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Proudly Pinoy indeed! Fashion designer Francis Libiran shares his inspiration behind the design of this year’s Team Philippines ensemble.
Having the opportunity to design for Team Philippines for the second time in the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi is beyond exciting. I’m ecstatic to once again dress our incredible athletes with my creation, as I have always been passionate about fusing my own artistic flair with our culture.
As a Filipino who has dressed and styled different celebrities from across the world with my clothes, nothing will ever match the privilege of representing the Philippines.
Agila: A Symbol of Philippine Pride
In 2019, I incorporated the elements of the Philippine flag into the historic Flag Barong, which I exclusively crafted for the team when we hosted the 2019 SEA Games. It was fun to create its embroidery as I featured the Philippine flag’s symbolic sun and three stars. What’s more, I made sure that the patterns and details were bold so that they will properly represent the national flag, while merging it with my signature design aesthetics.
This year, I have named this creation “Agila.”
I decided to feature the soaring Philippine Eagle as the focal point of the Barong. And of course, I still used Philippine fibers and materials, which beautifully highlight my signature art deco embroidery.
The bird has been likened to the Filipino people with its uniqueness, strength, power, and its burning love for freedom. With that in mind, I confess that I was truly inspired by it.
With Strength and Determination
I learned about the rigorous training that these athletes have undergone and their unyielding passion for their respective sports and I couldn’t help but admire their commitment. While designing their ensemble, I visualized the blazing strength and vigor of the national symbol, which accurately resembled their might and prowess—committing their passion to each and every stitch.
This has further solidified my mission to carefully craft it into the Barong Tagalog in support of their admirable characteristics as our country’s representatives on this momentous occasion.
Indeed, the amazing opportunity to be a part of this significant event is an incredible glory. I cannot wait for Team Philippines to take pride in wearing my design. As they put themselves forward in the 31st SEA Games Hanoi clad in my creations, I wave my flag as a tribute to Team Philippines and to the entire nation.
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