'Ginuman X' marks World Gin Day 2026

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June 29, 2026 | 10:05am

MANILA, Philippines — Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI) celebrated World Gin Day in a meaningful way by shining a spotlight on a partnership that has transformed lives, opened doors to opportunities, and shaped the future of bartending in the Philippines.

Since 2014, the GSMI-TESDA partnership has produced hundreds of job-ready graduates with skills that have led to careers in high-end bars, cruise ships, hotels, restaurants, resorts, and hospitality establishments both here and abroad. Many have also ventured into their own F&B businesses, turning their training into sustainable livelihoods.

What began as a scholarship and livelihood initiative has evolved into the GSM Bar Academy, now recognized as one of the country's most impactful public-private partnerships in tech-voc education.

As part of this year's World Gin Day celebration, the GSM Bar Academy opened its doors to members of the media and content creators, giving them a closer look at the program's impact and offering a preview of its micro-credential bartending course — a short, industry-focused program designed to equip learners with the basics of cocktail mixing.

The event also highlighted the partnership whose achievements have earned recognition both locally and internationally. Among its honors were the prestigious Kabalikat Award—TESDA’s highest recognition for outstanding private sector partners; the International CSR Excellence Award given in London; and, Brazil’s Green World Awards.

The partnership began in 2014 during the 180th anniversary celebration of GSMI’s flagship brand, Ginebra San Miguel. Through the program, scholars from the different regions of the country received training in bartending, flairtending, and entrepreneurship, while graduates were provided mobile bars to help them start their own livelihood ventures. 

Today, the academy stands as one of TESDA's premier showcases for tech-voc excellence. Equipped with a professional bar laboratory, a fully stocked bar with GSMI products, a flairtending gym, and hospitality training facilities, it provides scholars with valuable real-world industry exposure.

Beyond the facilities, however, the GSM Bar Academy has become a place where aspirations take shape. It provided not only learning, but confidence to work with the world’s best.

Through TESDA's National Certificate II (NC II) Bartending Program, scholars undergo almost three months of intensive training in bartending, customer service, beverage preparation, responsible alcohol service and workplace professionalism.

Its graduates are now highly regarded across the hospitality industry, while the Academy itself has become a showcase for government officials, ambassadors, industry leaders, and education advocates. 

The academy likewise promotes the "Gin Responsibly" campaign, reminding future bartenders that great service goes beyond preparing drinks, as it is also about creating safe, enjoyable, and memorable experiences for guests.

“These initiatives have helped elevate gin appreciation beyond traditional consumption, highlighting its versatility, craftsmanship, and role in creating memorable moments among family and friends,” said GSMI marketing manager Ron Molina.

This year, the World Gin Day is brought closer to more Filipinos through "Ginuman X," a new event format centered on fun, connection, and shared experiences.

The Ginuman X celebrations took place from June 24 to 27 in various locations in the country. 

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