On June 24, the British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (BCCP), in partnership with 1834 Premium Distilled Gin and Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin, celebrated World Gin Day 2026. The event showcased the growing appetite for premium British gins in the Philippine market while reinforcing the expanding commercial and cultural ties between the two countries, a key highlight in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Philippine-UK diplomatic relations.
The celebration was supported by Brittany Hotel, Discovery Suites, and The Westin Manila, and featured a diverse portfolio of British gin producers, including Adnams Southwold, East London Liquor Co., Courageous Spirits – Glaswegin, Jawbox Gin, King & Country, G&I Spirit Group Ltd., and Fidra Gin, with WhenInManila.com as a media partner.
Opening remarks were delivered by BCCP Chairman Sarah McLeod and Ginebra San Miguel, Inc. Assistant Vice President and Marketing Manager Ron Molina. Molina noted that World Gin Day “is celebrated in more than 30 countries to date. From a small celebration that started in the UK, it has grown into a worldwide celebration… It turns out that the Philippines is the largest consumer of gin because of Ginebra San Miguel.”
This year’s celebration featured seven distilleries from across the United Kingdom, representing England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and showcased 17 premium British gins that are yet to enter the Philippine market. The event also recognized outstanding products through its annual gin awards, with Adnams taking home the Best UK Gin Brand distinction. East London Liquor Co. received the Best UK Gin award for its East London Louder Gin.
In the Best UK Gin Brand category, Courageous Spirits – Glaswegin secured second place, followed by King & Country in third. Meanwhile, Adnams Sloe Gin placed second in the Best UK Gin category, while Jawbox Classic Dry Gin from Jawbox Gin rounded out the winners in third place.
The event also featured the 8th Bartending Competition, where local mixologists showcased their skills and innovation by crafting unique cocktails using gin and well-known, locally sourced Filipino ingredients.
BCCP Executive Vice Chairman Chris Nelson also said, “It’s great to see more UK gin brands exploring what the Philippines has to offer. This isn’t just about one event—it’s about long-term trade. The global gin market is on track to exceed US$17 billion by 2030, and as Asia-Pacific becomes the fastest-growing region, we believe the Philippines will continue to play an increasingly important role for British producers.”
