Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIV!
Quezon City

iS regan)

16" CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No.1_!.G

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Itis hereby declared the policy of the State that reverence and respect shall at all times be
accorded the flag, the anthem, and other national symbols which embody the national ideals and
traditions and which express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity.

This bill is being filed to reiterate and strengthen respect on the use of our national
symbols, such as the national flag, the anthem, motto, coat-of-arms, and other heraldic items for
they not only link our collective consciousness to a history, but also as a reminder of how we, as
a nation, must continuously strive for justice, equality, and freedom, which these symbols
signify.

‘These proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 8491, otherwise known as the
and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, are provided in the light of contemporary changes in
attitudes and idioms.

For these reasons, the passage of the bill is earnestly requested.

Aerator!

ELINA ESCUDERO



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Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

16 CONGRESS
First Regular Session

n°

HOUSE BILL NO}_| UG

Introduced by REP. EVELINA G. ESCUDERO.

AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE RULES ON THE PROPER USE AND DISPLAY OF OUR
NATIONAL SYMBOLS AND THE RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM,
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE “FLAG AND HERALDIC CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES”, AND FOR OTHER.
PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Sections 2 to 54 of Republic Act No. 8491 are hereby amended as follows:

“SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy ~ 1T IS HEREBY DECLARED THE
POLICY OF THE

HAT [R]Reverence and respect shall at all times
be accorded the flag, the anthem, and other national symbols which embody the

national ideals

and traditions and which express the principles of sovereignty and

national solidarity. The heraldic items and de shall seek to manifest the

national virtues and to inculcate in the minds and hearts of our people a just pride
in their native land, fitting respect and affection for the national flag and anthem,
and the proper use of the national motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items

and devices.

“SEC. 3. Definition of Terms — Whenever used in this Act, the term:

“[(@) “Military” shall mean all branches of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines including the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Jail

Management and Penology. and the Bureau of Fire Protection)

“(A) ‘ADVERTISEMENT OR INFOMERCIAL’ SHALL MEAN
ADVERTISEMENT OR ANY INFORMATION MATERIAL IN PRINT,
RADIO, TELEVISION, CINEMA, VIDEO AND THE LIKE, OUTDOOR
AND ELECTRONIC MEDIA, SEEKING TO PROMOTE INDIVIDUALS,


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ENTITIES, PRODUCTS OR SERVICES FOR COMMERCIAL,
POLITICAL PURPOSES OR INFORMATION CAMPAIGNS;

“(B) ‘DISPLAY’ SHALL RI R TO THE MANNER IN WHICH
THE FLAG IS PUBLICLY PRESENTED AND VENERATED.

“[(6)|(C) “Festoon’ shall mean to hang in a curved shape between two
points as a decoration, CURTAIN, DRAPE, ETC.;

“Ie }@D) “Fl:
otherwise;

shall mean the Philippine National Flag, unless stated

“[(d)] (E) ‘Fly’ shall mean the part of the flag outside the hoist or length;

“[() ‘Symbol’ shall mean any conventional sign which reveals man’s
achievement and heroism (for orders and decorations), identification, authority

and a sign of dignity (for coat-of-arms, logo and insignias)]

“(F) ‘GOVERNMENT
BRANCHES OF

SHALL MEAN ALL
R BUREAUS AND
ATTACHED AGENCIES, Ct OFFICES, LOCAL
GOVERNMENT OFFICES, © GOVERNMENT-OWNED = AND/OR
CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS, GO’ FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONS, EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, AND THE ARMED
FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES INCLUDING ITS BASIC COMPONENT
UNITS;

“{()](G) ‘Half-Mast° shall mean lowering the flag to one-half the distance
between the top and bottom of the staff. IF THE FLAG IS DISPLAYED IN A

HANGING POSITION OR USED IN A PARADE AS A SIGN OF
MOURNING, HALF-MAST SHALL MEAN PLACING A BLACK
RIBBON ON THE BLUE FIELD HOIST SIDE;

“(H) ‘HALYARD’ SHALL MEAN THE LONG ROPE WHERE
THE FLAG FASTENS AND WHICH RUNS UP THE LENGTH OF THE
FLAGPOLE;

(I) ‘HANGING POSITION’ SHALL MEAN THE WHITE FIELD
SHALL BE ON TOP, THE BLUE FIELD SHALL BE TO THE RIGHT
(LEFT OF THE OBSERVER) IN TIME OF PEACE; THE WITTE FIELD
SHALL BE ON TOP, AND THE RED FIELD TO THE RIGHT (LEFT OF

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“(J) ‘HERALDIC ITEMS/HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES’
SHALL MEAN COAT-OF-ARMS, SEALS, LOGOS, INSIGNIAS,
BADGES, FLASHES, PATCHES, ORDERS AND DECORATIONS,
MEDALS, STARS, CITATIONS, LAPEL PINS, TROPHIES, DRY, WAX
OR WET SEALS, AND IMPRINTS ON LETTERHEADS, ENVELOPES
AND CARDS;

“[(@)]GX) ‘Hoist’ shall mean the part of the flag nearest the staff or the

canvass to which the halyard is attached;

