From traditional spirits and contemporary cocktails, to brewed and fermented drinks like beer, as well as non-alcoholic concoctions, the Philippines offers a beverage to suit every taste and occasion.
This curated selection of a vast array of Filipino beverages aims to be your go-to resource to explore the rich culinary heritage and cultural tapestry of the Philippines through delicious sips. >>>
1.) Spirits from the Philippines
1.1.) Filipino Liquor
1. Brandy
- Aged grape spirit
Brandy is a cornerstone of Filipino spirits, with labels like Emperador leading the charge. This aged grape distillate is celebrated for its smooth, rich flavor, making it a favorite in the Philippines for both sipping and mixing into cocktails. Emperador, Alfonso I, and Fundador stand out for their exceptional quality, embodying the rich heritage of Filipino brandy production.
2. Gin
- Juniper-based spirit
Gin in the Philippines is synonymous with Ginebra San Miguel, an iconic spirit that has been a staple in Filipino households for generations. Distilled from juniper berries, this gin is known for its vibrant, botanical flavor profile, making it perfect for a range of cocktails from the classic gin and tonic to more intricate Filipino-inspired mixes.
3. Rum
- Distilled sugarcane spirit
Filipino rum, with Tanduay Rum at the forefront, is renowned for its smooth, caramel-like sweetness, derived from the rich sugarcane fields of the islands. Brands like Don Papa and Basi del Diablo further enrich the category, offering unique flavors that highlight the diversity of Filipino rum. Distileria Limtuaco’s Very Old Captain Artisan-Crafted Dark Rum adds a premium touch to the selection, showcasing the craft of Filipino distilling.
4. Vodka
- Clear grain spirit
Antonov Vodka represents the Filipino take on this globally popular spirit. Distilled for purity and smoothness, this grain-based vodka is versatile, making it an excellent base for cocktails or enjoyable on its own. Its clean, crisp taste reflects the minimalist approach to vodka production in the Philippines.
1.2.) Filipino Liqueurs
5. Manille Liqueur de Calamansi
- Calamansi citrus liqueur
Manille Liqueur de Calamansi is a distinctive Filipino liqueur that embodies the vibrant taste of calamansi, a local citrus fruit. Its tangy, refreshing flavor makes it a standout choice for crafting innovative cocktails or enjoying as a delightful after-dinner digestif, showcasing the versatility of Filipino citrus in the world of spirits.
6. Manille Liqueur de Dalandan
- Dalandan citrus liqueur
Manille Liqueur de Dalandan brings the unique flavor of dalandan, another beloved Filipino citrus, into a liqueur form. This drink offers a sweet and tangy taste profile, perfect for those seeking a liqueur that captures the exotic essence of the Philippines’ fruit bounty in a bottle.
7. Lambanog Coconut Liqueur
- Coconut-infused spirit
Lambanog Coconut Liqueur is a celebration of the Philippines’ profound connection with coconuts. This liqueur combines the smooth, potent character of traditional lambanog, a coconut sap distillate, with the creamy sweetness of coconut, creating a fusion that’s both indulgent and reminiscent of tropical Filipino landscapes.
1.3.) Other Filipino Spirits
8. Lambanog
- Pure coconut spirit
Lambanog stands as a testament to the Filipino spirit-making tradition, distilled from coconut sap and known for its clear, potent character. This drink is a cultural staple, enjoyed in various Filipino festivities, offering a smooth yet strong flavor that’s deeply ingrained in the local drinking culture.
9. Nipa Palm Liquor
- Nipa sap spirit
Nipa Palm Liquor is crafted from the sap of the nipa palm, providing a unique addition to the array of Filipino spirits. Its mild sweetness and subtle alcoholic warmth make it a favored choice for traditional ceremonies and casual gatherings, reflecting the Philippines’ rich natural resources and spirit-making heritage.
10. Herbal Wine
- Medicinal herbal spirit
Sioktong is a unique Filipino herbal wine, traditionally categorized among spirits due to its alcohol content and herbal infusion meant to offer medicinal benefits. This beverage combines the art of winemaking with the rich tradition of herbal medicine in the Philippines, offering a distinctively health-oriented sip that’s deeply rooted in Filipino culture.
