A Guide to the Philippines’ National Costume (2024)

FAQs

What is the traditional costume of the Philippines? ›

The national costume of the Philippines, the baro't saya, is an elegant hybrid of Filipino and Spanish clothing styles. The term itself comes from the Tagalog words "baro at saya" or "blouse and skirt," still the basic components of the ensemble.

The Baro't Saya and Barong are traditional Filipino dresses that symbolize rural life in the Philippines. Today, the Baro't Saya and Barong are often worn to represent one's Filipino culture and identity, which many of my family members wear during holidays such as Christmas.

Baro at Saya, also referred to as Filipiniana, is the national costume of Filipina. The wearing of this clothing originated from the Spaniards based on an article written by Philippine Folk Life Museum Foundation. In fact, it was worn throughout 400 years of the Spanish colonization.

It is best to wear light or easy to dry clothing, waterproof or breathable trousers and sturdy but comfortable footwear. But if you're up for some outdoor parks or open spaces to walk in the city, light and breathable clothing is highly recommended.

Baro't Saya (literally "Shirt and Skirt") is the Filipino style of women's clothing. Traditionally, it is composed of a blouse and a long skirt with a "panuelo". It evolved many variants, some are regional.

The Sampaguita Jasmine (Arabian Jasmine) was adopted as the national flower of the Philippines since 1934. The Sampaguita bears a white, star-shaped flower which blooms for the full year. The flower opens at night and lasts for about one day, producing a unique sweet scent.

Narra is the national tree of the Philippines. The Narra tree is a symbol of many things. It is tall and symbolizes the lofty ideals of the Filipino people. It is tall, strong, enduring and signify the persistence of the Filipinos in their demand for freedom.

Popular dishes include lechón (whole roasted pig), longganisa (Philippine sausage), tapa (cured beef), torta (omelette), adobo (vinegar and soy sauce-based stew ), kaldereta (meat stewed in tomato sauce and liver paste), mechado (larded beef in soy and tomato sauce), pochero (beef and bananas in tomato sauce), afritada ...

The malong is a large, wrap-around tubular garment, measuring at least 165 x 165 cm. They are used by the Maranao and Maguindanao from southern Philippines. Women and malong (1970/1970) by Ayala Museum Research teamAyala Museum. It can be worn by women as a dress and by men over trousers as a formal wear.

Is it safe to wear jewelry in the Philippines? ›

Tourists in Manila should avoid public displays of their wealth. Keep your cash, jewelry and mobile phones hidden from view whenever possible.

Pack light and breathable cotton clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable. It's important to pack clothes that travel well and are versatile in every kind of weather. I always bring flowy dresses, shorts, and loose tops to keep cool, plus a couple of lightweight cardigans or sweaters.

Visiting the Home

Remove your shoes before you enter a Filipino household. Treat elderly people with great respect, and greet them first. Show interest in the well-being of all family members. Pay compliments to the hospitality offered at the home.

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The Filipiniana costume gradually spread across the Philippines before the end of the 17th century. The clothing restrictions imposed by the Spaniards brought about the use of starched pina and finer forms of sinamay and jusi (silk).

Dress in polka dots for the New Year! This easy, fun tradition is believed to bring wealth and good fortune with its coin-like patterns. Jump high as the clock strikes twelve! A classic Filipino belief to grow taller in the New Year, it's a simple and joyful tradition for all ages.