135 Years Ago—Wala Pang Airplanes, Pero Meron Nang San Miguel Pale Pilsen
It was 1890. The Wright brothers wouldn’t invent the airplane for another 13 years. The Eiffel Tower had just been completed. Jose Rizal was still writing El Filibusterismo. Hollywood didn’t exist, and the Philippines, was still under the Spanish regime.
But Filipinos already had something that would become a cultural icon—San Miguel Pale Pilsen.
Brewed under a Spanish Royal Charter by Enrique María Barretto, La Fábrica de Cerveza San Miguel was the first brewery in Southeast Asia. Its signature, award-winning golden brew would go on to capture the hearts of generations, becoming the True Global Filipino Beer—a constant at family fiestas, street parties, after-work tagays, and grand celebration.
By 1913, just 23 years after it was first brewed, it already dominated 88% of the Philippine beer market. By 1914, it was being exported to Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Guam. Over the decades, it crossed oceans—finding its way to Hawaii, Okinawa, and even Spain through the landmark “Manila Agreement” of 1953.
It has been poured for U.S. troops during World War II, toasted by Filipino soldiers serving in Korea, and clinked in countless celebrations ever since.
Commemorating 135 Years with the “Balik Tanaw” Can
To mark its 135th anniversary, San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMB) flips through its rich history and celebrates its heritage with the launch of the limited-edition “Balik Tanaw” can—a collectible that honors the brand’s tradition of brewing excellence and its deep ties to Filipino culture.
The can’s design is the creative vision of Francis Nacion, one of the country’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Famous for his stylized forms and distinct half-rendered visages, Nacion captures sceneries from days of old—traditional gatherings, community celebrations, and intimate moments—always with San Miguel Pale Pilsen present, enriching the scene.
Since 2009, Nacion has mounted multiple solo exhibits here and abroad, his works reflecting his love for the Philippines and its culture. His natural affinity for depicting local imagery and traditional values made this collaboration with San Miguel Pale Pilsen both intuitive and intentional, seamlessly connecting the brand’s principles with art rooted in history and national pride.
The True Global Filipino Beer
For 135 years, San Miguel Pale Pilsen has been more than a drink—it’s a bridge between generations and a witness to countless shared moments. From small get-togethers to large festivals, from kalesas to ride-hailing apps, from telegrams to TikTok—it has been there, shaping not only celebrations but also Filipino storytelling and identity.
The limited-edition “Balik Tanaw” can is now available in select supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide. You can also order through SMB Delivers via 8632-BEER (2337) or www.SMBDelivers.com.
Here’s to 135 years of friendship, flavor, and Filipino pride—proof that while the world changes, some things are brewed to last forever.