2.) Cocktails & Alcoholic Mixed Drinks from the Philippines
2.1.) Filipino Cocktails
11. Boracay Breeze
- Tropical rum cocktail
The Boracay Breeze cocktail captures the essence of the Philippines’ pristine beaches with its refreshing blend of rum, pineapple juice, and a hint of coconut. This drink is a vacation in a glass, offering a taste of Boracay’s sunny shores and vibrant nightlife, making it a must-try for tropical cocktail enthusiasts.
12. Mango Rum Shake
- Fruity rum delight
The Mango Rum Shake combines the Philippines’ world-renowned sweet mangoes with the smoothness of local rum, creating a sumptuous and refreshing drink. It’s a perfect representation of Filipino creativity in cocktails, blending the nation’s favorite fruit with its beloved spirit for a truly tropical experience.
13. Pandan on the Beach
- Vodka with pandan twist
Pandan on the Beach is a creative Filipino twist on classic beach cocktails, infusing traditional vodka with the aromatic flavor of pandan leaves. This drink offers a unique sensory experience, merging the clean taste of vodka with the sweet, grassy notes of pandan, making it a standout in the world of mixed drinks.
14. Dalandan Whiskey Sour
- Citrusy whiskey concoction
The Dalandan Whiskey Sour puts a Filipino spin on the classic whiskey sour by incorporating dalandan, a local citrus fruit. This cocktail balances the robustness of whiskey with the tangy sweetness of dalandan, offering a refreshing and bold flavor profile that’s both familiar and distinctly Filipino.
15. Calamansi Mojito
- Calamansi-infused mojito
The Calamansi Mojito is a delightful variation of the classic mojito, using the Philippine lime, calamansi, for a more vibrant and tangy twist. This drink showcases the versatility of calamansi, blending its unique citrus flavor with mint and rum for a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for tropical climates.
16. Ube Martini
- Purple yam martini
The Ube Martini introduces the distinct flavor of ube, a vibrant purple yam from the Philippines, to the sophisticated world of martinis. This cocktail combines the sweet, earthy taste of ube with the smoothness of vodka, creating a visually stunning and tastefully unique drink that celebrates Filipino ingredients.
17. Manila Sunrise
- Fruity tequila sunrise
Manila Sunrise is a Filipino adaptation of the classic Tequila Sunrise, incorporating local fruits and flavors. This visually appealing cocktail layers the sweetness of mango and the tartness of calamansi with tequila, creating a colorful and refreshing drink that mirrors the breathtaking sunrises of Manila.
2.2.) Hot Filipino Alcoholic Beverages
18. Kapeng Barako Batangas
- Strong coffee with a kick
Kapeng Barako Batangas is not just your ordinary coffee; it’s a robust blend unique to the Batangas region, known for its strong aroma and flavor. When spiked with a shot of local liquor, it transforms into a warming beverage that invigorates the senses, perfect for brisk mornings or as an after-dinner delight.
19. Salabat with Lambanog
- Spiced ginger tea with lambanog
Salabat with Lambanog combines the soothing warmth of traditional Filipino ginger tea with the smooth kick of lambanog, a traditional Filipino spirit distilled from coconut sap, creating a comforting and invigorating hot drink. This concoction is ideal for cold nights, offering both the health benefits of ginger and the festive spirit of lambanog.
20. Hot Calamansi Toddy
- Calamansi-infused hot toddy
The Hot Calamansi Toddy takes the classic hot toddy to new heights by incorporating calamansi, a Philippine lime, offering a unique citrus twist. This drink melds the soothing properties of a hot toddy with the vibrant zest of calamansi, making it an excellent remedy for chilly evenings or a soothing nightcap.
21. Sikwate
- Boozy hot chocolate
Sikwate, the Filipino version of hot chocolate, is made from pure cacao tablets known as ‘tablea.’ This rich and thick beverage provides a glimpse into the Philippines’ cacao culture. It’s often enjoyed on its own but can be transformed into an adult treat with a splash of rum, making it a heartwarming indulgence.
3.) Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages from the Philippines
3.1.) Filipino Wine
22. Basi
- Traditional sugarcane wine
Basi is a traditional Filipino sugarcane wine with a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times. This fermented drink is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Ilocos region, offering a sweet, slightly tangy flavor profile that’s often enjoyed during local festivals and celebrations.
