Filipino designer Ditta Sandico, a pioneer in the contemporary use of indigenous weaves, is set to make a statement at the Paris Paralympics, with her designs for Team Philippines for the opening ceremony parade in the French capital on Aug. 28. Her creations aim to showcase the nation’s rich cultural heritage while ensuring comfort and functionality for the athletes.
Assistant designer Janina Santos (far left) and Ditta Sandico (far right) with Team Philippines
The theme for the uniforms, “Heritage in Motion,” encapsulates the dynamic spirit of the athletes, and celebrates the Philippines’ traditional textiles, she says. Sandico’s designs incorporate banaca fabric—a sustainable blend of banana fiber and abaca—and Mangyan hand-embroidered motifs on their native habol, highlighting the country’s unique textile heritage.
For the women’s banaca uniforms, Sandico has opted for a color palette inspired by the Philippine flag, with red, blue, and accents of yellow. The banaca wrap tops feature subtle nods to traditional Filipino attire, such as the panuelo and maria clara collar, while maintaining a modern aesthetic. The ceremonial attire is designed to be breathable and lightweight, suitable for the Parisian summer.
Mangyan embroidered inserts on male athletes ceremonial wear
The men’s uniforms incorporate Mangyan hand-embroidered embroidery on habol fabrics as accents, adding a touch of traditional craftsmanship to the sporty tailored suits. The intricate embroidery patterns are unique to each piece, showcasing the skill and artistry of the Mangyan tribe.
Beyond aesthetics, Sandico has prioritized comfort and functionality in her designs. The uniforms are tailored to the specific needs of each athlete, ensuring one can move with ease while representing the Philippines on the parade from Place de la Concorde to Champs Elysee.
Ditta says Team Philippines’ ceremonial attire prioritizes practicality and ease of travel. Crafted from banaca fabric, the athletes’ wraps are travel-friendly—they can be rolled, folded, and packed into suitcases without wrinkling. The design and materials also ensure that the uniforms remain stylish and functional, regardless of travel conditions. “These features make the uniforms ideal for athletes, allowing them to travel comfortably and confidently to their next destination,” says the designer.
