Nope those won't be allowed through USDA unless you have a phytosanitary certificate issued from the Philippines. If you bring them back without one, you risk the cuttings being seized and paying a hefty fine.

I brought cuttings from Vietnam before.

Kenny

I brought some back from Hawaii several years ago. I don't remember if I carried them on or put them in a checked bag, but you definitely have to have the certificate for them.

astrl

Hmmm... I guess I'll just have to figure out how to get a certificate then... Does anyone know how?

Here's the info on getting a phytosanitary certificate. If you are bringing back fewer than 12 you won't need an import permit from the USDA. Under the forms section of the site, and under the "Application Forms" is the file for the application for Phytosanitary certificate. If I were you, I would get them inspected then have them shipped to your home directly from the phillipines. Then you won't have to deal with uninformed customs agents in the US.

Kristopher

Here is a link that might be useful: Phyto Cert info

Thanks for the info Kristopher... I guess I'll try to figure out what I will do once I get there... but I'll surely not put it in my check baggage without a permit, don't wanna spend for something that they might just incinerate haha...

Also, I think after inspection you would need to put them in a box and seal them without opening again until you get to customs. At least that's what you have to do when leaving some countries. I am not really sure on all the minute details of the law. You might want to call the USDA and see if they can help give you more detailed info.

Kristopher

Yeah maybe ill just have to dig in deeper into this... thanks...