Handicrafts – Crafts of various regions and provinces have invariably found their way into Manila. Just take a look at the Filipiniana section of any department store, and you would marvel at the diversity of handicraft selection. There are malongs and brassware from Mindanao, hand embroidered pina cloth from Batangas, wood figurines from Paete, and all sorts of basketry products made of rattan, bamboo, vines and leaves. There are a number of stores which specialize in Philippine handicraft such as Tesoro’s, S.C. Vizcarra, and Silahis Arts and Artifacts.

Flea Market Bargains – Haggling is the operative word when shopping at Manila’s frenzied, frantic flea markets. Bargain-hunters will fall head over heels in love with the bargain basement prices of fabrics, ready-to-wear clothes, shoes and slippers, houseware and home decors and fresh produce. Best bets are Quiapo, Baclaran and Divisoria. Hunt down lovely woodcarvings, capiz shell items, buri bags and embroidered napkins under the Quezon Bridge in Quiapo, Baclaran, at the southern tip of Roxas Blvd., is the place to go for practical ready-to-wear. Divisoria is the wholesaler’s paradise for clothes, home décor, watches and just about everything else under the sun.

Antiques – The most popular antique pieces in Manila are the religious icons, most specially the image of the Santo Nino (Baby Jesus). Religious articles such as altar pieces are also available at antique shops along Padre Faura. Chinese ceramic and jars, which date back from the era of the barter trade, can be found in antique shops in Ermita (Like La Porcelana and V.M. Antiques) and Chang Rong Antique Gallery in Intramuros. Other pieces include prints, furniture and ethnic art.