(SPOT.ph) Traffic is worsening, Jose Mari Chan is blasting in every home and establishment, and the amount of money you’re spending is quickly piling up—it must be Christmas time in Metro Manila. By the looks of it, this holiday season is shaping up to be a lot better than that of, er, the year-that-shall-not-be-named. With Metro Manila under Alert Level 2 until at least mid-December, most establishments now operating at limited capacity, and travel destinations opening up, there’s a lot more room for celebrations and age-old traditions this time around. And speaking of traditions, what’s Christmas in Manila without a head-splittingly stressful last-minute shopping spree?
Yes, you told yourself you’d do it early this year, but we all know that was a lie. And of all the names you need to check off your shopping list, we know your parents are likely going to be dead last. “What do you get the people who gave you everything?” goes the yearly sentiment and we hear your desperate cries—but worry not, we’re here to help. As is our yearly tradition here at SPOT.ph, we round up 30 awesome gift ideas for Mom and Pop that you can shop, stat—from nifty novelties to handy home essentials and everything in between. We listed them by budget, so you can stick to your spending limits and plan your purchases accordingly.
Christmas-shopping for Mom and Dad? Here are some great gifts for parents you can shop right now:
Under P1,000
Yuletide Pine Reed Diffuser (P680) from Scents and Sensibilities
Picture this: you enter the mall with your parents on a weekend when the words "in every prayer and every song, the community unites" play with a familiar tune. You notice that your parents have a sudden spring in their step as they make their way through the mall’s holiday displays. Soon after, you’re skip-hopping too. It’s that familiar air of holiday cheer, and Scents and Sensibilities found a way to bottle that special feeling in its Yuletide Pine Reed Diffuser. Gift your folks with a scent that reminds them of the holidays—like that warm smell of freshly sliced apples, cinnamon, and vanilla in a homemade Christmas pie. It doesn’t hurt to make them creatures of cheer all year round, too.
Available online.
Also read:
10 #Aesthetic Scented Candles That'll Give You the Warm and Fuzzies
Loop Bar Bag (P950) from Flatisboring Adventure Industries
Your dad can’t stop talking about the bike trails he and his buddies take on weekends. He tells you that the Marikina River Park trail is his favorite so far and suggests that you join him on a ride one of these days. But we all know balance is a concept you juggle with these days and it’s probably less likely that you’ll find it while sitting on a bike. So do him one better and get him this Loop Bar Bag instead to help keep all his valuables intact even after a (god-forbid) bad tumble. Manufactured by Lapu-Lapu-based Flatisboring Adventure Industries, this compact yet durable loop bar bag features Cordura’s 1000d nylon insulated with rubber padding and hard plastic, making it water-resistant and splash-proof. It comes in stylish colors that you can customize to match Dad’s style and sports extra pockets inside that are perfect for storing valuables like IDs, vaxx cards, and those baby pictures that Pops secretly hides from you.
Available on Shopee.
Also read: 10 Stylish Bike Bags for Pedaling Around Town
Mini Air Humidifier (P999) from Konka
If you dread preparing for family holiday get-togethers because of parents (or titas) overly invested in your marital status, we feel you. Next time, come to the party with this Mini Air Humidifier from Konka to ease the tension in the air. Its 380-ml capacity is enough to keep moisture in the air while filtering out water impurities to produce a light mist inside your home. When you sense that a conversation is heading south, dim the lights, and let this device’s candlelight glow lighten the mood. But when even all of its seven different light color variations fail to get the mood right, use the only thing that’s fun when it’s dry—your humor.
Available on Shopee.
Also read:
Breathe Easy: The Best Air Humidifiers You Can Get on Lazada and Shopee
Air Purifier, Humidifier, Dehumidifier, Diffuser: What's the Difference?
