica from Benguet, and Robusta from Sultan Kudarat each offer a taste of place. We take pride in producing some of the world’s finest coffee, thanks to these ideal conditions. The volcanic soil in Batangas provides a fertile ground for coffee cultivation, while the cool climate in Benguet contributes to a more complex and refined flavor.

Supporting local coffee doesn’t just celebrate flavor; it also supports livelihoods. Drinking locally produced coffee sustains farmers who often use sustainable practices and take pride in their craft. Plus, pairing these local brews with Filipino snacks like suman, kakanin, or turon enhances the experience, making every cup feel like a celebration of culture, even under the summer sun.

Coffee is a language in itself. -- Jackie Chan

Keep learning with me and stay updated with my regular Smart Garen Tips by following my Facebook page: Neil Gregori Garen.