This Pinoy Barong is made from jusilyn fabric a modern fabric, often used to create Barong Tagalog (a traditional Filipino shirt) and embroidered in Lumban, Laguna - the embroidery capital of the Philippines. Embroideries include Filipino culture symbols such as:
the sun - a powerful symbol of liberty, freedom, and hope and most notably as a central image on the Philippine flag. The eight rays representing the first eight provinces that revolted against Spain: Manila, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija.
the maya bird - traditionally symbolizes the mayang pula, which was the national bird before the Philippine eagle and is admired for its resilience, humility, and ability to adapt and survive close to people.
the bahay kubo - a traditional Filipino house symbolizing resilience, resourcefulness, and communal living, built from local, sustainable materials like bamboo and nipa palm,
the carabao - or water buffalo, the national animal of the Philippines and symbolizes hard work, strength, and perseverance.
the coconut - known as the "tree of life" because of its immense usefulness, providing food, drinks, building materials, fuel, and even medicines.
the mango – the national fruit of the Philippines symbolizing tropical abundance, prosperity, and the country's rich natural resources and heritage.
the guitar - symbolizes courtship, social bonding, and heritage. It was a crucial instrument for traditional courtship via harana, where serenades were performed under a window to woo a woman. Today, it continues to represent community and togetherness during social gatherings, or salo-salo, and has become a symbol of cultural heritage, connecting generations through music.
the kite - symbolizes a variety of concepts, including dreams, hopes, and aspirations, as well as the struggle for freedom and progress. Kites also embody Filipino childhood and tradition, a common sight in rural communities.
the "tirador" toy (slingshot) - traditionally symbolizes resourcefulness, ingenuity, and a connection to nature, reflecting its historical use for hunting and gathering food. It also represents Filipino childhood, resourcefulness through the use of readily available materials, and has more recently been seen as a symbol of a niche sport among enthusiasts.
the fishball- symbolizing Filipino ingenuity, a connection to street food culture, and communal joy. They represent a source of livelihood for vendors, a taste of nostalgia for many, and a simple pleasure enjoyed together with friends and family.