From piña fabric to capiz shells, Chocnut, lechon, beer and longganisa — these are some of our friends’ favorite Philippine products. The Philippines is a proud producer of some of the most beautiful things in the world, such as furniture pieces that are used in the world’s leading hotels and palaces, and jewelry pieces crafted by skilled hands. Why, the country even managed to produce a legendary boxer in Manny Pacquiao! Maybe it’s time we took a look around us and appreciate what our countrymen produce.
US Ambassador Kristie Kenney: My favorite Philippine-made product is anything that shows the Filipino creativity and culture. I love the exquisite fashion using native fabrics like piña, the lovely woodcarvings, the Mindanao-embroidered cloth, capiz products, and the world-famous furniture made in the Philippines. The diversity of Philippine-made products is breathtaking and they show the true love of the craftsman who made them.
Yael A. Buencamino, managing curator, Ateneo Art Gallery: In trying to answer this question, I enlisted the help of my friends and asked them what their favorite products were, thinking that I could choose one from their answers. I got everything from Chocnut to lechon, kesong puti, Philippine fashion, art and design, and the entirely new gender reference of “Mamsir.” To these I add my own: Tippi Ocampo dresses, Messy Bessy products, and Philippine art deco and art nouveau furniture.
Emilie Yupangco, Businessman: My favorite Philippine products are locally made soaps from coffee, papaya and other organically grown fruits and vegetables. They are environment-friendly, very inexpensive, and also very good for the skin. I personally use them and always give them as presents to my friends and relatives abroad and they are very much appreciated.
Jeroen Van Straten, Businessman: Manny Pacquaio, because he built his fame and fortune by working hard. It took him many years of intense training and a strict diet to reach his goal. He never gave up even though he has won everything a boxer dreams of. He makes good money but stays simple and gives much of his earnings back to charity. Manny is the best example to represent the hardworking Filipino and he wears the smile that Filipinos are known for.
DOT Secretary Ace Durano: On my list are longganisa from Luzon, designer furniture pieces from Cebu, delicacies from Bacolod, pineapple from Ormoc, and pomelo from Davao.
Rikka Dylim, PR manager, ABS-CBN Star Magic: One is food. My luggage when visiting relatives living abroad is full of Filipino delicacies like pastillas, putong ube, ensaymada, macaroons and mango balls, among others. Other favorites are Happy David accessories, Secosana bags and Janilyn shoes.
Tony Cancio, Businessman: Ever since I can remember, the one true Philippine product that I continue to crave for is Chocnut.
Chris Lichauco, VP for operations, Maynilad: Native furniture pieces because they showcase our natural resources and the intricacy of design highlights our craftsmanship and creativity.
Hector Calma, Businessman: San Miguel Pale Pilsen is the best beer in the world! I’ve tried many but this beer beats them all. It is a Philippine product that has been around for over a hundred years, and which we Filipinos can be truly proud of.