17 November 2022, Stockholm – The Embassy of the Philippines in Stockholm held “ “Filippinernas Ädla Drycker / Beverages of the Philippines”, a presentations and tastings of Philippine liquor and spirits featuring Don Papa Rum and Archipelago ARC Botanical Gin and Vodka at the Radisson Collection Strand in Stockholm on 11 November 2022.

In his remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul General Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga underscored the Embassy’s goal to promote and impart a taste of the Philippines through some of the Philippines’ best liquor.  

Philippine Department of Tourism – London (PDOT) representative Ms. Ysobelle Ortega also took the opportunity to showcase the distinct qualities of Philippine tourism - the hospitality, warmth of its people and the various nature-based activities and destinations. A video presentation featuring popular destinations such as Palawan, Cebu, Boracay, Bohol, and Manila was also featured. 

Anora Brand Manager Mr. Patrik Tapper shared that Don Papa Rum is made from sugar cane grown in and harvested from an active volcano, Mt. Kanlaon, in the province of Negros Occidental. The brand name is a tribute to Dionisio Magbuelas, better known as “Papa Isio”, who led a group of Filipino shamans in driving away the Spanish conquistadores during the Philippine Revolution in 1988. 

Mr. Dan Dicander, co-founder of DICA Vin & Sprit, conveyed that the ARC products, which are produced by Philippines’ Full Circle Craft Distillers Co., aims to promote a rare blend of 28 exotic botanical ingredients – 22 of which are native to the Philippines. Notably, a percentage of every bottle of ARC products sold contributes to the conservation of Philippine wildlife.

Mr. Tapper and Mr. Dicander also led guests in tasting their products: Don Papa Rum, Don Papa Sherry Cask, Don Papa Baroko, Don Papa Rye Cask, and Don Papa 10 Year Rum as well as Archipelago Botanical Gin, Archipelago Barrel Reserve, and Archipelago Lava Rock Vodka.

The highlight of the night were the performances of Mr. Dennis Barela Adiuba, a Madrid-based Filipino and a flair bartending champion, who showcased his bartending skills to the delight of the crowd. He also concocted Philippine Mojito, ARC & Tonic, and The Dewy Gimlet for guests.

The event was attended by officials of the Swedish government, members of the diplomatic corps of Sweden, the business sector, and friends of the Philippines based in Stockholm. 

Don Papa Rum and Archipelago ARC Gin and Vodka are available at the Systembolaget, a government-owned chain of liquor stores in Sweden. END.