Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival 2024: Celebrating Community with "Ambagan" Theme

The fourth annual Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival, set to take place from August 10 to 18, 2024, is gearing up to be a vibrant celebration under the theme "Ambagan," which highlights the diverse contributions individuals make to build a thriving community. This year’s event promises a rich array of food, arts, music, and thrilling activities for all attendees.

Originating as a tribute to Bacolod’s sugarcane industry—the primary source for Tanduay’s internationally acclaimed rums—the festival has been a staple since its inception in 2019. The city’s sugarcane heritage is intricately linked to Tanduay's success, making the festival a homage to this vital crop and the community it supports.

Lucio Tan III, President of LT Group and Tanduay Distillers, Inc., emphasized the festival's deep roots during a press conference held at Century Park Hotel in Pasay City, Metro Manila. “My father, Lucio K. Tan Jr., together with Councilor Em Ang, launched the Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival to ensure that Bacolod, the City of Smiles, remains at the heart of Tanduay. No matter where Tanduay goes, Bacolod will always be part of its narrative,” Tan shared, highlighting the festival's importance to both the brand and the city.

Tan also praised the strong collaboration between Tanduay and the local government in organizing the annual event. “This festival allows us to tell the story of Bacolod and Tanduay by showcasing their culinary heritage and the artistic talents of the Bacolodnon, whether in cocktail-making, painting, music, or dance. That, in essence, is the spirit of this Rum Festival,” he said.

Councilor Em Ang, Chairman of Bacolod City History, Culture, and Arts, echoed these sentiments, thanking the community for their unwavering support. “On behalf of our City Government led by Mayor Albee Benitez, I extend our gratitude for your continued support. This celebration not only honors our heritage but also ensures that future generations will appreciate and cherish it. Supporting initiatives like this festival is crucial for preserving our culture and boosting our local economy,” Ang remarked.

The festival will feature various events encouraging community participation through culinary arts, visual arts, and more. The festivities will kick off on August 10 with a motorcade to the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), where Mayor Albee Benitez and other local officials will inaugurate the Food Park. The Food Park, open nightly until August 18, will offer local and international culinary delights, mixology showcases, and live entertainment.

Key events include the Mixology Competition on August 12 at Ayala Malls Capitol Center and the Culinaria Competition on August 14-15. August 16 is designated as Rum Education Day, featuring a Tanduay Plant Tour, a Rum Masterclass, and the nationwide Grand Finals of the Mixology Competition at Seda Hotel.

The excitement continues on August 17 with a motorcade parade featuring Bacolod’s beauty queens and Tanduay Brand Ambassador Derek Ramsay, followed by a Street Dance Competition and a concert at BCGC. Bands Juan Karlos and Almost will headline the concert, ensuring a night of unforgettable performances.

For more information about the Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival, visit @TanduayRumFest on Facebook. This celebration of community, culture, and Bacolod’s enduring spirit is an event not to be missed.