Find a variety of unique and interesting Philippine souvenirs, from traditional musical instruments to local foods to take home.
The Philippines, with its unique cultural richness and traditions, offers a variety of interesting souvenirs that you can take home as souvenirs or give to your loved ones.
From beautiful handicrafts to delicious food, there are many choices of Filipino souvenirs that will tempt your heart. Here are 10 Typical Philippine Souvenirs that you can choose to take home.
1. Cube
Kubing, often referred to as jaw harp, is a traditional Filipino musical instrument made of bamboo. With a simple shape, kubing is played by placing it on the lips and pulling the ends to produce sound.
This instrument is commonly played in various traditional ceremonies in the Philippines. The uniqueness of the kubing as a musical instrument that is light and easy to carry makes it a distinctive and unique souvenir. If you’re looking for something different, kubing is a perfect choice to take home.
2. Barong Tagalog clothing
Barong Tagalog is a traditional Filipino costume that is often worn at formal events. These garments are made from natural fibers such as pineapple leaves or banana stems, which are hand-embroidered to produce fine fabrics.
Barong Tagalog is very famous for its beauty and uniqueness, and gives an elegant impression to those who wear it. You can buy Barong Tagalog as a memorable souvenir, either for yourself or for your loved ones.
3. Philippine Festival Masks
Festival masks are one of the typical Filipino souvenirs that are full of color and uniqueness. Usually, these masks are used in various major festivals in the Philippines, such as the MassKara Festival in Bacolod.
These masks are designed with detail and depict unique and artistic human facial expressions. If you are an art collector or want to give a different souvenir, Filipino festival masks are a great choice.
4. Pina
Pina is a traditional Filipino fabric made from the fibers of the Spanish red pineapple plant. Pina is used to make high-quality clothing, tablecloths, and accessories.
The beauty of this fabric lies in its rich patterns and luxury. Even though the price is relatively expensive, Pina is very suitable as a souvenir for loved ones. This fabric is a symbol of the quality and beauty of Philippine culture that we should be proud of.
5. Banig Products
Banig is a traditional Filipino woven craft made from dried grass native to the Philippines, such as tikog and romblon. Banig mats are very popular, but now banig products are not only mats, but also bags, baskets, and even beds.
This craft has high quality and high artistic value. You can take home a banig mat or other woven products as a unique and practical Philippine souvenir.
6. Sungka
Sungka is a traditional Filipino game that is similar to the popular Indonesian game of congklak. This game is played with a wooden board that has several holes and small stones or seeds that are used to run the game.
Sungka is a toy that is not only fun, but also teaches strategy and skills. As a souvenir, Sungka provides a fun cultural experience while also functioning as a home decoration.
7. Cube
Apart from being known for its kubing as a traditional musical instrument, the Philippines also has a type of bamboo flute that is very light and easy to carry anywhere.
This Philippine bamboo flute has a simple shape but produces a melodious and distinctive sound. This bamboo flute can be an interesting souvenir, especially for those of you who want something unique and easy to take home.
8. Dream Catcher
Dream catcher or nightmare ward is one of the most popular souvenirs from the Philippines. Usually, dream catchers are hung in front of the house or near the bed to ward off nightmares.
The uniqueness of this object is the distinctive sound it produces when it is hit by wind or moving objects. This dream catcher can be used as a home decoration that brings good luck and symbolizes the original Philippine tradition.
9. Polvoron
Polvoron is a typical Filipino cookie made from a mixture of milk, flour, and butter that is baked. This cookie has a crumbly and sweet texture, with several flavor variations such as sweet potato, strawberry, and peanut.
Polvoron is a very popular souvenir in the Philippines because of its delicious taste and practical packaging. You can bring home Polvoron in various flavors as a suitable souvenir for family or friends at home.
10. Dried Mango
Dried mango is one of the most popular Filipino snacks and is easily found in souvenir shops. Although similar to mango chips, dried mango has a slightly moister and chewier texture, giving it a very distinctive natural sweetness.
Dried mango is often used as an everyday snack by Filipinos and is also a favorite souvenir for tourists. With its sweet taste and delicious texture, dried mango can be a fun souvenir choice.
The Philippines is a country rich in culture and tradition, reflected in the many crafts and food items that make for great souvenirs.
From traditional musical instruments like the kubing, to elegant Barong Tagalog costumes, to delicious snacks like polvoron and dried mangoes, there are many Typical Philippines Food options and souvenirs to bring home for family and friends.
Each of these souvenirs is more than just an item, but also represents the beauty and uniqueness of the colorful Philippine culture. By choosing one of these typical souvenirs, you take home beautiful memories of this enchanting country.