“[(h)|(L) “Inclement Weather’ shall mean [that a typhoon signal is raised
in the locality] A WEATHER CONDITION SUCH AS RAIN OR STRONG
WIND THAT WILL UNFAVORABLE FOR THE RAISING OF IE
FLAG SINCE IT WILL LI TY THAT SHOULD BE
ACCORDED TO THE FLAG;

[(i)](M) ‘National Anthem’ shall mean the Philippine National Anthem,
ENTITLED “LUPANG HINIRANG”:

(N) ‘NHCP’ SHALL MEAN THE NATIONAL HISTORICAL
COMMISSION OF THE PHILIPPIN’

“{@I(O) ‘Official Residences’ shall mean Malacafiang, and other
government-owned structures where the President resides, [and other structures
occupied by] the Philippine ConsulateS or Embassies abroad, AND OTHER
STRUCTURES OCCUPIED BY NATIONAL AND LOCAL PUBLIC
CIALS;

“[([(®) ‘Places of Frivolity* shall mean places of hilarity marked by or

providing boisterous merriment or recreation; [and]
“{(1) “Institute” shall mean the National Historical Institute.];

“(Q) ‘PHILIPPINE SUN’ SHALL MEAN THE GOLDEN
SUNBURST WITH EIGHT EQUALLY SPACED RAYS DISPLAYED IN
THE FLAG. EACH RAY HA 'G ONE MAJOR BEAM, TWICE AS
BROAD AS THE TWO MINOR BEAMS ON EITHER SIDE;

“(R) ‘SYMBOL’ SHALL MEAN ANY CONVENTIONAL SIGN


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SHOWN OR DISPLAYED IN MEDALS, CITATIONS, ORDERS,
AND DECORATIONS OR IDENTIFICATION OR AUTHORITY SUCH
AS COAT- OF-ARMS, LOGOS AND INSIGNIAS;

“(S) ‘UNIFORMED SERVICE’ SHALL MEAN ALL BRANCHES
OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPIN! THOSE OF THE
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE, BUREAU OF JAIL MANA

AND PENOLOGY, BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION, BUREAU
OF IMMIGRATION, BUREAU OF CUSTOMS, PHILIPPINE
COAST GUARD, AND OF OTHER AGENCIES USING RANK INSIGNIA;

MENT

“(T) ‘VEXILLARY ITE! SHALL MEAN NATIONAL, LOCAL,
HOUSE FLAGS, OR ADMINISTRATIVE, INSTITUTIONAL,
CORPORATE, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL BANNERS; AND.

“(U) 100) TO 120° METRONOME’ SHALL MEAN THE
REGULATED AURAL, VISUAL OR TACTILE PULSE TO ESTABLISH
A STEADY TEMPO IN THE RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL
ANTHEM.”

CHAPTER I
THE NATIONAL FLAG
[A. Design of the National Flag]

“SEC. 4. DESIGN OF THE

TIONAL FLAG ~ The flag of the
Philippines shall be blue, white and red with an eight-rayed golden-yellow sun
and three five- pointed stars, as consecrated and honored by the people.”

IB. Hoisting and Display of the National Flag]

«g)

. 5. HOISTING AND DISPLAY OF THE NATIONAL FLAG. ~
The flag shall be HOISTED OR displayed in all public buildings, official

sidences, public plazas, and institutions of learning everyday throughout the

ee

“SEC. 6. WHERE FLAG SHOULD BE PERMANENTLY
DISPLAYED ~ The flag shall be permanently hoisted, day and night throughout

the year, in front of the following: [at] (A) Malacafiang Palace; [the] (B)

SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES BUILDING: [Congress of the Philippines}


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(©) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES building; (D) Supreme Court building:
[the] (E) Rizal Monument in Luneta, CITY OF Manila; (F) Aguinaldo Shrine in
Kawit,

vite; (G) Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan; [the] (H) Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng mga Bayani IN TAGUIG CITY, METRO
MANILA; (I) ALL MEMORIALS DEDICATED TO THE VETERANS OF
THE MILITARY; (J) Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion YN THE
NORTH CEMETERY, CITY OF MANILA; (K) MARCELA
AGONCILLO HISTORICAL LANDMARK IN TAAL, BATANGAS; (L)
PINAGLABANAN HISTORICAL LANDMARK INSAN JUAN CITY,
METRO MANILA; (M) all International Ports of Entry and (N) all other
places as may be SUBSEQUENTLY designated AND MARKED by the
[Institute] NHCP.

“The flag, ON THE ABOV!

[ATED PLACES, shall be properly
illuminated at night.”
>. 7. DISPLAY OF FLAG IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS

AND
The flag shall also be displayed in private buildings and
stalls] ON FLAGPOLES in front of
said buildings [every April 9 (draw ng Kagitingan); May | (Labor Day); May 28

residences or raised [in the open on fla

(National Flag Day) to June 12 (Independence Day); last Sunday of August
(National Heroes Day); November 30 (Bonifacio Day); and December 30 (Rizal
Day); and December 30 (Rizal Day); on such other days as may be declared by
the President and/or the local chief executives] DURING FLAG DAYS, AS
PROVIDED IN SEC. 25 OF THIS ACT.

“The flag may also be displayed throughout the year in private buildings
or offices or raised [in the open on flag-staffs] ON FLAGPOLES in front of
private buildings: Provided, That [they] THE OCCUPANTS OF THE SAID

BUILDING SHALL observe flag-raising ceremonies in accordance with the
IMPLEMENTING rules and regulations (RR) to be issued by the [Office of the

President] NHCP.”

