The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Ya for Yema

Finishing our A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs series, let’s turn our attention to the yummy treat called yema.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Wa for Walis

Souvenirs can be items that bear the unwritten trademark of a place. It’s a little bit like remembering Japan when you see sushi or Russia when you see fur hats. Nearing the finish line for our A Ba Ka of the Philippine Souvenirs series, let’s look at Walis. Wa for Walis It doesn’t matter where…

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: U for Ukay-Ukay

The idea behind taking home souvenirs is somewhat similar to commemorating a special event. In the case of traveling and exploration, we, as tourists, tend to go about shopping for something that would remind us of our latest adventure. Of course, sometimes, we plan our travels according to a certain purpose. For example, we visit…

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Ta for T-Shirts

Often, souvenirs are a way to make a statement, an advertisement, or an invitation for more people to come over and visit. At times it is like a preview of what we could expect once we get there.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Pa for Perlas

It was 2006 when the biggest natural clam pearl in the world was found in the Philippines. For 10 years, it lay quiet under the bed of the fisherman who found it until he decided it was time to have the 34kg pearl checked out. https://www.instagram.com/p/BJjjxuZDrBA/?igshid=1qmnjf7up5g0v The Pa article for the A Ba Ka of…

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Na for Niyog

Souvenirs can be about the innovation and ingenuity of the crafters behind each creative piece. It is entirely possible to come up with a whole line of products from just one type of raw material. Issue number 11 of the A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs series focuses on the various souvenir items made out of the hard shell of a coconut.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Ma for Mabuhay!

The tenth installment for the A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs series is the showcase of various souvenir items that feature the Filipino greeting “Mabuhay!”

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: La for Laruan

“Laruan” is the Filipino term for “toy”. Toys as souvenirs are popular in many parts of the Philippines. Most souvenir toys are miniature versions of the real thing. When you go around the souvenir shops anywhere in the Philippines, you’ll find toy models of jeepneys in countless designs.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: I for Itlog (Pula, Penoy, Balut, Bugok!)

Issue “I” for the A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs series is about a food item available in most parts of the Philippines -- so these are somewhat a staple to the country.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: E for Espada

Most souvenirs have a certain character, story, and swag to it. These souvenirs not only remind you of the places you visit but also give you a glimpse of the rich culture and history that made it such a visit-worthy place. E for Espada Our fifth installment for the A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs…

That Orange Empanada from the Philippines

Empanadas from Ilocos--one of the most culture-rich regions in the Philippines--are famous for having a bright orange color which will truly stand out against other commercial empanadas. Yes, orange but it isn’t just the alluring color that sets the Ilocos empanada apart.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Da for Durian

Thorny skin, fleshy, and that particular smell -- you got it right, it’s the durian. Granted that durian can be found in other Asian countries such as Thailand and Malaysia, durian from the Philippines is something else.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Ka for Kawayan

The great thing about souvenirs is that culture is etched, woven, carved, or maybe dyed into vernacular materials, turning everyday items into must-have collectibles.

The A Ba Ka of Philippine Souvenirs: Ba for Barrel Man

Filipinos, let's confuse innocent travelers!