On her 18th birthday, a Filipino girl customarily throws a large party, similar to a quinceañera or sweet sixteen, complete with her own hand-picked entourage of 18 individuals or multiple sets of 18. In most cases, the debutante may choose 18 roses and 18 candles if she wishes. The roses symbolize the closest males to the celebrant, while the candles serve as the female equivalent.

A more recent addition to the ceremony is the “18 Treasures,” in which 18 individuals (male or female) each present the debutante with a gift. These presentations usually include a speech from each individual. Unlike the Roses and Candles sets, the 18 Treasures group is mixed-gender. Traditionally, the chosen individuals would bring something special, often jewelry, but nowadays, gifts can be anything that reminds them of the debutante. Each person explains why they chose the item and shares a few words with the debutante.