BACK-to-BAKuna addresses a critical challenge in routine childhood immunization: while many families begin vaccination, some struggle to complete the required doses due to missed schedules, concerns, and logistical barriers. The program strengthened existing public vaccination services by introducing behavior-based solutions that help caregivers remember schedules, prepare for visits, seek support, and return until completion.

Piloted in Iloilo City and the Municipality of Janiuay in August 2025, the initiative combined behavioral research, community collaboration, and practical tools such as group vaccine cards, milestone calendars, digital reminders, transport support, and health promotion activities.

Using a quasi-experimental approach, BACK-to-BAKuna demonstrated significant improvements in vaccination completion, with intervention groups showing greater gains compared to control groups. Findings also showed that caregivers who engaged peers, invited others, and attended vaccination activities together were more likely to complete their children’s vaccination schedules.

“The recognition of BACK-to-BAKuna reflects our commitment to creating meaningful and sustainable solutions that respond to the real needs of Filipino families. By helping caregivers overcome barriers and supporting them throughout their children’s vaccination journey, we are able to strengthen community health outcomes and help more children receive the protection they need,” said Marie Angeles, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

The program’s innovation lies in recognizing that improving health outcomes requires more than access to services — it requires understanding and supporting the behaviors that influence follow-through.

By addressing barriers beyond the first vaccine visit, BACK-to-BAKuna helped transform vaccination access into completed childhood protection. To sustain its impact, RMHC Philippines partnered with local government units to integrate the program’s tested tools and approaches into existing immunization workflows. Through capacity-building support and an Adaptation Playbook, local health teams are equipped to continue applying the approach within routine health promotion activities.

The LCF CSR Guild Awards recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in corporate citizenship through impactful and sustainable social development initiatives. This recognition affirms RMHC Philippines’ commitment to creating healthier communities and helping more Filipino children receive complete protection through timely vaccination.

Via: Foodie PH

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A Season of Fries-Filled Celebrations

McDonald’s Philippines started the celebration of its beloved Fries last July 10 during National Fries Day, making its fan-favorite BFF Fries more enjoyable and shareable through a one-day-only P99 promo. Building on the excitement, every Friday that followed became a FryDay, giving customers more reasons to enjoy and share McDonald’s World Famous Fries through weekly deals and exclusive offers. Week after week, Fries fans showed up for FryDay, turning individual cravings into a nationwide celebration of one of the brand’s most iconic products.

The nationwide McDo FryFest, the first-ever unlimited Fries experience from McDonald’s, tops it all off. The FryFest is not only about the Fries itself but also about fans connecting and engaging with each other over their shared love for Fries. It brought that community together for the first time in one big celebration centered on their shared love for the iconic Fries.

“We are thankful to everyone who celebrated our World Famous Fries during National Fries Day and every Fry Day that followed. Fry Fest is our way of bringing together the community of Pinoy Fries fans who have continuously shown their love for our World Famous Fries. We wanted to create a fun and memorable experience that celebrates not only the product, but the people who have made it a favorite through the years,” said Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Chief Marketing Officer.

Aside from unlimited Fries and games and activities, all participants of the McDo FryFest also took home a limited-edition Fries pouch with wrist strap. 

The Fries Filipinos Keep Coming Back To

Straight cut from whole potatoes, then deep fried and salted, the World Famous Fries has grown to become one of the most beloved menu items for McDonald’s Philippines. Its consistency in terms of quality, taste, and freshness made it world-famous, but what makes it iconic is how it brings about everyday feel-good moments, whether in snacking or in occasions that call for sharing.

“The emotional connection of our Fries to generations of Pinoys is built not just with how good it is but how it has been part of moments and memories that fans and customers cherish,” added Almendras-Lazaro.

As McDonald’s Philippines caps off its biggest celebration of World Famous Fries yet, customers can continue creating more feel-good moments with their favorite Fries, available nationwide via Dine-In, Take-Out, Drive-Thru, McDelivery, and third-party delivery apps.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X. 

