LOS ANGELES, CA—Lambanog, the Philippines’ high-proof provincial hooch made from coconuts, is making a re-engineered debut in the United States.  VuQo, a premium, coconut-distilled vodka, had its own red-carpet launching at the CBS Studios in Hollywood.

“I love coconut, I love alcohol.  Let’s bring it together!” said actor Malcolm Barrett, star of ABC’S “Better Off Ted.”

“Blue Lagoon” actor Christopher Atkins is no stranger to coconuts.  “I like coconuts!  It’s really fun to see the international effort going on,” Atkins said in regards to VUQO’s Philippine roots.

Described by its creators as an elevated form of lambanog, VuQo is made in the Philippines through a lengthy process of fermenting coconut nectar.  Rich Cabel, CEO of VuQo Incorporated, said it took four years to refine the product.

“Now it’s finally out, and we’re excited for everyone to try it,” Cabel said.

Notable Pinoys also graced the red carpet alongside Hollywood celebrities.  Fashion designer Alexis Monsanto said VuQo reminded him of his childhood in the Philippines.

“I grew up in Batangas and I remember lambanog, and now it’s in a premium level,” Monsanto said.

The People behind VuQo are positioning their product as the Philippines’ answer to the upscale vodka brand, Grey Goose.  They plan a full-blast, mainstream marketing effort as they roll out VuQo in U.S. retail stores.