THE Bacolod-labeled rum, which is set to be introduced in the market by Tanduay Distillers Inc. (TDI), is seen to have a positive chain effect to the Negros Occidental capital city.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia said this will be a “big thing” and honor for Bacolod City to be included in a product brand being distributed worldwide.

As he expressed optimism, Leonardia said the effect would really be big as the product has international markets.

“This would strike the interest of the people in other countries,” he said, adding that it will spur their interest to go to Bacolod City.

The country’s top rum maker earlier announced that is set to introduce in the market its export product bearing a label that it is processed and bottled in Bacolod City, a first of its kind.

The rum company will release an initial of 50 cases of Tanduay rum with Bacolod City in the label mainly for export market like United States.

It will be processed and bottled in one of the company’s distilleries based at the boundary of Bacolod City and Murcia town in Negros Occidental.

The product will be out in the market at least six months after the launching, most probably starting next year.

Also, TDI earlier said it is strengthening its international presence starting this year.

At present, it has markets in at least five states in the United States. These are on top of the recently penetrated markets in Guam, China, and Australia and soon in some parts of Europe.

Established in 1854, Tanduay is one of the oldest existing liquor companies in the country.

It is a member of the Lucio Tan Group of Companies, and the oldest among the subsidiaries and carries with it the distinction of being one of the biggest brands in the distilled spirits category with a 99 percent share in the rum category.

Aside from the Tanduay Distillers plant in Bacolod-Murcia boundary, the company also owns the Asian Alcohol Corporation in Pulupandan, also in Negros Occidental.

Its two other plants are in Cagayan de Oro and Laguna.

For his part, Leonardia said anything or everything that will positively project Bacolod City internationally is good.

“It is like planting a seed. Eventually we are going to the harvest here,” he added.