[SEC. 8. All government agencies and instrumentalities, and local

government offices. goverment-owned corporations and _local
government units are enjoined to observe flag day with appropriate ceremonies.
Socio-civie groups, non- __ government organizations and the private sector are

exhorted to cooperate in making _the celebrations a success.]


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“SEC. [9] 8. DISPLAY OF FLAG ON SEAFARINGVESSELS. ~ The
flag shall be flown on [merchant ships] ALL SEAFARING VESSELS of
Philippine registry [of more than one thousand (1000) gross tons and on all naval

vessels].

“On board [naval] SEAFARING ve:

s, the flag shall be displayed on
the flagstaff at the stern when the ship is at anchor. The flag shall be hoisted

tothe gaffat the aftermast when the ship is at sea.

“SEC. [10] 9. THE BLUE, RED AND WHITE FIELDS OF THE
FLAG ~ The flag, if [flown from a flagpole] HOISTED shall have its blue field
on top in time of peace and the red field on top in time of war; if in a hanging
position, THE WHITE FIELD SHALL BE ON TOP, the blue field shall be to.
the right (left of the observer) in time of peace, and the WHITE FIELD SHALL

BE ON TOP, and the red field to the right (left of the observer) in time of war.”

[The flagpole staff must be straight and slightly tapering at the top.

“SEC, [11]10. FLAGPOLE IN THE OPEN FIELD. ~ If planted on the

ground, the flagpole shall be at a prominent place and shall be of such
height as would give the flag the commanding position in relation to the buildings
in the vicinity. THE FLAGPOLE STAFF MUST BE STRAIGHT AND
SLIGHTLY TAPERING AT THE TOP.

“If attached to a building, the flagpole shall be on top of its roof or

anchored on a sill projecting at an angle upward.

“If on stage or platform or government office, the flag shall be at the left
OF THE OBSERVER (facing the stage) or left of the office upon entering,

“SEC. [12|11. THE PHILIPPINE FLAG WHEN FLOWN WITH
ANOTHER FLAG. ~ When the Philippine flag is flown with another flag, the
flags, if both are national flags, must be flown on separate staffs of the same
height and shall be of equal size. The Philippine flag shall be TO THE LEFT
OF THE OBSERVER AND hoisted first and lowered last.

“If the other flag is not a national flag, it may be flown DURING
SPECIAL OCCASIONS in the same [lineyard] HALYARD as the Philippine

flag but below the latter and it cannot be of greater size than the Philippine flag.


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“SEC. [13] 12. THE PHILIPPINE FLAG WHEN DISPLAYED WITH

ANOTHER FLAG. ~ When displayed with another flag, the Philippine
flag shall be on the right of the other flag (LEFT OF THE OBSERVER). If
there is a line of other Mags, the Philippine flag shall be [in the middle of the line]
AT THE LEFTMOST OF THE OBSERVER.

“When carried in a parade with fl

which are not national flags, the

Philippine flag shall be in front of the center of the line.

“ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL FOR THE DISPLAY OF THE
PHILIPPINE FLAG SHALL BE CONTAINED IN THE IRR TO BE
ISSUED BY THE NHCP PURSUANT TO THE COMMON
PROVISIONS STATED IN THIS ACT.”

“SEC. [14] 13. PROPER USE, DISPOSAL AND REPLACEMENT OF
WORN OUT FLAG. — TH FLAG SHALL BE REPLACED
IMMEDIATELY BY THE CONCERNED AGENCY/
INSTITUTION/OFFICE W ) SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR,
AND TEAR.

[A] THE flag worn out through wear and tear shall not be thrown away. It
shall be TURNED OVER TO THE APPROPRIATE BOY SCOUTS OR
GIRL SCOUTS LOC: COUNCIL COMMITTEE FOUND IN THE
NEAREST SCHOOL WHO SHALL CONDUCT PROPER DISPOSAL
RITES ON THE WORN OUT FI

desecration. [The flag shall be replaced immediately when it begins to show signs

AGIS {solemnly burned) to avoid misuse or

of wear and tear.

“THE MANNER OF DISPOSAL OF THE WORN OUT FLAG
1 THE RULES TO BE ISSUED BY

SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WI
THE NHCP.

“FLAGS WHICH ARE OF HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE,
WHETHER LOCAL OR NATIONAL, SHALL BE PRI
KEPT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RULES ON CONSERVATION
AND PRESERVATION OF THE NHCP.”

ERVED OR

“SEC. [15] 14. APPROPRIATE TIME FOR FLAG RAISING AND
TOWERIN

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be on the mast at the start of official office hours, AND shall remain flying
throughout the day.

“SEC. [16] 15. M

ER OF DISPLAYING THE FLAG. — The flag

may be displayed:
“(a) Inside or outside a building or on stationary OR MOVABLE
flagpoles. If the flag is displayed indoors on a flagpole, it shall be placed at the

left of the observer as one enters the room:

“(b) From the top of the flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or a

commanding position in relation to the surrounding buildings:

“(¢ ) From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, canopy,

balcony or facade of a building;

“(d) In a suspended position from a rope extending from a building OR

LAMPOST to A pole erected away from the building;
(¢) Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and stars on top; and

“(f) Hanging in a vertical position across a street, with the blue field
pointing east, if the road is heading south or north, or pointing north if the road is

heading east or west,

“The flag shall not be raised [when the weather is inclement] DURING
INCLEMENT WEATHER. If already raised PRIOR TO INCLEMENT
WEATHER. the flag shall not be lowered.”

