Bayani Stoles
bayani | bah-yah-nee | hero
According to Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines, the word bayani means “hero”. However, bayani encompasses more than being a hero, it represents a person’s commitment for the greater good, for the community and the nation. While our ancestors built the foundations and traditions we now comply to, we believe that the title of ‘bayani’ accurately describes the graduates’ success from their academic journeys, and to take up the mantle as leaders in wherever their aspirations take them.
Designed by Ben Hiramoto, AFIA Graphic Designer | 2019-20
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THE DESIGN
The stole is heavily inspired by the okir designs of the malong a landap, a traditional Maranao tubular garment worn by both men and women in everyday and ceremonial occasions. This stole features three of the four colors inspired by the Philippine flag: red, yellow, and blue. Red represents patriotism and valor, whereas blue represents peace, truth, and justice. Yellow represents unity, freedom, democracy, and sovereignty.
Some notable details include the three designs adorning the center of the stole. Each design takes inspiration from nature and elements from Filipino culture and history. The first design resembles the Philippines’ national tree, the narra tree, and it integrates aspects of the royal Spanish coat of arms. The second design resembles the waling-waling, a beautiful, rare orchid flower species found in the Southern Philippines. The third design takes inspiration from a Filipino warrior shield and combines the okir aesthetic with the Philippine national coat of arms.
Finally, the stole features the AFIA logo, which includes the Philippine sun and Andrews University’s flogo (flame logo). The fusion of the golden sun—representing unity, freedom, democracy, and sovereignty—and the flogo—symbolizing truth, wisdom, and God’s Holy Spirit—exemplifies how AFIA embodies Andrews’ values while unifying the community in sharing its Philippine heritage.
