Proud Igorot Fights For Lineage & Right To Wear Bahag In Arnis Event
PROUD IGOROT – The Filipino people are deeply rooted in their diverse cultures and traditions carried on from generation to generation.
This is heavily emphasized by a member of the Philippine National Arnis squad who fought for his right to wear the traditional bahag. Chrisamuel Delfin, a proud Igorot, was nearly disqualified from the competition because of this.
The athlete won the gold medal in men’s arnis anyo category last week. He performed his talents and skills to the tune of ethnic instruments while dressed in his traditional native attire.
However, the international technical officials had denied Delfin’s request at first. They said that the Games could not risk having a wardrobe malfunction on a live broadcast.
According to a report from ABS-CBN, Senator Miguel Zubiri, president of the Philippine Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation said that Delfin is a proud Igorot and he is proud of his lineage. Although, they had problems because he wanted to wear his bahag without underwear.
Zubiri also stated that their coach said that it was better for the organizers to disqualify him than deny him of his heritage. But, Zubiri vouched for Delfin and said that he saw talent in the young athlete.
Eventually, Delfin made a compromise and was obliged to wear a string undergarment under his bahag. “We bought a thong and we showed it to the judges and they said, OK. He won the gold. It was a great performance”, said Zubiri.
In this modern time, people like Delfin remind us that we need to stay connected to our roots. His dedication and love for his tradition and culture is truly inspiring.
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