“SEC. [17]16. MANNER OF HOISTING THE FLAG. ~ The flag shall

be hoisted to the top briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

“The flag shall never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, flood,

water or other objects.

“After being lowered, the flag shall be handled and folded solemnly as

part of the ceremony.”

[C. Conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony]


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“SEC. [18] 17. FLAG CEREMONY IN PUBLIC OFFICES AND
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. — All government offices and educational
institutions shall henceforth observe the flag-raising ceremony every Monday
morning and the flag lowering ceremony every Friday afternoon. The ceremony
shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing for] AND
MANDATORY singing of the Philippine National Anthem.”

[SEC. 19. The Office of the President upon the recommendation of the

Institute shall issue rules and regulations for the proper conduct of flag

ceremony.]

“SEC. [20] 18 DIGNITY IN THE OBSERVANCE OF FLAG
CEREMONY. ~ The observance of the flag ceremony in official or civic
gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing for] AND
MANDATORY singing of the NATIONAL anthem in its original F

and march tempo.”

“SEC. [21] 19. FLAG-RAISING C1

and in formation fi

EMONY. - During the flag-raising
mony, the assembly shall s facing the flag. PROPER
ANNOUNCEMENT SHALL BE MADE PRIOR TO THE SINGING OF
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. At the moment the first note of the anthem is

cel

heard, everyone in the premises shall come to attention; moving vehicles shall
stop. All persons present shall place their right palms over their chests, those with
hats shall uncover, while those in military, scouting, security guard, and citizens
in military training uniforms shall give the salute prescribed by their regulations,

which salute shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem.

“The assembly shall sing the Philippine [njNational [a]Anthem,
accompanied by a band, if available, and at the first note, the flag shall be raised
briskly.

“The same procedure shall be observed when the flag is passing in review

or in parade.”

“SEC. [22] 20. FLAG-LOWERING CEREMONY. — During the flag
lowering, the flag shall be lowered solemnly and slowly so that the flag shall be

down the mast at the sound of the last note of the NATIONAL anthem. Those in


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the assembly shall observe the same deportment or shall observe the same

behavior as for the flag-raising ceremony.”

[D. Half Mast]

“SEC. [23] 21. FLAG IN HALF-MAST. - The flag shall be flown at half-
mast as a sign of mourning on all the buildings and places [where it is displayed,
Act] WHERE THE DECEASED WAS HOLDING

OFFICE, on the day of official announcement of the death of any of the

as provided for in thi

following officials:

“(a) The President or a former President, THE FLAG SHALL BE
FLOWN AT HALF-MAST for ten (10) days;

“(b) The Vice-President, the Chief Justice, the President of the Senate, and

the Speaker of the House of Representatives, THE FLAG SHALL BE FLOWN

AT HALF-MAST for seven (7) days; and

“(c ) {Other persons to be determined by the Institute,| THE

HE SUPREME COURT, THE CABINET,

FLAG SHALL BE FLOWN AT HALF-MAST for any period less than seven
(7) days,

[*The flag shall be flown at half-mast on all the buildings and places
where the decedent was holding office, on the day of death until the day of
interment of an incumbent member of the Supreme Court, the Cabinet, the Senate
or the House of Representatives, and such other persons as may be determined by

the Institute.]

“The flag when flown at half-mast shall be first hoisted to the peak for a
moment then lowered to the half-mast position. The flag shall again be raised

briskly to the peak before it is lowered for the day.”

IE. Casket]

“SEC. [24]22. FLAG OVER THE CASKET. - The flag may be used to

anver the eactete af the hanared dead af the military veterane of nrevinie ware


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national artists, and of civilians who have rendered distinguished service to the
nation, as maybe determined by the local government unit concerned. In such
cases, the flag shall be placed such that the white triangle shall be at the head and
the blue portion shall cover the right side of the caskets [.]; PROVIDED,
THAT IN AN OPEN CASKET, TO VIEW THE CORPSE, THE
NATIONAL FLAG SHALL BE FOLDED AND PLACED OVER IT. The

flag shall not be lowered to the grave or allowed to touch the ground, but shall be

folded solemnly and handed over to the heirs of the deceased.”

IF. Pledge to the Flag]

SEC, [25]23. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, ~ The following shall be
the Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag:

“Ako ay Pilipino

Buong katapatang nanunumpa

Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag

Na may dangal, katarungan at kalayaan

Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang

Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at

Makabansa

GIAN
PHILIPPINE FLAG shall be recited while standing with the right hand with

TO THE

“[Such pledge] THE PLEDGE OF Al

palm open raised shoulder high. Individuals whose faith or religious beliefs
prohibit them from making such pledge must, nonetheless, show full respect

when the pledge is being rendered by standing at attention.”

“SEC. 24. OATH OF PATRIOTISM. ~ THE FOLLOWING SHALL
BE THE OATH OF PATRIOTISM TO THE PHILIPPINES WHICH
SHALL BE RECITED BY STUDENTS IN ALL LEVELS IN ADDITION
TO THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE PHILIPPINE FLAG:

INIIBIG KO ANG PILIPINAS.

