SCA Roasting Foundation in Manila: From Bean Changes to the Cup

Manila, Philippines • October 2026

Kumusta, Manila! Our SCA Roasting Foundation class brought the roasting fundamentals to life around the roaster and the cupping table. Students watched the beans change colour, compared samples and connected those observations with what they tasted in the cup.

There was plenty to look at closely and plenty to ask. A change in a bean, a difference between samples or a comment from a classmate could start the next discussion. The class photographs capture that practical side of learning: observing first, comparing carefully and asking why.

Moving between roasting and tasting helped keep the work connected. The beans on the table were more than examples to look at; they were a way to discuss how roasting changes the coffee we eventually drink. Students shared their observations and learned from one another as the session developed.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to TOP Creamery for welcoming our learning community in Manila. We enjoyed seeing the questions, conversations and hands-on work that made this Foundation class its own.

See the original photo recap below for the roaster, sample comparisons and cupping-table moments from the class.