Via: Foodie PH

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The awards highlighted how Philippine retail is evolving beyond the traditional store—creating more connected, meaningful and purpose-driven experiences for Filipino consumers and communities.

Among this year’s recognized retailers is PENSHOPPE, winner of Excellence in Retailing for Omnichannel (Large). By seamlessly connecting its physical stores with digital platforms, PENSHOPPE demonstrates how retailers can create a more convenient, consistent and connected experience as consumers increasingly discover, shop and engage with brands across multiple channels.

Anthem Group, meanwhile, received Excellence in Retailing – In-Store Experience & Design (Large) for its approach to creating retail environments where design becomes an integral part of the customer experience. Through the combination of creativity, functionality and brand storytelling, the company continues to reimagine retail spaces as engaging and memorable destinations.

Retail marketing was also recognized through OXGN, winner of Excellence in Retailing – Retail Marketing Campaign (Large) for its Street Rhythm campaign. The campaign demonstrated how authentic storytelling, creativity and community engagement can connect a brand with the culture and communities it celebrates—extending the conversation beyond the product itself.

Sustainability took center stage with MR. DIY Philippines, winner of Excellence in Retailing – Sustainability (Large). Initiatives including its Good Bag Campaign and Acts of Kindness (A-OK) program reflect how retail can translate sustainability and purpose into practical environmental and community action.

The Regional Retailer of the Year Award went to Rose Pharmacy, Inc., recognizing its contribution to communities through accessible healthcare, compassionate service, and customer-focused retail. Its recognition underscores the important role regional retailers play in bringing essential products and services closer to Filipino communities.

A standout double win went to Golden ABC, which received both Retailer of the Year and the Retail Employer Award. The dual recognition reflects excellence in retail leadership and operations alongside the company’s focus on innovation, people development and creating an environment where employees can thrive.

Together, the winners demonstrate the breadth of excellence shaping Philippine retail today—from omnichannel innovation and immersive store design to culturally relevant marketing, sustainability, community service and employee development.

As the PRA celebrates its 50th anniversary, the 2026 OFR Awards reinforce a central message for the industry: the future of Philippine retail belongs to businesses that innovate while remaining deeply connected to their customers, communities and people.

via Foodie PH

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Multi-city concert tour draws packed crowds in Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao, combining iconic OPM acts with today’s popular artists

MANILA, Philippines — Music has a way of crossing generations, and Tanduay First Five proved that once again as thousands of fans gathered across the Visayas and Mindanao for a multi-city concert series featuring a mix of established OPM rock acts and contemporary hit-makers.

From Iloilo to Cebu and Davao, the concerts brought together millennials, Gen Z audiences, and longtime OPM fans for live performances that celebrated Filipino music, collaboration, and community.

The tour featured a combination of new-generation artists and veteran bands, creating a concert experience designed to appeal to different generations of Filipino music fans.

“This year’s Tanduay First Five is different in many ways from the previous ones we staged as we brought together new gen and old school bands and artists who collaborated live onstage. It attracted audiences of all ages, from millennials to Gen Z, and turned out to be one of the most memorable concert tours in the Visayas and Mindanao,” said Edzel Ty, Digital Brand Manager of Tanduay.

Where Were the Tanduay First Five Concerts Held?

The 2025 Tanduay First Five tour made stops in three major cities in the Visayas and Mindanao, with all venues reporting strong audience turnout.

Concertgoers filled the Grand Capital Mall Open Grounds in Iloilo, the SM Seaside City Cebu Concert Grounds, and the Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo.

The strong attendance highlighted the continuing popularity of live OPM performances outside Metro Manila and demonstrated the ability of music events to bring diverse audiences together in regional communities.

Which Artists Performed at Tanduay First Five?

One of the most talked-about performances took place in Davao, where hip-hop artists Skusta Clee and Flow G shared the stage with established rock bands Kamikazee and Parokya ni Edgar.

The combination brought together different eras and styles of Filipino popular music, giving fans an opportunity to experience contemporary hip-hop alongside some of the country’s most recognizable OPM rock acts.

