12 Unique Things to Buy in the Philippines

When traveling to the Philippines, not only will you be captivated by its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, but you’ll also find a treasure trove of unique and distinctive products and souvenirs to take home. From traditional garments and handwoven fabrics to intricate handicrafts and delicious delicacies, the Philippines offers a wide array of items that capture the essence of the country’s rich culture and natural resources. These are the top things to buy in the Philippines to remind you of your memorable journey. Let’s explore standout options that await travelers in the Philippines.

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The Philippines offers many unique and distinctive products and souvenirs that travelers can buy to commemorate their visit. Here are popular options:

Barong Tagalog

The Barong Tagalog is the national costume of the Philippines and makes for an excellent souvenir. It is a lightweight embroidered shirt traditionally worn by Filipino men. However, some designs are also worn by women. Nowadays, both genders love wearing them for special occasions. Even people from different countries want to wear one. They sometimes ask their Filipino relatives to buy and ship to them so they can use it for their occasion. You can find Barong Tagalogs in various styles and price ranges in department stores, specialty shops, and markets throughout the country. Prices can range from around PHP 2,000 to PHP 10,000 ($40 to $200) or more, depending on the quality and intricacy of the embroidery.

Handwoven Fabrics

The Philippines is known for its intricate handwoven fabrics, such as Ilocos’s traditional “Inabel” and the vibrant “T’nalak” of Mindanao. These fabrics can be transformed into clothing, bags, home decor, and accessories. You can purchase them in specialized weaving communities or local markets. Prices for handwoven products vary depending on the item and the intricacy of the design, but expect to pay around PHP 500 to PHP 3,000 ($10 to $60) or more.

Capiz Shell Products

Capiz shells, known for their translucent appearance, are commonly used to create beautiful handicrafts like lamps, lanterns, window panels, and decorative items. These products are widely available in Philippines souvenir shops, handicraft centers, and markets nationwide. Prices can range from around PHP 100 to PHP 2,000 ($2 to $40), depending on the size and complexity of the item.

Philippine-made Jewelry

The Philippines is rich in natural resources, including precious metals and gemstones. Local artisans create exquisite jewelry using indigenous materials like pearls, gold, silver, and semi-precious stones. You can find jewelry shops and boutiques in major cities and tourist areas. Prices vary depending on the materials and design, but expect to pay anywhere from PHP 1,000 to PHP 50,000 ($20 to $1,000) or more.

Wooden Crafts

Filipino craftsmen are skilled in working with wood and produce a wide range of hand-carved items. Look for wooden statues, figurines, masks, and furniture made from hardwood like narra or mahogany. Local markets, Philippines souvenir shops, and specialty stores are good places to find these products. Prices can range from PHP 200 to PHP 5,000 ($4 to $100) or more, depending on the size and intricacy of the carving.

Keychains and Magnets

Popular souvenirs include keychains and magnets featuring iconic Philippine symbols, landmarks, and cultural elements. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and serve as reminders of one’s trip. You can find them in Philippine souvenir shops, airports, and tourist areas. Prices typically range from PHP 50 to PHP 200 ($1 to $4) per item.

Jeepney Replicas

Jeepneys are a typical means of transportation in the Philippines, and small versions make exciting gifts. These colorful and intricately designed models capture the essence of Philippine culture. You can find them in Philippine souvenir shops, markets, and handicraft centers. Prices vary depending on size and detailing, ranging from PHP 100 to PHP 500 ($2 to $10) or more.

T-shirts and Apparel

T-shirts featuring Philippine designs, quotes, and images are typical souvenirs. They come in various sizes, colors, and designs, often reflecting Filipino humor or cultural references. You can find them in souvenir shops, malls, and marketplaces. Prices for T-shirts usually range from PHP 200 to PHP 500 ($4 to $10) or more, depending on the quality and design.

Coconut Shell Products

Coconut shell items are popular souvenirs due to the abundance of coconut trees in the Philippines. These include bowls, cups, spoons, and decorative items. They are eco-friendly and showcase the country’s natural resources. You can find them in markets, handicraft centers, and souvenir shops. Prices range from PHP 100 to PHP 500 ($2 to $10) or more, depending on the item and craftsmanship.

