Gifts That Give Back: 2017 Christmas Guide

'Tis the season for giving! Instead of braving the traffic during the holiday rush and resorting to gasgas gift ideas, make your Christmas shopping more convenient and meaningful with these gifts that give back.

Not only are these presents unique, locally-produced, and guaranteed memorable with a story to tell, but they also support Filipino communities and worthwhile causes. 

For that special guy in your life

Or THE guy that made your life special. It could be your dad, husband, brother, tito, boyfriend, boy (space) friend, boss, office mate, or your best bro. No need to wind up giving the usual socks, handkerchiefs, wallets, belts as presents!  

Messy Bessy's Sports Spritzer and Muscle Relief Rub are excellent stocking stuffers for guys who are serious about their fitness goals... or at least plan to be. Their Hair, Face, and Body Wash is good for those always on the go or travelling because this neat little 3-in-1 serves as soap, facial wash, and shampoo!

Chocolates are always simple but sweet, and Coco Dolce's flavors have something for everyone. Milk Chocolate is a classic, but opt for the Dark Chocolate with Chili if you want something more striking.

 A bottle of Proudly Promdi's Bielma Bugnay Wine or Tapuey Rice Wine is sure to impress, whether you give it as a gift or bring to your potluck celebration. 

For that special woman in your life

They say that it's usually easier to think of presents for the ladies, but we find that it can be quite overwhelming, too! Here are our top picks.

For the multi-tasker that always needs to have her essentials handy, Jacinto and Lirio's Likhain Planner has a small purse for coins, phone cords, or keys, plus six card holders, three paper slots for coupons and the like, two slots for bills, an open-date planner, a pen holder, and a partridge in a pear treeeee... Kidding!

A bit of R&R never hurt anyone, and this Gift of Wellness bundle with Tsaa Laya's Lemon Ginger tea and Apicuria Natural Throat Soother could keep those nasty germs and viruses at arm's length. A bottle of red wine and a chocolate bar would be great as me-time companions, too.

For kids and kids at heart

Have you met Manny Pakwan? Or Mais Ganda? Not only do these Plush and Play stuffed toys come with witty names, but they also serve an educational purpose and provide a sustainable livelihood for women living in Gawad Kalinga communities to let their kids eat and go to school every day. 

Another social enterprise that provides a sustainable livelihood for women in disadvantaged communities through creating toys is Mayown, which has a wide assortment of crocheted Travelbuddies like these oh-so-cute baby turtles.

For the health-conscious

Healthy diet is in, but the holidays are the perfect time to indulge. Instead of ruining someone's #BalikAlindog plans, you can always give them something that's yummy and healthful at the same time.

Kayumanggi Organics has a nice selection of locally-sourced ingredients like raw coconut sugar, Rustique cacao powder, and raw virgin coconut oil that boasts of maximum health benefits without sacrificing good taste. 

First Harvest's Honey-Sweetened Peanut Spread is our best-seller, as this is made with no extenders and no artificial preservatives. Table sugar is also reduced to less than half and honey is used as a healthier sweetener. Their Salted Coco Caramel spread is also worth a try, and we're sure you'll be back for seconds.

So, what are you waiting for? Your friends, special someone, loved ones, or workmates would definitely appreciate receiving a present that inspires a social good lifestyle and goes a long way in supporting meaningful causes. Better start making those lists and checking 'em twice!