Mother’s Day 2025 in the Philippines: Gift Ideas, Activities, and Songs to Celebrate Mom

Mothers carry the soul of the Filipino home—they are our first teachers, our quiet heroes, our constant cheerleaders. This Mother’s Day, happening on May 11, 2025, Filipinos across the country and around the world will once again honor the incredible women who raised us, sacrificed for us, and loved us unconditionally—our Nanays, Inays, Mamas, and Lolas.

At SAFC, we believe in creating meaningful family celebrations that connect generations and cultures. In this blog, we’ve curated the best gift ideas, personalized surprises, bonding activities, and even a playlist of Mother’s Day songs that perfectly capture what your mom means to you. Whether you’re near or far, there’s something here to help you celebrate her in the most Filipino, heartfelt way possible.

Mark your calendars—Mother’s Day 2025 falls on Sunday, May 11. In the Philippines, it’s celebrated every second Sunday of May, just like in many parts of the world. But what makes it truly special here is the way Filipinos add their own flavor of love, laughter, and tradition.

Most families begin the day with a heartfelt greeting or a warm hug, often followed by Sunday Mass to give thanks. Then, it’s off to a family lunch at home or a favorite local restaurant, where Nanay doesn’t lift a finger in the kitchen for once! Children surprise their moms with fresh flowers, handmade cards, or sentimental gifts, while others post loving tributes on social media.

Whether simple or grand, what matters most is being present—and making Mom feel cherished, appreciated, and loved.

When it comes to Filipino moms, the best gifts are those that come from the heart. This Mother’s Day, go beyond the usual and surprise her with something meaningful, practical, or simply unexpected.

Classic Filipino Gifts

These gift ideas are rooted in Filipino culture and guaranteed to bring back memories—or create new ones.

• Banig Tissue Box
  This beautifully woven banig tissue holder adds a Filipino touch to any room. It’s both functional and nostalgic—reminding her of warm, quiet mornings in the province.
• Big Bayong Tote with Starfish
  A modern take on the traditional bayong, this pandan tote comes with a starfish accent and abaca strap—perfect for market runs or weekend strolls, while showcasing Filipino weaving traditions.
• Petal-Shaped Abaca Fan
  Elegantly crafted from abaca fibers, this flower-shaped pamaypay honors generations of Filipina grace. A symbol of strength, resilience, and cool composure.
• Inabel Plain White Blanket
  Handwoven in Ilocos, this ultra-soft inabel blanket offers warmth and comfort with every thread—a gift that hugs her even when you’re not around.

Find these timeless Filipino treasures at Kultura.

Modern & Practical Gift Ideas

If your mom’s style is more on the practical side, or if she’s always on the go, these modern gift ideas are sure to earn her smile (and a tight hug!).

• Digital Detox Spa Package or Wellness Retreat
  Treat her to peace and quiet—whether it’s a massage, facial, or weekend wellness retreat, she deserves some me-time.
• Smart Home Gadgets
  Make daily tasks easier with air purifiers, smart rice cookers, or automatic vacuum cleaners—perfect for the tech-savvy or “tech-curious” mom.
• Subscription Boxes
  Surprise her monthly with Filipino-owned skincare, premium coffee, or healthy food kits that remind her how much you care.
• E-Wallet Load or GCash Gift with a Sweet Message
  For practical moms, sending a little GCash or Maya with a cute note can be a thoughtful (and useful) gesture.
• Online Courses or Hobby Kits
  Support her hobbies or encourage new ones. Think crochet kits, painting sets, or access to an online baking class.
• Indoor Garden Starter Kit for the Plantita Mom
  For moms who love their leafy babies, gift a complete plant care kit—think low-maintenance herbs, stylish pots, and a personalized watering schedule. Bonus points if it comes with a punny plant tag like “Thanks for helping me grow!”

Every mom is different—and that’s what makes them special. Whether she’s cradling her newborn, managing Zoom meetings, enjoying her retirement years, or living thousands of miles away, there’s a perfect Mother’s Day surprise just for her.

For the New Mom

Her world just changed, and so did her needs. Make her first Mother’s Day unforgettable with gifts that celebrate her new role.

• • Matching Outfits for Mom and Baby
    Think cute mom and daughter comfy dresses—adorable for photos and heartwarming for keepsakes.
  • A “First Mother’s Day” Keepsake Box
    Include a photo, a letter, and a baby’s tiny footprint. She’ll treasure it forever.
  • Home-Service Massage or Postpartum Care Packages
    New moms need rest. Gift her a home massage, lactation treats, or a postpartum pampering kit curated by local wellness brands.

For the Housewife Mom

She keeps the household running with quiet strength and constant care. Make her feel seen for all the things she does behind the scenes.

