The Labubu Fever: Why This Mischievous Monster is Taking Over
If you have spent any time on social media in the early weeks of 2026, you have undoubtedly encountered a creature with jagged teeth, large pointed ears, and a mischievous yet endearing expression. This is Labubu, a character from the 'The Monsters' series created by artist Kasing Lung. While Labubu has been around for a few years, its popularity has reached a fever pitch in 2026, especially among Filipino collectors.
But why is this happening now? The 'Why' behind the Labubu hype is a mix of celebrity influence, the thrill of the hunt, and the undeniable charm of 'kidult' culture. When global icons began sporting Labubu charms on their designer handbags, the art toy transitioned from a niche hobby to a mainstream fashion statement. In the Philippines, the community has embraced Labubu not just as a toy, but as a collectible investment. Read more: Why Labubu is the Most Wanted Collectible in the Philippines Right Now.
The Appeal of the Blind Box
Part of the craze stems from the blind box format. The uncertainty of which character you will get creates an adrenaline rush that keeps fans coming back. In 2026, the secondary market in the Philippines has seen prices for 'secret' or 'chase' figures skyrocket, leading many local fans to look toward the United States for better availability and fairer pricing.
Why Filipino Collectors are Turning to US Stores
While there are local retailers in the Philippines, stock often vanishes within seconds of a release. US-based stores, including the official Pop Mart US website and specialty designer toy boutiques, often receive larger allocations and exclusive 2026 colorways that never reach Southeast Asian shores. Buying directly from the US allows collectors to bypass local resellers who often charge double or triple the retail price.
However, many US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to the Philippines, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where savvy collectors use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway to bridge the gap. By using a US-based shipping address, you can shop like a local and have your treasures consolidated before being sent to your doorstep in Manila, Cebu, or anywhere else in the country. Read more: The Secret US Shopping Hack for Labubu Collectors in the Philippines.
How to Buy Labubu from the US: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your hands on the latest 2026 Labubu drops is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to start your collection:
- Sign up for a US Address: Register for an account with comGateway to receive your own tax-free US shipping address.
- Shop the Drops: Visit US retailers like Pop Mart, Mindzai, or even eBay for rare vintage pieces. Use your comGateway address at checkout.
- Consolidate and Save: If you are buying from multiple stores, wait for all your packages to arrive at the warehouse. Consolidating them into one shipment can significantly reduce your total shipping fees.
- Ship to the Philippines: Once your items are ready, select your preferred shipping method and wait for your Labubus to arrive!
If you find that a US store does not accept your Philippine-issued credit card, don't worry. You can utilize the BuyForMe service, where an assisted purchase expert will handle the transaction for you, ensuring you don't miss out on limited-edition releases. Read more: How to Score Rare Labubu Art Toys from the US in 2026.
Understanding Shipping Costs and Logistics
Before you go on a shopping spree, it is important to understand the costs involved. Shipping art toys requires careful handling to ensure the boxes remain in mint condition. You can use the shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your haul.
For those who plan on building a large collection throughout 2026, looking into Prime membership benefits is a smart move. Members often enjoy discounted international shipping rates and extended storage time, which is perfect for waiting on multiple blind box pre-orders to arrive. You can always check the latest international shipping rates to compare options and find the best fit for your budget.
Import Rules for the Philippines in 2026
When importing collectibles into the Philippines, there are a few local regulations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth delivery process:
The De Minimis Value
In the Philippines, the de minimis value remains at PHP 10,000. If your total shipment value (including insurance and freight) is under this amount, you are generally exempt from import duties and taxes. This makes it very cost-effective to ship a few Labubu figures at a time.
Restricted Items
While art toys are perfectly safe to ship, always ensure your package doesn't contain any prohibited items or restricted goods that could cause delays at customs. If you have questions about specific items, the FAQ or help center is a great resource for quick answers. Their support team can help clarify any doubts regarding Philippine Bureau of Customs requirements.
Conclusion
The Labubu craze of 2026 shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer drawn in by the 'budol' culture of cute art toys, shopping from the US opens up a world of possibilities. By using comGateway, you can navigate the complexities of international shopping and bring home the rarest Labubus without the stress of exorbitant reseller markups. Happy hunting, and may you pull the secret figure in your next blind box!