Other legs of the tour featured popular performers Zack Tabudlo and December Avenue, whose songs prompted enthusiastic sing-alongs from audiences.

The lineup underscored one of the defining elements of Tanduay First Five: bringing artists with different musical backgrounds and generations together in a single live experience.

Why Did Tanduay Launch First Five?

For Tanduay, the concert series was more than an entertainment event. It was positioned as an opportunity to create shared experiences among customers and Filipino music fans.

“Tanduay First Five reflects Tanduay’s commitment to being part of moments that foster creativity, self-expression, and lasting memories. We support spaces where people could connect and celebrate shared experiences,” Ty said.

He added that the event’s success was made possible by the continuing support of Tanduay customers and fans of OPM artists.

The multi-city format also allowed the brand to bring its entertainment platform closer to audiences outside the country’s capital.

What Was the Audience Reaction?

The response from concertgoers appears to have extended beyond the event venues themselves.

According to Ty, one of the most common questions appearing on the brand’s social media channels was whether another Tanduay First Five concert would be staged.

“When and where is the next TFF concert? This is the most common feedback we received on our social media pages along with some people requesting to have the Tanduay First Five in their own cities,” Ty shared.

The feedback suggests that the concept resonated with audiences who want more large-scale music events featuring both established and emerging Filipino artists in their respective cities.

Although the tour was initially conceived as a one-time event, Ty hinted that another edition could potentially happen the following year.

For 2026, meanwhile, Tanduay fans can also look forward to the announcement of the brand’s new Tanduay Calendar Girl, which is expected toward the end of the year.

Tanduay First Five as a Celebration of Loyal Customers

The concert series also served as a way for Tanduay to recognize the customers who have supported the brand throughout its long history.

“Tanduay wouldn’t be where it is at today without the support of all our loyal customers. We have been in the industry for more than one hundred years and continue to craft spirits that best represent our country and our heritage because of you,” Ty said.

That connection between the brand, Filipino culture, and its customer base remains central to Tanduay’s approach to experiential marketing.

By bringing music, artists, and communities together, Tanduay First Five provided a platform for audiences to celebrate OPM while creating experiences that could be shared across generations.

What Comes Next for Tanduay First Five?

With packed venues in Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao, strong social media feedback, and calls from fans for additional city stops, Tanduay First Five has established a concept that bridges generations through Filipino music.

Whether another edition will take place remains to be announced, but the audience response has already provided a clear message: Filipinos continue to value opportunities to experience their favorite OPM artists live—and they want those experiences to reach more communities across the country.

For updates, fans can follow Tanduay’s official social media channels. Tanduay products are available through its official e-commerce platform, Shots.ph, as well as leading liquor stores and supermarkets nationwide.

via Foodie PH

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Research and Markets places the Philippine data center market value at about US$633 million in 2024 and forecasts it would triple to US$1.97 billion by 2030, expanding at more than 20% annually. As the Philippines has one of the most digitally engaged populations in the world with around 97.5 million internet users, the demand for cloud services streaming, gaming enterprise applications, and AI continues to grow exponentially.

Data centers have become essential to the digital economy as roads are to transportation or power plants to electricity. The aim is to build more to fulfill real needs.  However, building more also requires building responsibly.

This need drives Globe’s strategic investment in ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (Philippines).  For Globe, building data centers supports its business imperatives in the same way it builds submarine cable systems.  Altogether they form part of essential digital infrastructures for  the country’s growing digital economy while embedding resilience,  and responsible operations in the way facilities are designed and managed.

“Digital infrastructure works hand in hand with today’s advanced technologies,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “It enables businesses to operate, governments to deliver services, and people to stay connected. As demand continues to grow, it’s equally important that we build this infrastructure responsibly so it creates lasting value for businesses, communities, and the country.”

With STT GDC Philippines, customers depend on data centers to keep essential digital services running round the clock.  Along with computing requirements,  investments are also made for resilient power systems, robust security, and business continuity.