• Aesthetic Small Appliances (Like a Retro Toaster or Electric Kettle)
  Add beauty and function to her daily routine with pastel-hued or native-inspired kitchen appliances that brighten her mornings.
• Calming Hand Creams from Filipino Wellness Brands
  Show love through self-care. Choose hand creams made with local ingredients like coconut oil or lavender—perfect after a day of household chores.
• Massage & Body Oils from Local Wellness Brands
  Let her wind down with soothing massage or aromatherapy oils that help relieve tension and promote relaxation. Choose trusted Filipino-made products like Katinko’s Relax or Revive blends, or lavender-infused oils from artisanal local brands.
• A Succulent in a Hand-Painted Pot
  A low-maintenance plant she can place by the kitchen window or altar—bringing life, color, and serenity to her space.

For the Working Mom

She’s a pro at multitasking, but she deserves a pause too. Show her you see all her hard work—at home and in her career.

• Noise-Canceling Earbuds for WFH Setups
  Help her focus with gadgets that block out distractions—whether she’s in Zoom calls or enjoying quiet time.
• A Beautiful Planner or Customized Tumbler
  Personalized with her name or a “MomFuel” message, this adds style to her everyday routine.
• A “Day Off” Surprise
  Take over the chores, cook her favorite ulam, or let her sleep in—the gift of rest is priceless.

For Grandmother or Lola

She’s the source of wisdom, prayers, and unconditional love. Celebrate her with timeless gifts that bring back memories and comfort.

• Personalized Rosary or Prayer Book in Tagalog
  Choose one engraved with her name or a favorite Bible verse in her dialect—a daily reminder of your love.
• Memory Journal Filled with Old Photos and Family Stories
  Add handwritten notes from apo (grandkids) and children—a beautiful tribute to her life’s journey.
• Mobile Phone with Large Icons and a Tutorial Made by the Grandkids
  Make tech accessible—and fun! Bonus points if you record a video tutorial saying “Hi Lola, ito po yung button ng YouTube!”

For the OFW Mom (or if You’re an OFW Child)

Distance may keep you apart, but love always finds a way. Bridge the gap with thoughtful gestures from across the miles.

• Video Greeting with the Whole Family Singing
  Cue “A Song for Mama by Boyz II Men” or “Inay by Keiko Necesario” and record the family singing together. Kahit hindi perfect, basta galing sa puso!
• Balikbayan Box with Filipino Treats and Letters
  Fill it with local snacks, pasalubong, and handwritten letters—a box full of memories and flavors from home.
• Online Delivery of Flowers and Cake Back Home
  Surprise her with a knock at the door and a beautiful bouquet or a cake that says, “Happy Mother’s Day, Ma!”

Sometimes, the best gift is time. This Mother’s Day, focus on creating unforgettable moments with the most important woman in your life. Whether you’re all under one roof, heading out, or celebrating virtually, here are heartwarming ideas to bring the whole family closer together.

At Home

Simple doesn’t mean boring. With a little creativity, your home can become the most joyful place to celebrate Nanay.

• Lutong-Bahay Buffet
  Each family member cooks their specialty dish—whether it’s Kuya’s sinigang or Ate’s leche flan—and turn your dining table into a mini fiesta honoring Mom.
• Mini Awards Night
  Hand out sweet and funny titles like “Queen of Kare-Kare,” “Best Hug-Giver,” or “Pinaka-Mabait sa Lahat ng Nanay.” Add DIY trophies or paper crowns for extra fun!
• Teleserye-Style Tribute Video
  Use old video clips or photos, add dramatic background music (cue “Hanggang Kailan Kita Mamahalin”), and create a touching—or hilariously dramatic—video montage for her.

Outside the House

For families who want to enjoy the fresh air or explore something new, here are activities that blend Filipino culture, bonding, and faith.

• Attend Sunday Mass Together and Light a Candle for Gratitude
  Start the day with spiritual thanksgiving. Many Filipino moms appreciate a quiet moment at church with the whole family by her side.
• Picnic in a Local Park or Beach
  Bring banana leaves, rice wrapped in foil, and your mom’s favorite ulam. Don’t forget the games and karaoke speaker!
• Visit a Museum or Art Exhibit, Followed by Merienda
  Celebrate her love for culture and beauty. Cap it off with pancit, halo-halo, or a coffee date at her favorite café.
• Book a Private Pool or Hotel Staycation
  Treat mom to a relaxing change of scenery with a day at a private pool or an overnight hotel stay. Whether she prefers a tranquil swim or breakfast in bed with city views, this mini escape is perfect for creating peaceful, pampered memories—without the long travel.

