3 Stars and a Sun
PHILIPPINE SYMBOL
Symbol: Philippine pride and Philippine ancestry
Modern Filipino patriotism is represented by this icon of Philippine pride. Nothing could be more popular than the “3 Stars and a Sun” symbol that dominate t-shirts, tattoos and other Filipino-related merchandise.
The “3 Stars and a Sun” is derived from the Philippine flag. The three five-pointed stars represent the 3 main regions of the Philippines; Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The eight-rayed sun represents our ties with colonial Spain and represented the eight original provinces of the Philippines; Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac.
The “3 Stars and a Sun” has been popularized by notable artists. The late rap musician, Francis Magalona, was one of the more popular bearers of this symbol. He sports a “3 Stars and a Sun” tattoo, proudly displaying his Filipino heritage.
The Diaspora of the symbol might have led to its commercialization. But to the enlightened Filipino, it is a badge displaying his pride in his race. To be worn with conviction and as a mark of his identity. A symbol of Philippine pride and Philippine ancestry.