Tanduay Enters an ‘Iconic Era’ with Andrea Brillantes as 2026 Calendar Girl

MANILA, Philippines -- Tanduay, the world’s number one rum, unveiled Andrea Brillantes as its 2026 Tanduay Calendar Girl in a glitzy media event held at The Elements at Eton Centris, celebrating not just a new face, but a renewed spirit of confidence, authenticity, and empowerment.

For decades, the Tanduay Calendar Girl has been a yearly highlight in local pop culture and known for merging glamour, artistry, and empowerment. Every calendar has reflected the evolving image of the Filipina: confident, self-assured, and multifaceted.

The 2026 edition, themed “Iconic Era,” continues that tradition while redefining it for a new generation. Instead of focusing on allure, this year’s campaign celebrates individuality and authenticity, which are qualities that both the brand and its newest muse share.

“When I found out, I was honestly shocked. Like, ha? talaga ba?” Andrea recalled, laughing as she took the stage. “Growing up, I’d always see the Tanduay Calendar Girls as these strong, confident, iconic women, so to actually be one now feels surreal. It’s such an honor and definitely a huge milestone for me.”

The Making of an Icon

Brillantes admitted that becoming a Tanduay Calendar Girl required more than physical preparation.

“It really took a lot of preparation, both mentally and physically,” she said. “I had to be disciplined with my meal plans and make sure I felt good inside and out. I also studied each concept with the team because I wanted every photo to show a different side of me.”

Each layout in the 2026 calendar tells a story of growth, power, and transformation. From soft and introspective portraits to bold, fashion-forward imagery, the visuals are meant to reflect Andrea’s evolution and the brand’s message of confidence through self-awareness.

“Being a Tanduay Calendar Girl is about being real and confident,” she explained. “You have to embrace who you are, including your flaws, strengths, everything. Whether I’m soft, strong, playful, or fierce. That’s all me, and I’m proud of that.”

Andrea Brillantes is now stepping into her career with a renewed sense of maturity.

“People have watched me grow up, and now they’re seeing me as a woman,” she said. “I’m more sure of myself, more intentional with the things I do, and more confident to take control of my career. Hindi na siya about proving anything. It’s about enjoying where I am and celebrating how far I’ve come.”

Her new role as Tanduay’s ambassador seems to mirror the brand’s own evolution from a long-standing local distillery to an internationally awarded label that continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.

“I’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and now I know myself better,” she shared. “Mas marunong na akong pumili. Whether it’s people, projects, or where I put my energy. I’ve learned to protect my peace, trust my gut, and stand by my choices. I feel stronger and more grounded now.”

For Andrea, stepping into her Iconic Era means staying true to her core.

“Perhaps, people feel that energy because I try to stay authentic,” she said. “I grow, I

learn, I change, but I stay true to myself. I leave it up to them to see me as I am.”

For Tanduay, this new chapter continues its mission to honor not only beauty but also strength and individuality, which are values that have anchored the brand for more than 170 years.

As the night drew to a close and images from the Iconic Era calendar illuminated the screen, the message was unmistakable: both Tanduay and Andrea Brillantes are embracing change, growth, and authenticity.

Tanduay Showcases New Reserve Rums in Whisky Live Event

 

Tanduay brought out its premium rums and treated attendees to creative collaborations and gashapon prizes at its recent participation in Whisky Live Manila 2025 held at the Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City.

“We wanted to bring new experiences to this year’s event by highlighting our soon-to-be-available Reserve Rums. We gave attendees a teaser of Tanduay’s latest premium products, and they were both well-received. Those who had a taste of the rums were impressed with its flavor and good quality,” said Roy Kristoffer Sumang, International Business Development Manager of Tanduay.

Tanduay’s Reserve Rums Series includes the Tanduay Reserve Rum - 10 Years, and the Tanduay Reserve Rum - Overproof. Like all of Tanduay’s products, they are made with high quality sugarcane.  All Tanduay products are proudly Philippine-made.

This is not the first time that Tanduay has participated in Whisky Live Manila, which is considered as the biggest premiere whisky event in the country.

“We see Whisky Live Manila as a good opportunity for brand exposure for Tanduay. We wanted to evoke curiosity and excitement for the brand, so that more people will learn about what it has to offer,” said Sumang about Tanduay’s continued participation in the event celebrating whisky.

Rum can be considered a close relative of whisky, as both are aged in barrels. Tanduay uses barrels that once contain bourbon whisky in aging its rums, giving them the rich character that people worldwide enjoy..

Cocktail Collaborations With the Industry’s Finest Mixologists

Apart from giving attendees a taste of its Reserve Rums, Tanduay likewise showcased the versatility of its various products with its partnership with the industry’s top mixologists.

Alvaro Basilides, head bartender at Booze and Brews in Makati, created three unique cocktails infused with Tanduay on the first day of the two-day event. These include the Suman Atbp, Evergreen, and Smokehouse.

