22 unique Philippine souvenirs

By Coconuts Manila

The Philippines is a place full of history and culture. There are many things to give friends before they leave and remind yourself of vacations past. Pick up one of these on your way home.

  • Sungka

    This popular Filipino game involves dropping shells or stones into the crevices of a long, canoe shaped board. Get ready for a fast-paced, fun game. 

  • Slingshot

    In some souvenir shops you can find these traditional slingshots, which are more powerful than you'd expect. A fun toy, but be careful!

  • Jewelry

    Shell jewellery and beach-style necklaces are popular and easy to come by. Make sure you are rocking your finest necklace at Boracay or wherever you go home to!

  • Toy Jeepney

    Jeepneys are unique to the Philippines so a toy to remember them is a great souvenir.

  • Kulintang

    If you can ship these massive, ancient gongs, this is truly a unique souvenir that would be appreciated by music enthusiasts.

  • Wine

    Amazing wines are produced in the Philippines. Everyone has had grape wine, but most people havent had wines made of plums, local berries or mangos.

  • Magnets

    It should be easy enough to find a magnet that reminds you and your guests of a special Filipino moment. They're easy to carry too!

  • Philippines-branded T-shirts

    After visiting our beautiful country, people will be saying "I <3 Philippines," so you might as well give them a T-shirt with the same words.

  • Barong tagalog

    This is a formal, embroidered Philippine shirt for men. If your guests are coming for a wedding or formal event, this is a nice welcome gift for them to wear.

  • Pandan/Buntal/Snakeskin clutch

    You can find clutches made of various materials to suit your style. Pandan is a small plant, buntal is a fibre from a palm plant and snakeskin is commonly used for many fashionable pieces.

  • Pearls

    The Philippines are a great place to buy pearls. They are more common and so, much cheaper here than most places in the world.

  • Lambanog

    This is a tasty traditional coconut spirit, which is similar to a whiskey or rum. It usually ranges from 30-50% alcohol.

  • Tea

    Carmona retusa or the "Philippine tea tree" has leaves which are used to treat coughs, colds, and more. 

  • Banig mats

    You can find banig placemats, floor mats or mats for sunbathing. Banigs are usually made of palm and they're another excellent welcome gift for those who will be travelling to many beaches.

  • Crocidile head

    Hard to carry, but so cool! You'll find these around the Southern Islands. 

  • Carved wood

    Figurines, bowls, baskets, ashtrays and more can all be found in Philippine souvenir shops.

  • Cloud 9 Candy

    A favorite chocolate bar of many Filipinos and good gift for those surfers who go to Cloud 9 on a surf trip.

  • Bottlecraft

    Another souvenir staple in the tourist shops. Bottlecrafts are a quick and easy purchase if you need to get something last minute.

  • Rattan hammock

    Filipino hammocks are unique because they are made with palm tree. It made be hard to travel with though!

  • ARTWORK Clothing

    A trendy 18-year-old company that started in the Philippines as a T-shirt manufacturer specializing in silk-screen printing. ARTWORK has recieved some international attention, as well.

  • Keychains

    A common touristy souvenir, key chains are one of those cheap, lightweight souvenirs that are everywhere. You can find some pretty funky keychains in the the markets.

  • Soaps and Lotions

    Filipino soaps and lotions are great souvenirs to take home with you. Make sure to pick your favourite scent so you can feel like you're back in the Philippines when you're home from your vacation!