23. Tapuy
- Indigenous rice wine
Tapuy, also known as Philippine rice wine, is a traditional alcoholic beverage brewed from glutinous rice. Characterized by its clear to slightly cloudy appearance and a mildly sweet taste, Tapuy holds a ceremonial place in Filipino culture, often served during special occasions and rituals.
3.1.1.) Fruit Wine
24. Bugnay Wine
- Indigenous berry wine
Bugnay Wine is crafted from the wild berries of the Bugnay tree, native to the northern regions of the Philippines. This wine offers a unique taste profile that ranges from sweet to tart, reflecting the rich biodiversity of the Filipino landscape and the traditional winemaking practices of its local communities.
25. Duhat Wine
- Fermented black plum wine
Duhat Wine, made from the native Duhat (black plum), embodies the essence of Filipino fruit wines with its deep, vibrant hue and a balance of sweet and sour flavors. This wine showcases the innovative use of local fruits in the Philippines, creating a beverage that’s both traditional and contemporary.
26. Mangosteen Wine
- Exotic fruit wine
Mangosteen Wine transforms the rich, tangy sweetness of the mangosteen fruit into a sophisticated wine. Celebrated for its health benefits and exquisite flavor, this wine is a testament to the Philippines’ ability to turn its abundant tropical fruits into world-class alcoholic beverages.
27. Pineapple Wine
- Tropical fermented wine
Pineapple Wine brings the bright, sunny flavors of Philippine pineapples to the world of wine. This beverage strikes a delightful balance between sweetness and acidity, making it a refreshing choice for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the tropical side of winemaking.
3.2.) Filipino Beer
28. San Miguel Beer
- Iconic Filipino lager
San Miguel Beer is arguably the most iconic Filipino beer, known for its smooth, full-bodied flavor that has become synonymous with beer in the Philippines. As a staple at gatherings and celebrations, it represents the enduring legacy of Philippine brewing.
29. Pilsen
Classic pale lager
Pilsen is a term often used in the Philippines to refer to pale lager beers, including the popular San Miguel Pale Pilsen. This beer style is favored for its crisp, refreshing taste, making it a go-to choice for casual sipping in the country’s tropical climate.
30. Cerveza Negra
- Filipino dark lager
Cerveza Negra, a dark lager from the Philippines, offers a rich, malty flavor with hints of caramel and coffee. This beer provides a deeper, more complex tasting experience, appealing to those who enjoy a robust beer profile.
31. Red Horse Beer
- Strong, bold lager
Red Horse Beer is known for its extra strong flavor and high alcohol content, making it a favorite among those who prefer a more potent beer. Its bold taste and kick provide an intense beer experience, solidifying its status as a strong beer choice in the Philippines.
32. Craft Beers
- Artisanal Filipino brews
The Philippine craft beer scene, led by breweries like Engkanto Brewery, Fat Pauly’s, and Pedro Brewcrafters, showcases the creativity and diversity of Filipino brewers. These craft beers range from classic styles to innovative brews that incorporate local ingredients, offering a rich tapestry of flavors.
3.3.) Other Filipino Brewed and Fermented Drinks
33. Tuba
- Traditional coconut wine
Tuba is a traditional Filipino coconut sap wine, often consumed fresh or fermented. It plays a significant role in rural celebrations and rituals, offering a slightly sweet, tangy flavor that captures the essence of the coconut palm.
34. Bahalina
- Aged coconut wine
Bahalina is an aged version of Tuba, offering a more refined and complex flavor profile. This fermented coconut sap wine is valued for its deeper, richer taste, resulting from extended fermentation and aging processes, showcasing the depth of traditional Filipino winemaking.
35. Kinutil
- Spiked chocolatey drink
Kinutil is a unique Filipino concoction made by mixing tuba (coconut wine) with tablea (chocolate), raw egg, and spices. This rich, creamy beverage is a testament to Filipino ingenuity in drink mixing, offering a bold and indulgent experience.
36. Pangasi
- Indigenous Mindanao wine
Pangasi is a traditional wine from Mindanao, made from fermented glutinous rice or corn. This beverage holds cultural significance in various ethnic groups in the region, providing a glimpse into the diverse brewing traditions of the Philippines.
4.) Non-Alcoholic Drinks from the Philippines
4.1.) Cold Filipino Non-Alcoholic Beverages
37. Buko Juice
- Fresh coconut water
Buko Juice, or coconut water, is a staple refreshment in the Philippines, known for its hydrating properties and sweet, nutty flavor. This natural beverage is often enjoyed straight from the coconut, providing a taste of the tropics that’s both healthful and refreshing.
