A Nostalgic Trip to the 90s: Rediscovering Iconic Filipino Junk Food

 

For many Filipinos, the 1990s evoke memories of a simpler time—an era where kids spent more time outdoors, riding bikes, playing tumbang preso, or simply hanging out at the neighborhood sari-sari store. It was a decade defined by the rise of Filipino pop culture, the introduction of new music and fashion trends, and, most importantly, the irresistible allure of Filipino chichirya or junk food. These snacks, synonymous with childhood, were more than just edible delights. They were a shared experience, a currency of friendship, and a significant part of growing up.

In today’s fast-paced world, where gourmet snacks and health-conscious foods dominate grocery shelves, there’s still something magical about the junk food from the 90s. These treats hold a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos, allowing them to relive some of their most cherished childhood memories. Let’s take a deep dive into the most iconic 90s Filipino junk foods, or chichirya, that continue to leave an indelible mark on Filipino culture.

1. The Cultural Importance of Chichirya in Filipino Life

Before we begin reminiscing about specific snacks, it’s essential to understand the cultural context of chichirya in Filipino society. For many Filipinos, junk food isn’t just about satisfying hunger. These treats are often associated with social activities, whether shared with classmates during recess or eaten during barkada (group of friends) hangouts. Snacks were always within reach, especially with the sari-sari stores acting as the neighborhood’s central hub for all things yummy.

Chichirya also symbolized a simple indulgence, providing affordable enjoyment for many Filipino families. Unlike the imported snacks that might have been out of reach for some, local junk food brands offered a sense of belonging. Eating a bag of Chippy or Sweet Corn was a shared experience that cut across social classes and regions.

Growing up in the 90s, there was nothing quite like coming home from school, heading to the nearby store, and using your spare change to grab a bag of your favorite chips. Those lazy afternoon moments, where you and your friends sat around sharing snacks while talking about school or your favorite TV shows, have become some of the most cherished memories for many Filipinos. The role of chichirya in Filipino culture is not just about food; it’s about the relationships, experiences, and nostalgia tied to those snacks.

2. Iconic Filipino Snacks of the 90s

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s take a closer look at the specific snacks that defined a generation. Each of these beloved treats evokes memories of childhood fun and carefree days spent with friends and family.

Chippy

Perhaps one of the most iconic Filipino chips of all time, Chippy has long been a favorite among 90s kids. Available in both original barbecue and a spicier red variant, Chippy’s unmistakable crunch and bold flavors made it a go-to snack for every occasion. The packaging, simple and iconic with its vibrant red or blue colors, is a visual reminder of those childhood afternoons spent munching on these barbecue-flavored corn chips. Chippy wasn’t just a snack; it was a social experience. Sharing a large bag with friends, taking turns passing it around, and enjoying each crunchy bite became a small yet meaningful bonding moment.

Piattos

For those who preferred their chips in the shape of a hexagon, Piattos was the snack of choice. Available in flavors like cheese, sour cream, and barbecue, Piattos boasted a unique texture and flavor profile that set it apart from other chips. The airy, crispy crunch paired with the cheesy coating on each chip was enough to make anyone reach for another. Today, Piattos still holds a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos, who continue to associate it with their childhood school lunches or after-school snacks.

Sweet Corn

If you were in the mood for something sweet and savory, Sweet Corn was the answer. This puffed corn snack, with its light and crunchy texture, became an instant hit with kids. Coated with a distinct sweet corn flavor, it had a perfect balance of sweet and salty that kept everyone coming back for more. One whiff of the freshly opened pack, and you were immediately transported back to the 90s. Its bright yellow packaging was often seen in sari-sari stores, luring children in with the promise of a fun, flavor-packed snack.

Tomato Rings

For those who wanted something a little different, Tomato Rings provided a tangy and sweet alternative to the typical chips. These ring-shaped corn snacks, flavored with a tomato seasoning, were a fun snack to munch on. Kids often enjoyed wearing the rings on their fingers before eating them, adding an element of play to the snack experience. While Tomato Rings may not be as well-known as some of the other snacks on this list, they were undoubtedly a popular choice in the 90s.

Boy Bawang

Perhaps the most uniquely Filipino of all the snacks on this list, Boy Bawang became famous for its garlic-flavored cornick (fried corn kernels). This snack’s appeal lies in its distinct Filipino flavor—garlic, a staple in Filipino cuisine. Each crunchy kernel was packed with a powerful punch of garlic, making it a favorite snack for those who loved bold flavors. Whether you were eating it during recess, at home while watching TV, or on a road trip, Boy Bawang became a go-to snack for many Filipinos during the 90s.

3. The 90s Snack Ritual: How Chichirya Became Part of Daily Life

It wasn’t just about the snacks themselves, but also about how they were consumed. The ritual of buying and eating chichirya was a beloved part of daily life for 90s kids. Every school recess break was an opportunity to visit the canteen, and every sari-sari store within the neighborhood was stocked with the latest snack offerings. With only a few pesos in your pocket, you could choose between a variety of chips, candies, and soft drinks.

In many ways, snacks represented freedom. They were the reward for finishing homework, the treat you indulged in while watching Saturday morning cartoons, and the essential item to bring during class picnics or weekend trips with the family. Snacks were also synonymous with playtime. After a long day of playing piko or patintero, nothing was more satisfying than cracking open a bag of Chippy or Piattos to share with your friends.

Snacking also had its unspoken rules. For instance, when you bought a big bag of chips, it was almost obligatory to share it with those around you. And if you didn’t have any snacks, your friends would often offer you a handful from their own stash. This communal spirit surrounding snacks further solidified the role of chichirya in Filipino culture as not just a source of nourishment, but also as a way to foster camaraderie.

4. Revisiting the Past: Why 90s Snacks Still Matter

The magic of 90s chichirya isn’t just about the flavor; it’s about the memories they evoke. For many Filipinos, these snacks remind them of a time when life was simpler—when their biggest worry was finishing homework before their favorite TV show came on. In an age where everything seems to move at a dizzying pace, revisiting these iconic snacks offers a nostalgic escape, a way to reconnect with a carefree past.

Even today, some of these iconic snacks can still be found on the shelves of grocery stores and sari-sari stores across the country. Their enduring popularity speaks to their timeless appeal. For younger generations, trying these snacks provides a glimpse into the past, allowing them to experience a small part of 90s Filipino culture. And for those who grew up in that era, the sight of their favorite chichirya brings back a flood of fond memories.

If you’re curious to learn more about the history of these beloved snacks, check out this comprehensive guide to 90s junk food in the Philippines. For even more Filipino cultural tidbits, stories, and travel tips, visit Lakbay Pinas.