Although also reaching legal maturity at 18, a Filipino man may mark his own debut on his 21st birthday, albeit with less formal celebrations or none at all.
On her 18th birthday, a Filipino girl customarily throws a large party, similar to quinceañera or sweet sixteen, complete with her own hand-picked entourage of 18 individuals or multiple sets of 18.
The celebrant's court usually wears a formal dress, such as the barong tagalog or the western black tie.
Each delivers a short speech about her relationship with the celebrant and any special greeting, and lights a candle that is either in her hand or placed in a stand.
The night ends with the debutante's speech, in which she shares her thoughts on life and extends her gratitude towards her guests.