Melo Villareal
What is the most popular pasalubong from Iloilo?
Returning from a trip to Iloilo empty-handed simply isn’t done—a wise friend reminded me of this before I left the sunny shores of Boracay a couple of weeks ago. For Filipinos, pasalubong is a cherished tradition: a thoughtfully chosen gift brought home for family or friends after a visit to another place. While the expectation to bring home treats can seem overwhelming at first, it’s something I now eagerly anticipate. True to form, I constantly challenge myself to find pasalubongs that are unique and unexpected. Fortunately, in Iloilo City—known for its bustling markets, talented local artisans, and culinary delights—discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs is wonderfully easy.
Pasalubong Shops @ Iloilo International Airport
As I meandered down the busy Guanco Street in Iloilo City, I found myself captivated by the lively window displays and the inviting bustle of local life. I delighted in the endless parade of surprises that awaited in the pasalubong shops and bustling street stalls, each brimming with colorful wares and regional treats. The air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of baked delicacies and native sweets, mingling with the subtle scent of woven crafts and dried goods. Everywhere I looked, curious shapes and unique textures caught my eye—odd-looking snacks, syrupy confections, and handcrafted souvenirs, each one embodying the rich flavors and creative spirit found throughout the Philippines. Yet, what truly fascinated me were the hidden gems and distinctive specialties that could only be found here, treasures that were undeniably and purely Ilonggo.
Biscocho
Your Iloilo experience will never be complete without trying and buying Biscocho – a delicacy that has been a top choice for the Ilonggo’s and Ilonggo’s at heart. Tourists can also buy Biscocho Haus products at the city’s major malls like SM City, Robinson’s Place, and Gaisano. Biscocho Haus is also known for their butterscotch pastries and piaya which are also a famous Ilonggo delicacy.
Local Biscuits from Panaderia de Molo
If you’re visiting Panaderia de Molo in Iloilo, the must-buys are their classic galletas (crispy cookies) and biscocho (buttery toasted bread), which are popular pasalubong items.
You should also try their ensaymada and pan de ube for something sweet and filling, along with their famous Pancit Molo wrappers, which are freshly made daily and perfect for cooking the traditional soup dish at home.
Dried Seafood
The dried seafood section of the major markets in Iloilo is incredibly big. As you walk in you will catch a waft or two of, shall we say, pungent aromas which might just linger with you until your next bath. Of course, the usual items were all there the pinakas nga guma-a and the dried squid. All of these are in various sizes and flavors for those who love nothing better than a chewy lime-flavored piece of octopus tentacle.
Personally, I prefer the chili-flavored dried mussels for breakfast and usually save the others for lunch or dinner. You can find fish bones, dried-up guts and organs, and boneless dilis to excite your nose and your palate.
Guinamos
Don’t forget to get a big brown pile of guinamos/bagoong. That’s all kinds of dried fish, mixed together with salt and spices and then allowed to ferment into a sticky and pungent past. After that, it can be dried and then crushed into a powder which is used to season anything from mangoes to hamburgers.
Robertos Siopao
If you’re looking for a unique pasalubong from Iloilo, Roberto’s siopao is a top choice—especially their iconic Queen and King siopao, packed with generous fillings like pork asado, Chinese chorizo, chicken, ham, and even salted egg.
Unlike the usual siopao that needs sauce, Roberto’s version is flavorful on its own, which makes it convenient to bring home and share. Found along JM Basa Street (Calle Real) in Iloilo City Proper, this decades-old eatery has become a culinary landmark, and its siopao is often hailed as the best in the city.
The truth is that whatever you buy for pasalubong, it’s always the thought that counts. It doesn’t need to be expensive but instead, make it unique or something that is only available from the destination you visited.
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Read:
- Shopping Tips: Great Pasalubong from various Philippine Destinations
- Dried Mangoes: Favorite Pasalubong from Cebu
- Iloilo: The Philippines Premier Culinary Destination
- 5 Things to Do for First-Time Puerto Princesa City Visitors
