Key facts for Philippines
Christmas is the biggest occasion of the year and a central business gifting season.
How companies in Philippines give year-end gifts
The Philippines has one of the longest Christmas seasons in the world, starting in September with the 'ber' months and peaking with Simbang Gabi masses from 16 December and celebrations on 24–25 December. Christmas is the central business gifting occasion: companies give gifts and hold parties for employees, who also receive the legally required 13th-month pay by 24 December, and send hampers and branded gifts to clients and partners. Food hampers, sweets and practical items are popular, and gifts are often distributed at company Christmas parties. English is widely used in business, so English cards are standard. Government employees are prohibited from soliciting or accepting gifts in connection with their duties, so corporate gifts should go to private-sector contacts. Gifts are opened later rather than in front of the giver.
Gift occasions in Philippines
Christmas
the main gifting season for clients, partners and staff
New Year
year-end greetings and staff events
Lunar New Year
major gifting season among Chinese communities and businesses
Good practice
- Send gifts from late November; the season starts early.
- Consider gifts for company Christmas parties and raffles.
- Christmas themes are welcome; English cards are standard.
Avoid
- Do not send gifts to government employees in connection with official business.
Design and wording
Christmas themes are fully appropriate.
Gift policies
Republic Act 6713 prohibits public officials from soliciting or accepting gifts in the course of their duties.
Delivery to Philippines
Ships from Poland by courier; import duties and 12% VAT may apply above the de minimis value and are quoted in advance. Commercial food imports require FDA registration.
Planning dates for Philippines
| Order personalized stock advent calendars by | 6 Nov 2026 |
|---|---|
| Order Christmas hampers by | 13 Nov 2026 |
| Fully custom calendars for 2027 — order between | 01.2027 – 08.2027 |
Indicative planning dates; exact dates are confirmed in your proposal.
Recommended formats for Philippines
Chocolate advent calendars
Twenty-four chocolates and your brand on the front from 1 to 24 December.
Tea & coffee calendars
A tea or coffee advent calendar with your logo is a measured, practical gift for clients and colleagues who prefer to avoid sweets.
Beauty calendars
A beauty advent calendar is a premium December gift.
Plush & merch calendars
A merchandise advent calendar distributes your branded items across 24 doors: socks, pins, stickers, small plush and treats, each carrying your logo.
Empty calendar boxes
For companies that already have the filling: custom printed advent calendar boxes in bulk, designed around your products and delivered flat or…
Christmas hampers
Corporate Christmas hampers with your logo on the box, ribbon or card, composed to your budget band and delivered to one office or to individual home…
Frequently asked questions
When does the Christmas season start in the Philippines?
In September. Corporate gifts are typically sent from late November to mid-December.
Is Christmas a good occasion for corporate gifts in the Philippines?
Yes, it is the main gifting season for clients and staff.