Vindriktning Air Quality Sensor (P590) from IKEA
It’s usually around this time that we hear the phrase "Christmas is in the air!"—even if it’s highly likely that it’s been there since September. But there’s probably no other time when we’re most conscious of the air we breathe than during Christmas in a pandemic. The Vindriktning Air Quality sensor from IKEA helps ease our worries by detecting particles in the air and telling you whether air quality is good, okay, or bad. Its small size and stylish design pairs well with air humidifiers and purifiers while also making it easy to match with existing home decor. And these days, you’ll be gifting yourself peace of mind too, knowing that the quality of the air your parents breathe at home is good.
Available on IKEA's website.
Handheld Massager (P699) from SM Surplus
If you’ve heard your parents complain about a bad back at least once in the last six months, then this handy tool from SM Surplus is what you’re looking for. With the amount of time your folks spend in front of a computer or their incessant need to "fix something in the garage," body pains are bound to happen—and because of limited access to spas these days, getting a relaxing massage in the comforts of your own home is the next best thing. Gift your folks with the Rest Easy Handheld Massager that comes with three interchangeable massage heads and five massage modes that vary in intensity to give them the kind of massage they want. Equipped with an ergonomic handle design and textured grip, this device comes in copper and dark gray colors, perfect for crushing that boomer back pain in style.
Available on Shop SM.
Also read: 10 Best Self-Massage Tools You Can Shop Right Now
P1,001 to P2,000
Diamond Drop Huggies (P1,595) from Stage Chic
Accessories are a great way to jazz up even the simplest of outfits, bringing them to more elegant, put-together heights. If you’re looking for an understated yet timeless pair for Mom, Stage Chic’s Diamond Drop Huggies are a great choice; they’ve got a 925 Sterling Silver body with an 18K Gold finish that’ll complement a variety of outfits—plus, its Cubic Zirconia centerpiece adds just the right amount of luster without being over the top. We wouldn't be surprised if you end up borrowing it for yourself!
Available online.
Also read: 10 Gift-Worthy Jewelry Brands, Whatever Your Budget
Elio Gadget-Safe Frame (P1,099) from Baobab Eyewear
There’s nothing wrong with plain ol’ eyeglasses but if you’re looking to spice things up for Mom or Dad, Baobab makes great-quality eyewear with snazzy frames in a variety of colors—from black to crystal gray to crystal and more—made with durable metal and acrylic hardware. They also come with gadget-safe, anti-radiation, and anti-blue light lenses to keep your folks’ peepers safe; plus, each set comes with one UV flashlight, UV testing paper, a drawstring pouch, and dust cloth for cleaning.
Available online.
Also read: 10 Useful Things That Will Make Life With Specs a Lot Easier
Mini Portable Air Cooler (P1,299.75) from Dowell
We may be in the midst of the holiday months right now, but we all know how truly hot and humid it can get in these parts especially as summer approaches. This portable air cooler from Dowell lets you stay cool and comfy anytime and anywhere—plus, its compact size makes it easy to take around different parts of the house. It’s got three speed settings—low, medium, and high—and even has a built-in LED mood light and an adjustable horizontal louver.
Available on Shop SM.
Hype Flipflops in White and Blue Sky (P1,299) from Havaianas
If you’re looking for slippers versatile enough to wear for lazy days around the house but also sturdy and smart enough to be worn on quick trips out, Havaianas' famous flipflops are your best bet. Dad would definitely love this versatile pair, which features a print of Brazilian beaches on the sole and a white-meets-blue motif that’s totally easy on the eyes.
Available on the Rustan's website.
Also read: 10 Chunky Sandals for Your Minimalist Summer Wardrobe
Essential Oil Blends Travel Kit (P1,380/6 ml; P1,900/10 ml) fom Pili Ani
Help Mom combat stress the natural way—or more accurately, the tita way—with this chic essential oil travel kit by Pili Ani, which is a great way to sample some of their signatures as it includes five special blends, each with their own uses and benefits. There’s the Rise and Shine with Pili and Elemi oils for energy, the Minty Breeze blend to help relieve discomfort and congestion, the Citronella Burst for protection against insects, the Stress Away (self explanatory), and the Sweet Dreams blend to help Mom get some much-needed rest.
Available online and at Beauty Bar.
