Tanduay, recognized as the world’s leading rum, introduced Andrea Brillantes as the 2026 Tanduay Calendar Girl during a grand media event at The Elements at Eton Centris. This celebration not only highlighted a new face but also showcased a renewed spirit centered around confidence, authenticity, and empowerment.
For many years, the Tanduay Calendar Girl has been a significant event in local pop culture, celebrated for its fusion of glamour, artistry, and empowerment. Each calendar has depicted the evolving image of the Filipina, showcasing characteristics such as confidence, self-assurance, and complexity.
The 2026 edition, titled “Iconic Era,” continues this tradition while also reimagining it for a contemporary audience. Rather than merely emphasizing allure, this year’s campaign champions individuality and authenticity—traits that resonate with both the brand and its latest ambassador.
“When I found out, I was honestly shocked. Like, ha? talaga ba?” Andrea recalled with laughter 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 acknowledged that her journey to becoming a Tanduay Calendar Girl involved more than just physical preparations.
“It really took a lot of preparation, both mentally and physically,” she shared. “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 design in the 2026 calendar narrates a story of growth, strength, and transformation. The visuals range from soft and introspective portraits to striking, fashion-forward imagery, reflecting Andrea’s development and the brand’s message of confidence through self-awareness.
“Being a Tanduay Calendar Girl is about being real and confident,” she noted. “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.”
With a renewed sense of maturity, Andrea Brillantes is advancing in her career.
“People have watched me grow up, and now they’re seeing me as a woman,” she expressed. “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 role as Tanduay’s ambassador reflects the brand’s evolution from a traditional local distillery to an internationally recognized label that innovates while honoring its heritage.
“I’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and now I know myself better,” she remarked. “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 is about remaining true to her essence.
“Perhaps, people feel that energy because I try to stay authentic,” she explained. “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 furthers its commitment to celebrating not only beauty but also strength and individuality, values that have been the foundation of the brand for over 170 years.
As the event concluded and images from the Iconic Era calendar lit up the screen, the message was clear: both Tanduay and Andrea Brillantes are embracing change, growth, and authenticity.