“Customers today expect more than capacity,” said Carlo Malana, President and CEO of STT GDC Philippines. “They want infrastructure that is reliable, energy efficient, resilient, and designed to support their long-term growth. Those considerations influence every decision we make, from how we design our facilities, to how we operate them every day.”

Responsible operations are not just about energy. STT GDC Philippines has installed a closed loop cooling system at its Fairview campus, which enables the campus to recycle water within the campus, lessening its need on municipal water, as well as sustaining ever more demanding computing workloads. Wherever possible, the construction used recycled steel and other lower carbon materials to lessen the environmental footprint of the project.

The impact goes beyond the data center itself. STT GDC Philippines continues to create high-value engineering and technical employment and support local economic activity with its increasing operations. The company works together with the people around it through education projects, livelihood programs and shared public spaces, showing its commitment to grow along with the communities where it operates.

As demand for cloud services, digital platforms, and emerging technologies continues to grow, Globe sees data centers playing a greater role in the country’s digital future. Cruz said, “We make sure that we create infrastructure that is resilient, responsible, and ready to support the Philippines for many years to come.”

Via: foodieph

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Held on August 6 and 7 at the SMX Convention Center Manila under the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 brought together retailers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, technology providers, suppliers and other industry stakeholders.

The event also carried special significance as the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) marked its 50th anniversary, making the conference both a celebration of five decades of retail industry development and a platform for examining the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Behind the two-day conference and exhibition was a diverse roster of sponsors and partners representing different segments of the business ecosystem.

SM Retail Leads as Diamond Sponsor

SM Retail served as the Diamond Sponsor of NRCE 2026, supporting the industry’s largest annual gathering of retailers and business stakeholders.

Its participation complemented the conference’s focus on customer-centricity, innovation, operational excellence, and the continuing evolution of Philippine retail.

The partnership was also particularly significant during the PRA’s 50th anniversary year, as the association highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening the industry’s future.

Seven Companies Join as Platinum Sponsors

The event’s Platinum Sponsors reflected the growing role of technology, connectivity, data and business transformation in modern retail.

They were ETP International PTE LTD, RELEX, Argon & Co, Globe Business, Converge Global Business, PLDT Enterprise and Salesforce.

The companies represented capabilities spanning digital transformation, artificial intelligence, automation, data, supply-chain management, enterprise technology and connectivity—areas that increasingly influence how retailers operate and serve customers.

Their participation also complemented the conference discussions on how businesses can use technology not simply as an expense, but as a strategic tool for solving operational challenges, improving efficiency and creating better customer experiences.

Gold Sponsors Reflect Retail’s Diverse Landscape

NRCE 2026 also received support from Gold Sponsors Ayala Malls, Centric Software, Unilab, Araneta City, and Robinsons Malls.

Their involvement highlighted the diversity of the retail ecosystem, from shopping centers and consumer-facing businesses to retail technology and product development.

The presence of these companies provided delegates with opportunities to explore different approaches to customer engagement, merchandising, shopping experiences, technology adoption, and business growth.

It also reinforced the broader message of NRCE 2026: innovation in retail is not confined to one format or one industry segment.

Silver Sponsors Add to Industry Collaboration

The conference was further supported by Silver Sponsors Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, Wilcon Depot and Bayer Philippines.

Their participation expanded the range of industries represented at NRCE and illustrated how retail intersects with property, consumer products, healthcare, home improvement and other sectors.

Such cross-industry participation is increasingly important as consumer expectations and technologies move across traditional industry boundaries.

Businesses are now learning not only from direct competitors, but also from companies operating in entirely different categories.

Official Partners Extend the Reach of NRCE

A group of Official Partners also contributed to the success of NRCE 2026. These included InnovationOne, TBWA\SMP, AVolution, The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, BusinessWorld, The Manila Times and NegoSentro.

Their contributions represented different aspects of the broader retail ecosystem, including innovation, communications, creative services and media.

The involvement of these organizations helped strengthen the conference as a platform not only for business networking but also for sharing ideas and extending industry conversations beyond the event venue.

Additional Sponsors Support the Retail Community

NRCE 2026 also received support from CMG Retail Inc., EcloudValley and Sportshouse.