Pearl Jewelry

The Philippines is known for its high-quality pearls. Pearl jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, are sought-after souvenirs. The country produces a variety of pearls, such as South Sea pearls and freshwater pearls. Jewelers and Philippines souvenir shops in major cities like Manila and Cebu offer a wide selection. Prices vary depending on the pearls’ size, shape, and quality, ranging from PHP 1,000 to PHP 10,000 ($20 to $200) or more.

Woven Bags and Baskets

Handwoven bags and baskets made from natural fibers like rattan, buri, and pandan leaves are popular souvenirs in the Philippines. They showcase the country’s traditional weaving techniques, which are practical and stylish. You can find them in local markets, souvenir shops, and specialty stores. Prices range from PHP 200 to PHP 1,500 ($4 to $30) or more, depending on the size and intricacy of the weave.
These souvenirs are popular in the Philippines because they embody the country’s culture, traditions, and natural resources. They offer visitors a tangible way to remember their trip and share a piece of Filipino heritage with others. Additionally, these items are often affordable and lightweight, making them convenient choices for travelers to bring back home.

Filipino Delicacies

Food items can also make great souvenirs. Consider buying local delicacies like dried mangoes, barquillos (wafer rolls), polvoron (powdered milk candy), ube jam, and tablea (local cocoa tablets). These can be found in supermarkets, pasalubong (gift) shops, and local markets. Prices vary depending on the product and quantity, but expect to spend around PHP 100 to PHP 500 ($2 to $10) for a box or pack.

Dried Mangoes

Dried mangoes are a beloved Filipino delicacy that showcases the country’s abundant tropical fruit. Whether you’re a fan of their sweet and tangy flavor or looking to explore unique culinary possibilities, dried mangoes from the Philippines are worth trying. Here’s all you need to know about dried mangoes in the Philippines

Production

The main varieties of mangoes used for drying include Carabao (also known as Manila mangoes) and pico (also known as ripe mangoes). These mangoes are harvested at peak ripeness and then processed to remove moisture.

Preparation

The ripe mangoes are peeled, sliced, and dried using various methods to make dried mangoes. Traditional sun-drying involves placing the mango slices on trays and exposing them to the sun until they lose most of their moisture. Modern techniques such as mechanical drying or dehydrators are also employed to speed up the process.

Taste and Texture

Dried mangoes have a chewy and slightly fibrous texture. They are known for their intense, sweet, and tangy flavor, with a hint of natural acidity.

Packaging and Variations

Dried mangoes are commonly available in the Philippines in various packaging options, including plastic bags, resealable pouches, or vacuum-sealed packs. They are sometimes coated with sugar or chili powder for added flavor variations.

Health Benefits

Dried mangoes are delicious and offer several health benefits. They are a rich source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and contain dietary fiber, antioxidants, and minerals like iron and potassium. However, they are also high in natural sugars, so consuming them in moderation is essential.

Culinary Uses

Dried mangoes can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or used in various culinary creations. They are often included in trail mixes, granola bars, baked goods, and desserts like cakes, muffins, and pies. They can also be rehydrated and used in savory dishes, such as stir-fries or salads.

Popular Brands

There are several well-known brands of dried mangoes in the Philippines, including the Philippine Brand, Profood International Corporation, 7D Dried Mangoes, and Cebu’s Best. These brands are known for their high-quality dried mangoes in the local market and for export.

Export Market

The Philippines exports many dried mangoes to various countries worldwide. Filipino dried mangoes are highly regarded for their quality and have gained popularity internationally, making them a sought-after souvenir or snack for travelers visiting the Philippines.

Polvoron

Polvoron is a popular sweet delicacy in the Philippines. It is a crumbly and powdered treat made primarily from toasted flour, powdered milk, sugar, and butter. Here’s all you need to know about polvoron in the Philippines:

Ingredients

Traditional polvoron recipes typically include toasted flour, powdered milk, sugar, and butter. The ingredients are mixed to form a crumbly and sandy texture. Other variations may include additional flavors such as crushed peanuts, cookies and cream, chocolate, ube (purple yam), mango, and more.

Texture and Taste

Polvoron has a crumbly and sandy texture that melts in your mouth. It has a rich, sweet, buttery flavor with a hint of toasted flour. The powdered nature of the treat gives it a unique texture.

