Shopping for handicrafts in Manila Philippines
Pearls are great value Manila souvenirs
Filipinos are among the most creative people in the world. Crafts and handmade products hail from the different parts of the archipelago, testify to the diversity of skills in each region. Handicrafts from all over the country can be found in almost every department store in Manila. ‘Filipiniana’ sections of these stores showcase the great assortment and variety of handicrafts in the country, from brassware and beautifully weaved malongs from Mindanao, to hand-embroidered barongs and piña cloth from the province of Batangas, and carved wood from Paete. Various other products such as baskets made from bamboo, leaves, vines and rattan, mats, jewelry and antiques can be found and purchased throughout the city.
Take something to remind you of your trip to the Philippines. There is a wide range of products to choose from. Handicraft shops line the city of Manila – you’ll find one in just about every corner.
Among the more popular handicraft products to purchase in Manila are baskets. Philippine baskets are usually made out of strong natural fibers such as nipa, rattan, bamboo and different kinds of palms. Baskets from the Philippines are not only used as carriers but as decorative items and even as fashion accessories. Philippine baskets are also known for their unique designs and weaves. Tourist shops, souvenir stores and even flea and street markets (especially near Quiapo Bridge) all carry some Philippine basket collections.
Mats are also among the favorites. Most are made from colourful pandan leaves. Handcrafted mats are truly world class, and come in different playful designs inspired by folk art. The best producers of Philippine mats are the provinces of Samar, Leyte, Basilan, Sulu, Davao, Zamboanga and Cebu.
Bags and shoes made out of native materials are also common, as well as embroidered fabrics and clothing. Piña cloth is among the most expensive types of woven cloths in the world, and is usually used to make classic and traditional barongs, which are later accented with embroidery. Hand-embroidered fabrics are also made into handkerchiefs, scarves and bags, as well as dresses for women. Jewellery is also popular, from beadworks to shells, silver and gold.
Inexpensive trinkets are easy to find
Woodcarvings, much like antiques, are also popular products from the Philippines. Great craftsmanship and high quality of wood are married together to create such impressive masterpieces, either for decorative or functional pieces. Brassware on the other hand, comes mostly from Mindanao, and serves as an interesting piece of décor to match other native pieces.
These handicrafts can be found in most large stores in Manila, although specialised shops are found in tourist centres and malls. Some of the most visited flea and street markets also have their own share of handicraft stores. Manila’s most sought after flea markets can be found in Baclaran, Divisoria and in Quiapo. Chinatown in Binondo is also a good place to hunt for handicrafts.
Recommended Manila antiques shops
Silahis Arts and Artefacts
Silahis Arts and Artifacts is located right at the heart of Intramuros in old Manila. The shop boasts of interesting exhibits of Philippine folk art, crafts, and textiles. Handmade products from all over the country are available in this museum-like store. The site also offers a great glimpse of Filipino culture and artistry. Calle Real del Palacio, Gen. Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, Tel: +63 (0)2 527 2111. Fax: +63 (0)2 527 2112.
Tesoros
Tesoros is also one of the most renowned Philippine product stores in the city. Everything handcrafted can be found here, from mats, jewellery boxes, picture frames, fine fabric, tapestries, cigars plus even formal wear and native delicacies.
There are also great furniture pieces and accessories that would surely add that Asian aesthetic to your home. Tesoros also have outlets and branches that can be found in most leading department stores in the city so you don't have to look far. A. Mabini St, Manila, Tel: +63 (0)2 524 3936.
Balikbayan Handicrafts
Balikbayan Handicrafts is housed in a tall glass building right off the Antonio Arnaiz Avenue in Makati. Its glass walls lure spectators into some of the best handicraft items in the land. The store carries a wide range of handcrafted products, from carved woods, native fabrics, tapestries of different exotic colors, ethnic mats and coasters, capiz shell products, lamps, and even wrought iron racks and stands. There is also a good range of ceramics and furniture sets. These products are all carefully designed and crafted by local artisans and craftsmen, using purely indigenous and native raw materials. Antonio Arnaiz Avenue, Makati, Tel: +63 (0)2 893 0775. Fax: +63 (0)2 893 0779.