Although operating in different areas, the organizations shared a common connection to the wider retail and business community and contributed to the event’s broader ecosystem of suppliers, service providers and industry stakeholders.

The diversity of the sponsor roster underscored the changing nature of retail itself.

Modern retail increasingly depends on an interconnected network of technology providers, telecommunications companies, consultants, property developers, consumer brands, creative organizations and business service providers.

Media Sponsors Help Extend the NRCE Conversation

The impact of NRCE 2026 also extended beyond the SMX Convention Center through the participation of its media sponsors and partners.

Among those supporting the event were The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, BusinessWorld, The Manila Times and NegoSentro.

Their participation helped bring NRCE stories and industry discussions to a broader audience, allowing insights from the conference and exhibition to reach business owners, executives, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders beyond those who attended the event.

The role of media has become increasingly important as retail transformation accelerates. Discussions surrounding artificial intelligence, digital commerce, customer experience, sustainability and Filipino brand competitiveness have implications well beyond the retail industry itself.

Through news coverage, digital publishing and online amplification, media organizations help turn industry events into continuing conversations.

A Network Behind the “New. Next. Forward.” Message

The sponsor and partner roster reflected the central message of NRCE 2026.

“New” represented the technologies, ideas and business models reshaping retail.

“Next” pointed toward emerging opportunities and the need for businesses to anticipate change.

“Forward” emphasized the importance of taking action.

For the Philippine retail industry, the participation of companies across multiple sectors demonstrated that the future of commerce will depend increasingly on collaboration.

Retailers need technology partners. Technology companies need businesses willing to innovate. Consumers need better experiences. Media organizations help circulate knowledge. Consultants and service providers help businesses implement change.

Each plays a role in moving the industry forward.

PRA Marks 50 Years With a Strong Industry Network

The breadth of support for NRCE 2026 was particularly meaningful as the Philippine Retailers Association celebrated its 50th anniversary.

For five decades, PRA has served as a platform for retailers and related businesses to collaborate, exchange knowledge and contribute to the development of the Philippine retail sector.

NRCE 2026 demonstrated how that role continues to evolve as the industry faces a new generation of challenges involving artificial intelligence, digital transformation, changing consumer behavior, sustainability and global competitiveness.

The event’s sponsors and partners formed an important part of that continuing journey.

Their support helped create opportunities for businesses to discover new solutions, establish connections, explore partnerships and gain insights into the forces shaping the market.

A Collective Contribution to Philippine Retail

The success of NRCE 2026 ultimately reflected more than the work of its organizers. It demonstrated what can happen when businesses, industry organizations, technology providers and media companies come together around a common platform.

The PRA’s recognition of its sponsors, official partners and media supporters highlighted their contribution to creating an environment where ideas could be exchanged, business relationships could develop and retailers could prepare for the future.

As Philippine retail enters another period of rapid transformation, the lessons from NRCE 2026 remain relevant: businesses will need to learn faster, adapt more quickly, embrace useful technologies and continue putting customers at the center of their decisions.

But they will also need partners.

And the extensive network behind NRCE 2026 demonstrated that Philippine retail has a growing ecosystem ready to help businesses take that next step.

New. Next. Forward.

The journey of Philippine retail continues—with collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to building what comes next.

Via: foodieph

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As the Philippines’ dining scene continues to mature, chefs and hospitality operators are increasingly seeking premium ingredients that offer consistent quality and reliable supply. The arrival of John Stone connects the range of premium Irish beef to the country’s foodservice sector while further strengthening Ireland’s presence in the growing premium food market.  

With more than five decades of experience in beef selection, butchery and dry ageing, John Stone has built an international reputation for producing top quality Irish dry-aged beef for chefs and establishments that value quality, consistency, provenance and craftsmanship. Carefully selected from traceable Irish sources, each cut undergoes a specialised dry-ageing process that develops greater tenderness, a deeper and more concentrated beef flavour, and a distinctive texture.  

