National seal

The Great Seal of the Republic of the Philippines. This seal was approved by Commonwealth
Act no. 731, congress of the Philippines, on July 3, 1946. It was designed by Galo B. Ocampo. It embodies three historical symbols. The sun occupies the point of honor in the center of the escutcheon. The three stars represent Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and occupy the shield. On the left side, on a field of blue, is a bald-headed eagle, and on the right side, on the field of red, is a lion.
National Hero: Jose Rizal. He wrote two novels in Spanish---Noli me Tangere and El Filibusterismo---both containing his ideas of liberty and advocating social and political reforms. These novels and his poems and essays sparked patriotism and love of native land.

National Day: June 12 (Independence Day). This marks the proclamation of Philippine independence from Spanish rule.

National Tree: Narra. This tree stands majestically, its crown adorned with golden flowers and its massive trunk covered with a grayish bark. The tree is a valuable source of medicine and dye. It is one of the world's best hardwoods.

National Costume: Barong Tagalog and Baro't Saya. For me the Barong Tagalog is a long-sleeved shirt made of peña or jusi cloth with elegant hand embroidery. For the woman, the baro't saya is a two-piece attire. The baro is a blouse with butterfly sleeves, and the saya is generally long skirt. It maybe worn in the style of Maria Clara, a balintawak, a patadyong, or a terno for formal occasion.