The Labubu Fever of 2026: Why These Monsters are Everywhere
As we move through January 2026, the obsession with Labubu—the mischievous, serrated-toothed monster created by artist Kasing Lung—shows no signs of slowing down. What started as a niche designer toy has exploded into a global cultural phenomenon, particularly in the Philippines. From the iconic 'The Monsters' series to limited-edition 2026 collaborations, Pinoy collectors are constantly on the hunt for the latest drops.
The hype is fueled by a mix of scarcity, celebrity endorsements (who can forget the Lisa effect?), and the sheer thrill of the blind box experience. However, for many fans in Manila, Cebu, and Davao, getting their hands on authentic pieces at retail prices remains a challenge. Local shelves often empty within minutes, and the secondary market prices can be staggering. You might also like to Read more: Why Labubu is the Most Wanted Collectible in the Philippines Right Now.
Why Buying Labubu from the US is Smarter for Pinoy Collectors
In 2026, the savviest collectors have shifted their strategy. Instead of battling local crowds or paying 3x the price to resellers, they are looking toward the United States. Major retailers like Pop Mart US, Minty Fresh, and specialized designer toy boutiques often have better stock levels and exclusive North American releases that never reach Asian shores.
Shopping from US stores allows you to access official retail pricing, ensuring you aren't overpaying for the 'Macaron' series or the latest plush drops. To make this process seamless, most collectors rely on a reliable package forwarder like comGateway. This service provides you with a US-based shipping address, allowing you to shop from sites that typically don't ship directly to the Philippines.
The Secret to Navigating US Retailers
Many US-based hobby shops offer pre-orders for 2026 collections that are highly coveted. However, some of these sites might have restrictive payment gateways or shipping policies. Check our guide on Read more: The Secret US Shopping Hack for Labubu Collectors in the Philippines to see how you can bypass these hurdles.
How to Ship Your Labubu Haul to the Philippines
Once you’ve secured your blind boxes or plushies, the next step is getting them home safely. Shipping fragile collectibles requires care, and that’s where comGateway excels. By using their US address at checkout, your items are sent to a warehouse where they can be inspected and consolidated.
Before you commit to a purchase, it is always wise to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This helps you plan your budget and decide whether to buy a single figure or a whole case. For those who plan on growing their collection throughout 2026, looking into Prime membership benefits can save you a significant amount on international shipping fees over time.
Understanding Import Rules and Taxes for 2026
When importing goods into the Philippines, it’s crucial to stay informed about Bureau of Customs regulations. As of 2026, the de minimis threshold remains a key factor for hobbyists. If your total shipment value (including insurance and freight) is under PHP 10,000, you are generally exempt from import duties and taxes. However, for large hauls or high-end resin statues, you should prepare for potential GST/VAT or customs charges.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
While vinyl toys are perfectly safe to ship, always double-check the prohibited items list if your order includes specialized cleaning kits, pressurized display cases, or items with lithium batteries (like some motorized dioramas). Staying compliant ensures your package isn't held up at the border.
Step-by-Step Guide: Buying Labubu from the US
- Create a comGateway Account: Get your free US shipping address instantly.
- Shop at US Stores: Visit Pop Mart US or other retailers. Use your US address as the shipping destination.
- Use BuyForMe if Needed: If a US store doesn't accept your Philippine credit card, utilize the BuyForMe service. They will purchase the item on your behalf.
- Consolidate and Ship: Once your items arrive at the warehouse, you can combine multiple orders into one box to save on costs.
- Track Your Delivery: Relax as your Labubu makes its way to your doorstep in the Philippines.
| Feature | Local PH Retail | US Shopping via comGateway |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Often Sold Out | Higher Stock Levels |
| Price | High Markup (Resellers) | Official Retail Price |
| Exclusives | Limited | US/North America Exclusives |
| Authenticity | Risk of Fakes online | 100% Authentic from Official Stores |
Final Tips for Labubu Collectors in 2026
The key to a successful collection this year is patience and strategy. Don't panic-buy from local resellers the moment a drop happens. By leveraging US stores and a trustworthy forwarding service, you can build a world-class collection without the unnecessary stress. If you ever run into issues with your shipment or have questions about the process, the FAQ and help center are excellent resources for quick answers and support.
Happy hunting, and may your next blind box contain the Secret figure you've been dreaming of!