“We are proud to be the official distributor of John Stone in the Philippines, making premium Irish produce more accessible to the local foodservice industry. John Stone reflects the heritage, expertise and commitment to quality that have made Irish beef respected around the world, and we look forward to supporting chefs and hospitality operators with reliable local expertise and service,” said Rey Co, President and CEO of Hightower Inc. 

To commemorate the official launch, Hightower Inc. hosted an exclusive industry showcase at Dominion Cellar on 27 July 2026, welcoming Her Excellency Emma Hickey, Ambassador of Ireland to the Philippines, alongside representatives from Bord Bia, including its Southeast Asia Director and Market Specialists, as well as chefs, hospitality professionals, media representatives and industry partners. The curated dinner showcased John Stone Irish Dry-Aged Beef alongside Kerrygold products, highlighting the versatility and quality of premium Irish produce.  

“The Philippines is an exciting market with a growing appreciation for premium ingredients. Together with Hightower Inc. and with the support of Bord Bia, we look forward to sharing our heritage of Irish butchery and traditional dry-ageing with chefs across the country,” said Tim Stone, Managing Director of John Stone 

Beyond introducing John Stone to the Philippine market, the launch also highlighted Ireland’s agricultural heritage and its expertise behind the food industry. John Stone reflects this heritage through carefully sourced Irish beef and traditional butchery and dry-ageing techniques refined over decades. Guests also experienced Kerrygold, one of Ireland’s most recognised dairy brands, whose butter is produced using milk from Irish dairy farms, where cows graze on lush green pastures for much of the year. 

“John Stone’s launch in the Philippines reflects the growing partnership between Ireland and the Philippines and the increasing demand for premium Irish food products. We look forward to seeing more collaborations that strengthen trade while bringing the best of Irish produce to the Philippine market,” said Emma Hickey, Ambassador of Ireland in Philippines. 

As the official Philippine importer and distributor of John Stone Beef and Kerrygold, Hightower Inc. manages local market operations, including importation, logistics, regulatory compliance, and distribution across foodservice and retail channels. 

John Stone Irish Dry-Aged Beef will be available through Hightower Inc. 

For more information about John Stone Irish Dry-Aged Beef in the Philippines, visit their website at https://hightower.com.ph or reach out to info@hightower.com.ph  

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“We chose to come to Manila first because it is a highly important and dynamic market,“ said Torres Spirits Regional Manager Ricard Vidal. “The historical and cultural links between Spain and the Philippines create a natural bridge that facilitates brand storytelling, connection with consumers, and long-term brand building.

A Celebration of Cocktail Cultures

The bar takeovers saw Cofré on full bar shifts in two of the country’s top bars. He created drinks infused with Torres’ various brandy expressions using local ingredients. He also collaborated with Filipino bartenders to create cocktails unique to the event.

Cofré said he saw an exciting opportunity to experience a new cocktail culture firsthand in his Manila visit.

“I’m excited to discover new flavors, new tropical fruits, and the palate of the Filipinos and their cocktail culture. I’m Chilean, and we might have a similarity in taste because of our Spanish heritage,” he stated.

Cofré also shared that some of the best and fastest line bartenders he knows are Filipino bartenders from cruise ships, and he is excited to get to know more of them. One of the highlights of his visit in Manila is a collaboration with some of the country’s top bartenders.

“I truly enjoyed sharing my love and passion for brandy during my visit, and I encouraged all the attendees to ask as much as they want. Curiosity is the mirror that takes me everywhere,” he said.

With nearly two decades in the hospitality and spirits industry, Cofré has built an international career fueled by education and a passion for storytelling.  Apart from being a bartender, he is also a self-trained cocktail photographer.

Cofré entered the industry in 2008 while working to finance his university studies. His part-time job soon turned into a lifelong profession, with his career taking from five-star hotels in Chile to cruise ships and eventually as the Global Brand Ambassador for Juan Torres Master Distillers. He currently leads the Torres Brandy Zero Challenge, a sustainable bar competition held in different countries that is now in its 4th edition.