1TO ANG AKING LUPANG SINILANGAN,
ITO ANG TAHANAN AKING LAHL



AKO’Y KANYANG KINUKUPKOP AT TINUTULUNGAN
UPANG MAGING MALAKAS, MALIGAYA, AT
KAPAKIPAKINABANG.

BILANG GANTI, DIRINGGIN KO ANG PAYO NG AKING MGA
MAGULANG,

SUSUNDIN KO ANG MGA TUNTUNIN NG AKING PAARALAN,

TUTUPARIN KO ANG MGA

NGKULIN NG ISANG

MAMAMAYANG MAKABAYAN AT MA‘!
PAGLILINGKURAN KO ANG AKING BAYAN
NANG WALANG PAG-IIMBOT
AT NANG BUONG KATAPATAN.
SISIKAPIN KONG MAG! YAY NA PILIPINO,
SA GAWA,

UNURIN SA BATAS.

THE OATH OF PATRIOTISM SHALL BE RECITED WHILE
STANDING WITH THE RIGHT HAND WITH THE PALM OPEN
SHOULDER HIGH. IT SHALL BE RECITED IN ALL BASIC
‘TION INSTITUTIONS AFTER THE SINGING OF THE
NATIONAL ANTHEM. INDIVIDUALS WHOSE FAITH OR RELIGIOUS
BELIEFS PROHIBIT THEM FROM MAKING SUCH OATH MUST,
NONETHELESS, SHOW FULL RESPECT WHEN THE OATH IS BEING
RENDERED BY STANDING AT A’

“SEC. [26] 25. FLAG DAYS. ~ The period from May 28 (NATIONAL,
FLAG DAY) to June 12 (INDEPENDENCE DAY) of each year is declared as
Flag Days, during which period all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of
government, business establishments, institutions of learning and private homes
are [enjoined] OBLIGATED to display the flag: PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
THAT THE FLAG SHALL BE DISPLAYED IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS
AND RESIDENCES OR RAISED ON FLAGPOLES IN FRONT OF SAID
BUILDINGS EVERY APRIL 9 (4R4W NG KAGITINGAN); MAY 1
(LABOR DAY); MAY 28 (NATIONAL FLAG DAY) TO JUNE 12
(INDEPENDENCE DAY); LAST SUNDAY OF AUGUST (NATIONAL
HEROES DAY); NOVEMBER 30 (BONIFACIO DAY); AND DECEMBER
30 (RIZAL DAY); AND ON SUCH OTHER DAYS AS MAY BE



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DECLARED BY THE PRESIDENT AND/OR LOCAL CHIEF
EXECUTIVES.”

“SEC. 26. OBSERVANCE OF FLAG DAYS, - ALL GOVERNMENT
AGENCIES AND INSTRUMENTALITIES, AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
OFFICES, GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND/OR CONTROLLED.
CORPORATIONS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS ARE
ENJOINED TO OBSERVE FLAG DAY WITH APPROPRIATE
CEREMONIES. SOCIO-CIVIC GROUPS, NON-GOVERNMENT
ORGANIZATIONS AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR ARE EXHORTED TO.
COOPERATE IN MAKING THE CELEBRATION A SUCCESS.”

IH Specifications of the National Flag]

SEC. 27. FLAG PROPORTIONS. ~ The flag shall have the following
proportions. The width of the flag, ONE (1); the length of the flag, TWO (2); and

the sides of the white triangle, ONE (1).~

“SEC. 28. FLAG TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS. — The technical
specifications OF THE FLAG shall be as follows:

“The blue color shall bear Cable No. 80173; the white color, Cable No.
80001; the red color, Cable No. 80108; and the golden yellow, Cable No. 80068.”

“SEC. 29. STANDARDS FOR FLAG REQUISITION. ~ In order to

establish uniform criteria in the maki

1g of our national flag and to guarantee its
durability by the use of quality materials, the following standards and procedures

shall be observed:

(a) All requisitions for the purchase of the Philippine National Flag must
be based on strict compliance with the design, color, crafismanship and material

requirements of the [G] Government;

“(b) All submitted samples of flags by accredited suppliers offered for
purchase for government use shall be evaluated as to design, color and
crafismanship specifications by the [Institute] NACP, through its Heraldry and
Display Section, which shall stamp its approval or disapproval on the canvass
reinforcement of the flag sample submitted. The samples shall be sent to the

[Institute] NHCP by the requisitioning office, not by the flag supplier; and


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“() The Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) or the
Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the Department of Science and
Technology (DOST) shall evaluate the quality of material of all flag samples and
certify whether the fabric for the blue, white, red and golden-yellow colors,
including the canvass submitted, conform to government requirements as to
quality of the material. The samples shall be sent annually to the ITDI/PTRI by
the manufacturer. The laboratory test results shall be submitted by the said office

to the [Institute] NHCP.”

“SEC. 30. FLAG PURCHASE INSPECTION. — All deliveries of the
flags requisitioned by the government shall be inspected by the requisitioning

agency’s internal inspector and by the Commission on Audit (COA) using the

flag stamped approved by the [Institute] NHCP as referenc

“[SEC. 31,] In carrying out [its] THE ABOVE responsibilities [under
Section 4 hereof,] the [Institute] NHCP, COA, AND the ITDI/PTRI shall prepare
guidelines to be approved by [the Office of the President] ALL THE PARTIES
CONCERNED.”