Also read: 10 Cool Tita-Approved Ointments
P2,001 to P3,000
Hydrate & Glow Set (P2,650) from Clinique
Make sure your folk's skin is well taken care of especially in old age—but no need to mention that last bit. Clinique's Hydrate & Glow Set has the Moisture Surge Intense Lipid-Replenishing Hydrator, which gives the skin an instant moisture boost. There's also the Overnight Mask to let them wake up with well rested eyes and the Hydro-Filler Concentrate to tightens the skin's look especially around the delicate eye area.
Available on the Rustan's website.
Also read: A Complete Guide to Understanding Skincare Ingredients
Aubin Bamboo Fiber Colorful Bowls (P2,849) from Crate & Barrel
Add a fun vibe to your parents' kitchen with these six bowls from Crate & Barrel that come in different colors: mint, powder blue, salmon, mustard, and cream. Each piece is crafted with bamboo fiber, making them durable and dishwasher-safe. They also come in different sizes ranging from 10 to 162 ounces, to match the variety of dishes on the dinner table.
Available online; see a list of Crate & Barrel stores.
Also read: Where to Buy Pretty Plates, Bowls, and Dinnerware Online
Pello Armchair (P2,590) from IKEA
Let Dad watch his sports games comfortably with the Pello armchair from IKEA. With its minimalist design and ergonimic build, it can fit anywhere in the house: in front of the TV, beside the bed, or even at the corner of his home office. The frame is made from wood that's sourced sustainably, according to the furniture retailer.
Available on IKEA's website.
Also read: 10 of the Best Accent Chairs You Can Buy in Manila
Snow Fairy Gift Set (P2,645) from Lush
This Snow Fairy gift box from Lush just screams pamper time—and Mom deserves just that. The shower gel, bath bomb, roll bubble bar, and body condition all come in sweet scents that are perfect for a relaxing bath experience. True to Lush' sustainability efforts, the box is made from 100% recycled board that you can reuse or even regift.
Available online; see a list of Lush stores.
Also read: 10 Must-Haves for Your Next Sparty
Ramie Placemat and Napkin Creme (P2,999) from Tesoros
The Ramie Placemat and Napkin Creme Set from Tesoros not only imbues elegance and style, but also reflects the rich culture of floral embroidery in Lumban, Laguna. Gift it to a mom who loves receiving guests in her warm home.
Available online.
P3,001 to P4,000
M Dumpling Bag (P3,690) from Beyond the Vines
You know how parents always look to get the most out of anything they buy? A.K.A. Use something until the very, very end of its life? Well, this ultra-durable, long-life carrier from Beyond the Vines fits the bill. Appropriately nicknamed the Dumpling bag, it is made with lightweight water-resistant nylon—a material flexible enough for you to fold it up and stuff it in a larger bag. It carries a lot of nifty features like adjustable straps, a sizable front pocket, and a D-ring for attaching keys and other easily misplaced essentials.
Available online and at Beyond the Vines concept stores at Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Mall, and SM Mall of Asia.
Regular Aroma Gift Set (P3,700) from MUJI
Scents can really set the mood. If you want to keep your parents in the chill zone—we feel you—check out this Aroma Gift Set from MUJI! The package includes a diffuser that emits a soft yellow light and a 10-ml essential oil jar with your scent choice. You can choose between lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, japanese cypress, sweet orange, or even blends meant to set the mood for refreshing, sleeping, or relaxing. Plus, gift-wrapping will be much easier as the set already comes with a Christmas card and a "For You" sticker.
Available online; see a list of MUJI stores.
Also read:
MUJI's New Christmas Bundles Are Perfect for Your Stationery-Obsessed Friends
Freshman Capsule Coffee Machine (P3,199) from B Coffee Co.
Gift your parents with the ability to make their own quality cup of caffeine. This capsule coffee machine from B. Coffee Co. works great for those starting on their barista journey or those who simply want to amp up their at-home coffee experience. The compact style fits into any kitchen, no matter the size—but it’s really the free capsules and milk frother that seals the deal for us. And don’t worry about where to source capsules as this machine can be used with Nespresso pods, too.