Bringing Torres Brandy to the World, One Cocktail at a Time

For Torres Brandy, bringing Cofré for the two-night bar takeovers is an opportunity to let Filipinos learn more about Torres’ history and legacy and, more importantly, how its spirits are crafted with a commitment to quality, tradition, and modernity.

“Our goal is for them to see Torres as more than just a drink, but a brand they can relate to, trust, and proudly choose for their special moments and everyday occasions,” noted Vidal.

The Torres brand traces its roots to Penedès, Spain, where the family has been cultivating vineyards since the 16^th century. The brand as it is known today, meanwhile, was established in 1870 when Jaime Torres Vendrell founded Casa Torres, a company dedicated to wine. In 1928,  Juan Torres Casals started using oak barrels to age brandy made from the best white wines from Penedès.

Torres has been the best-selling brandy in the world’s top bars for seven consecutive years, as per Drinks International Brands Report 2026. It is the official sponsor of Asia’s 50 Best Bars and The World’s 50 Best Bars, sponsoring country-level titles like the Best Bar in Singapore and Best Bar in Japan.

“At Torres, we have always paid close attention to how consumption evolves, from emerging trends to new flavors. Brandy has been present in cocktail culture since its earliest days, and its versatility has made it a key ingredient in both classic and contemporary creations. As we move forward, we embrace new challenges with the same passion and craftsmanship that have defined us from the beginning,” added Vidal.

To learn more about Torres, www.torresbrandy.com/en. Torres products, including its flagship Philippine product Torres 5 Light, are available at www.shots.ph, and in select liquor stores and supermarkets in the Philippines.

Via: foodieph

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Tanduay Double Rum and Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years both scored 95 points to earn the much-coveted honors in a contest that evaluates spirits based on how they perform in real-world hospitality settings.

“The awards Tanduay has received throughout the years show that Philippine rums can truly compete with the world’s best,” said Roy Kristoffer Sumang, Tanduay International Business Development Manager. “And what makes our latest wins at the Bartender Spirits Awards even more special is that it was judged by a panel composed exclusively of bartenders and hospitality professionals. These are the people who know what spirits truly shine from shelf to glass.”

Two of Tanduay’s Finest Premium Rums

Tanduay Double Rum is made from a blend of rums aged 16 and 5 years, which are then combined in ex-bourbon barrels for another two years. This aging process contributes to the award-winning rum’s harmony of flavors from start to finish, making it a great sipping rum.

According to the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards’ tasting notes, Tanduay Double Rum’s “aromas of honeysuckle, marzipan, and nutmeg lead to a palate of toasted toffee and cacao, culminating in a soft, long, and very pleasant finish.”

Another internationally recognized product, Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years is a bold blend of rums aged in oak barrels for a decade. It is an overproof rum with a 50.5% alcohol by volume (ABV).

In the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards, its tasting notes were “aromas of honey, dried fruit, and spice” that “lead to a smooth, approachable palate with evolving candied fruit notes and a balanced, lingering finish.”

How Products Are Scored

Scores are awarded to spirits based on their mixability or how well they are blended or combined in cocktails; balance and versatility or their flavor and aroma; and taste, mouthfeel, and finish. They are also judged on their packaging, its creative design, label quality, label details, back-bar appeal, and functionality (including shape, size, weight, and ease of pouring), as well as their value, or how they are priced and what value they offer.

Bronze Medals are awarded to spirits that score 80-84 points; Silver to those that score 85-89 points; Gold to those that score 90 to 95 points; and Double Gold to those that score 96 points and above.

More About the Bartender Spirits Awards

The Bartender Spirits Awards is focused on identifying products that perform successfully in the U.S. on-premise market, helping bars, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality venues discover spirits with strong commercial potential. 

The competition is judged exclusively by professionals actively working in hospitality, and winning spirits are recognized not only for quality but also for their practical value in real-world beverage programs.

“These international awards reflect Tanduay’s commitment to Filipino craftsmanship and innovation, and they inspire us to continue showcasing the best of the Philippines on the global stage,” Sumang said.

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Via: foodieph

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