MANILA, Philippines — The spirits industry has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but Ms. Myrna Delos Reyes has shown that women also occupy important roles in maintaining its heritage and shaping its future. As Tanduay’s Senior Vice President for Quality and Technical Operations, she leads the division that serves as the center for the company’s innovation and scientific excellence.

“I began my journey at Tanduay as a laboratory analyst, a role that gave me a deep foundation in the science behind every bottle. Over the course of my career, I’ve grown into my current position as SVP. It’s been a path built on curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love for what we do,” Delos Reyes shared.

Having been with Tanduay for more than 36 years now, she has proven that women can also build lasting careers and occupy one of highest positions in an industry that has been traditionally identified with men.

From the Lab to the Top

Becoming the SVP of a highly-respected spirits company that has been in the industry for more than a century wasn’t easy. Delos Reyes recalled that when she first joined Tanduay, women in technical roles were a rarity.

“But that never discouraged me. If anything, it strengthened my resolve. Today, I’m glad to see more women entering the field, and I hope my journey inspires even more to do so,” Delos Reyes said.

For her, the biggest challenge that women face in a male-dominated field is earning the trust and respect of her peers.

“My approach has always been simple: let your work speak for itself. Demonstrating technical competence, staying prepared, and showing up consistently. That’s how you build credibility, regardless of gender,” she said.

Finding a Home in Tanduay

Delos Reyes is grateful for having found a great and stable company in Tanduay.

“What truly makes it special is the family I’ve found here. The relationships I’ve built over 36 years, the shared struggles, the milestones, the laughter, are all irreplaceable. This company feels like home,” she said.

Delos Reyes is especially thankful for having the opportunity to work alongside Tanduay’s celebrated Master Blender, Maestro Faustino Munarriz.

“He was my mentor and, in many ways, my guiding light. He believed in my potential at a time when I was still finding my footing, and his encouragement shaped the professional I became. I carry his lessons with me every single day,” she said.

Women Driving Quality and Innovation

Delos Reyes’ professional journey reflects that of many women who continue to redefine what it means to work in traditionally male-dominated industries .

“Women bring a different perspective to the table, one that values nuance, storytelling, and experience. In the rum industry, that translates to more thoughtful flavor profiles, more inclusive branding, and products that speak to a wider audience. Women aren’t just consumers; we are creators, innovators, and decision-makers shaping what rum means today,” she said.

These contributions are especially important for Tanduay as it moves toward premiumization.

“Women at Tanduay have been instrumental in driving quality and innovation, two pillars of premiumization. From product development to quality control to brand strategy, we bring precision, passion, and a commitment to excellence. As Tanduay reaches new markets and elevates its offerings, the contributions of women behind the scenes have been both quiet and profound,” Delos Reyes pointed out.

Asked what her advice is to women who are looking to enter a male-dominated field, Delos Reyes said, “Come prepared, not just skilled, but confident in your expertise.”

“Know your craft inside and out. When you walk into a room and demonstrate true technical competence, it becomes very hard for anyone to overlook you. Your knowledge is your power. Never underestimate it,” she stressed