By Mario Casayuran  Senator Juan Edgardo ‘’Sonny’’ M. Angara yesterday encouraged more schools to adopt “sablay”, an indigenous garment worn across the chest,  as a means to promote Filipino heritage and for practical purposes. Sen. Sonny Angara
(Facebook / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) This, as the Department of Education (DepEd) is reportedly deliberating on the use of the “sablay” in place of the traditional “toga” as the standard garb during graduation rites. Angara, chairman of the Senate finance committee, said local government units (LGUs) around the country could take their cue from the Pasig City government, and also start using the “sablay” for the graduation ceremonies of their public elementary and high schools. “This is one idea that was well thought of, long overdue, and ought to be supported. The ‘sablay’ not only represents the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, but is also more suitable for our climate. It also gives Filipino graduates an identity and as a plus, it’s also fashionable,” he said. DepEd Undersecretary for Administration Alain del Pascua, in an aide memoire, batted for the use of the “sablay” in place of the toga for graduation ceremonies. Del Pascua argued that the toga, with its deep Western roots, “is not Filipino” and “does not inspire loyalty to the nation.” He added that the use of the “sablay” could also boost local textile production and spur a resurgence of weaving traditions. “We should encourage and support efforts to promote the strengthening and propagation of Filipino heritage, culture and traditions. In many areas of the country, including indigenous communities, weaving is their source of livelihood and has been around for generations,” Angara said. Angara noted that there could be different designs for the sablay in the various regions, provinces, cities, municipalities or even towns. “The designs could be based on the heritage of the local indigenous peoples for instance or the ancient writing script ‘baybayin.’ The ‘sablay’ will be their canvas. It will bear the signature of a particular area or culture. It will be easily identified around the world as being uniquely Filipino,” he said. Angara has been spearheading a “Tatak Pinoy” or made in the Philippines initiative that seeks to encourage innovation among the different industries in order to add value to the products being offered and to improve competitiveness, among others. Part of the Tatak Pinoy initiative is the identification of specific industries or products that have the potential to grow and make a niche in the marketplace and to provide the necessary interventions to make this happen.