Instead of the traditional togas, the graduates of Pasig City’s public elementary and high schools wore blue “sablay” as the local government opted for more practical options for students’ attire during their graduation ceremonies. The sablay is a garment inspired by the “malong,” which is an article of clothing used by many tribes in the Southern Philippines and the Sulu archipelago. It is traditionally worn during formal occasions like graduations, the most notable being the sablay used by the University of the Philippines (UP) during their commencement exercises. Pasig PIO / MANILA BULLETIN
Inscribed on Pasig’s sablay is the city’s current motto, “Umaagos ang Pag-asa sa Lungsod ng Pasig,” written in Baybayin characters. It also features the city’s symbol and a woven design meant to portray flowing water, colored in a mix of light blue and white. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said the local government is able to produce the woven sashes for the same price they pay to rent togas. However, instead of giving back their togas, the students can keep their sablay as a token of remembrance on their graduation day. Pasig PIO / MANILA BULLETIN
The local government is also able to support and generate livelihoods for Filipino weavers, the mayor added. He noted that there is an increasing number of Pasiguenos who are undergoing training for weaving in the city. Aside from the sash, the local government also provided the diploma and diploma holder, food, decorations, and other ceremony needs of the schools. Sotto congratulated the 17,000 graduates from 39 public elementary and senior high schools under the Pasig Schools Division Office. During this graduation season this July, he and other city officials graced the ceremonies as special guests and keynote speakers.