15+ Thoughtful Gifts for Titos and Titas
One of the commonly asked questions when it comes to gift giving is what to give to titos and titas, which, some would say, are the heartbeat of every union, fussing over the little ones, giving their own small gifts, and every now and then offering bits of wisdom. Whether it’s for Christmas, birthdays, or just because, finding the perfect gift for your tito or tita shows appreciation for their presence in your life.
Here we’ve written a round-up of crowd-favorite bits that titos and titas will love.
Contents
- 1. Katinko set
- 2. Locally roasted coffee beans
- 3. Personalized Mugs
- 4. Massage or Spa Voucher
- 5. Scented Candles
- 6. Perfume or Cologne Set
- 7. Insulated Tumbler
- 8. Local Sandals or Slippers
- 9. Book
- 10. Gourmet Chocolates or Cookies
- 11. Portable Blender
- 12. High-End Barbecue Grill Set
- 13. Self-Care Kit (Lotion, Socks, Bath Bombs)
- 14. Handcrafted Jewelry
- 15. Wine, Buffet, or Theater Voucher
- 16. Flowers
1. Katinko set
Kidding aside, this is one of the best gifts for titos and titas, especially those nusing backaches or battling seasonal sniffles. A Katinko set includes ointment, roll-on oil, and nasal inhaler for a practical pamper.
Grab the mini set online for cheap, available in different aromas. For a richer tita or tito, upgrade to the full-sized kit or bundle it with a heating pad.
Buy Katinko mini set or big set.
2. Locally roasted coffee beans
For the caffeine-fueled tito or tita who wants to start their day with a strong cup of barako, a bag of artisanal beans from a local roaster — or better yet, a set complete with a sleek French press – is pure gold. It’s a thoughtful nod to their morning routines, especially for the rich tito or tita who appreciates quality over quantity.
Bonus: Aside from being a thoughtful gift, it also screams Pinoy pride.
Buy a French press and coffee set.
3. Personalized Mugs
Nothing says “I see you” like a mug etched with “World’s Best Tita/Tito” or a family inside joke. Filipinos swear by these for daily coffee rituals. Pair it with their favorite blend for extra warmth, such as Tsokolate Eh tablets for tita and single-origin beans for tito.
4. Massage or Spa Voucher
Titas deserve a break from all that mano po and family drama. A voucher for a relaxing massage is perfect for your favorite relative who needs pampering but won’t splurge on themselves. Upgrade for a package that includes facial and scrub for a richer experience.
Pro Tip: Opt for a local spot to keep it convenient and close.
5. Scented Candles
Cozy up their space with divine-smelling candles. Go for lavender to promote sleep, vanilla for sweetness, or jasmine for a tropical vibe. Local brands like The Candle Company or EchoStore offer soy-based, eco-friendly options as well.
Buy a scented candle gift set.
6. Perfume or Cologne Set
A signature scent elevates any outfit, and it’s a classic for both titos and titas. Consider pairing it with lotion for a full self-care kit, practical and pampering. Go for something fresh like a local brand to that that Filipino touch.
7. Insulated Tumbler
For the on-the-go tito or tita juggling errands, a durable tumbler like Hydro Flask keeps drinks hot or cold. It’s recommended for its everyday utility – plus, it’s eco-friendly. Have it engraved for a custom touch.
8. Local Sandals or Slippers
Comfort meets culture with artisanal footwear from Marikina or Liliw. It’s perfect for rich titos and titas who value heritage without the fuss. Best of all, these pairs are affordable and wearable daily.
9. Book
Books are a timeless gift, especially paired with a handwritten rec. It helps fuel their downtime and is especially thoughtful for avid readers. For titos and titas into history, try a Filipino coffee table book.
10. Gourmet Chocolates or Cookies
Chocolates and cookies are a sweet hit. Some swear by this as a traditional gift that can never go worng.
For imported treats, M&S digestives are quite popular. For local options, go with Auro Chocolate’s single-origin bars from Davao (67% dark with nibs for the sophisticated tito, white chocolate with pili for the tita who loves creamy) or Malagos’ award-winning 65% dark that rivals European brands. For cookies, Theo & Philo’s artisanal tsokolate cookies or Queso de Bola shortbread from local bakers hit the spot.
Feeling extra? Curate a Pinoy Snack Basket: tablea discs, polvoron in pandan and pinipig flavors, yema pastillas, and a sleeve of Marie biscuits for that retro vibe.
11. Portable Blender
For health-conscious titos and titas blending green smoothies or fresh fruit shakes. NutriBullet or BlendJet models are compact and USB-rechargeable.
12. High-End Barbecue Grill Set
Titos who master the inihaw game need premium tools. Get a complete grill set and include marinades for chicken inasal or pork barbecue.
Buy a barbecue grill set.
13. Self-Care Kit (Lotion, Socks, Bath Bombs)
Titas give so much — hugs, advice, emergency baon — it’s time they receive. Curate a Home Spa Basket complete with lotion, soft socks, luxurious bath bombs, and a silk eye mask. For titos, swap floral for cedarwood or eucalyptus. You can shop gift sets in stores like Body Shop or you can buy individually for a more budget-friendly option.
Buy a self-care mini set or luxurious set.
14. Handcrafted Jewelry
Pearl earrings from Palawan, a gold necklace, or other dainty accessories for titas to look their best. Meanwhile, titos might appreciate a barong tagalog cufflink set with capiz inlays or a braided leather bracelet with a tiny sarimanok charm.
You can shop for local jewelers online or in markets like Salcedo.
15. Wine, Buffet, or Theater Voucher
Stuff gathers dust; experiences gather stories. Treat your favorite people to a night out – wine for the tito storyteller or buffet for the foodie tita. Perhaps a dinner at Cafe Ilang-Ilang or Niu by Vikings, or even a high tea at Peninsula’s Lobby.
16. Flowers
Flowers are classic for a reason. A fresh bouquet brightens any living room, and it’s a gentle reminder that they’re cherished. It also has an immediate wow factor, perfect for showing love and appreciation for any occasion.
When it comes to gifts for titos and titas, it’s all about the message, saying they’ve made your world brighter. These picks range from budget-friendly to luxurious and prove that heartfelt doesn’t have to be hard. Pick one (or even mix a few), wrap it with a smile, and watch the family magic unfold.
What’s your favorite gift for titos and titas? Share in the comments below!
Note: Featured image source here.
Katherine Cortes is a work-from-home freelancer. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs). When not on the road, she stays at home with five cats.
