The Popularity Of Barong Tagalog Further Waned During The American Colonial Period
During the American colonial period in the Philippines (1898-1946), the Barong Tagalog initially remained a popular garment among the Filipino upper class and political elite. However, as American influence increased and Western-style clothing became more prevalent, the popularity of the Barong Tagalog began to decline.
The American colonizers brought with them their own clothing styles and fashion trends, which gradually replaced traditional Filipino clothing. In addition, the American government encouraged Filipinos to adopt Western-style clothing as a way of modernizing and assimilating into American culture.
As a result, many Filipinos began to view the Barong Tagalog as old-fashioned and impractical, and the garment became associated with the pre-colonial past rather than the modern present. The decline in popularity of the Barong Tagalog was also influenced by economic factors, as the materials and craftsmanship required to make the garment were expensive and time-consuming.
Despite these challenges, the Barong Tagalog continued to be worn by some Filipinos as a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. Today, the Barong Tagalog is still worn on special occasions and formal events, and efforts are being made to promote its revival and preservation as a cherished part of Filipino cultural heritage.
