Polish model Karolina Sankiewicz’s surfing tribute in a Filipiniana gown with the Philippine flag goes viral—drawing praise and concern over the use of national symbols.
DUBAI — A video showing a woman surfing in a modernized Filipiniana gown while carrying the Philippine flag has gone viral ahead of Independence Day, sparking debate online about how national symbols should be used—and by whom.
Polish-born model, entrepreneur, and Dubai-based influencer Karolina Agata Sankiewicz, known online as @boss_baby001k, posted the now-viral clip on her Instagram and TikTok accounts. It shows her wake surfing in the waters of Dubai, dressed in a butterfly-sleeved terno-inspired gown while holding the Philippine flag aloft. The video plays against the backdrop of Lupang Hinirang, the Philippine national anthem.
“We wanted to honor Filipino culture and community—especially here in the UAE, where the Filipino community is such a vibrant and essential part of society,” Sankiewicz wrote in the caption. “I love you, Philippines.”
Surfing Across Cultures
Sankiewicz has lived in Dubai for over a decade and is the founder of K Surf Dubai and K Designs UAE, businesses that fuse surfing with lifestyle and fashion. Before that, she studied and lived in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she fell in love with the sport.
Today, her social media presence includes over 1 million Instagram followers and more than 700,000 TikTok followers, with her creative videos amassing more than 33 million likes. Her signature content often involves high-concept stunts on a surfboard—like applying makeup or balancing shopping bags while riding waves.
But it’s her tribute to the Philippines, featuring a traditional terno gown and the national flag, that has drawn the most attention yet—launching conversations that reach far beyond Dubai’s waters.
Mixed Reactions to a Patriotic Tribute
While many viewers praised the bold celebration of Filipino heritage and the gown’s creative twist, others took issue with the use of Philippine national symbols.
Under Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, the flag must not be used as a costume or prop, nor should the national anthem be played as background music for entertainment or promotional content.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has consistently emphasized in past advisories that while expressions of patriotism are welcome, they must remain within legal parameters. Even well-meant tributes, the commission has noted, should be mindful of the law’s intent to preserve the dignity of national symbols.
Recognition for Cultural Representation
Not everyone was critical. Many praised the video for introducing elements of Filipino culture to a global audience.
Fashion observers noted the creative fusion of heritage and performance: a terno reimagined in waterproof fabric, worn while surfing—merging elegance with strength.
One Instagram user commented, “It’s beautiful to see Filipino fashion and symbolism reach people across cultures. This isn’t something we see every day.”
A Cultural Conversation Surfaces
The video has prompted wider discussions around cultural appreciation and the boundaries of representation—especially when national identity is interpreted by someone outside the culture.
In a follow-up post, Sankiewicz acknowledged the attention her video received and reaffirmed that her tribute was intended as a celebration of Filipino culture. She emphasized her respect for the Philippines and expressed appreciation for the public engagement it inspired.
Between Celebration and Caution
As Filipinos prepare to mark Philippine Independence Day on June 12, the “Surfing Barbie” moment remains a conversation starter—raising questions about creative tribute, legal boundaries, and the responsibilities that come with cultural celebration.
No formal complaints have been filed, but the debate continues—highlighting the powerful resonance of Filipino identity, both at home and abroad.
