The Labubu Phenomenon: Why Everyone in the Philippines is Obsessed
As we move through the first month of 2026, the obsession with Labubu in the Philippines shows no signs of slowing down. For those who aren't yet in the know, Labubu is the mischievous, rabbit-like monster with jagged teeth created by artist Kasing Lung. Part of 'The Monsters' series produced by Pop Mart, these vinyl figures have transformed from niche designer toys into high-fashion accessories and must-have desk companions.
In Manila and beyond, the hype has reached a fever pitch. Every time a new drop happens at local specialty stores, the shelves are cleared in minutes. This scarcity has led to a massive secondary market where resellers often double or triple the original price. However, savvy Filipino collectors have discovered a hidden gem of a strategy: sourcing their Labubu fix directly from the United States.
The Hidden Strategy: Why US Stores are a Goldmine
While the Philippines experiences localized stock shortages, the US market often receives larger allocations and more frequent restocks of the most popular series, such as 'The Monsters - Have a Seat' or 'Labubu Fall in Wild.' Stores like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and various high-end designer toy boutiques in Los Angeles and New York often have the very items that are labeled 'Sold Out' across Southeast Asia.
The secret is that many of these US retailers do not ship directly to the Philippines, or if they do, the international shipping rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes your greatest competitive advantage. By using a US-based shipping address, you can access exclusive US-only drops and take advantage of domestic sales that aren't available to international shoppers.
How to Get Your Labubu from the US to the Philippines
Buying from the US in 2026 is simpler than most people think. Here is the blueprint for building your collection without overpaying:
- Sign up for a US Address: When you register with comGateway, you get a tax-free US shipping address. This is crucial because it allows you to shop at US stores as if you were living there.
- Shop the Right Stores: Focus on official retailers. Pop Mart’s US webstore is the obvious choice, but don't overlook 'hidden gem' boutiques that carry designer toys.
- Consolidate Your Packages: If you are buying multiple blind boxes or different series, wait for them to arrive at your US address and then ship them together to the Philippines to save on costs.
Before you hit the 'checkout' button, it is always a good idea to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This ensures there are no surprises when it comes time to bring your new friends home to the Philippines.
Navigating Philippines Customs and Import Rules
One of the biggest concerns for Filipino shoppers is the dreaded 'customs tax.' In 2026, the de minimis value in the Philippines remains a key factor for collectors. If your total shipment value (including shipping and insurance) is under 10,000 PHP, you are generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, for large hauls or rare 'Mega' Labubu figures that exceed this value, you will need to account for import duties and VAT.
Check our guide on GST/VAT and customs tax to stay updated on the latest regulations from the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to ensure your package clears smoothly without unexpected fees.
Pro-Tips for Serious Labubu Collectors
Sometimes, US stores can be picky about international credit cards. If you find your transaction being declined at a US-based shop, don't panic. You can use the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option means the forwarder will buy the item on your behalf, navigating any regional payment restrictions for you.
Additionally, for those planning to build a massive collection throughout 2026, looking into Prime membership benefits can be a game-changer. Members often get access to discounted shipping rates and faster processing, which is vital when you're trying to get your hands on a limited-edition release before the hype moves on to the next series.
Summary of Costs: US vs. Local Resellers
| Item Type | Estimated US Retail (USD) | PH Reseller Price (PHP) | Savings Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blind Box (Single) | $16.00 | 1,500 - 2,500 PHP | High |
| Vinyl Plush Doll | $40.00 - $60.00 | 6,000 - 9,000 PHP | Very High |
| Mega Labubu 400% | $180.00 - $250.00 | 25,000+ PHP | Significant |
As shown above, even after adding shipping costs, the 'Hidden Gem' method of buying from the US often results in savings of 30% to 50% compared to buying from local scalpers in the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
The Labubu trend is more than just a fad; it’s a vibrant collector community. By expanding your horizons to the US market, you not only save money but also gain access to a much wider variety of characters and series. If you have more questions about the process, feel free to visit the FAQ or help center for more details on international shipping logistics.
Happy hunting, and may your next blind box contain the 'Secret' figure you’ve been dreaming of!
