OUST (F Re PRESENTATIVES

SEVENTEENTHCONGRESS ee
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) RECENNED
First Regular Session ) ore

—0.8-AUG-2015-

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ane ee
Introduced by Representative Maximo B. RadriquezFJt: x

House BillNo, 25.76

DPEOSTRATION UNIT
IND INDEX SERVICE

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill was originally introduced as House Bill No. 4199 during the
Fourteenth Congress where it was approved by the House of Representatives and
transmitted to the Senate. It was again re-filed during the 15” Congress as House Bill
No. 603 where it was again approved by the Committee on Basic Education and
Culture and consolidated into House Bill No. 465, approved on 2" reading, approved
‘on 3” reading and was transmitted to the Senate where it was not acted upon. It was
re-filed during the 16" Congress where it was again approved by the House of
Representatives.

The Constitution declares that it is a policy of the state to inculcate in the
youth patriotism and nationalism. One simple way to inculcate nationalism and
Patriotism not just to the youth but to Filipinos of all ages is to emphasize the
ireotance of the saluting the national flag and the singing of the Philippine National

inthem.

The national flag is the symbol of the country while the national anthem
embodies and expresses the aspirations, dreams, ideals, longings, commitment and
determination, nationalism and patriotism, sentiment and spirit of the people. The
Supreme Court has also held that the flag is an emblem of national sovereignty, of
national unity and cohesion and of freedom and liberty which it and the Constitution
guarantee and protect

Republic Act No. 8491 otherwise known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the
Philippines states that reverence and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag,
the anthem, and other national symbols which embody the national ideals and which
express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity. This law imposes on
violators a penalty of fine of PS, 000.00 to P20, 000.00 or imprisonment of one year
or both. However, despite the existence of such law, many Filipinos do not accord
the respect due our Philippine Flag and National Anthem, This violation usually
happens in cinemas where moviegoers do not even stand up when the national
anthem is being played,

In the column Opinion of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 12, 2008. Jet
Hernandez, wrote:

“I've noticed that some moviegoers at SM cinemas don't
show respect to the Philippine National Anthem while it's being
played. In one instance, | called the attention of a moviegoer who
remained sitting and eating with his wife and kid as the anthem was
“video-played.” He just snapped back, ‘How can | stand, I'm eating.”

XXX

“The singing of our national anthem should be treated as a

sacred and solemn act, not unlike the singing of a prayer to God.


“Minus all the economic and political b.s. in the county, the
singing of the Philippine National Anthem should provide the only
sane moment that reminds a Filipino that he or she is still a Filipino,
and everyone else in this country that he or she is still in the
Philippines.

“Kaya kung ayaw mong magbigay-pugay sa pambansang
awit, get out of the Philippines. This country is not for you.”

This article was cited by Conrado de Quiros in his column in Philippine Daily
Inquirer, of even date, to wit:

“That was a nice point Jet Hernandez made in his letter last
Monday. He is dismayed, he said, that many Filipinos do not stand
up when the National Anthem is played. While in one of the SM
cinemas at one time, he noticed a family who kept to their seats
when the Anthem was played. He reproached the man, who
snapped back, ‘How can I stand when 'm eating?"

“In fact says Hernandez, there is such a thing as a Flag and
Heraldic Code of the Philippines that imposes a fine of P5, 000-P20,
000 on violators. He demands that establishments like SM enforce
that law and has several suggestions on it. | leave the reader to look
itup himseff (Opinion, May 12).”

He emphasized Jet Hemandez’s statement that minus all the economic and
political b.s. in this country, the singing of the Philippine National Anthem should
provide the only sane moment that reminds a Filipino that he or she is still a Filipino.

He further states:

“| myself didn't know there was such a law - you learn
something every day - and Im glad we do. | share Hernandez's
sentiments wholeheartedly. Any practice or ritual that reminds us of
something we keep forgetting, probably because we want to, which
is our national identity, is wroth enforcing, apart from retaining.”

In view of the foregoing, this bill seeks to increase the penalties for
disrespectful conduct during the playing of the Philippine National Anthem.

Wherefore, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

MAXIMO . RODRIGUEZ, JR.


SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS )
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session )

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Introduced by Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez and
Representative Maximo B. Rodriguez, Jr.