On the second day, it was Joe Mari "Bhaj" Santos’ turn to showcase the versatility of Tanduay rums. A bar consultant at Salty for Coconut in Poblacion, Santos created Barrio Fizzta, Golden Pine, and Rum Fashioned.

Those who visited the Tanduay booth also had the chance to win prizes from a gashapon. Tanduay also brought a heat press machine where people can have the pouches they won customized with their names and Tanduay stickers.

The Rise of Experiential Drinking and the Sober Curious

This year’s Whisky Live drew a large crowd as last year’s, with attendees showing keen interest in exploring the different expressions offered by the participating brands.

“We noticed that many people are into experiential drinking. They don’t settle for just one way of drinking but are always looking for other avenues to get a different vibe  from the usual experience. There were also a lot of younger attendees, many of whom were there to support their colleagues in the cocktail competition for young bartenders,” Sumang explained.

This year’s event also saw the attendance of the “sober curious” -- people who don’t drink but are curious about the vibe and culture of the drinking session, Sumang observed.

By introducing its new Reserve Rums, partnership with respected mixologists, and focus on creating exciting experiences for new and old spirits enthusiasts, as well as the sober curious, Tanduay continues to show how it evolves as a brand while staying true to its roots.

Tanduay products and merchandise can be purchased via www.shots.ph. They are also available on Shopee and Lazada.

Tanduay's Embasssy Whisky: A Quiet Kind of Chill

A Quiet Kind of Chill

There’s something about quiet evenings where the music is turned low, the lights are dimmed just right, and having the easy company of your closest confidantes. No rush, just chill vibes. That’s the kind of energy where the right spirit fits into, not loudly but like it was meant to be there.

 

One brand in particular has found its way into those moments -- Embassy Whisky. Smooth enough to sip neat and likewise great to mix in a cocktail without losing itself, this Tanduay product has become a quiet favorite among those who value good taste without the noise. No frills and flash, just a well-made pour that feels like it is part of the night and not its centerpiece.

 

Crafted with Whiskies Aged and Distilled in Scotland

 

Embassy is the kind of whisky you notice not because it demands attention, but because you realize how effortlessly it fits into your rhythm. One sip and the mood is chill. It opens with a nose of gentle smokiness layered with ripe banana, woody undertones, and subtle hints of peat. On the palate, it carries a smooth, balanced, and light sweet body, revealing flavors of malt, wood, banana, and faint notes of honey and vanilla.

 

“Embassy Whisky is made by blending neutral grain spirit with whisky that is distilled and aged in Scotland, bottling it at 65 Proof to achieve that light and easy-to-drink profile. The whisky blended into Embassy is made only from malt whiskies matured for at least three years in oak casks to preserve their oak-influenced character and subtle peat notes that root it in Scotch tradition,” said Janno Gironella, head of Tanduay’s Research & Development.

 

With its relatively light body, sweet and fruity notes, and lower alcohol content at 32.5% alcohol by volume or ABV (standard ABV for whiskies is 40%), it caters to those that want an easy-drinking spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed and those who are trying whisky for the first time.

 

“You can sip it neat to appreciate its sweet malt, banana, and vanilla notes, or try it on the rocks to mellow the sweetness and bring out more of the woody and mild peat tones. Because of its lighter body and 32.5% ABV, it also works well as a mixing whisky by pairing it with soda water or cola. For those new to whisky, starting with a simple highball (whisky and soda with ice and a citrus juice) would be an ideal way to enjoy Embassy without overwhelming the palate.” Gironella recommended.

  

A Tribute to the Quiet Strength of the Filipino

 

The kind of chill that Embassy Whisky brings is something Filipinos embody. It’s the calm confidence that comes from overcoming daily challenges, of steadfastly putting in the hard work despite the obstacles along the way, and celebrating the small wins in the company of the most genuine circle of friends.

 

“Embassy Whisky is crafted with the hardworking Filipino in mind — a tribute to the people who carry the weight of everyday life with quiet strength. It reflects the spirit of the Philippines: resilient, grounded, and always finding time to share moments of ease,” said Gem Leonard Boy, Brand Manager at Tanduay.

 

“It brings a sense of comfort and belonging. It is a whisky that welcomes you at the end of the day and makes simple moments feel more deserved,” he added.

Embassy Whisky is a product of Tanduay Distillers, Inc. It is available in stores nationwide and online through www.shots.ph, and its official stores on Shopee and Lazada.

Tanduay Asian Rum Silver Wins Gold at Miami Global Spirits Awards

Tanduay’s premium rums were awarded five medals at the inaugural Miami Global Spirits Awards (MGSA), with Tanduay Asian Rum Silver receiving a gold medal and being declared the Best White/Aged Under 6 Years Rum. Silver medals were awarded to Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay 10-Year Old Rum, and Tanduay Double Rum, and a bronze medal to Tanduay Especia Spiced Rum.

