“When I found out, I was honestly shocked. Like, ha? talaga ba? 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. It really took a lot of preparation, both mentally and physically. 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. Being a Tanduay Calendar Girl is about being real and confident. 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. People have watched me grow up, and now they’re seeing me as a woman. 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. I’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and now I know myself better. 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. Perhaps, people feel that energy because I try to stay authentic. I grow, I learn, I change, but I stay true to myself. I leave it up to them to see me as I am.” ~Andrea Brillantes, Tanduay Calendar Girl 2026
The "Iconic Era" themed 2026 edition upholds this custom while reinventing it for a younger audience. In a glamorous media event at The Elements at Eton Centris, Tanduay, the top rum in the world, revealed Andrea Brillantes as its 2026 Tanduay Calendar Girl. The event celebrated not just a new face but also a revitalized spirit of self-assurance, authenticity, and empowerment.
The Tanduay Calendar Girl, renowned for fusing glitz, artistry, and empowerment, has been a yearly highlight in local pop culture for decades. Each calendar has represented the changing perception of the Filipina: self-assured, multifaceted, and confident. This year's campaign emphasizes uniqueness and authenticity—qualities that the company and its newest heroine have in common—instead of allure.
The Making of an Icon
Brillantes admitted that becoming a Tanduay Calendar Girl required more than physical preparation.
Every layout in the 2026 calendar conveys a story about progress, strength, and transformation. The images, which range from gentle and introspective pictures to flamboyant, fashion-forward imagery, are intended to depict Andrea's progress as well as the brand's theme of confidence through self-awareness.
Andrea Brillantes is now stepping into her career with a renewed sense of maturity. Her new role as Tanduay's ambassador seems to mirror the company's own evolution from a long-standing local distillery to a well-known worldwide brand that continues to innovate while respecting its history.
Andrea needs to stay true to herself as she moves into her Iconic Era. In this new chapter, Tanduay's mission to celebrate strength, originality, and beauty—values that have driven the brand for more than 170 years—continues.
As the evening drew to a close and images from the Iconic Era calendar filled the screen, the message was evident: Tanduay and Andrea Brillantes are both embracing change, growth, and authenticity.
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