House BillNo,_ 2076
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 the House of Representatives of the Philippines in

Congress assembled:

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

folows:

“SEC, 2. Declaration of Policy - IT IS HEREBY DECLARED THE
POLICY OF THE STATE THAT [RJReverence 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 devices 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 — As used in this Act

[(@) °Military” shall mean all branches of the Amed 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 REFERS TO
ADVERTISEMENT OR ANY INFORMATION MATERIAL IN PRINT, RADIO,
TELEVISION, CINEMA, VIDEO AND THE LIKE, OUTDOOR AND
ELECTRONIC MEDIA, SEEKING TO PROMOTE INDIVIDUALS, ENTITIES,
PRODUCTS OR SERVICES FOR COMMERCIAL, POLITICAL PURPOSES
OR INFORMATION CAMPAIGNS;

“(B) DISPLAY REFERS TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FLAG IS
PUBLICLY PRESENTED AND VENERATED;

“{(b)] (C) ["Festoon” shall mean] FESTOON REFERS to hang in a curved
shape between two points as a decoration, CURTAIN, DRAPE, ETC.;


“{(c)] (©) {'Flag’ shall mean] FLAG REFERS TO the Philippine National
Flag, unless stated otherwise;

“{(@)] (E) Fly” shall mean] FLY REFERS TO the part of the flag outside
the hoist or length;

“[(e) “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 insignia);)

“(F) GOVERNMENT ENTITIES REFER TO ALL BRANCHES OF THE
GOVERNMENT, THEIR BUREAUS AND ATTACHED AGENCIES,
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES,
GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND/OR -CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS,
GOVERNMENT —— FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, _ EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTIONS, AND THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES
INCLUDING ITS BASIC COMPONENT UNITS;

“{(f) (G) ["Half-Mast” shall mean] HALF-MAST REFERS TO 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 REFERS TO THE LONG ROPE WHERE THE FLAG
FASTENS AND WHICH RUNS UP THE LENGTH OF THE FLAGPOLE;

“(l) HANGING POSITION REFERS TO THE WHITE FIELD SHALL BE
ON TOP, THE BLUE FIELD SHALL BE TO THE RIGHT (LEFT OF THE
OBSERVER) IN TIME OF PEACE; THE WHITE FIELD SHALL BE ON TOP,
AND THE RED FIELD TO THE RIGHT (LEFT OF THE OBSERVER) IN
TIME OF WAR;

“() HERALDIC ITEMS/HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES REFER TO
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;

“{(9)] (K) ("Hoist" shall mean] HO/ST REFERS TO the pait of the flag
nearest the staff or the canvass to which the halyard is attached;

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

“{@] (M) (‘National Anthem” shall mean] NATIONAL ANTHEM REFERS
TO the Philippine National Anthem, ENTITLED "LUPANG HINIRANG",

“@)] (N) [Official Residences” shall mean] OFFICIAL RESIDENCES
REFER TO 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 OFFICIALS;

“{()] (©) [’Places of Frivolity” shall mean] PLACES OF FRIVOLITY
REFER TO places of hilarity marked by or providing boisterous merriment or
recreation; and)

“{()) “Institute” shall mean the National Historical Institute];

“(P) PHILIPPINE SUN REFERS TO THE GOLDEN SUNBURST WITH
EIGHT EQUALLY SPACED RAYS DISPLAYED IN THE FLAG. EACH RAY
HAVING ONE MAJOR BEAM, TWICE AS BROAD AS THE TWO MINOR
BEAMS ON EITHER SIDE;

"(Q) SYMBOL REFERS TO ANY CONVENTIONAL SIGN WHICH
REVEALS MAN'S ACHIEVEMENT AND HEROISM USUALLY SHOWN OR
DISPLAYED IN MEDALS, CITATIONS, ORDERS, AND DECORATIONS
OR IDENTIFICATION OR AUTHORITY SUCH AS COAT-OF-ARMS,
LOGOS AND INSIGNIAS;

\(R) UNIFORMED SERVICE REFERS TO ALL BRANCHES OF THE
ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES, THOSE OF THE PHILIPPINE
NATIONAL POLICE, BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY,
BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION, BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION, BUREAU
OF CUSTOMS, PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD, AND OF OTHER AGENCIES
USING RANK INSIGNIA;

“(8) VEXILLARY ITEMS REFERS TO NATIONAL, LOCAL, HOUSE
FLAGS, OR ADMINISTRATIVE, INSTITUTIONAL, CORPORATE, AND
OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL BANNERS; AND

“(T) 100 TO 120 METRONOME REFERS TO THE REGULATED
AURAL, VISUAL OR TACTILE PULSE TO ESTABLISH A STEADY TEMPO
IN THE RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.”

