Tuesday, September 21, 2010

The Barong - Icon of Grace and pride




Magsaysay
Official Costume

Contemporaries: Aguinaldo and Alfonso XIII
The barong is the customary garb of Philippine presidents in attending formal official and formal functions. Largely popularized by Ramon Magsaysay, the barong showcases the Filipino's brilliance and grace - turning the lowly peasant's shirt into the icon of the Philippine presidency. The Marcos regime saw the official declaration of the Barong as the national attire of Filipino men.


Head of State

Being the head of a revolutionary government, Emilio Aguinaldo is accordingly garbed in military regalia, as was also customary for heads of state at the time.  
 
American hegemony in the Philippines saw the emergence of a culture and government patterned after the United States. Presidents during this period wore the suit in their official functions.

Presidents in their "Americana" best






The ascension of Magsaysay saw the emergence of the Barong as a formal attire, being worn by the president on formal occasions and official functions. Except for Garcia, all succeeding presidents would wear the Barong; with Marcos formally declaring the garment as the national attire.















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