Gain insight into a beautiful country as we help you discover the easiest and most convenient way to send gifts to the Philippines.
When talking about the beautiful countries of the world and reasons to visit them, the Philippines is sure to be at the top of the list. If not for its historic landmarks or cultural tapestry, then definitely for the fact that the country is home to three of the world’s largest shopping malls. Yes, you read that right – three!
Also, fun fact: did you know that Filipinos celebrate some of the longest Christmas seasons in the world, with some starting as early as September? So, if you need to send gifts to the Philippines from as early as September (or even earlier for any other occasion), read on for all the details you need to know to streamline your gifting to match the etiquette and culture of the Filipinos.
Introduction
Comprising an impressive 7,000 islands, the Philippines boasts white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes – making it a premier destination for travelers. As a vibrant archipelago in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning natural beauty, the country has a rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
Famous for its amazing islands, like Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu, the Philippines offers exotic wildlife, world-class diving spots and picturesque lagoons. Its capital, Manila, also showcases a blend of modernity and historical landmarks making this beautiful destination a paradise for nature and culture lovers.
Things that people in the Philippines Love
The people of the Philippines typically enjoy spending time in nature, from visiting beaches to hiking mountains, taking pride in their beautiful landscapes. Activities, like swimming, island hopping, snorkeling and hiking are popular pastimes among Filipinos; representing their strong connection to nature and the outdoors.
The people in the Philippines also have a deep love for friends and family, which forms the core of their social life. Gatherings, celebrations, and meals are often shared with extended family members, reflecting their strong sense of togetherness. In addition, Filipinos have a passion for food, enjoying dishes like lechon, adobo and sinigang, with many groups of people bonding over cooking and the sharing of meals.
Gift-Giving Etiquette in the Philippines
Gifts in the Philippines – as with other countries – are commonly exchanged during celebrations such as Christmas, birthdays and other important personal or professional milestones. Usually there is an emphasis on the meaning behind the gift rather than its monetary value. When giving a gift, it is customary to present it with both hands, as this gesture is a sign of respect.
Filipinos tend to be modest about receiving gifts, sometimes not opening them immediately upon receiving them out of politeness. Reciprocity is also significant in the Philippines; people often feel the need to give back a gift of similar value. Ultimately, personal connection, thoughtfulness, and a sense of respect guide how the people of Philippines give and receive gifts within their cultural and social circles.
Popular Holidays and Celebrations in the Philippines
Christmas is one of the biggest holidays in the Philippines, celebrated for months and even starting as early as September as previously mentioned. The holiday is traditionally marked by festive decorations, family gatherings, and traditional foods. With regard to religion, another celebration observed in this country is Holy Week, during the Lenten season and is deeply significant, with many participating in religious processions and rituals.
Independence Day in the Philippines marks the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898 and is celebrated on June 12. It is a significant national holiday honoring the struggles and sacrifices of Filipino revolutionaries who fought for freedom. Parades, featuring traditional costumes and performances, are common in many regions during this celebration.
Popular Gifts to Send to the Philippines
Being a nation that prioritizes family and personal connection, sentimental gifts will often take center stage. Gifts with sentimental value, such as personalized items, hold special meaning, and are typically a show of appreciation. Food is another popular gift making gift baskets a common choice when sending gifts to the Philippines. These gifts are easy to tailor to a recipient as they can be filled with options, such as snacks, healthy foods or any other item the giftee prefers or enjoys. Some popular gift options to send to the Philippines include:
- Coffee or tea gift baskets
- Cookie gift baskets
- Personalized mugs
- Self -care gift sets
- Chocolate truffles
For simple gifting, you can even allow your recipient the opportunity to choose their own gifts using Giftsenda.
Send Gifts to the Philippines with Giftsenda
Filipinos deeply appreciate thoughtful gestures and that’s where corporate gifting really shines, no matter the occasion. The act of gift-giving is rooted in the strong sense of family and tradition, making any present, no matter the size, a cherished token of gratitude and care.
Make use of shareable gift links and integrations (like Zapier, BambooHR, Salesforce etc.) for streamlined gifting efforts when sending gifts to the Philippines. Choose from thousands of options and let Giftsenda handle the logistics to over 200 countries globally. For the simplest, most cost-efficient gifting, a corporate gifting platform – like Giftsenda – is the perfect go-to; turning these gestures into meaningful acts that forge lasting relationships.