One of the most unique ways to get to know a place is through its drinks, and the Philippines is no exception to this rule.
Some drinks help you stay cool under the scorching sun, while others are best enjoyed on rainy days and colder months to keep you warm.
Whether you prefer fruity refreshments or comforting classics, Filipino drinks offer a taste of the country’s heart and soul.
Here are some of the best Filipino drinks that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Mango Sago
The Philippines is known for its delicious mango so it comes as no surprise that Mango Sago is a beloved drink among locals and visitors alike.
This is a creamy dessert drink that combines mangoes with chewy sago pearls, nata de coco, half and half, and condensed milk. It’s best enjoyed after a heavy meal to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Taho
Taho is the quintessential Filipino street food and drink combo. It is made with soft tofu with sweet arnibal syrup and sago pearls.
Traditionally, taho is eaten as breakfast and is sold by street vendors carrying aluminum buckets filled with the warm, silky smooth tofu mixture.
These vendors can be spotted in the early morning hours, going around residential areas and shouting “Tahoooo!”
Sago at Gulaman
Sago at Gulaman is a beverage made with sago pearls, agar-agar jelly (gulaman), and brown sugar syrup.
Because it’s affordable and delicious, Sago at Gulaman is a favorite among students and office workers looking for a quick drink during their breaks.
Mango Shake
Despite its simplicity, mango shake holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. Made with fresh mangoes, crushed ice, and milk, this vibrant drink captures the essence of the tropical paradise that is the Philippines.
The ripe and juicy mangoes lend their natural sweetness to the smoothie.
This drink is usually sold by street vendors and in restaurants, but it is also commonly made at home, especially during mango season when the fruit is abundant and at its peak ripeness.
Filipino Hot Chocolate (Batirol or Tablea)
This list would not be complete without including Filipino Hot Chocolate, also known as Batirol. This rich and indulgent drink made from locally sourced cacao beans has been a staple in Filipino homes for generations.
The cacao beans are ground into a fine powder, mixed with sugar and milk, and then whisked vigorously in the batirol to create a frothy and velvety texture that is perfect for sipping during the holidays.
Buko Juice
The ultimate refreshing drink in the Philippines is none other than Buko Juice or coconut water. Not only is this readily available in most parts of the country, it is also packed with electrolytes that replenish the body and keep you hydrated.
Buko juice is collected from the clear liquid found inside young coconuts, which is harvested when the coconut is still green and undeveloped.
It has a subtle sweet taste and a hint of nuttiness that makes it incredibly refreshing, especially when served chilled.
Buko juice is often enjoyed straight from the coconut itself, with a straw inserted into the fruit to sip the water directly. Street vendors also sell a more indulgent version of think drink with added evaporated milk and coconut flesh.
Kapeng Barako
Coffee lovers will love the strong and distinct flavor of Kapeng Barako, an aromatic coffee variety grown primarily in the Batangas region.
This drink is usually enjoyed black but can be customized with milk and sugar according to personal preference.
The aroma alone is enough to wake you up, making it the best drink to start your day or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Calamansi Juice
There’s something about the zesty and tangy flavor of Calamansi Juice that instantly refreshes your palate.
Preparing this drink is also very easy – even kids can do it! Calamansi, a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines, is squeezed and mixed with water and a little bit of sugar and ice to create this drink.
This drink can also be given to those who are feeling under the weather as a warm drink, with the sugar swapped out for honey.
Salabat
Salabat, also known as ginger tea, is a common remedy for colds and sore throats. It clears the sinuses, warms the body, and provides comfort in times of illness.
This traditional Filipino drink is made by boiling fresh ginger root in water for a period of time and then adding honey or sugar to taste.
There are also ready-made salabat mixes available in the market, but nothing beats the homemade version brewed with love.
Melon juice
In a country as hot as the Philippines, nothing is more satisfying than a tall glass of refreshing Melon Juice.
This juice contains scraped cantaloupe meat blended with ice, milk, water, and sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Street vendors usually sell this bright orange drink in the afternoon. They even attract customers by filling their carts with melons.
Summing Up
The array of tasty and refreshing drinks in the Philippines reflects the vibrant culture and tropical climate of the country. From creamy dessert beverages like Mango Sago to classic homemade drinks like Salabat, there is something to quench everyone’s thirst and delight every palate. Sourced from fresh local produce like mangoes, coconuts, and ginger, these beverages capture the flavors of the islands. Their uniqueness also provides visitors a memorable taste of the Philippines. Whether served by street vendors or homemade as family traditions, Filipino drinks like Taho, Sago at Gulaman and Kapeng Barako have endured for generations. They tell stories of the nation’s heritage and bring people together through shared nostalgia and comfort. Indeed, be it a hot day or a rainy afternoon, the drinks of the Philippines will immerse your senses and connect you to the warmth and vibrance of the culture. So next time you travel there, make sure to go on a flavorful drink adventure!
