135 Years of San Miguel: Filipino Culture Lives On
As San Miguel Pale Pilsen unveils its limited-edition can, Art+ catches up with Filipino artist Francis Nacion, whose vibrant artwork adorns the special and limited-edition can.
Words Patricia Lanzagarita
Photo courtesy of San Miguel
August 26, 2025
Every celebration calls for a cold drink, and no family gathering is complete without a bottle of San Miguel Pale Pilsen. For 135 years, San Miguel has been more than just a beer—it’s a symbol of Filipino identity and heritage. Brewing since 1890, the brand has become a staple in both intimate and large gatherings–Pale Pilsen has remained at the heart of Filipino culture.
To celebrate this milestone, San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMB) proudly presents the limited-edition ‘Balik Tanaw’ can, showcasing the brand’s brewing excellence and cultural legacy throughout the years, deeply rooted in Filipino tradition.
Reliving the heritage
The limited-edition can is brought to life by the art of acclaimed Filipino visual artist Francis Nacion, known for his vivid imagery and half-rendered expressions. Nacion aimed to evoke national pride by showcasing artworks inspired by Filipino traditions
“Ito ay tungkol sa kulturang Pilipino—mga tradisyon at kaugalian ng ating mga ninuno na gusto kong balikan at pag-aralan para maipasa sa bagong henerasyon,” he shared.
The name ‘Balik Tanaw’ was inspired by Nacion’s memories of fiestas in his hometown of Aklan, where family members would gather to celebrate. Reflecting a nostalgic perspective of community and tradition dating back to 1890, the can feature classic Filipino attire such as the barong Tagalog and baro’t saya.
To family and on
Nacion shared with Art+ that the project feels deeply personal, as the beer reminded him of his late grandfather, a long-time fan of San Miguel Pale Pilsen.
“Naalala ko ang lolo ko kasi paborito niya talaga ang brand na ito. Ang dami na agad pumasok na ideas at naging madali para sa akin kasi meron na agad connection,” he said.
For the artist, who witnessed both his grandfather’s love for the brand and the evolution of Pale Pilsen through the years, being chosen to design for the brand’s 135th anniversary is a dream come true.
“Isang malaking karangalan dahil hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na ako ang napili nila. Isa itong pangarap na natupad—regalo galing sa Poong Maykapal.”
The ‘Balik Tanaw’ can is more than just a symbol of celebration and legacy. Nacion and San Miguel Brewery invite every Filipino to celebrate not just the milestone, but the shared cultural journey between the brand and the nation.
Collect, enjoy, or share the San Miguel Pale Pilsen limited-edition “Balik Tanaw” can, available now at select supermarkets, groceries, convenience stores, or through SMB Delivers via 8632-BEER (2337)or www.SMBDelivers.com.
