A moment of pride for Filipinos as the torch is carried at the opening ceremonies of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
The Philippine Olympic silver medalists, boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, and the rest of the Philippine Olympic delegates did not only symbolize the country’s flag, but also proudly wore the “Sinag” Barong.
Filipinos were fascinated with the barong designed by renowned designer Francis Libiran. The “Sinag” is inspired by the sun’s rays, which represent hope and pride.
“When I was commissioned by the Philippine Olympic Committee, headed by its president Hon. Abraham N. Tolentino, to work on such an important representation for our athletes, I thought, I have to make them shine and stand out on the opening day of the Olympic games. With such a momentous opportunity before us, there is no better way to represent them and our country than with our very own Filipino barong Tagalog,” Libiran said.
“Crafted from piña-jusi fabric and featuring a detachable silk organdy sling with embroidered sun rays and Pintados-inspired warrior patterns, these barongs symbolize bravery and national pride. In detail, every element of the design showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines,” he posted on Instagram.
In designing the barong, the colors of the Philippine flag serve as an inspiration, which features a detachable silk organdy blue and red sling encasing the left shoulder as well as the upper arm, hanging across the torso, and an exquisite yellow sun ray embroidery on the chest.
“The embroidery is inspired by the Pintados warriors, which depicts fierceness in battle. It then covers the left shoulder and upper arm, carefully draping around the torso with a bright yellow sun ray pattern decorating the chest, just like a warrior’s armor symbolizing bravery and hope,’ Libiran explained.
Libiran has previously created uniforms for athletes competing in South East Asian Games, but this is the very first time he has made a masterpiece outfit for Filipino Olympians.
“I strongly believe that our athletes are heroes on their own, and if creating the “Sinag” Barongis is able to encourage and inspire them as they carry our flag, then that, for me, is already manifesting victory.”
Photo courtesy: When in Manila Magazine