We sit down with the two-time Filipino National Barista Champion and the mind behind the Better Vessel. Michael’s journey started in his family’s rope business and evolved into building one of the Philippines’ most respected coffee operations, working with brands like McDonald’s and 7-Eleven along the way.

We talk about the risk that changed everything.... importing just two containers of coffee when most people thought it was crazy.

How that decision helped shape one of the country’s most iconic roasteries.

Michael shares how experimenting with Liberica and hybrid varieties pushed flavor in new directions, and how competition sharpened both his palate and his business instincts.

We also get into

• The evolution of Filipino coffee production

• Why local storytelling matters more than ever

• How competition fuels innovation

• Regenerative farming techniques changing coffee at origin

• The thinking behind the Better Vessel and improving espresso consistency

Michael has represented the Philippines on the world stage, reaching two World Barista Championship semi-finals and earning Best Espresso in the first round of the 2026 WBC using the Better Vessel.