The Philippines' First Economic History Museum: Tanduay's Historic Birthplace

The Museum of Philippine Economic History has officially opened its doors, marking a significant addition to Iloilo's cultural landscape. Situated in the historic Ynchausti Commercial House on Calle Real, this museum is housed in a building steeped in history, once home to the company that would eventually give rise to Tanduay, the world-renowned rhum brand.

Prior to its transformation into a museum by the National Historical Commission, the building served as the provincial offices for the Commission on Audit. For many years, it was widely recognized as the Elizalde building, reflecting its long-standing connection to the Elizalde family.

The roots of this remarkable structure trace back to 1854 when it served as the headquarters for Ynchausti y Compania (also known as Ynchausti y Cia). The company was founded by Basque entrepreneurs José Joaquin Ynchausti, Joaquin Elizalde, and Valentin Teus, who pooled their resources, including Tanduay, to establish a formidable commercial entity. After the Elizaldes acquired the Ynchausti shares in 1934, they rebranded the company as Elizalde Y Cia.

The museum not only provides rich historical insights but also showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from Iloilo’s thriving industries, particularly the sugar sector. The Tanduay Distillery, one of the oldest companies in the Philippines, is prominently featured, highlighting its significant role in the sugarcane economy. Among the exhibits are a vintage Tanduay dama juana, early advertising materials, tools from Western Visayas’ sugar plantations, looms from Miagao’s oldest weavers, and t’nalak cloth from South Cotabato, among other treasures.

The architectural design of the Ynchausti Commercial House, built in 1905, is an apt setting for these artifacts. It embodies the typical Spanish colonial bahay-na-bato style, characterized by solid red-brick walls on the ground floor and wooden panels above. The wide Capiz-shell windows are a distinctive feature that echoes the elegance of traditional Filipino architecture.

Lucio K. Tan, Jr., the president and chief operating officer of Tanduay Distillers, expressed the importance of preserving the brand's legacy. “Tanduay has a rich history that started in the island of Negros. As we celebrate the 165th anniversary of Tanduay Distillers this year, we want to ensure that Tanduay is remembered, especially by future generations of Filipinos,” he stated.

In line with its anniversary celebrations, the Lucio Tan Group has initiated plans to convert its distillery in Manila into a dedicated Tanduay Museum. This new museum aims to celebrate the company’s vibrant history while providing visitors with a multi-sensory experience that illustrates the production of its renowned products.

“The Tanduay Museum will be located at our old office in Quiapo, where Ynchausti Y Cia operated their liquor facility. We plan to restore part of the original building; however, as it will be a brand museum, visitors can expect a modern façade and the use of cutting-edge technology, akin to the world’s contemporary museums,” Tan Jr. added.

The opening of the Museum of Philippine Economic History and the future establishment of the Tanduay Museum reflect a growing recognition of the importance of preserving and showcasing the rich economic heritage of the Philippines, ensuring that these stories resonate with both locals and tourists alike.