Ilonggo Mixologist to Compete in Dublin Cocktail Contest

1 of 7

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Estancia, Iloilo’s own Macario Jr. “Macky” Dela Cruz is set to compete in the prestigious Rising Stars LIVE 2024 Cocktail Competition in Dublin, Ireland, from September 21 to 26.

Representing the Philippines, Macky will showcase Ilonggo innovation on an international stage.

From Estancia to the World Stage

Macky’s journey is one of hard work and determination, reflecting the stories of many Ilonggos.

“I began as a barback in Dubai in 2014, washing glasses and tidying up the bar. That’s where I discovered my love for creating cocktails,” Macky shared in an interview with Daily Guardian.
During his college days, he often wondered why Filipino ingredients like calamansi, pandan, and lemongrass weren’t commonly used in cocktails.
“Out of curiosity, I started dreaming of creating a Filipino-inspired cocktail that could gain international recognition,” he said, explaining the inspiration behind his pursuit of a career in mixology.

His dedication paid off when his supervisor recognized his potential, opening doors for him in the competitive bartending world.
Despite competing against seasoned professionals in his first cocktail competition in Dubai, Macky reached the grand finals, jumpstarting his career.
“I didn’t know much at first, but I took every opportunity to learn and compete. That’s how I got noticed and eventually promoted to bartender,” he said.

Since then, Macky has participated in various competitions, working his way up to become a seasoned mixologist.
Throughout his career, he remained committed to crafting cocktails that reflect his Ilonggo roots.
“It’s one of my goals to create a drink that represents Iloilo, using our local ingredients,” he expressed.
One of his creations is a twist on the classic whiskey sour, replacing lemon with Indian mango, a smaller mango variety common in the Philippines, especially in Iloilo.

Sustainable Cocktail ‘Green Lady’

Macky secured his spot in the Rising Stars LIVE 2024 competition with his eco-friendly cocktail, “Green Lady,” inspired by classic disco drinks like the apple martini and pink lady.
“For the elimination round, we were asked to create a sustainable drink. I used gin, homegrown rosemary, homemade vanilla from citrus peel leftovers, and green apple juice. I even used the apple pulp as garnish to reduce waste,” he shared.

Macky emphasized that creating a great cocktail begins with inspiration.
“It’s not just about mixing ingredients. My experience helped me develop the Green Lady. When I discovered rosemary’s potential as an herb, I thought of flavors that would complement it, and that’s how the Green Lady came to be. Each ingredient plays a vital role.”

He added that sustainability goes beyond resourcefulness. “For the drink to be truly sustainable, we also consider its nutritional value and calorie content. It’s all about finding the right balance to suit the guest’s needs.”

Overcoming Challenges in a New Environment

Macky’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. After moving to Saudi Arabia, where alcohol is banned due to halal laws, he had to adapt by mastering non-alcoholic beverages.
“I spent three years in Dubai before moving to Saudi. It was difficult at first because, in a halal country, you need to get creative without alcohol. You have to make drinks that don’t just taste like fruit juice,” he explained.
“But it taught me how to play with flavors and ingredients in new ways, and I think that made me a better mixologist. Through research and practice, I mastered my craft.”

Representing Iloilo on a Global Stage

As Macky prepares for the five-day competition in Dublin, he is proud to carry the Ilonggo spirit with him.
“This competition is tough, but being in the top 10 already feels like a victory. I want to do my best to represent not only my company but the Philippines and, of course, Iloilo.”

Macky credits his family, friends, and mentors for their unwavering support. “I wouldn’t be here without them,” he said.
He extended a special message to Ilonggos and aspiring bartenders: “Keep pushing, stay curious, and never stop learning.”

Currently a beverage manager at The Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, Macky’s rise from barback to competing on the global stage serves as an inspiration to many.
He also holds titles such as the first-ever Monin Cup Grand Champion in Saudi Arabia (2019) and winner of the Fernet Branca Coin Design Competition.

Rising Stars LIVE 2024 is an annual competition covering Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, organized by Marriott International, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies. Out of more than 200 participants in the preliminary round, Macky secured a spot in the final 10.