“SEC, [32]31. STRICT COMPLIANCE WITH REQUIREMENTS.

All government agencies

and instrumentalities shall ensure that the

requirements under this Act with respect to the standards, requisitions and

delivery of the national flag are strictly complied with.”

“SEC, [33]32. FLAG REQUISITION BUDGET. ~ All departments,
agencies, offices, and instrumentalities of the government, government-owned or
controlled corporations, local government units, including barangays, shall
include in their annual budgets the necessary outlay for the purchase of the

national flag.

FURTHERMORE, ALL LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS ARE
DIRECTED TO ALLOCATE APPROPRIATE SUMS FOR A FLAG CODE,
PUBLIC AWARENESS PROGRAM AS WELL AS THE PROPER
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE FLAG CODE.”

[L. Prohibited Acts}

“SEC. [34]33. PROHIBITED ACTS. -1t shall be prohibited:


(a) To mutilate, deface, defile, trample on or cast contempt or commit

any act or omission casti

dishonor or ridicule upon the flag for over its
surface], ANTHEM, SEAL, MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS, AND OTHER
HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES:

“(b) To dip the flag to any person or object by way of compliment or
salute;

“(c) To use the flag:
(1). As [a] drapery

-stoon, tablecloth;

“(2) As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or other objects;
“(3) As [a pennant] DRAPERY in the hood, side, back and top of
motor vehicles; ALL CLOTH FLAGS SHOULD BE DISPLAYED

FREELY WAVING IN THE AL

“(4) As a staff or whip;
“(5) AS COVERING (F) For unveiling OF monuments or statues;
and
“(6) As trademarks or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels
or designs.

“(d) To display the fl

(1) Under any painti

g or picture:
“(2) Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted alofi and be
allowed to fall freely;

“@3) Below any platforn

OF

) In discotheques, cockpits

and day clubs, casinos, gambling
joints an places of vice or where frivolity prevails.

“(e) To wear the Flag, SEAL, COAT-OF-ARMS [in whole or in part] as
PART OF a costume or [uniform] AS A FASHION ACCESSORY OR
MERELY AS A DESIGN ELEMENT: PROVIDED, THAT THE FLAG,
SEAL, COAT-OF-ARMS, MAY BE INCORPORATED AS PART OF THE.
UNIFORM OF FILIPINOS REPRESENTING THE PHILIPPINES IN
INTERNATIONAL SPORTS, CULTURAL OR SCIENTIFIC
COMPETITIONS OR OFFICIAL FUNCTIONS WITH THE APPROVAL
OF THE NHCP;

“(Q) To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings,
advertisements, or imprint fof any nature] on the flag[;], SEAL, COAT-OF-
ARMS OR ANY REPRESENTATION THEREFORE;



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“(g) To print, paint or attach a representation of the flag, SEAL, COAT-
OF-ARMS on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other articles of
merchandise; AND

Ih.
diplomatic establishments, and non offices of international organizations.]

“{i] (HD). To use [.] OR display THE FLAG, SEAL, COAT OF ARMS,
or be part of any advertisement or infomercial |;] WITHOUT THE
APPROVAL OF THE NHCP [and].”

[j. To display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens.]

fo display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other

CHAPTER II
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

“SEC. [35]34. TITLE OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. — The National

Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang.”

EC. [36)35. LANG!

JAGE AND LYRICS OF THE NATIONAL
ANTHEM. ~ The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language
within or [without] OUTSIDE the country. The following shall be the lyries of
the National Anthem
“Bayang magilive,
Perlas ng Silanganan,
Alab ng puso,
Sa dibdib mo'y buhay.
Lupang hinirang,
Duyan ka ng magiting,
Sa mantulupig,
Di ka pasisiil.
Sa dagat at bundok,
Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw,
May dilag ang tula,
At awit sa paglayang minamahal.
Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y
Tagumpay na nagniningning,

Ang bituin at araw n

Kailan pa ma’y di magdidilim{,].
Lupa ng araw, ng luvathati't pagsinta,

Buhay ay langit sa piling mo,

re Eieeyer nel pc eee animes iran


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Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.

“SEC. [37]36. RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. — The
rendition of the National Anthem [,whether played or sung shall be in accordance
with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe,] SHALL BE IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE MUSICAL ARRANGEMENT AND
COMPOSITION OF JULIAN FELIPE, IN 2/4 BEAT WHEN PLAYED;
AND WITHIN THE RANGE OF 100 TO 120 METRONOME, IN 4/4 BEAT
WHEN SUNG. THE NHCP IN COORDINATION WITH THE PROPER
GOVERNMENT AGENCY, SHALL DISSEMINATE AN OFFICIAL
MUSIC SCORE SHEET THAT REFLECTS THE MANNER IN WHICH

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM SHOULD BE PLAYED OR SUNG.”

“SEC. [38]37. MAD

=R OF SINGING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. -
When the National Anthem is played at a public gathering, whether by a band [or
by singing or both.] or [reproduced by any means) THROUGH THE
PLAYING OF A RECORDING IN ANY FORMAT, the attending public shall
sing the NATIONAL anthem. The si SHALL BE MANDATORY AND

must be done with fervor.

