Noy’s gift to APEC leaders: Barong Tagalog

MANILA, Philippines – President Aquino’s gift to leaders attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in the country will be the barong Tagalog, the official national garb for Filipino men.

The barong will come in different designs made by Paul Cabral, the President’s favorite designer, according to deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte.

Valte yesterday said Cabral also designed variations of the barong for female leaders. 

She said Cabral used various inspirations to create the APEC leaders’ outfits. The sketches of the pieces will be shown to the public on Monday.

“It’s not per region but more of general Filipino inspirations,” Valte said.

The Palace official said former President Fidel Ramos likewise gave APEC leaders barongs when the country hosted the event in 1996.

For the welcome reception, Valte said the APEC-National Organizing Committee tapped famous local artists to perform for the visitors.

“The theme put together by the APEC-NOC and the Office of the President is beautiful,” Valte said.

She said she saw the list of world-class Filipino talents who will help welcome the delegates and visitors.

Valte said industrial and furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue would be part of the production for the APEC events.

Singer Paolo Valenciano will direct the entertainment while the musical director will be composer and arranger Louie Ocampo.

“There are a lot of names and we are thankful to the APEC-NOC and the artists, who offered their help,” Valte said.

Valte said APEC leaders and delegates would be treated to an array of performances by local talents, noting Filipinos are known for being great singers and dancers.

Despite negative developments like the bullet-planting scam at the country’s international airports, Valte expressed hope the APEC visitors would have a great experience here in the Philippines.