San Miguel Pale Pilsen, the country’s most iconic beer, is celebrating its 135th anniversary with the launch of a limited-edition ‘Balik Tanaw’ can, unveiled during a special event at ECJ Hall, San Miguel Head Office Complex, on Wednesday, August 13.
First brewed in 1890 by La Fabrica de Cerveza de San Miguel in Manila—later renamed San Miguel Corporation in 1963—the beer has been a witness to Philippine history for over a century. San Miguel Brewery President Carlos Antonio Mayo Berba even imagined that national hero Dr. Jose Rizal himself could have sipped it.
“Imagine, 1890. Aba, buhay pa si Jose Rizal no’n. Malamang naimbita siya… Kasi ginoogle ko e, 1892 siya nakulong. Alta-sosyedad ‘yon, malamang imbitado ‘yon,” Berba quipped.
He also speculated it could have been present during the 1898 Independence Proclamation celebration. “Malamang, kasama sa handaan ang San Miguel Beer,” he added.
Berba highlighted how the beer predates many modern conveniences: “If you really think about it globally, what was 1890 then? TV, radio, kotse—wala lahat ‘yan. Even big technologies like the diesel engine or X-ray… kahit zipper, wala pa. Pero may San Miguel Beer na tayo.”
To commemorate the milestone, San Miguel tapped renowned Filipino visual artist Francis Nacion to design the ‘Balik Tanaw’ can, which captures nostalgic Filipino scenes and milestones where San Miguel Pale Pilsen has been a constant companion.
Nacion, known for his stylized forms and half-rendered visages symbolizing light and dark, drew inspiration from family and traditional Filipino values. His works have been exhibited both locally and abroad since 2009, often celebrating national heritage and culture.
For 135 years, San Miguel Pale Pilsen has been more than just a drink—it has forged friendships, been part of countless celebrations, and become a cultural icon. From small gatherings to grand festivities, its signature brew has connected generations of Filipinos at home and abroad.
The limited-edition ‘Balik Tanaw’ cans are available in select supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores, as well as via SMB Delivers at 8632-BEER (2337) or www.SMBDelivers.com.
