Yes, pasalubong goes both ways. Those who are leaving the Philippines are also expected to bring something to relatives and friends back home especially if they are Filipinos, too. Again, as I said in my previous post, this is meant to be a gesture of affection or goodwill and should not be made into a burden. You do not have to spend for excessive gifts.
Pasalubong is usually expected to consist of food or souvenirs representing the country. If you choose to bring out local delicacies, do check first whether these are allowed into your country lest they be confiscated at your port of entry. Also check for expiration dates, especially of pastries and candies.
It's safer to choose small luggage-friendly souvenir items. These are widely available at Filipiniana departments of stores. There are even specialty stores selling only such items. Refrigerator magnets and paperweights are popular choices. Inexpensive t-shirts and canvas shopping bags are also useful.
For your female relatives and friends, I highly recommend real freshwater pearls. These are unbelievably inexpensive here in the Philippines and ladies of all ages will always appreciate pearls. They are available in various sizes, shapes and hues as stud earrings, necklaces and bracelets. You can get a pair of earrings or a bracelet for less than a hundred pesos. That's less than US3D!
They say you can get freshwaterpearls at their cheapest at Quiapo, but since I've never been to the pearl suppliers there I can only recommend Greenhills or Market! Market! You can get many other good buys in these last two places, too. If you know someone you can trust who knows Quiapo well, though, you can ask to be accompanied there for better bargains.
In the end, I hope you will take home not only these souvenirs as pasalubong but also lots of good memories of your stay here.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
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