This year’s World Gin Day 2025 offered Filipino gin enthusiasts a chance to experience the spirit like never before. Organized by Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the producer of the world’s best-selling gin, the event transformed the Manila Diamond Hotel ballroom into a hub of exploration. Every sip took attendees to new places, and each corner of the venue highlighted different facets of gin’s appeal.
Under the banner “Your World of Gin Experience,” the event was crafted as a journey, combining aviation-inspired visuals with sensory explorations of gin. Guests were guided through a simulated “flight,” discovering flavors, cultural stories, and Filipino craftsmanship from check-in to arrival.
The gathering brought together gin lovers, business executives, media representatives, influencers, and celebrities, all celebrating gin’s global popularity. Central to the message was the pride in Filipino contributions, with the reminder that “The Philippines celebrates World Gin Day. And on this day and always, Gin Is In!”
Exploring the World of Gin
Building on previous events, World Gin Day 2025 shifted toward an immersive “World of Gin” experience. The entire venue reflected a journey across continents and traditions, with each section focusing on different aspects of gin.
The “Cool Botanica” zone was a lush, garden-inspired space where visitors could touch, crush, and smell botanicals like juniper berries, experiencing the freshness behind gin’s creation. Moving into the “Clear Archives,” attendees stepped into a vintage London pub scene, with dark woods and copper stills showcasing gin’s history—from its European origins to its Filipino prominence. Guests sampled locally crafted gin varieties, including 1834 Premium Distilled Gin and Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin.
The “Versatile Bar & Lounge” offered a sleek, airport-lounge motif where guests enjoyed handcrafted cocktails. Made by skilled mixologists from the GSM Bar Academy, drinks like Pearl of the Orient, Golden Halo, Singapore Sling, and Negroni highlighted gin’s versatility. The bar featured GSMI’s flagship brands such as GSM Blue, 1834, Archangel Reserve Gin, and Ginebra San Miguel Bilog.
A Flight-Inspired Narrative
The event was structured around three parts, each emphasizing a different aspect of Ginebra’s identity, hosted by brand ambassador Nik Makino.
The first chapter, “World of Adventure – Gin is Cool,” featured the “Cool Botanica” exhibit with personality Boss Toyo, who shared insights into gin’s confidence and style. Attendees enjoyed Singapore Sling cocktails from mobile Gin Carts, adding a lively touch.
Celebrating Purity and Excellence
The second chapter, “World of Excellence – Gin is Clear,” took viewers through the “Clear Archives,” with Atty. Oliver Moeller embodying the purity of gin. He explained the distillation process and highlighted Ginebra’s recognition on the international stage, with testimonials from industry experts and distributors. Guests tasted refined gin options, including the premium 1834 and Archangel Reserve.
The final chapter, “World of Celebration – Gin is Versatile,” demonstrated gin’s adaptability in various lifestyles. Actress and singer Mikee Quintos shared her favorite mixes, emphasizing how gin fits into any setting. Gyrop Carts served up refreshing cocktails, encapsulating the theme with a toast to gin’s flexibility.
The celebration culminated in lively entertainment with performances by GSM Blue endorser Gabbi Garcia. Attendees engaged in trivia games, culminating in a collective toast to mark the special day. The event also highlighted Filipino achievements, including GSMI’s awards and international acclaim for its products like 1834 and Gin Bilog.
Global Recognition and Pinoy Pride
Emma Stokes, the Global World Gin Day Ambassador, shared a message about the widespread celebration across more than 36 countries, led by Ginebra San Miguel in the Philippines. “From Brussels to Bangkok, gin lovers are discovering what Filipinos have always known—Ginebra is a world-class spirit,” she said.
Shared Victory + Global Future
As the night closed, GSMI General Manager Cynthia M. Baroy and executives raised a toast, affirming that Ginebra’s success is a point of pride for Filipinos everywhere. Each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and heart. The brand’s growing international presence enriches Filipino identity on the global stage.
Ending the night on a high note, Nik Makino delivered a performance that energized the crowd. The event proved that gin is more than a drink—it’s an experience with a destination that begins in the Philippines and reaches around the world.
