Valentine’s Day is as popular among Filipinos as it is with everyone else around the world. Filipinos don’t need an excuse to celebrate a holiday, especially in fun and creative ways. Valentine’s Day is no exception.

We decided to get on board and came up with a list of 10 gift ideas inspired by our love of the Philippines. Let us know what you think we should add to the list!

Poetry

Throughout history, poets worldwide have attempted to capture a universal feeling we all share: love. Not everyone is a poet, but reciting a meaningful poem can make a powerful emotional statement.

If you’re stuck, might we suggest “One Hundred Love Poems: Philippine Love Poetry Since 1905.” Published by the University of Hawaii Press and currently out of print, it would make a wonderful gift if you can locate the collection.

Amazon has your back. As of this writing, several copies are available for purchase.

Music

You can’t go wrong with a curated list of songs you and your lover can listen to while you enjoy each others’ company. Maybe the Night or Make It With You, both by Ben&Ben, would be on our list, but every couple has different musical tastes.

If you want some classic Filipino sentimental hits, check out this Apple Music playlist, aptly named “Crooner Essentials.”

Artisan Goods

Katte Geneta founded NARRA STUDIO with two goals in mind: to celebrate the diverse and rich heritage of the Philippines and connect Filipinos worldwide to the talented weavers and artisan makers of the motherland.

Head on over and check out the curated “Gifts of Love” collection. You’re bound to find something special to give to someone you love that celebrates how you feel and celebrates cultural heritage.

Food

If you’re in the Bay Area, we recommend you order some sweet treats from Sweet Condessa. You can pick up some mini tsokolate scones or tableya cupcakes in time for the 14th.

If you aren’t nearby, no worries, Filipino bakeries such as Valerio’s, Red Ribbon, and Goldilocks carry some tasty treats and ship nationwide.

Stationery

How about a romantic card illustrated by Ethel Martinez? We love her harana card, which is available in her Etsy store for a very reasonable price.

This card depicts “a traditional form of courtship in the Philippines wherein men introduced themselves and wooed women by singing underneath her window at night.”

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Cosmetics

Kissing is a pretty standard Valentine’s Day activity. How about a calamansi kiss with this calamansi lip balm.

Available from Kaya Essentials, it will hydrate and soften your lips with a citrus aroma packed with antioxidants.

Chocolate

You can’t go wrong with chocolate, and if you ask us, you really can’t go wrong with a bar of Oodaalolly. If you want something extra special, how about a flight of truffles or one of our cocktail bars infused with Filipino rum? Warm their heart and their mouth with these exceptionally flavored chocolate delicacies.

Drinks

And speaking of rum, why not pair that chocolate with some delicious rum? Don Papa is aged up to 7 years in oak barrels in the foothills of Mount Kanlaon before being blended to perfection. It pairs well with all of our chocolates.

Enhance the experience with a cocktail! Check out our drinks and recipe section for some that Don Papa mixologist Tomas Delos Reyes put together special.

Something You Can Make

Chances are if you’re Filipino, you’ve got a can of Milo in your pantry. Why not use it to make your Valentine a cake he or she won’t soon forget?

You can’t go wrong with this recipe for Milo Tiramisu by Rezel Kealoha. “It’s super easy and in this version, we use no eggs or alcohol. Just some Milo and whipped cream gets you a very glam dessert on the table in no time.”

Time Together

After all that eating and drinking, how about some “Netflix and Chill?” Dim the lights, sit back and put on something romantic.

Here’s a list of 13 romantic Filipino movies you can watch on Netflix (availability varies by location).

10 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Inspired By The Philippines