Francis Libiran launches a t-shirt version of the 'Sinag' barong Pinoy athletes wore at the Paris Olympics
Francis Libiran is making it possible for everyone to represent the Philippines in style, as the world-renowned designer launched a casual version of the "Sinag" barong worn by Filipino Olympians at the 2024 Paris Games.
According to Libiran, the "Sinag Shirt" carries forward the "spirit of national pride with a modern, everyday twist."
It features the Philippine flag's bold hues of red, blue, and white, and is accented by golden rays of the sun flowing diagonally across the back, symbolizing the "unity, progress, and the enduring strength of the Filipino spirit."
"This shirt is a reminder of the resilience and brilliance of the Filipino people. The SINAG Shirt lets us wear our pride not just on special occasions, but every day," Libiran said in a statement.
Fashion enthusiasts and proud Pinoys alike can order a Sinag Shirt at Libiran's official website, Facebook, and Instagram for P2,800. Sizes vary from extra small to extra large. You can also send further inquiries to Hartmann Communications.
During the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Filipino athletes flaunted Sinag barong Tagalog uniforms by Libiran, who also made the outfits for the Southeast Asian Games opening ceremony in 2019 and 2023.
The barong version, which is made from piña-jusi fabric, features a detachable silk organdy sling with embroidered sun rays and Pintados-inspired warrior patterns. This also symbolizes bravery and national pride, as well as the Philippine flag and the country's sunrises and sunsets.
Libiran, who is an architect and designer, is known for his detailed work, using custom laser-cut fabrics, Art Deco styles, and elegant shapes.
Over his 20-year career, he has dressed international celebrities, Filipino beauty queens, and Olympic athletes. He also gained global recognition by collaborating with Tyra Banks on America's Next Top Model, where he showcased his "Hello Kitty Couture Collection" in 2012 and his "Creatures of the Night" line in 2015.
Libiran also showcased his work at Los Angeles Fashion Week, alongside designing winning gowns for Filipina pageant queens like Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, Miss World 2013 Megan Young, and Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Beatrice Luigi Gomez.