38. Calamansi Juice
- Tangy citrus juice
Calamansi Juice is made from the small but flavorful calamansi, a lime-like citrus fruit widely used in Filipino cuisine. Its distinct tartness, with a hint of sweetness, makes it a popular choice for a refreshing drink, offering a burst of vitamin C and a true taste of Filipino zest.
39. Guyabano Juice
- Creamy soursop drink
Guyabano Juice, derived from the soursop fruit, is celebrated for its creamy texture and a complex flavor that’s both sweet and tart. This juice is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a favored health drink in the Philippines.
40. Kamias Shake
- Sour bilimbi smoothie
The Kamias Shake turns the sour kamias fruit into a delightful smoothie, balancing its tartness with the sweetness of added sugar or honey. This unique beverage offers a refreshing twist, showcasing the versatility of Filipino fruits in non-alcoholic drinks.
41. Mango Shake
- Sweet mango smoothie
The Mango Shake is a beloved beverage in the Philippines, blending the sweetness of ripe mangoes into a creamy, refreshing shake. It’s a testament to the country’s renowned mangoes, celebrated for their exceptional sweetness and flavor.
42. Melon Juice
- Sweet melon drink
Melon Juice is a refreshing beverage made by blending ripe cantaloupe with water and sugar. This drink is often enjoyed with the addition of sago pearls, offering a sweet, hydrating treat that’s especially popular during the hot summer months.
43. Pandan Iced Tea
- Aromatic herbal tea
Pandan Iced Tea infuses the fragrant leaves of the pandan plant into a cooling beverage, offering a subtle, sweet flavor that’s uniquely Southeast Asian. This iced tea is a refreshing alternative to regular teas, embodying the tropical essence of the Philippines.
44. Sago’t Gulaman
Pearl and jelly drink
Sago’t Gulaman is a classic Filipino refreshment featuring sago pearls and gulaman (agar jelly) in a sweet, flavored syrup. This drink is a favorite among locals for its chewy textures and refreshing sweetness, making it a staple at street food stalls and gatherings.
45. Sinigang Juice
- Tangy tamarind broth
Sinigang Juice is an innovative beverage derived from the broth of Sinigang, a popular Filipino sour soup. This unique drink captures the tangy essence of tamarind, making it a surprising yet delightful choice for those seeking a taste of traditional Filipino flavors in a refreshing form.
46. Samalamig
- Variety of cold drinks
Samalamig refers to a variety of cold, sweet beverages sold by street vendors in the Philippines, including flavors like melon, sago’t gulaman, and more. These drinks are quintessential for cooling down in the tropical heat, offering a taste of Filipino street food culture.
4.2.) Hot Filipino Non-Alcoholic Beverages
47. Ginger Tea with Lemongrass
- Spicy herbal infusion
Ginger Tea with Lemongrass combines the warming spice of ginger with the citrusy notes of lemongrass, resulting in a soothing herbal tea. This infusion is not only comforting on cool days but also offers health benefits, making it a popular choice for wellness.
48. Salabat
- Traditional ginger tea
Salabat, the traditional Filipino ginger tea, is a beloved remedy for soothing sore throats and providing warmth. Its strong, spicy flavor is both invigorating and comforting, making it a staple in Filipino households, especially during the cooler months.
49. Kape Barako
- Strong Batangas coffee
Kape Barako is a strong, aromatic coffee variety from Batangas, known for its bold flavor and distinctively robust character. This coffee is a favorite morning beverage in the Philippines, offering a powerful kick-start to the day with its rich taste.
50. Tsokolate
- Filipino hot cocoa
Tsokolate, made from native cacao tablets called ‘tablea,’ is a thick, rich Filipino hot chocolate known for its bittersweet flavor. This comforting drink is a part of Filipino heritage, often served during special occasions and family gatherings.
51. Tablea Hot Chocolate with Peanut Butter
- Nutty hot cocoa
Tablea Hot Chocolate with Peanut Butter adds a creamy, nutty twist to the traditional Filipino tsokolate. The combination of rich cacao and smooth peanut butter creates a decadent beverage that’s both comforting and indulgent, perfect for savoring during the rainy season or cool evenings.