Mc Richard Paglicawan
If there’s one thing Filipinos know how to do best, it’s celebrate — and World Gin Day 2025 proved just that.
Held at the glamorous Diamond Hotel in Manila, the celebration was anything but ordinary. With its immersive travel-themed concept, star-studded guest list, and globally inspired cocktails, it was an evening that turned sipping gin into a stylish, full-sensory experience.
This year’s theme, ‘Your World of Gin Experience,’ invited guests to step into a globe-trotting adventure — without ever leaving the city. From the moment attendees entered the venue, they were transported to an aviation-inspired world where each “destination” revealed the depth, diversity, and craftsmanship behind every bottle of Ginebra San Miguel, the country’s most iconic (and now internationally recognized) gin.
Gone were the traditional event booths. Instead, the ballroom was transformed into a multi-sensory playground. Think: a botanical garden walkthrough where guests could crush juniper berries and other gin botanicals with their own hands. A classic London pub-style gallery (dubbed the ‘Clear Archives’) took everyone down memory lane, chronicling gin’s rich history and Ginebra’s rise as a world-class spirit. Finally, at the sleek ‘Versatile Bar & Lounge’, the vibe shifted to modern airport luxury, where master mixologists served craft cocktails representing different countries — from France’s golden-hued mixes to Italy’s bold Negroni.
Of course, no lifestyle soirée would be complete without a sprinkle of celebrity sparkle. Julie Anne San Jose, this year’s Ginebra calendar girl, lit up the stage with a performance that matched the event’s elegance and energy. Channeling effortless glam, she reminded everyone why she’s still one of GMA Network’s brightest stars.
Adding even more flair was surprise guest Gabbi Garcia, who got the crowd buzzing with her youthful, high-voltage set. These two Kapuso queens didn’t just perform — they owned the night.
Not to be outdone, Mikee Quintos gave the audience a peek into her own gin faves during the Versatile Bar segment, while Boss Toyo, with his signature wit, guided guests through the Cool Botanica area. Legal heartthrob Oliver Moeller brought the smarts to the Clear Archives, explaining the distillation process with both charm and clarity. Also spotted were Kim Ji Soo, influencers, and gin enthusiasts who brought their own flavor to the affair.
But the real star of the show? The cocktails. Curated to take your taste buds on a world tour, these drinks weren’t just refreshers — they were stories in a glass. From the Pearl of the Orient to the classic Gin & Tonic, every creation showcased how gin can transform depending on where you are and what you’re in the mood for.
Crafted by TESDA-certified mixologists from the GSM Bar Academy, the bar menu spotlighted the versatility of Ginebra’s portfolio: from the premium 1834 Distilled Gin and Archangel Reserve, to crowd favorites GSM Blue and Ginebra Bilog.
Beyond the glitz, World Gin Day 2025 was a celebration of Filipino craftsmanship on the global stage. With seven consecutive Gold Quality Seals from Belgium’s Monde Selection, Ginebra San Miguel has proven that local can be world-class. And with its ever-expanding global presence, the brand’s story has become a shared triumph for the Filipino community — whether you’re here or abroad.
The evening ended on a high with a ceremonial toast led by GSMI General Manager Cynthia Baroy, joined by the night’s ambassadors and celebrities. A special video message from World Gin Day founder Emma Stokes added to the prestige, highlighting how more than 36 countries now celebrate the global holiday — with the Philippines proudly leading the way.
Capping off the night, Nik Makino brought the house down with his performance, sealing the celebration with a reminder: when gin is this good, and this Filipino, the world takes notice.
