VP Sara SONA 2023 outfit pays tribute to Moro tribe

At the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, Vice President Sara Duterte donned a traditional Maguindanaon dress to pay homage to the Moro tribe.

According to the Office of the Vice President, Duterte’s SONA 2023 dress is a Bangala paired with a trouser and a flowing inaul or malong.

It was designed by Cotabato City-based designer Israel Ellah Ungkakay.

“She will wear a traditional Maguindanaon dress to pay homage and celebrate the Moro tribe that are living mostly in South Central Mindanao,” the OVP said.

The Bangala features gold accessories that “symbolize the wealth and abundance of Mindanao’s natural resources.”

Inaul, on the other hand, is a Maguindanao fabric intricately handwoven using cotton and silk.

“It is a treasured cultural gem that profoundly reflects the pride, bravery, heritage, and history of the people of Maguindanao,” OVP added.

SONA 2023 saw a couple of changes in the fashion choices of attendees. Apart from playful floral numbers that is a clear departure from the serious formal attire of SONA pasts, this year also saw Sen. Imee Marcos don henna tattoos and traditional Cordillera wear.    

Marcos delivered his second SONA at the Batasang Pambansa Complex on Monday.

Classical opera singer Lara Maigue led the singing of the national anthem.

— LA, GMA Integrated News