CHAPTER |
THE NATIONAL FLAG
IA. Design of the National Flag}

"SEC. 4. DESIGN OF THE NATIONAL 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.”

{B. Hoisting and Display of the National Flag)

"SEC. 5. HOISTING AND DISPLAY OF THE NATIONAL FLAG. ~ The
flag shall be HOISTED OR displayed in all public buildings, official
residences, public plazas, and institutions of learning every day throughout
the year.”

“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] (C) HOUSE OF


REPRESENTATIVES building; (D) Supreme Court building; [the] (E) Rizal
Monument in Luneta, CITY OF Manila; (F) Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit,
Cavite; (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) Musoleo de los Veteranos dela Revolucion IN THE NORTH
CEMETERY, CITY OF MANILA; (K) MARCELA AGONCILLO HISTORICAL
LANDMARK IN TAAL, BATANGAS; (L) PINAGLABANAN HISTORICAL
LANDMARK IN SAN 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] NATIONAL HISTORICAL
COMMISSION OF THE PHILIPPINES (NHCP),

“The flag, AT THE ABOVE-STATED PLACES, shall be properly
illuminated at night.”

“SEC. 7, DISPLAY OF FLAG IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS AND
RESIDENCES. ~ The flag shall also be displayed in private bulldings and
residences or raised [in the open on flag-staffs] ON FLAGPOLES in front of
said buildings [every April 9 (Araw 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); December 30
(Rizal Day); and 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 (IRR) to be issued by the [Office of
the President] NHCP.”

“SEC. 8, All govemment agencies and instrumentalities, and local
government offices, government-owned corporations and local government
units are enjoined to observe flag day with appropriate ceremonies. Socio-
civic groups, non-govemment organizations and the private sector are
exhorted to cooperate in making the celebrations a success.)"

“SEC. [9] 8. DISPLAY OF FLAG ON SEAFARING VESSELS. ~ 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 vessels, the flag shall be displayed on
the flag-staff at the stern when the ship is at anchor. The flag shall be
hoisted to the gaff at 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 ona sill projecting at an angle upward.

“If on a 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.”

“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 flags, the Philippine flag shall be [in the middle of the line]
AT THE LEFTMOST OF THE OBSERVER.

“When carried in a parade with flags 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. — THE FLAG SHALL BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY
BY THE CONCERNED AGENCY/ INSTITUTION/ OFFICE WHEN IT
BEGINS TO SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR AND TEAR,

“{A] THE flag wom out through wear and tear, shall not be thrown away.
it shall be TURNED OVER TO THE APPROPRIATE BOY SCOUTS OR
GIRL SCOUTS LOCAL COUNCIL COMMITTEE FOUND IN THE NEAREST
SCHOOL WHO SHALL CONDUCT PROPER DISPOSAL RITES ON THE
WORN OUT FLAGS [solemnly burned] to avoid misuse or desecration. [The
flag shall be replaced immediately when it begins to show signs of wear and
tear]

“THE MANNER OF DISPOSAL OF THE WORN OUT FLAG SHALL BE
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RULES TO BE ISSUED BY THE NHCP.”


“SEC. [15] 14. APPROPRIATE TIME FOR FLAG RAISING AND
LOWERING. ~ The flag shall be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. It
shall be on the mast at the start of official office hours, AND shall remain
flying throughout the day.”

"SEC. [16] 15. MANNER 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 a flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or a
commanding position in relation to the surrounding buildings;

“(c ) From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, canopy, balcony
or facade of a building;

“(d) In @ suspended position from a rope extending from a building OR
LAMPOST to A pole erected away from the building;

“(e) Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and stars on top; and

“() 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.”

IC. Conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony)

“SEC. [18] 17. FLAG CEREMONY IN PUBLIC OFFICES AND
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. — All government offices and educational
institutions shell henceforth observe the flag-raising ceremony every Monday
moming and the flag lowering ceremony every Friday aftemoon. The
ceremony shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing [or]
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 [or] AND MANDATORY
singing of the NATIONAL anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march
tempo.”