“As we expand our presence in different parts of the world, these awards serve as an affirmation of the quality and craftsmanship that go into every bottle of Tanduay. We are proud to showcase Filipino excellence wherever we may be in the world, and we remain committed to producing rums that reflect our heritage and innovation,” said Tanduay International Business Development Manager Roy Kristoffer Sumang

The MGSA, held for the first time this year in Sunny Isles, Florida, brought together industry experts to evaluate a wide range of spirits from across the globe. The panel of judges included distilled spirits professionals, journalists, trade experts, and influential buyers who did a double-blind judging process to ensure impartiality.

With Tanduay’s multiple medals, the brand further reinforces its position as one of the top rum producers in the world and highlights the increasing international recognition for Philippine-made spirits. 

Tanduay’s continued success in international competitions also mirrors its growing footprint outside of the Philippines. The company currently has presence in major markets around the world, including Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Malta, New Zealand, People’s Republic of China, Peru, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, the Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United States, and United Kingdom. Recently, it was also declared the World’s Number 1 Rum for the eighth consecutive year.

“Each award serves as a motivation for us to raise the bar even higher and continue making rums that Filipinos can be truly proud of. We may have been in the industry for more than a hundred years now, but our journey is far from over,” Sumang said.

Show Off Your Hidden Talent at the Tanduay Bacolod Rhum Festival with the #NatatagongGaling Online Challenge

Get ready to shine! 

Tanduay is calling on all singers and dancers, whether you’re from Bacolod or beyond, to join the #NatatagongGaling Online Challenge, part of this year’s Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival happening this August 28-31 in celebration of global Rum Month.

Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed his excitement for the initiative: “The Rum Festival is not only a celebration of Bacolod’s world-class rum, but also of the creativity and talent of our people. I encourage everyone -- young and old, here in Bacolod and beyond -- to take part in the #NatatagongGaling Challenge and be part of this exciting celebration.”

Joining is easy:

1. Pick your best song or dance—just make sure it’s in the Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok music libraries. (Singers, we recommend using instrumental or videoke tracks.)

2. Record your 30-second to 1-minute video and give it your all!

3. Post on your socials as a reel or video, tag @Tanduay Rum Festival, and don’t forget the hashtags #NatatagongGaling and #TanduayBacolodRumFestival.

The best entries will be invited to perform LIVE at the Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival Music Fest Night on August 30 -- your chance to hit the big stage and vibe with the festival crowd.

“This challenge is all about discovering raw, authentic talent,” said Edzel Ty, Brand Manager, Tanduay Brands International. “We know so many out there have amazing voices and moves just waiting to be seen. The Bacolod Rum Festival is the perfect stage to let that hidden talent shine.”

The Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival was launched in 2019 in partnership with the City of Bacolod to celebrate the city’s sugarcane heritage and its close link to rum-making. Now an annual tradition, the festival brings together food, music, artistry, and mixology in a vibrant showcase of Bacolod’s culture and creativity. Held every August to mark Rum Month worldwide, the event has grown to become one of the city’s most anticipated celebrations, highlighting Tanduay -- recognized as the World’s Number 1 Rum--and its deep connection to Bacolod and Negros Occidental.

Don’t just scroll—get in the groove, hit record, and show the world your #NatatagongGaling.

Follow @Tanduay Rum Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates.

A Daring Julia Barretto Is Tanduay’s New Calendar Girl

Tanduay has chosen actress Julia Barretto as its 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl. 

“Tanduay will be celebrating its 170th anniversary in 2024 and we wanted a strong, confident, and hardworking personality to represent the brand. Like Tanduay, Julia has weathered many challenges in her career and has emerged happy and successful,” the brand said in a statement.

The World’s Number 1 rum added that Barretto has a fire in her soul and is not afraid to show the world her truest self. 

“In representing Tanduay, she shows the world that the brand champions courage and empowerment,” Tanduay said.

The 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl was presented to the members of the media at Elements in ETON Centris. According to Tanduay, their creative team worked with the actress’ style team for the upcoming calendar and they tapped top editorial and commercial photographer BJ Pascual to do the shoot.

Barretto is one of the most popular and talented actresses of her generation. She has been in the industry since she was a child, appearing in numerous top-rating television shows and movies throughout her decades-long career.

The actress is also considered a style icon and is one of the most-followed Filipino celebrities on social media, with 11.4 million followers on Instagram as of this writing.

As the 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl, Barretto is also scheduled to appear in the brand’s promotional events and materials in the coming year.

“2024 is a big year for Tanduay as it celebrates its 170th anniversary. We have lined up activities that will showcase the brand’s evolution, how it captured the hearts of Filipinos, and how it is now also gaining the attention of rum aficionados in the biggest cities in the world. Julia is going to be a part of these major events,” Tanduay said.