‘Sinag’ Barong for Pinoy athletes in Paris 2024 Olympics opener

Metro Manila, Philippines – The country’s athletes in the Paris 2024 Olympics will showcase to the global stage Filipino design excellence with their “Sinag” Barong.

Olympic medalists, boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, and the rest of the Philippine delegation will wear the Francis Libiran creation during the opening ceremony.

“Sinag” is inspired by the rays of the sun indicating hope and pride combined with the vibrant colors of the flag.

“I thought, I have to make them shine and stand out on the opening day of the Olympic games,” said Libiran in a statement.

“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,” he added.

Libiran said the Olympic Barong is of piña-jusi fabric from Kalibo, Aklan.

“It consists of a detachable, contemporary silk organdy blue and red sling with colors that pay tribute to our Philippine flag.” Libiran said.

The Filipino designer added embroidery art inspired by Pintados warriors and bright yellow sun ray pattern decorating the chest to signify hope and bravery.

“I strongly believe that our athletes are heroes in their own right and if creating the ‘Sinag’ Barong is able to encourage and inspire them as they carry our flag, then that for me is already manifesting victory,” Libiran said.

Twenty-two Filipino athletes will compete in Paris 2024, the most since the 1992 edition in Barcelona.

The Olympics will run from July 26 to August 11.