When Karl Aguilos walked into the Philippine National Barista Championship (PNBC), he wasn’t just bringing his tools—he was bringing the hopes of an entire city. As the first-ever Ilonggo to step onto the PNBC stage, Karl wasn’t just competing; he was making history for Iloilo’s booming specialty coffee movement.
From Pandemic Curiosity to National Contender
Karl’s journey into coffee didn’t start in a café—it started at home, during the pandemic, with a simple goal: to lose weight. What began as a dislike for bitter black coffee quickly turned into a full-blown fascination.
“I didn’t think coffee could taste good on its own,” Karl shares. “So I started researching, ordering beans online, and experimenting. Eventually, my curiosity led me to espresso—but I didn’t even have a machine. That’s when I decided to work as a barista to learn from the ground up.”
That spark turned into a flame, catching the attention of Sir Noi Dongor, President of the Philippine Coffee Board and a leading figure in Iloilo’s coffee scene. When Sir Noi invited Karl to PNBC, there was no hesitation.
“His passion was undeniable,” Sir Noi recalls. “He only had three weeks to prepare, but when he took the stage, you could feel it—Karl wasn’t just competing, he was representing.”
After-Hours Training, All-Heart Effort
While juggling barista duties at Baking Studio by Theo’s, Karl trained tirelessly after hours—often late into the night—thanks to the generosity of Superhouse Solutions and The Yield Specialty Coffee, who opened their spaces to him.
Karl credits his progress to the overwhelming support of the Ilonggo coffee community. Coaches and fellow baristas—JJ Tanalgo, Jian Alexis Dominguez, Deo de la Cruz, and Don Na Don Pa—stepped in, offering gear, tips, and tough love.
“It wasn’t just me up there,” Karl says. “It was all of us. The community lifted me—every cup I served was a team effort.”
Just days before the competition, Karl made a bold switch—from using Mt. Apo beans to La Trinidad Benguet beans grown by Rodyio Tacdoy, a PCQC awardee. Jan Kilayko and Celine Manlapaz of Primal Brew Coffee + Roastery stepped in to roast the beans and offer calibration time at their Makati facility.
A Signature Drink That Told His Story
At PNBC, competitors serve three drinks—an espresso, a milk-based coffee, and a signature beverage—while telling a story behind each.
Karl’s signature drink was inspired by Black Forest cake, blending espresso with clarified milk syrup, cherry syrup, and cherry foam. It was a reflection of his creative roots and curiosity.
“I used what I had. I didn’t aim to be flashy—I aimed to be real. That cherry-on-top feeling? That’s the journey.”
Despite the short prep time, Karl impressed the judges with both taste and presentation, earning praise for his resourcefulness and composure.
Not Just a Milestone—A Movement
Watching from the crowd, Sir Noi felt immense pride every time “Iloilo” was called out on stage.
“Supporting Karl is more than a privilege—it’s witnessing the rise of Iloilo’s coffee culture. This is just the beginning.”
Karl agrees. For him, PNBC isn’t the peak—it’s the starting line.
“Next year, I’ll be back stronger. I’ve seen what’s possible. Ilonggos aren’t just keeping up—we’re catching up fast, and we’re coming for the top.”
For Aspiring Baristas: Passion, Humility, and Grit
Karl’s advice to future coffee dreamers?
“Stay curious. Don’t act like you know everything—learn from everyone. Be resourceful. Let your passion lead you. Just start—and keep going.”
Brewing the Future of Iloilo Coffee
Karl Aguilos’ journey is more than personal success—it’s a victory for Iloilo. It proves that with grit, guidance, and community, even a first-time competitor can stand tall beside the best in the country.
“I hope I inspired someone out there—the way others inspired me. I never thought I’d be on that stage. But look where passion and people can take you.”
Special Thanks to the Iloilo Coffee Community
Karl expresses his heartfelt gratitude to:
-
Theo’s Restaurant & Bakery and Ted Valderrama
-
Sir Noi Dongor, and the teams from The Yield and Superhouse Solutions
-
His coaching team: JJ Tanalgo, Jian Dominguez, Deo de la Cruz, Don Na Don Pa
-
Sir Bodi Mijares, La Roasteria, and the Iloilo Specialty Coffee Community
-
Jan Kilayko and Celine Manlapaz of Primal Brew
-
His friends, family, and all those who stood behind him.
What’s Next?
With PNBC under his belt and eyes now set on the World Barista Championship, Karl Aguilos isn’t slowing down. With time, support, and unshakable drive, this Ilonggo barista is just getting started—and the world better be ready.