“SEC. [21] 19. FLAG-RAISING CEREMONY. ~ During the flag-raising
ceremony, the assembly shall stand in formation 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 heard,
‘everyone in the premises shall come to attention; moving vehicles shall stop.
All persons present shall place their right palms over their chest, those with
hats shall uncover; while those in military, scouting, security guard, and
citizens 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 [aJAnthem,
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 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 mouming on all the buildings and places [where it is
displayed, as provided for in this Act) WHERE THE DECEASED WAS
HOLDING OFFICE, on the day of official announcement of the death of any
of the 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 INCUMBENT
MEMBERS OF THE SUPREME COURT, THE CABINET, THE SENATE OR
THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AND SUCH OTHER PERSONS AS
MAY BE DETERMINED BY THE NHCP, THE FLAG SHALL BE FLOWN AT
HALF-MAST for any period less than seven (7) days.

“TO GIVE DUE RECOGNITION AND TRIBUTE TO THE SELFLESS
DEDICATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS, THE FLAG SHALL BE
ALLOWED TO BE FLOWN AT HALF-MAST AS A SIGN OF MOURNING
‘ON THE DAY OF THE OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE DEATH OF A
RETIRED OR INCUMBENT PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER, FOR A PERIOD
OF NOT MORE THAN FIVE (5) DAYS, ON DEPARTMENT OF


EDUCATION (DEPED) SCHOOLS OR DISTRICT OFFICES WHERE THE
DECEASED WAS ASSIGNED TO TEACH

“[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.”

[E. Casket]

“SEC. [24] 22. FLAG OVER THE CASKET. - The flag may be used to
cover the caskets of the honored dead of the military, veterans of previous
wars, national artists, and of civilians who have rendered distinguished
service to the nation, as maybe determined by the local govemment unit
concemed, 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, 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

“(Such pledge] THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE PHILIPPINE
FLAG shall be recited while standing with the tight hand with 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.
ITO ANG AKING LUPANG SINILANGAN.
ITO ANG TAHANAN NG AKING LAH.


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 MGATUNTUNIN

NG AKING PAARALAN

TUTUPARIN KO ANG MGA TUNGKULIN
NG ISANG MAMAMAYANG MAKABAYAN
AT MASUNURIN SA BATAS.
PAGLILINGKURAN KO ANG AKING BAYAN
NANG WALANG PAG-IIMBOT

AT NANG BUONG KATAPATAN.

SISIKAPIN KONG MAGING ISANG

TUNAY NA PILIPINO,

SA ISIP, SASALITA, AT SA GAWA,

“THE OATH OF PATRIOTISM SHALL BE RECITED WHILE STANDING
WITH THE RIGHT HAND WITH THE PALM OPEN RAISED SHOULDER
HIGH. IT SHALL BE RECITED IN ALL BASIC EDUCATION 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
ATTENTION.”

[G. Flag Days]

"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 leaming 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 (ARAW 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); DECEMBER 30
(RIZAL DAY); AND ON SUCH OTHER DAYS AS MAY BE DECLARED BY
THE PRESIDENT AND/OR LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVES.”

“SEC. 26. OBSERVANCE OF FLAG DAYS. - ALL GOVERNMENT
AGENCIES AND INSTRUMENTALITIES, 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 making 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, craftsmanship and
Material requirements of the [G]Govemment;

*(e) All submitted samples of flags by accredited suppliers offered for
purchase for govemment use shall be evaluated as to design, color and
craftsmanship specifications by the [Institute] NHCP, 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

“(c) 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, conforms to government
Tequirement as to quality of the material. The samples shall be sent
annually to the ITDV/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 reference.”

“[SEC. 31] In carrying out [its] THE ABOVE responsibilities [under
Section 4 hereof], the [Institute] NHCP, COA, AND the ITDV/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 instrumentalties shall ensure that the
Tequirements 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 goverment, 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.”

[U. Prohibited Acts]
“SEC. [34]33. PROHIBITED ACTS. - It shall be prohibited
“(a) To mutilate, deface, defile, trample on or cast contempt or commit
any act or omission casting dishonor or ridicule upon the flag [or 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;

“) Touse the flag

“(1) As [al drapery, festoon, tablecloth;

“(2) As covering for cellings, walls, statues or other objects;

“@) As [a pennant] DRAPERY in the hood, side, back and top of motor
vehicles; ALL CLOTH FLAGS SHOULD BE DISPLAYED FREELY WAVING
IN THE AIR;

“(4) Asa staff or whip;

48) AS COVERING (F) For unveiling OF monuments or statues; and

“@) As trademarks, or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or
designs.

