Jasmine as they call in other countries, Sampaguita in the Philippines. This tattoo from Monica of South Carolina is a version of Philippine national flower. Therewith is the last name of her amazing friend who means the world to her who also lives in the Philippines.

Tracy RC from Edmonton, Canada wanted something that will represent her culture but didn’t want to be plain. With that, she and The Kuya came up with this Sampaguita, Sun and Stars tattoo. She already had Baybayin tattoo on her ankle that’s why she wanted something different. Her tattoo showed the beauty of her Filipino culture and this time she placed it on her foot.

Love for his mother is indeed the main reason why Justin Valencia of Beale AFB, Ca had this Sampaguita formed like 3 stars and a sun tattoo in his body. Aside from love for his mother, his tattoo also signifies his love for his country..Philippines.

Like Justin’s design, what else can you think of that can give meaning to your love for your parents?

Fleur de lis is a French flower in that is somewhat similar to Sampaguita flower of the Philippines. Iris used to bundle the flower as a decorative design and symbol. Filipinos also bundles Sampaguita flowers and use  them to welcome or recognize people. It is also use as an offer to statue of Saints.

By the way, this is from Joy Chouinard of Stockon. She is 100% Filipina but was raised and got married in France. She had this tattoo because she thinks it’s beautiful, very Filipino and like her.  She turned the white flower into shade of blue so it will pop up.

If you will look closely at the colors blue and red, you will see that those are made from dots. Imagine how delicate and hard it is doing Gerald’s tattoo?

This great job are done by Juan from Ink Splat tattoo & Hardman tattoo.

According to Tyler from Boston, MA, he was adopted out of his Filipino family and he is recently opening up to what he had missed.

There was this song with lyrics “babalik ka din” that pertains to those Filipinos who are in abroad. The message is that no matter how far you are you’ll still be back to your homeland.

Same as what’s happening to Tyler right now. Looking back at your homeland is just as good as saluting proudly to what you really are.

3 Stars and a Sun, Sampaguita flowers and Sarimanok are the designs of this tattoo by R. Hahn of Orlando, Florida.

Sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines. It is white and star-like that symbolizes purity, strength, fidelity, dedication and devotion. On the other hand, Sarimanok is the Philippine name for chicken. It is a legendary bird of Maranao that is also their symbol of art.

The designs are just few of many symbolic pieces that Philippine art have. So come and explore great things and rich culture of the Philippines!

Inked at Lotus Land Tattoo, Vancouver BC, Canada

Notes from Rachael:

It’s far from done right now but it’s a tattoo of the haribon eagle, sampaguita, sun and stars, and my last name.

I hope she sends an updated photo once completed.