Let’s take a look back at our Filipino athletes’ official uniform during the Opening Ceremony.
Filipino designer Francis Libiran created the uniform titled “SINAG” for the Philippines’ Olympic team. The athletes wore the customized barongs as they rode down the River Seine during yesterday’s Opening Ceremony.
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Libiran was commissioned by the Philippine Olympic Committee, headed by its president Hon. Abraham N. Tolentino.
“The first thing that came to my mind is ‘How can we stand out among hundreds of athletes who are part of the parade as well?’” Libiran tells Lifestyle Asia.
“That’s when SINAG came in, incorporating the vibrant colors of the Philippine flag.”
Key Elements
According to Libiran, there are three prominent elements in the design that make it uniquely Filipino. These are the flag, the sun, and the Pintados tattoo patterns. The uniform is crafted from piña-jusi fabric and features a detachable silk organdy sling.
“The barong, inspired by the Sun which represents the Philippines, highlights the beauty of our islands and symbolizes our resilience. No matter how tough life gets, we will rise and shine,” the designer explains.
“The embroidery’s tattoo patterns of the Pintados symbolize our brave and fierce athletes, proudly raising our flag on the world stage.”
“The contemporary shield, adorned with the colors of the flag, sets SINAG apart from the traditional barong, giving it the appearance and feel of protective armor. Perfect for our athletes who are ready to face battle.”
Libiran continues to compare the athletes to the Pintados warriors and sees them as heroes. They are “brave and fierce enough to carry our flag onto the global arena,” he shares.
“I want them to feel like the heroes that they are, standing tall and proud as they conquer the world.”
Pride and Honor
When asked about his reaction upon seeing the final uniform, Libiran says that it was “a proud moment. Not just for me, but for the country.”
“It is just how I envisioned it. That moment, I knew that this would make the Philippine team stand out even from a far distance.”
“To the athletes, I believe, the uniforms gave them the encouragement to face the global stage, with the flag on their chests.”
Boxer and flag bearer Nesthy Petecio shared a photo of her wearing the uniform on Instagram. “Barong made by the legendary Francis Libiran. Nakaka-PROUD isuot!!” Petecio wrote.
As he anticipated the Opening Ceremony, Libiran says that he was honored to be given a chance to demonstrate that Filipino fashion is “dynamic, innovative, and bold.”
In the past, Libiran has also created designs for our national athletes in the Southeast Asian Games. It is his first time designing for the Philippine Olympic team.
“The fact that I was able to design multiple times for our national athletes, to me, means that a lot of people can see my vision—to show the world that Filipino artistry is indeed world-class,” he shares.
“I am grateful and honored to be perceived this way, and I am determined to bring even more pride to the country.”
Banner image via Instagram @emma_malabuyo.
