EDITORIAL
In these times of modernity and materialism, fewer and fewer Filipinos are conscious of the Philippine flag and what it stands for. Without a war or a political upheaval just like the 1986 People Power Revolution, concepts such as patriotism and love of country have taken the backseat among Filipinos’ order of priorities.
We need a celebration called National Flag Days from May 28 to June 12, and it is even mandated by law, to stress the relevance of the flag in everyday lives of our citizenry.
In another context, we needed to see how the Philippine flag, displayed in our civilian vessels and floating assets of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), is being drenched wet by the water cannons of the Chinese Coast Guard while sailing in the West Philippine Sea.
Because the flag symbolizes the Republic of the Philippines and it embodies all things Filipino—culture, history, government, language, race, economy and politics—this attack on the flag which has happened at sea in several instances, is most saddening to see.
On the first day of National Flag Days, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez both issued commemorative statements on the event.
The CSC called upon government officials and employees to manifest patriotism by honoring the Philippine flag in observance of the National Flag Days from May 28 to June 12, 2024.
In a statement, CSC Chairperson Karlo Nograles reminded civil servants nationwide that the commemoration of the National Flag Days provides an opportune time for all Filipinos to collectively reflect on the significance of our flag.
"The Philippine flag is more than a symbol of independence. It represents the collective pursuit of Filipinos for freedom and national progress. As civil servants, let us lead by example in demonstrating our patriotism not only through words but through actions, starting with the simple act of respecting the flag,” Nograles said.
He also reminded government officials and employees of their sworn oath to follow the eight norms of conduct mandated under Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which include “nationalism and patriotism.”
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez meanwhile urged Filipinos not to be intimidated and instead, be brave by waving the national flag amid “bullying or intimidation” from outside forces.
“In these times, when we face challenges and pressures from outside forces, let us not be daunted. The world may be vast and sometimes overwhelming, but our spirit as Filipinos is unbreakable,” he said.
“We may encounter bullying or intimidation from foreign nations, but let us stand tall and wave our flag with pride. Let it be known that the Filipino spirit is resilient and resolute,” he added.
He also encouraged Filipinos to renew their commitments to the nation and to their values, saying the Philippine national flag is the symbol of the country’s sovereignty and unity.
“Let us come together, shoulder to shoulder, and face any adversity with the same bravery our ancestors showed. By standing firm and united, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way,” he added.
CSC chair Karlo Nograles also reiterated that under RA 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, “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.”
RA 8491 states that the flag shall be displayed in all public buildings, official residences, public plazas, and institutions of learning every day throughout the year.
The flag ceremony shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the Philippine National Anthem, with the assembly standing in formation facing the flag.
The moment the first note of the anthem is heard, everyone in the premises shall come to attention and place their right palms over their chests; moving vehicles shall stop; those with hats shall uncover; while those in military, scouting, security guard, and citizens military training uniforms shall give salute prescribed by their regulations. Additionally, the law forbids any act or omission that mutilates, tramples, or casts dishonor or ridicule upon the flag.
There are more provisions of the law honoring the flag and evoking respect for it, and we as Filipinos are all expected to comply with the law.
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