Combine vinegar, rum, minced garlic, and soy sauce, and ground black pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
Combine AP flour and cornstarch. Mix well and then set aside.
Put the shrimp in the same bowl. Marinade for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the cooking oil in a deep cooking pot.
Add the dried bay leaves and whole peppercorn in the hot oil.
Remove the shrimp from the marinade and then dredge in the flour and cornstarch mixture.
Deep fry the shrimp for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the texture becomes crisp.
Arrange in a serving plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serve with adobo dipping sauce (which is 2 parts vinegar and 1 part soy sauce with whole peppercorn and minced garlic). Share and enjoy!