Available on Shopee.
Also read:
10 Stunning Coffee Machines to Buy for Your Kitchen
The 10 Best Capsule Coffee Machines for Every Budget
LIZ Smart Bottle (P3,160) from Noerden
Yup, smart bottles now exist! If you want to make sure Mom and Pop stay hydrated—while keeping their water bottles clean—as they’re out and about, then check out LIZ. This tumbler from French digital fitness company Noerden has built-in UV sterilization capability, a temperature range indicator, and even lights up every two hours to remind you to take a sip or two (or more). In other words, it pretty much keeps itself clean and even reminds you to drink water! The 350-ml bottle can keep drinks hot or cold for up to 24 hours. It’s the perfect gift if your parents have a penchant for just laying their water bottles down wherever.
Available on the Rustan's website.
Mark White Office Table (P4,500) from Doozy Furniture
We may be nearly two years deep into this lockdown but we wouldn't be surprised if your parents are still setting up temporary WFH stations all over the house. If you want to stop them from hogging the kitchen, dining table, living-room couch, or what-have-you, we suggest giving them a more permanent spot to work. Cue this sleek table from Doozy Furniture that's sure to fit in any space in their house without clashing design-wise. Plus, it comes complete with a glass tabletop for them to slide pictures of their beloved kids into. You know, for them to look at as they work (or post more pictures of you on Facebook).
Available online.
P4,001 to P5,000
Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix (P5,000) from Estêe Lauder
If Mom’s been losing sleep bingeing every K-Drama in existence or Dad’s been staying up obsessively making small repairs around the house, we’re sure either of them would appreciate this eye serum from Estêe Lauder. With hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and a multitude of nourishing extracts, this serum promises to boost collagen, firm the skin, boost hydration, and reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and dark circles around the eyes.
Available on the Rustan’s website; see a list of Estêe Lauder stores and retailers.
Limited Edition Vintage-Style 20L Microwave Oven (P4,900) from Condura
While the ‘rents probably already have a microwave at home, we’re sure they wouldn’t mind an upgrade as stylish as this model from Condura. This chic microwave sports vintage-inspired design complete with retro knobs—but with modern capabilities including a 35-minute timer, a buzzer for indicating when the timer has finished, a 20-liter capacity, and a 255 mm turntable inside for fuss-free reheating, defrosting, or cooking. You can choose from a Scandinavian-style white-and-wood design or a Farmhouse-inspired teal green color.
Available on Shopee and Lazada.
One 4-Pack (P4,990) from Chipolo
If the parental units are constantly losing their small belongings—be it keys, wallets, glasses, or what have you—then this nifty tracker from Chipolo would be a godsend for everyone in your household. The keychain-like device can be clipped onto any small belongings and tracked using a smartphone. Not only can you track items attached to the device using GPS, but you can also enable the tracker to ring, so you can find loose items scattered around the house. The Chipolo One can even alert you if you’ve left the house without your belongings, so you never have to worry if you lost something important along the way.
Available on Digital Walker’s website.
Also read:
The Best Item Trackers You Can Shop in Manila Right Now
26,400mAh Power Station (P4,399) Yoobao
Parents just love to say that they grew up in a time when they didn’t have to rely on electronics—and yet, the electricity goes out and they immediately start panicking. Well, you can’t change their boomer ways, but you can alleviate some of the stress that comes during typhoon season with this handy power bank from Yoobao. With a 26,400 mAh capacity and a variety of charging ports (including an electrical socket), it’s strong enough to charge multiple devices and even laptops.
Available on Lazada.