Online Celebrations

If distance is a challenge, don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to make Mom feel seen and loved.

• Virtual Family Reunion for OFW Families
  Organize a Zoom call across time zones and include games, kwentuhan, and even a virtual salu-salo. Bonus: mail a gift in advance and have her open it during the call.
• Online Karaoke Night using Spotify + Zoom
  Let Mom belt out her favorite classics—think “Anak” by Freddie Aguilar or “Through the Years” by Kenny Rogers. Laughter and out-of-tune singing guaranteed!
• “Mother’s Day Awards” via Messenger Group Chat
  Send funny memes or edited certificates like “Best in Utang Collection,” “Laging Tama Award,” or “Most Dramatic Telenovela Advice.”
  

No matter where you are, love always finds a way to connect. Don’t underestimate how much a shared laugh, a heartfelt prayer, or a 10-minute video call can mean to Mom.

Music has a way of saying the words we sometimes can’t. This Mother’s Day 2025, let your playlist do the talking. Whether you’re preparing a tribute video, planning a serenade, or simply setting the mood during lunch, these songs will tug at heartstrings and bring out all the feels.

Top OPM Songs to Play for Mom

These Filipino classics never fail to bring back memories, especially when played with love and meaning:

• “Handog” by Florante
  A heartfelt tribute perfect for expressing lifelong gratitude.
• “Sa Ugoy ng Duyan” by Lucio San Pedro
  This lullaby captures the deep comfort and warmth only a mother can give.
• “MAPA” by SB19
  A modern anthem that beautifully blends gratitude, respect, and love for parents—sure to tug at any mom’s heartstrings.
• “Inay” by Keiko Necesario
  Raw and emotional, this indie gem paints a sincere portrait of a daughter’s love and longing.
• “Ilaw” by Drew Buenaventura
  A poetic and mellow piece that honors mothers as guiding lights through life’s uncertainties.
• “Iingatan Ka” by Carol Banawa
  A gentle promise of love and protection, perfect for serenading mom with soft, meaningful lyrics.
• “I’ll Be There for You” by Juris
  A warm reassurance that no matter what, mom is never alone.
• “Yakap Mo” by Lara Maigue
  This heartfelt ballad captures the healing comfort of a mother’s embrace.
• “Awit Kay Inay” by Carol Banawa
  A timeless tribute sung with deep emotion—ideal for reminiscing and honoring every “Inay.”

International Favorites

Global hits that have made generations of moms cry (in the best way):

• “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men
  The go-to anthem for many families—expect goosebumps and tears.
• “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
  For the mom who’s always lifted you up, even when no one else could.
• “The Perfect Fan” by Backstreet Boys
  A 90s boy band classic that perfectly honors a mother’s quiet support.
• “Mama” by Spice Girls
  A fun yet sentimental choice for moms who raised 90s kids.
• “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
  A timeless ballad that says everything you’ve ever wanted to tell your mom.
• “A Mother’s Prayer” by Celine Dion
  A spiritual and touching plea for a child’s protection—often sung from a mom’s point of view.
• “A Mother Like You” by JJ Heller
  A sweet and sincere tribute to moms who loved without limits and led with grace.
• “A Letter to Mama” by Vince Gill
  A country ballad full of gratitude and emotion, perfect for sons who grew up with strong, loving mothers.
• “Mother’s Day” by Kellie Pickler
  An honest and tear-inducing reflection for those who’ve loved and lost a mother.
• “Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston
  An empowering anthem that echoes a mother’s role in teaching us to believe in ourselves.
• “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift
  A tender look back at childhood memories, perfect for surprising your mom with a tearful smile.

Pro Tip: Create a special playlist for her on Spotify or YouTube, and surprise her with a QR code inside a greeting card or handwritten note.

In the heart of every Filipino home is a mother—selfless, strong, and full of quiet sacrifices. She wakes up before everyone else, ends her day last, and somehow still finds time to love unconditionally.

As Mother’s Day 2025 approaches, remember: it’s not about how much you spend—it’s about how deeply you make her feel appreciated. Let’s honor her the way only we Filipinos know how: with utang na loob, malalim na respeto, and walang-hanggang pagmamahal sa pamilya.

Start simple. Cook her favorite ulam. Play her favorite OPM songs. Or just sit beside her, hold her hand, and be present. Sometimes, your time, your effort, and your love are the greatest gifts she could ask for.

At SAFC, we’re proud to support Filipino families through every milestone—big or small. Whether it’s a grand celebration or a quiet family moment, we’re honored to be part of the memories that matter.

Because gifts may fade and flowers may wilt—but love shared and memories made with Nanay will last a lifetime.