Popular Varieties

Polvoron has various flavors and variations to cater to different preferences. Some popular varieties include classic plain polvoron, cookies and cream, chocolate, ube (purple yam), mango, pinipig (pounded rice flakes), and cashew. These variations offer diverse flavors and textures to suit different tastes.

Packaging and Presentation

Polvoron is commonly sold in individual or bulk packaging. It is often wrapped in colorful cellophane or placed in decorative boxes or jars. The packaging may feature vibrant designs and labels to attract customers. Polvoron is enjoyed as a personal snack and given as gifts for special occasions, holidays, or souvenirs.

Occasions and Traditions

Polvoron is a versatile treat enjoyed on various occasions. It is commonly served as a dessert or snack during birthdays, parties, and family gatherings. Polvoron is also a popular gift or pasalubong (souvenir) item for friends and family returning from a trip or visiting loved ones.

Commercial and Homemade Production

Polvoron is produced commercially by well-known brands such as Goldilocks, Ricoa, and other local bakeries and confectioneries. Additionally, many households and small businesses make polvoron at home, using family recipes or experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.

Ube Jam

Baguio’s Ube jam offers a delicious taste of the Philippines, showcasing the unique flavor and vibrant color of Ube. Whether enjoyed as a spread, a filling, or an ingredient in various desserts, Baguio’s Ube jam is a beloved treat representing the region’s culinary heritage. Here’s all you need to know about Ube jam from Baguio:

Ube and Its Significance

Ube refers to purple yam, a root vegetable native to the Philippines. It has a distinct purple color and a sweet, nutty flavor. Ube is a staple ingredient in many Filipino desserts and is highly cherished for its unique taste and vibrant hue.

Baguio’s Ube Jam

Baguio City, Philippines, is renowned for producing high-quality Ube jam. The region’s cool climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for growing Ube, resulting in flavorful and vibrant purple yams.

Taste and Texture

Baguio’s Ube jam has a rich, creamy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor. The vibrant purple color adds visual appeal to desserts and dishes. It is often described as having a slightly nutty or vanilla-like taste, making it a delightful treat or ingredient in various recipes.

Culinary Uses

Baguio’s Ube jam is versatile and can be used in numerous desserts and sweet treats. It is commonly used as a filling for pastries, cakes, and bread, adding a distinct purple color and a touch of sweetness. Ube jam is also a key ingredient in popular Filipino desserts such as Ube halaya, Ube ice cream, Ube cake, and Ube rolls.

Packaging and Availability

Baguio’s Ube jam is widely available in local markets, specialty stores, and pasalubong centers (shops that sell local delicacies as souvenirs). It is typically packaged in jars or containers, sealed to preserve freshness and flavor. The packaging often showcases the vibrant purple color of the Ube jam.

Souvenir and Gift Item

Baguio’s Ube jam is a sought-after souvenir and pasalubong (gift) item for visitors to the region. Many tourists bring back jars of Ube jam to taste Baguio’s culinary delights and share them with family and friends.

Cultural Significance

Ube, including Ube jam, holds cultural significance in the Philippines. It is often associated with celebrations, special occasions, and festive gatherings. Ube-based desserts, including Ube jam, are prominently featured during Filipino fiestas, weddings, and holiday celebrations.

Tablea

Tablea is a traditional Filipino product made from roasted and ground cacao beans, primarily for creating rich and flavorful hot chocolate. It is a treasured part of Filipino culinary heritage, providing a rich and authentic chocolate experience. From its production methods to its cultural significance, tablea showcases the artistry and appreciation for cacao in the Philippines. Here’s all you need to know about tablea in the Philippines:

Production

Tablea is produced by fermenting, drying, roasting, and grinding cacao beans. The process starts with harvesting ripe cacao pods and extracting the beans from the pods. The beans are then fermented to develop their flavor and aroma. The roasted beans are ground into a fine paste and then molded into tablet form.

Shape and Packaging

Tablea is commonly molded into small, flat, circular tablets or disks. These tablets are wrapped in banana leaves or aluminum foil to protect them from moisture and maintain quality. The tablets are usually stored in airtight containers to preserve their freshness.

