The Framework Laptop 13 has a US residency requirement that Filipinos are happily ignoring

February 17, 2026

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The Framework Laptop 13 has a US residency requirement that Filipinos are happily ignoring
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The hype is modular

The tech landscape in 2026 is dominated by devices that are increasingly difficult to open, let alone repair. The Framework Laptop 13 (Intel Core Ultra Series 2) stands out as a rebellious exception. It is not just a computer; it is a collection of parts that you actually own. While other manufacturers continue to solder RAM and storage to the motherboard, Framework encourages you to bring your own screwdriver. This modular philosophy is exactly why tech enthusiasts in Manila and Cebu are looking toward US retailers to secure the latest Lunar Lake configurations.

Lunar Lake architecture in 2026

The Intel Core Ultra Series 2, also known by its architecture name Lunar Lake, has redefined what we expect from thin-and-light laptops. By 2026, the focus has shifted entirely toward power efficiency and integrated AI processing. The Framework Laptop 13 takes this chip and pairs it with a chassis that allows for 100% user-replaceable ports. If you want four USB-C ports today and an HDMI port tomorrow, you simply swap the expansion cards. This level of customization is a significant draw for professionals who need a machine that evolves with their workload.

The Philippines availability gap

Despite its global popularity, Framework still prioritizes specific regions for its initial rollouts. The Philippines often finds itself waiting for local distributors that may never arrive. Even when third-party resellers do pop up, they often lack the specific keyboard layouts or the latest processor increments that a direct purchase from the US store offers. This is where a comGateway account becomes a necessity rather than a luxury. By using a tax-free US address, you can browse the official Framework store as if you were sitting in a coffee shop in Portland.

The keyboard conundrum

One specific detail often overlooked is the variety of keyboard layouts. Whether you prefer the standard US English layout or something more specialized for coding, buying directly from the US source ensures you aren't stuck with whatever regional stock a local distributor decided to import. To get the exact specs you want, you need to shop US store options directly.

The BuyForMe solution for difficult US stores

There is a persistent hurdle that many international shoppers face when trying to acquire high-end electronics. Many US-based stores, including major tech retailers and even specific brands like Nike or Apple, have a habit of blocking international credit cards. Even if your card is globally recognized, their payment systems might flag the transaction because the billing address doesn't match a US zip code. Worse yet, some stores automatically decline orders if they detect the shipping address belongs to a freight forwarder.

This is where the "BuyForMe" service becomes your best friend. Instead of risking a cancelled order and a temporary hold on your funds, you can have comGateway handle the entire purchase. You simply tell them what you want, and they use a domestic US credit card and a residential-style processing system to buy the item on your behalf. It is the safest way to guarantee that your Framework Laptop 13 actually leaves the warehouse and makes it to your tax-free US address without a hitch.

Managing the shipping logistics to Philippines

Once your modular masterpiece arrives at the warehouse, the next step is getting it across the Pacific. Shipping a laptop requires care, especially considering the lithium-ion battery and the value of the components. You can use the shipping calculator to get a clear picture of what the transit will cost before you even click buy. This transparency helps avoid the shock that often comes with hidden fees in the logistics world.

Choosing the right service

When you are ready to buy from US ship to Philippines, you have choices regarding speed and cost. Some prefer the express route to get their hands on the Lunar Lake power as fast as possible, while others are happy to wait a few extra days to save on international shipping rates. You can compare various shipping fees on the international shipping page to see which tier fits your budget and urgency.

Customs and import considerations

Importing electronics into the Philippines involves dealing with the Bureau of Customs. Because the Framework Laptop 13 is a high-value item, it will exceed the 10,000 PHP de minimis threshold. This means import duties and VAT will apply. However, by using a reliable freight forwarder, the paperwork is handled with much more efficiency than if you were trying to manage a direct international shipment yourself. If you have questions about how these fees are calculated or what documentation is needed, the FAQ section provides a wealth of information for first-time importers.

The truth is that the most direct path to owning a 2026 Framework Laptop 13 in the Philippines is rarely the most local one. By leveraging a US address and an assisted purchase service, you bypass the regional delays and stock limitations that usually plague the local tech market. It is a simple matter of knowing which buttons to click and which services to trust for your Philippines delivery.

If you're still curious about the process, check our guide on how to consolidate multiple orders to save even more on your next haul from the US. For any other specific concerns, the help center is always available to guide you through your first international shipping experience.

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