The Barong Tagalog
(Filipino traditional shirt)

 

The barong tagalog is the national attire of Filipino men.The cloth are usually made of banana fiber which is called jusi or the more luxurious pineapple fiber called pina.The shirt is normally hand embroidered and is usually white but may come in different colors and designs.

During the Spanish occupation of the Philippines (over 300 years from 1561-1889) the barong tagalog was required by the Spanish government for Filipinos to be worn at most times. "Wearing the barong which is worn untucked and transparent was used by Filipinos during that time to distinguish them as indios or people who comes from the lower class of the society (natives).

It was untucked because only Spaniards can tuck their shirts and it was transparent to see that they are unarmed so as to ensure that they will not attempt to kill or harm any Spaniards .

Presently, it is worn as a business attire using cotton for normal wear or jusi and pina for more formal occasions