“As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention and face the
Philippine flag. if there is one displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the
band or the conductor. At the first note, all persons shall execute a salute by
placing the right palms over their left chests. [Those in military, scouting,
citizen’s] THE MILITARY AND THOSE in military training and security
guard uniform shall give the salute prescribed by their regulations. The salute

shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem.

“INDIVIDUALS WHOSE FAITH OR RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
PROHIBIT THEM FROM SINGING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM MUST,
NONETHELESS, SHOW FULL RESPECT WHEN THE NATIONAL
ANTHEM IS BEING SUNG OR PLAYED ON RECORD BY STANDING
AT ATTENTION.

“The NATIONAL anthem shall not be played and sung [for]
PRECEDING EVENTS OF mere recreation, amusement or entertainment

purposes except on the following occasions:


“(a) International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a

representative;

“(b) NATIONAL OR [L] Local SPORTS competitions;

“Yc ) During the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and

television stations;

“(d) Before the init

and last screen

of films or before the opening of
theater performances; PROVIDED, THAT THE OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS SHALL BE MANDATED
TO ENFOR¢ PROPER DECORUM AND IMPLEMENT THE

PERTINENT PROVISIONS OFTHIS ACT; and

“(e) Other occasions as may be allowed by the [Institute] NHCP.”

‘SEC. [39]38. STRICT COMPLIANCE WITH RULES FOR THE
RENDITION OF THE (ONAL ANTHEM. ~ All officials and.employees of

the national and local governments, ency or instrumentality thereof,

including government-owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned entities

or offices displa ernment institutions of lea

ning are

hereby directed to comply

trictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of
the anthem. Failure to observe the rules shall be a ground for administrative

discipline.”

“SEC. 39. OBLIGATIONS OF EDUCATION REGULATION
AGENCIES. ~ THE DEPED, CHED AND TESDA SHALL ENSURE THAT
THE NATIONAL ANTE
COMMITTED TO MEMORY BY ALL STUDENTS OF BOTH PUBLIC
AND PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, AND PERFORMED
DURING THE FLAG CEREMONY CONDU IN ACCORDANCE
WITH THE RULES AND REGULATIONS ISSUED BY THE NHCP. IN
ADDITION, THEY SHALL MAKE AVAILABLE THE VOCAL, PIANO.
OR BAND SCORES OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM, AS ADOPTED BY
LAW, TO ALL PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS, AS WELL AS THE
GENERAL PUBLIC.

|, AS ADOPTED BY LAW, SHALL BE

CHAPTER III
‘THE NATIONAL MOTTO, THE NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS,


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AND THE GREAT SEAL

“SEC. 40. THE NATIONAL MOTTO. ~ The National Motto shall be
“MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-TAO, MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA”

“SEC. 41. THE NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS. ~ The National Coat-of-

“[Paleways] FIELD of two (2) pieces, [azure and gules; a chief argent]
BLUE WITH AN EAGLE AND RED WITH A LION RAMPART, A
WHITE FIELD studded TARS equidistant from each

three (3) [mullets] §
other; and, in point of honor, [ovoid argent overall the sun rayonnant with eight
minor and lesser rays] WHITE OVAL WITH THE PHILIPPINE SUN AT
THE CENTER. Beneath shall be the scroll with the words “REPUBLIKA NG
PILIPINAS,. inscribed thereon.”

[CHAPTER V]
(THE GREAT SEAL}

“SEC. 42. THE GREAT SEAL. — The Great Seal shall be circular in
form, with the arms as described in the preceding section, but without the scroll

and the inscription thereon.

“Surrounding the whole shall be a double marginal circle within which
shall appear the words “Republika ng Pilipinas.’ For the purpose of placing The

Great Seal, the color of the arms shall not be deemed essential but tincture

representation must be use:

[The Great Seal shall bear the National Motto.]

“SEC. 43. WHERE 10 AFFIX THE GREAT SEAL. ~ The Great Seal
shall be affixed to or placed upon all commission signed by the President and
upon such other official documents and papers of the Republic of the Philippines
as may be provided by law, or as may be required by custom and usage. The

President shall have custody of the Great Seal.”

CHAPTER [VI] IV
[OFFICIAL SEAL AND OTHER ]
HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES


“SEC. 44. ADOPTION OF HERALDIC AND SIMILAR DEVICE:

Any government entity

including the military, may adopt appropriate
HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES SUCH AS MEDALS, coat-of-arms,
administrative seals, logo, insignia, badges, patches. and banners; and initiate
awards, citations, orders or decorations: as may be authorized by Congress or the

Office of the President.”

“SEC. 45. REPORTORIAL REQUIREMENTS. ~ Such heraldic devices

and items shall be filed with the [Institute] NHCP for recording and evaluation as.

to precedence, design, customs and traditions. The [Institute] NHCP shall

promulgate the corresponding rules and regulations which shall be submitted for

approval to the Office of the President or to Congress.”

“SEC. 46. PURCHASE OF HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES
FROM ACCREDITED SOURCES. ~ All government offices including the
military are hereby ordered to purchase all heraldic items and devices from
manufacturers accredited and authorized by the [Institute] NHCP. Such items and
devices shall be subject to inspection by the purchasing agency’s internal
inspector and the COA representative using the design and specifications
approved by the Office of the President or by the Congress, through the [Institute]
NHCP.

