Andrea Brillantes: “I want to evolve as a woman.”

“I want to evolve as an actress and as a woman,” Andrea Brillantes boldly stated during the media launch announcing her as the 2026 Tanduay Calendar Girl. 

The 22-year-old actress said she’s ready to step into more mature roles, no longer limited to wholesome characters.

For decades, the Tanduay Calendar Girl has been a yearly highlight in local pop culture, known for merging glamour, artistry, and empowerment. Every calendar has reflected the evolving image of the Filipina: confident, self-assured, and multifaceted.

Tanduay Distillers Inc. kicks off its “Iconic Era” with the 2026 edition—a theme that continues the brand’s long-standing tradition while redefining it for a new generation.

Instead of focusing on allure, this year’s campaign celebrates individuality and authenticity, which are qualities that both the brand and its newest muse share.

Brillantes made a striking entrance at the grand launch in Quezon City on November 14, performing a sultry rendition of Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” 

“When I found out, I was honestly shocked. Weh? Ako? Talaga ba?” Andrea recalled with a laugh as she took the stage. “Ready na ba ‘ko? Ready na ba ‘yung mama ko, ‘yung lola ko?”

“Ready na rin ba ‘yung mga fans ko?” 

Having grown up as a child star, Brillantes knew the reveal would be a bold leap that might surprise many.

“But then I got excited. I know I’m ready,” the Kadenang Ginto and Senior High actress exclaimed. 

“Growing up, I’d always see the Tanduay Calendar Girls as these strong, confident, iconic women, so to actually be one now feels surreal. It’s such an honor and definitely a huge milestone for me.”

She shared that preparing for the part required both mental and physical discipline, careful meal planning, and thoughtful collaboration with the creative team.

 “I had to be disciplined with my meal plans and make sure I felt good inside and out. I also studied each concept with the team because I wanted every photo to show a different side of me.”

She added that she wanted to push her preparations even further, but certain circumstances got in the way:

“Gusto ko pa nga i-todo ‘yung preparation ko but unfortunately, I got hospitalized a month before the shoot.”

At 22, Brillantes is one of the youngest actresses to be a Tanduay Calendar Girl.

For her, this is what it means to embody the essence of a Tanduay muse: “Being real, confident, embracing kung sino ka talaga, kailangan mong i-accept ‘yung flaws mo.”

“This year, I’ve learned to own every version of myself—‘yung playful side ko, ‘yung soft side ko, ‘yung strong and fierce side.”

Her newest milestone comes shortly after signing with MQuest Ventures, marking her transition to becoming a Kapatid after 15 years with ABS-CBN under Star Magic.

Last year, Kim Chiu was Tanduay’s Calendar Girl.

Cheers to your iconic era, Blythe!