Also read:
The Best Portable Power Banks You Can Buy Right Now
10 Pocketable Power Banks That Won’t Weigh You Down
The Best Wireless Power Banks You Can Shop in Manila Right Now
Dotted Blanket (P5,000) from Kun-Kun
If there’s one thing our folks have always said, it’s that they can’t sleep properly until all their children are home—sure, they’re usually snoring peacefully when you arrive past midnight, but hey, it’s the thought that counts. But in case Mom and Dad really do need a little help getting a good night’s sleep, you can get them one of these ultra-cozy Dotted Blankets from local brand Kun-Kun. Coming to about seven pounds on the scale, these semi-weighted blankets offer all the benefits of a weighted blanket minus the maintenance of folding, storing, and washing a 15-pound sack of fabric. Heavier blankets like these are popular for easing insomnia, relieving anxiety and stress, and improving sleep quality.
Available online.
Also read: Where to Buy Weighted Blankets Under P1,500
P5,001 and above
Nokia P3600 Wireless Earbuds (P5,999)
This far into the pandemic, we’d assume Mom and Pop are already fairly used to hopping on video calls, whether with coworkers or their fellow titas and titos—cue flashbacks to the months you spent teaching them how to unmute. But now that they’ve gotten the hang of it, why not level up their Zoom sessions with these wireless earbuds from Nokia? On the bright side, it’s a brand they’re likely already familiar with. The pair offers up to six hours of use on one charge and a total of 24 hours on the case. With clear audio, a decent microphone, and easy controls on the earbuds, your folks should get the hang of the device in no time.
Available on Shopee and Lazada.
Also read:
The 10 Best Wireless Earbuds of 2021
10 Great Wireless Earbuds for Every Personality
4-in-1 Multifunctional Air Fryer (P9,660) from Oster
Something about dads and multipurpose devices just go hand in hand, so this air-fryer-slash-oven from Oster should be right up your old man’s alley. As for mother, we’re sure she’d appreciate a device that makes cooking a lot faster and easier. The appliance can be used as an air fryer—which simulates deep frying without the need for submerging food in oil by circulating hot air at a high speed—an oven, a dehydrator, and a rotisserie.
Available on Oster's website, Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, and BeautyMNL.
Emberton Bluetooth Speaker (P8,790) from Marshall
If your parents are still listening to music by way of CDs, it may be time to introduce them to the convenience of streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. And to make the tunes even better, couple the subscription with this cool Bluetooth speaker from Marshall. Not only does it provide that signature Marshall sound quality—think rich tunes and powerful bass tones—it also delivers multi-directional sound that lets you blast your fave songs at 360 degrees. The Emberton also has an IPx7 water-resistance rating, which means it can be safely submerged in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes, so the ‘rents can use it at the beach or by the pool with no worries. It boasts over 20 hours of playtime on a full charge, so they can listen all day with no interruptions.
Available on Digital Walker’s website.
Also read:
10 Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers to Level Up Your Beach Playlist
Therapy Shoes (P5,950) from Harlan + Holden
Shoes are always a decent option when shopping for Mom and Dad, but these Harlan + Holden sneakers are the pair to get if your parents love walking outdoors, heading on out-of-town trips, or going on grocery runs—and let’s be real, what parent doesn’t? Offering maximum comfort for long-distance walks and lengthy bouts of standing, these hella comfy kicks are sure to become a mainstay in your folks’ shoe rotations. They feature memory foam soles as well as soft poly fiber knit uppers, which keep the pair lightweight, breathable, and even odor-minimizing. They’re available in white, black, and brown, so you can shop each of your parents a pair that would work for their usual color palette.
Available online; see a list of Harlan + Holden stores.
Frypan (P8,495/26 cm; P9,995/30 cm) from Smeg
You probably know Smeg best for their swoon-worthy line of appliances—their famous refrigerators, toasters, blenders, and stand mixers are the stuff of Pinterest-board dreams. ICYDK, the brand dropped their first-ever line of cookware in 2021 and it’s just as stylish as their electronics—and we’re sure Mom and Dad would think so, too. The Italian brand’s chic new frying pan—an essential in any household—would be a great addition to your folks’ kitchen thanks to its even heat distribution, non-stick design, and sleek look. The new cookware collection also includes woks, skillets, and casseroles—your ‘rents will want to collect them all!
See a list of Smeg stores.
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