The Filipino Spirit of Giving: The Thoughtfulness of Pasalubong

"May pasalubong akó para sa iyó!" (I have pasalubong for you!)

If you have ever heard these words, you know the joy they bring. Pasalubong—the act of bringing nice things or food to a person you care for, as you meet up again—is a cherished Filipino tradition. It is more than just a gift; it is a symbol of love, thoughtfulness, and connection. But what makes pasalubong so special, and why does it hold such a meaningful place in Filipino culture?

Etymology

The word pasalubong comes from the root salubong, meaning "to meet up" or "encounter." It reflects the idea of bringing something special to share when you reunite with someone, turning an ordinary trip into a heartfelt moment.

The root word salubong is a verb, but when you apply the prefix pa, it turns into a noun. The prefix 'pa' usually means "let" or "allow" or "towards":

Pasalubong (noun): Towards giving something upon arrival.

Pasalubong (noun): Let somebody receive a thing upon meeting up.

Pasalubong can be defined as an item you pick up (or made) for someone when you are away, so that you have something to give when you return from a trip, or when you arrived for a visit. It is a predetermined goodie. It should be simple and affordable.

The Giver and the Recipient in Pasalubong Context

Pasalubong is a two-way street of joy:

• The Giver: Bringing pasalubong is a way to show you have thought of someone while you were away. It is a gesture of love and a sign that you value the relationship.
• The Recipient: Receiving pasalubong feels like a warm hug—it is a reminder that someone cares enough to bring you something special.

Not All Pasalubong Can Be Bought

Pasalubong does not have to be expensive or store-bought. Often, the most meaningful gifts are those that come from the heart or the home:

• From Your Yard: Fresh fruits like mangga, saging, or bayabas.
• Homemade Treats: Kakanín like bibingka, puto, or leche flan.
• Local Specialties: Pastilyás, tunsóy, patís, bagoóng, or laing.
• Handmade Crafts: Pamaypáy (fan), banig (woven mat), or bilao (woven tray).

Developing Connection Through Pasalubong

Pasalubong is a way to strengthen bonds. Whether it is a small token or a grand gesture, the act of giving pasalubong creates lasting memories and deepens relationships. It is a reminder that you are thinking of someone, even when you are apart.

A mother, for example, who ran an errand would stop at a bakeshop so she can grab a piece of bread to bring home for her child. A friend from another town or province, who is invited to stay for a weekend holiday or fiesta would bring pasalubong to his/her host. An OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker), who works abroad piles up a luggage of pasalubong for her family and friends in time for their Christmas homecoming.

Pasalubong is optional but when given voluntarily, it can be a meaningful conversation piece aside from catching up, or telling about how fun (or difficult) the trip has been.

Visiting a Filipino Family or Friend This Christmas?

Who will you bring pasalubong to this holiday season? Reply to this email and share your plans this Paskó and Bagong Taón. I would love to hear about your special traditions.

Mabuhay ang diwà ng Paskó at pagbibigayan! (Cheers to the spirit of Christmas and giving!)

Albine Bodo

PS. Good news! I have got one new sign up for our 12-Unit Beginner Essentials Path to Tagalog. New sign ups this week are given huge discounts, and there's just 1 slot left. Last day to avail of this marked down rate is today, December 19. Reply with "Pasko Na" if you want to be part of my small bespoke Tagalog learning for 2026.