Metro Manila, Philippines — The stage is set again for the State of the Nation Address (SONA) red carpet where Filipino fashion excellence will be displayed.
The Presidential Communications Office said on Sunday, July 21, that President Bongbong Marcos’s Barong is “a collaborative work of artisans from Lucban, Quezon, Taal, Batangas and Aklan.”
Some lawmakers also shared a preview of what they will wear on July 22.
Senator Risa Hontiveros said she will be wearing a sleek interpretation of the Baro’t Saya made of Piña designed by Joel Acebuche.
Hontiveros’ shoes will be from Zapateria Marikina and will use a handwoven “tikog” purse.
Senator Nancy Binay said she will grace the red carpet with an exquisite all-piña “terno” by designer Randy Ortiz, meticulously handloom-woven by the master artisans of Aklan.
The bodice captivates with its delicate “calado” patterns, vintage beadwork, and intricate dove-gray rose cutwork. The skirt is a vision of opulence, adorned with motifs of palay (rice stalks) rendered in grain-shaped pearl beads, and finished with a flourish of “calado” floral embroidery at the hemline.
Gabriela Women’s party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas said she will wear a black Filipiniana gown designed by Francis Yu. The gown will feature an artwork “symbolizing Filipino women’s resistance to foreign military aggression.”
ACT Teachers Rep.France Castro will highlight the call for salary increase for teachers and living wage for workers to address poverty in the country in her Francis Yu-made outfit.
Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel will highlight the need for the youth to unite for the future amid warring factions and powers in his Barong featuring a mural of an alternative future envisioned by Filipino youth painted as a toga hood.
House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco previously told the media that guests wearing outfits containing protest, derogatory statements or illustrations will be prohibited from attending the SONA. – Tristan Nodalo
