LOOK: Team PH to wear uniforms designed by Avel Bacudio at 2025 Asian Youth Games opening
Team Philippines is set to wear uniforms by renowned designer Avel Bacudio at the opening parade of the 2025 Asian Youth Games.
The Philippine Olympic Committee on Tuesday, Oct. 7, gave a first look at Bacudio's creations for the upcoming event. They showcase the colors of the country's flag as well as its design on the left chest and POC's logo on the right.
Piña, bamboo, water lily, abaca, and saluyot fibers make up the collection intricately woven by weavers from different parts of the Philippines, including Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga, Ilocos, Abra, La Union, Aklan, and Bacolod.
"Any, if not all of Avel’s designs, are always dedicated and reflective of our country," POC president Abraham Tolentino said in a news release.
In an interview with PhilSTAR L!fe, Bacudio opened up about his goal of spotlighting and supporting local weavers every chance he gets.
"I want to educate the new generation about our culture and arts," he said. "I think bilang isang Pilipino at alagad ng sining, tungkulin kong magawa ito."
Such sense of duty is what sparked inspiration behind the look of the parade uniforms. "Kaya naisip ko na gamitin ang mga habi sa bawat sulok ng ating bansa. Ang Luzon, Visayas, at Mindanao, kahit saang lugar ay mayroong manghahabi," he continued. "Kailangan nating ipakita sa mundo na mayroon tayong sariling tela. Hindi man tayo nakikipagsabayan masyado sa mga bagong teknolohiya sa paggawa ng tela, ang tela na habi ay punong-puno ng istorya bilang isang Pilipino.”
"Ang kanilang isusuot sa Asian Youth Games," he told L!fe, "ay kasaysayan ng ating lahi noon at ngayon sa makabagong panahon."
Take a look at Bacudio's creations for the Games in the gallery below.
The 2025 Asian Youth Games will open later this month in Bahrain.
Our delegation will consist of 141 Pinoys, with Leo Mhar Lobrido (boxing) and Harlyn Serneche (volleyball) serving as flag bearers.