Use in Hot Chocolate

Tablea is commonly used to make traditional Filipino hot chocolate, known as tsokolate or tsokolate eh. To prepare hot chocolate, a few tablea tablets are dissolved in hot water or milk, and the mixture is whisked until the tablea is completely melted and the hot chocolate becomes thick and frothy. Sugar may be added according to taste.

Flavor and Taste

Tablea imparts a rich, chocolatey flavor with a hint of bitterness. The flavor depends on the cacao bean type and the roasting level. The resulting hot chocolate from tablea is robust, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Culinary Uses

While tablea is primarily used for hot chocolate, it can also be used in Filipino desserts and dishes. It can be incorporated into recipes for champorado (a sweet chocolate rice porridge), bibingka (rice cake), and other chocolate-flavored desserts. Tablea can even be used as an ingredient in savory dishes like mole sauce.

Cultural Significance

Tablea holds cultural significance in the Philippines, particularly during special occasions and holidays. It is a beloved drink enjoyed during Christmas celebrations and a comforting beverage served to guests or offered as a warm welcome to visitors.

Regional Variations

Different regions in the Philippines have their variations of tablea, using specific types of cacao beans and employing local techniques. Some areas are known for producing tablea with distinct flavors and characteristics, adding to the diversity and appreciation of this traditional product.

Sustainability and Artisanal Production

Tablea production in the Philippines often involves small-scale farmers and artisanal processes. Many producers prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing of cacao beans, supporting local farmers, and promoting fair trade practices.

Reminder: prices mentioned here are approximate and can vary based on location, quality, and other factors. Bargaining is expected in local markets, so feel free to negotiate for a better price. However, if buying in the mall, prices are fixed and non-negotiable.

Why is it fun and essential to buy Philippine souvenirs when you are a tourist?

Buying Philippine souvenirs as a tourist is fun and essential. It allows you to forge a cultural connection, bring home unique and distinctive items, cherish personal reminders of your journey, support the local economy, give meaningful gifts, and contribute to sustainable tourism. So, next time you visit the Philippines, take advantage of the opportunity to explore its vibrant marketplaces and take home a piece of its captivating spirit.

Cultural Connection

Purchasing local souvenirs allows you to connect with the vibrant Filipino culture. Each item tells a story, reflects traditions, and represents the creativity and artistry of the Filipino people. Buying these souvenirs brings you a part of that culture back home, fostering a lasting connection and appreciation for the country.

Unique and Distinctive Items

Philippine souvenirs offer something out of the ordinary. Whether it’s the intricate craftsmanship of handwoven fabrics, the beauty of pearl jewelry, or the traditional designs of wooden crafts, these items stand out as unique and distinctive. They provide a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, making your souvenir collection all the more special.

Personalized Reminders

Souvenirs serve as tangible reminders of your travel experiences. Each time you see or use an item you purchased in the Philippines, it triggers fond memories of your journey. These souvenirs turn into priceless memories that allow you to experience the sights, sounds, and feelings of your trip to the Philippines.

Support for the Local Economy

Buying Philippine souvenirs contributes to the local economy and supports local artisans and entrepreneurs. Many of these products are handcrafted by skilled craftsmen and women, often from small communities. Your purchase helps sustain their livelihoods, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and promote cultural heritage.

Meaningful Gifts

Philippine souvenirs make thoughtful and meaningful gifts for family and friends. Sharing a piece of the country’s culture and traditions through these unique items allows you to introduce others to the beauty and diversity of the Philippines. It’s a way to spread joy and create connections even after your journey has ended.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism

Purchasing local souvenirs aligns with the principles of sustainable tourism. By choosing authentic products made from natural materials and supporting local artisans, you contribute to preserving traditional practices and the environment. It promotes a sustainable and responsible approach to travel.

As you bid farewell to the Philippines laden with your chosen souvenirs, you’ll depart with more than just material possessions. Each item carries a piece of the country’s vibrant heritage and symbolizes the memories you’ve made during your travels. Whether it’s a meticulously embroidered Barong Tagalog, a hand-carved wooden masterpiece, or a delicious box of dried mangoes, these unique products embody the soul of the Philippines. By supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs, you bring a slice of Filipino culture back home and contribute to preserving traditional craftsmanship. So, as you cherish your Filipino souvenirs, may they forever remind you of the beauty, warmth, and rich tapestry of experiences that await in the Philippines.