[SEC. 47. No government official or employee shall accept any orders or
decorations from any foreign government without the consent of Congress, and
without prior evaluation and documentation of such order or decoration by the

Institute.]

CHAPTER [VI] V
PENALTIES

“SEC. [48] 47. PUBLIC CENSURE/CANCELLATION OF PERMIT. —
Failure or refusal to observe the provisions of this Act: and any violation of the
corresponding rules and regulations issued by the [Office of the President,]
NHCP shall after proper notice and hearing. be penalized by public censure

which shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.”

“The Department of Education [Culture and Sports] (DepEd) and the

Commission on Hi

her Education (CHED), upon the recommendation of the


20

[Institute] NHI and after the proper notice and hearing, shall cause the
cancellation of the recognition or permit of any private educational institution

which fails or refuses to observe the provisions of this Act for the second time.”

[*SEC. 49 — The Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DE

)

and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) shall ensure that the National
Anthem, as adopted by law, shall be committed to memory by all students of both
public and private educational institutions, and performed during the flag
ceremony conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations issued by the
Officer of the President. In addition, they shall make available the vocal, piano or

band scores of the National Anthem, as adopted by law, to all private and public

schools, as well as the general public.]

’ FOR VIOLATIONS. — Any person
which violates any of the provisions of this Act
shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than [Five] FIFTY
thousand pesos [(P5,000)| (PITP 50,000.00) nor more than [Twenty] ONE
HUNDRED thousand pesos [(P20,000)] (PHP 100,000.00) [,] for] AND by
imprisonment for not more than fone (1) year] TWO (2) YEARS: [or both such
fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court: Provided, That for any
second and additional offenses, both fine and imprisonment shall always be

imposed:| Provided, [further] Th

in case the violation is committed by a

juridical person, its President or Chief Executive Officer thereof shall be liable.

NHCP MAY PRESCRIBE IN THE IMPLEMENTING
RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THIS ACT OTHER ACTS OR
OMISSIONS WHICH SHALL BE DEEMED DISRESPECTFUL, AND
THUS PROHIBITED, RELATIVE TO THE FLAG, NATIONAL
ANTHEM, GREAT SEAL, COAT-OF-ARMS, NATIONAL MOTTO, AND

OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES.”

“SEC. 49. CITIZEN’S ARREST. - ANY CITIZEN SHALL HAVE
THE POWER TO CONDUCT A CITIZEN’S ARREST IF A PERSON IS.
ACTUALLY VIOLATING ANY OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT IN
HIS/HER PRESENCE AND CAN SUMMON ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT.
OFFICERS TO ASSIST HIM IN CONDUCTING CITIZEN’S ARREST.
ALL SECURITY PERSONNEL AND USHERS IN MOVIEHOUSES ARE
LIKEWISE AUTHORIZED TO ARREST THE VIOLATORS.”


Seoxwmrn)d])>an

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CHAPTER [VII] VI
COMMON PROVISIONS

“SEC. [51] 50. APPROPRIATIONS. — TO CARRY OUT THE
PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT, THE AMOUNT OF FIFTEEN MILLION
PESOS (Php 15,000,000.00) SHALL BE INITIALLY APPROPRIATED.
OUT OF THE FUNDS OF THE NATIONAL TREASURY. SUBSEQUENT
APPROPRIATIONS SHALL BE PROVIDED BY CONGRESS IN THE
ANNUAL BUDGET OF THE NHCP UNDER THE GENERAL
APPROPRIATIONS ACT.”

“SEC. 51. ISSUANCE OF RULES AND REGULATIONS AND
THEIR ENFORCEMENT. - The [Institute] NHCP shall issue the necessary

rules and reg

days after [effectivity] THE APPROVAL OF THIS ACT. The [Institute]

lations [to implement the provisions of Act] within ninety (90)

NHCP shall! submit its rules and regulations to the Office of the President and the

Congress of the Philippines.’

“{SEC. 52 -] The [Institute] NHCP shall [also] be responsible for the
strict enforcement of the provisions of this Act. It may call upon any government
department, agency, office, or government instrumentality, including government
corporations and local government units, for such assistance as it may deem

necessary for the effective discharge of its functions under this Act.”

“{Sec. 53. Separability Clause — If any provision, or part hereof, is held
invalid or unsconstitutional, the remainder of this Act not otherwise affected

shall be valid and subsisting.

“SEC 52. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. — 1K FOR ANY REASON, ANY
PORTION OR PROVISION OF THIS ACT SHALL BE DECLARED
UNCONSTITUTIONAL, OTHER PARTS OR PROVISIONS HEREOF
WHICH ARE NOT AFFECTED THEREBY SHALL CONTINUE TO BE

IN FULL FORCE AND EF

54. Repealing Ci

e. — Any law, presidential decree or issuance,

executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation


AED

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contrary to part or parts thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, are

hereby repealed or modified accordingly. |

“SEC. 53, REPEALING CLAUSE. — ALL LAWS, DECREES,
EXECUTIVE ORDERS, RULES AND REGULATIONS, PART OR PART:
ISTENT WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS AC
ARE HEREBY REPEALED OR MODIFIED ACCORDINGLY.”

THEREOF, INCOD

SEC. 2. Effectivity ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) di

publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation,

whichever comes earlier.

Approved,

s from the date of its