“(d) To display the flag:
“(1) Under any painting or picture;

“2) Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed
to fall freely;
“@) Below any platform; or

"(4) In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling
joints and 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;


“ To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings,
advertisement, or imprint [of any nature] on the flag(], SEAL, COAT-OF-
ARMS OR ANY REPRESENTATION THEREFOR;

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

[h. To display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other
diplomatic establishments, and in offices of intemational organizations;]

‘fi] (H). 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}.”

i. To display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens.)

CHAPTER Il
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.

“SEC. [85] 34, TITLE OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM. ~ The National
Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang.

"SEC, [36] 35. LANGUAGE 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 lyrics of the National Anthem:

"Bayang magiltw,
Perlas ng Silanganan,

Alab ng puso,

Sa dibdib mo'y buhay.

Lupang hinirang,

Duyan ka ng magiting,

Sa manlulupig,

Di ka pasisil.

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 niya.

Kailan pa ma'y di magdidilimt

Lupa ng araw, ng luwaihatit pagsinta,
Buhay ay fangit sa piling mo,

Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi,
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
SANG. 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. [88] 37, MANNER 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 singing 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 their right palms over their left chests. [Those in military, scouting,
citizens] THE MILITARY AND THOSE IN military training and security guard
uniforms 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;

“(@) During the “signing off’ and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and
television stations;

“(d) Before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening
of theater performances; PROVIDED, THAT THE OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS SHALL BE MANDATED TO
ENFORCE PROPER DECORUM AND IMPLEMENT THE PERTINENT
PROVISIONS OF THIS 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 NATIONAL ANTHEM. ~ All officials and employees of
the national and local governmentS, and any agency or instrumentality
thereof, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, privately-
owned entities or offices displaying the national flag and government
institutions of leaming are hereby directed to comply strictly 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, COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION (CHED) AND
THE TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY (TESDA) 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 RENDERED DURING THE FLAG CEREMONY
CONDUCTED 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.

CHAPTER II
THE NATIONAL MOTTO, THE NATIONAL
COAT-OF-ARMS AND THE GREAT SEAL

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

[CHAPTER IV]
[THE NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS]

“SEC. 41. THE NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS. - The National Coat.
Ams shall have:

“[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 with three (3) (mullets] STARS equidistant from each 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 used.

“{The Great Seal shall bear the National Motto.]"

“SEC. 43, WHERE TO AFFIX THE GREAT SEAL. - The Great Seal
shall be affixed to or placed upon all commissions 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 DEVICES. — Any
government entity, including the military, may adopt appropriate HERALDIC
ITEMS AND DEVICES SUCH AS MEDALS, coatof-ams, 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 coresponding 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
fare 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 govemment official or employee shall accept any order or
decoration from any foreign government without the consent of Congress,
and without prior evaluation and documentation of such order or decoration
by the Institute.}

CHAPTER [VII] 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, Cuture and Sports] DEPED and the
[Commission on Higher Education] CHED, upon the recommendation of the
[Institute] NHCP 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 (DECS)
and the Commission on Higher Education 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 Office 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 pubic."


“SEC. [50] 48. PUNISHMENT FOR VIOLATIONS. - Any person WHO or
ANY juridical entity which violates any of the provisions of this Act shall
upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than [Five] FIFTY
[t{Thousand [p]Pesos {(P5,000)] (PHP 50,000.00) nor more than [Twenty]
ONE HUNDRED [t]Thousand  [pJPesos [(P20,000)] (PHP 100,000.00) ,]
[or] AND by imprisonment for not more than [one (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] That in case the violation is
committed by a juridical person, its President or Chief Executive Officer
thereof shall be fable

“THE 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
ONE'S PRESENCE AND CAN SUMMON ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT
OFFICERS TO ASSIST IN CONDUCTING CITIZEN'S ARREST. ALL
SECURITY PERSONNEL AND USHERS IN MOVIEHOUSES ARE
LIKEWISE AUTHORIZED TO ARREST THE VIOLATORS.”

CHAPTER (VIII VI
COMMON PROVISIONS

"SEC. [51] 50, ISSUANCE OF RULES AND REGULATIONS AND
THEIR ENFORCEMENT. ~ The institute] NHCP shall issue the necessary
rules and regulations [to implement the provisions of this Act] within ninety
(90) days after (effectivity] THE APPROVAL OF THIS ACT. The [institute]
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 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and
regulations, part or parts thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, are

hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

SEC. 3. Separability Clause. - If 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 effect.

SEC. 4. Effectivity. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its

publication in the Official Gazette or in any newspaper of general circulation