Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Knowing the right things to buy in the Philippines, when exploring the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, can enrich your travel experience. This tropical archipelago offers a wealth of unique products that reflect its rich heritage, natural beauty, and skilled craftsmanship. From exquisite pearls and handwoven textiles to delicious local delicacies, the Philippines is a shopper’s paradise for those seeking authentic souvenirs. Whether you’re wandering through Manila’s bustling markets or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Palawan, discovering these treasures allows you to take a piece of the Philippines home with you, making your journey truly unforgettable.
Top 10 Best Things To Buy In The Philippines
Here is a curated list of the top 10 best things to buy in Philippines for a shopping paradise.
1. Filipino Pearls
Photo: Auadtbk / Wikimedia Common
Filipino pearls are among the most iconic and sought-after souvenirs from the Philippines. Known for their remarkable lustre and quality, these pearls come in various sizes and colours, including the rare golden South Sea pearls. They are a testament to the country’s thriving pearl farming industry, especially in regions such as Palawan and the Visayas. Pearl jewellery ranges from simple earrings to elaborate necklaces, making them perfect gifts or keepsakes that symbolise elegance and natural beauty.
Cost: ₱3,500 – 10,000 / ₹5,000 – 14,400
Location: Palawan, Davao, Manila markets
2. Dried Mangoes
Photo: Adrian Michael / Wikimedia Commons
No trip to the Philippines is complete without tasting and bringing home dried mangoes. These sweet, chewy treats pack tropical flavour and enjoy widespread local and international appeal. Cebu, in particular, is famous for producing the best dried mangoes, often hailed as the sweetest in the world. They are available in supermarkets and souvenir shops nationwide and make excellent snacks or gifts for friends and family.
Cost: ₱50 – 70 / ₹75 – 106 per packet
Where To Buy: Dried mango packets are available readily in supermarkets, grocery stores, and local shops.
3. Filipino Musical Instruments
Photo: Philip Dominguez Mercurio (PhilipDM) / Wikimedia Commons
Guitars and traditional musical instruments are popular souvenirs that showcase the Philippines’ rich musical heritage. Renowned for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, musicians around the world often seek Filipino-made guitars. These instruments reflect the country’s deep artistic spirit and cultural traditions. Bringing one home offers a unique and meaningful connection to the vibrant music scene of the Philippines, making it a truly special keepsake for any traveller.
Cost: ₱1,299 – 19,799 / ₹2,400 – 36,000
Location: Shopee, Lazada, Ubuy Philippines, Benjie’s Music Store (Manila), Lazer Music, Ali Mall (Manila)
4. Handwoven Banig Mats
Photo: MarvinBikolano / Wikimedia Commons
Banig mats are traditional hand-woven sleeping or sitting mats made from natural materials such as pandan, buri, or tikog grass. These mats showcase the rich weaving heritage of Filipino artisans and come in vibrant patterns and colours. Beyond their traditional use, modern banig mats are crafted into stylish bags and wallets, making them both functional and decorative souvenirs that celebrate Filipino craftsmanship.
Cost: ₱4,000 – 4,400 / ₹6,400 – 7,000
Location: Basey, Samar; Woven.ph; Shopee; Handicraft shops.
5. Capiz Shell Products
Photo: Valenzuela400 / Wikimedia Commons
People know capiz shells for their delicate beauty and translucent quality. Artisans transform them into elegant home décor items such as lamps, trays, and jewellery. Lightweight and eco-friendly, capiz shell products are popular souvenirs that reflect the Philippines’ coastal culture. These items add a touch of natural elegance to any home and are perfect for those who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship.
Cost: ₱120 – 2,000 / ₹184 – 3,075
Location: Kultura Filipino (SM Makati), Jonats Handicrafts (Tiendesitas, Pasig)
6. Abaca Slippers And Bags
Photo: Alma Gamil / Wikimedia Commons
Made from abaca fibre, a plant native to the Philippines, abaca slippers and bags are popular eco-friendly souvenirs. The slippers offer comfort and are perfect for warm climates, while the bags showcase various handwoven designs created by skilled local artisans. These items not only reflect traditional Filipino weaving techniques but also promote sustainable fashion. Choosing these unique gifts supports local communities and helps preserve cultural heritage, making them meaningful and responsible choices for conscious travelers.
Cost: ₱100 – 500 / ₹160 – 800
Location: Anthill Fabric Gallery, The Fabric Warehouse, Townes Inc, Fabric City
7. Filipino Local Snacks And Delicacies
Photo: DeinnahB / Wikimedia Commons
Bringing home Filipino snacks is a tasty way to share the country’s rich flavours. Popular treats include ube halaya (purple yam jam), kalamay (sticky rice cake), chicharon (crispy pork rinds), and gourmet dried fish like danggit and pusit. These traditional delicacies reflect the Philippines’ diverse culinary heritage. Perfect as pasalubong (souvenirs), they allow food lovers to enjoy an authentic taste of the islands while supporting local producers and preserving time-honoured recipes.
Cost: ₱5 – 50 / ₹8 – 80
Location: Street stalls
8. Traditional Clothing And Textiles
Alt Text- Buy barong tagalog, patadyong, and other traditional garments crafted from native fabrics.
For those interested in fashion and culture, Filipino traditional clothing like the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana dresses make excellent souvenirs. Additionally, handwoven textiles such as Inabel towels and ponchos featuring Itneg embroidery highlight the rich artistry of indigenous communities. These garments and fabrics embody Filipino identity, heritage, and craftsmanship. Bringing home these pieces not only supports local artisans but also preserves cultural traditions, making them meaningful and stylish keepsakes for anyone who values cultural authenticity.
Cost: ₱450 – 700 / ₹300 – 470
Location: Etsy, Barong World
9. Wooden Handicrafts
Photo: pasja1000 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Philippines’ exquisite wooden handicrafts—such as bowls, utensils, and decorative items—are globally admired for their quality and charm. Crafted by skilled artisans using sustainable wood, these items combine functionality with artistic expression. Each piece reflects Filipino creativity and cultural heritage, making them perfect souvenirs for those who value eco-friendly, handmade products. Whether used daily or displayed as décor, these wooden crafts serve as lasting reminders of the Philippines’ rich traditions and dedication to sustainable craftsmanship.
Cost: ₱199 – 599 / ₹299 – 899
Location: Kultura Filipino, Shopee Philippines
10. Salakot
Photo: Anna Tarazevich / Pexels
Residents donning conical hats are iconic representations of Southeast Asia, and the Philippines is no exception. Known as salakot, these hats vary in size and design, protecting the head, face, and neck from the sun. The salakot makes for an excellent souvenir, ideal for gifting or using during outdoor work and picnics. They are affordable and lightweight, but if you plan to pack them in your luggage, ensure you maintain their conical shape.
Cost: ₱199 – 369 / ₹302 – 561
Location: Shopee, Lazada, street-side store
The things to buy in the Philippines reflect the country’s vibrant heritage and natural wonders. These products allow travellers to carry a tangible piece of the archipelago’s spirit back home. From edible delights such as dried mangoes to elegant pearl jewellery, the options are as diverse as the islands themselves. Shopping in the Philippines is more than a transaction; it’s a celebration of culture and community. Plan your next trip with TripXL to indulge in the rich tapestry of Filipino crafts.
Cover Photo: Khairul Onggon / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
