Coming to the Philippines: Pasalubong

Pasalubong is the Filipino term for gifts brought in by someone coming to the Philippines from out of the country, or even simply coming home from out of town. It's even used to mean a treat brought home at the end of the day. This is another example of how affectionate Filipinos are as a people.

Unfortunately, pasalubong can sometimes become a burden. This is especially true for those coming in from abroad. Somehow,they are expected to bring in pasalubong for everyone, not only for the immediate family but even other relatives and neighbors. Family members sometimes even have the gall to ask for expensive designer items, as if the one coming home has an unlimited budget.

It's sad that many Filipinos coming home are actually pressured by this mentality and give in to expensive requests, going out of their way to please everyone. For some, it becomes a matter of pride or saving face, as if not bringing the expected pasalubong would mean they had somehow not achieved enough. For others, it's simply a matter of embarassment.

I always advise friends and relatives not to give in to this pressure. Bring in pasalubong if you must, but stick to inexpensive tokens of thoughtfulness. You don't have to break your budget. Never mind the expectations and don't get embarassed. The ones expecting you to bring them expensive gifts should be ashamed instead.

Some balikbayan Filipinos, especially those who haven't been home in a long while, also tend to bring home items that are widely available here anyway. It has even become a running joke that you will know a balikbayan by his or her boxes of corned beef and other US canned goods.

I know that most Filipinos, especially those who have made good abroad, sincerely want to share their blessings with those here at home. You are very welcome to do so, but perhaps it would be more productive if you first assess the situation of your relatives here and then decide how you can best help them. There may be other ways where your resources could be put to better use.