Module 1: Citizenship Training
people to which it drives its claim to
THE 1987 CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE
PHILIPPINES
PREAMBLE
We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid
of Almighty God, in order to build a just and humane
society, and establish a Government that shall
embody our ideals and aspirations, promote the
common good, conserve and develop our patrimony,
and secure to ourselves and our posterity, the
blessings of independence and democracy under the
rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom,
love, equality, and peace, do ordain and promulgate
this Constitution.
This states that “the prime duty of the government is
to serve and protect the people”. The Government
may call upon the people to defend the State and in
the fulfillment thereof, all citizen may be required,
under conditions provided by law, to render personal,
military or civil service.
In order to perform such role, the Government may
call the attention of the people by requiring then to
render personal, military or civic welfare services.
So, Constitution refers to the body of rules and
maxims in accordance with which the powers of
sovereignty are habitually exercised.
It is also that written instrument by which the
fundamental powers of the government are
established, limited and defined and by which these
powers are distributed among the several
departments or branches for their safe and useful
exercise for the benefit of the people. It is the rules
and principles which provide direction as to the
manner of expression one’s authority or right as a
citizen.
Purpose and function of the Constitution
1. The Constitution serves as the supreme or
fundamental law since it speaks in behalf of
the entire people, represents the will of the
obedience.
2. The Constitution establishes the basic
framework and underlying principles of
government. It prescribes the permanent
framework of the system of the government
and assigns to the different departments or
branches, their respective powers and duties,
and establishes certain basic principles on
which the government is founded. The
constitution serves as the pillars in
governance.
3. The constitution empowers the state because
it is the document that formalizes the
jurisdiction of the state over our territory and
establishes the government that will
effectively exercise that jurisdiction.
4. The constitution gears
Bill of rights – It is the declaration and enumeration
of a person’s rights and privileges which the
constitution is designed to protect against violation
by the government or by an individual or groups of
individuals. It is the charter of liberties for the
individual and a limitation upon the power of the
state.
CLASSIFICATION OF RIGHTS
1. Natural Rights – possessed by every citizen
without being granted by the state for they
are given to man by God as a human being
created to His image so that he may live a
happy life.
2. Constitutional Rights – these are rights which
are conferred and protected by the
constitution. Since they are part of the
fundamental law, they cannot be modified or
take away by the law-making body.
2.1 Political Rights – These are rights of every
citizen to participate, whether directly or
indirectly, in the establishment or
administration of the government.
2.2 Civil Rights – These are rights which the law
will enforce at the instance of private
 individuals for the purpose of securing them
the enjoyment of their means of happiness.
2.3 Socio-Economic & Cultural Rights – These are
the rights which are intended to ensure the
well-being and economic security of the
individual.
2.4 Rights of the accused – These are the rights
intended for the protection of a person
accused of any crime.
3. Statutory Rights – rights provided by law,
promulgated and granted by legislative body
and consequently may be abolished by the
same body.
Natural Rights
a. Right of every individual to love as well as to
hate.
b. Right of the child to be born regardless of
what unfortunate circumstances his or her
parents have
Political Rights
a. Right to choose one’s citizenship
b. Right to information on matters related to
public concerns
Civil Rights
a. Right to privacy of every person
b. Right against involuntary servitude
c. Freedom of speech, expression, or of the
press
d. Right of assembly and petition
e. Right to form associations
f. Imprisonment for non-payment of debt or
poll tax
g. Liberty of abode and changing the same
Socio-Economic & Cultural Rights
a. Right to property
b. Right to just compensation for private
property taken for public use
c. Promotion of social justice, conservation, and
utilization of natural resources
Rights of the Accused
a. Right to presumption of innocence
b. Right to speedy, impartial, and public trial
c. Right against cruel, degrading or inhuman
punishment
Statutory Rights
a. Right to receive minimum wage
b. Right to inherit property
CITIZENSHIP
Citizen -a participatory member of a political
community.
Citizenship – gained by meeting the legal
requirements of a nation, state or government.
Citizenship refers to the membership of a person to a
democratic state which bestows upon him/her full
civil and political rights (unless especially disqualified
by law), and the corresponding duty to support and
maintain allegiance to the state. Such membership
underscores the symbiotic relationship of the state,
which on the one hand gives protection to the citizen,
and the citizen, who on the other hand is duty bound
to support the state.
Under Article IV of the 1987 Constitution, the
following are citizens of the Philippines:
Section 1.
[1] Those who are citizens of the Philippines at the
time of the adoption of this Constitution;
[2] Those whose fathers or mothers are citizens of
the Philippines;
[3] Those born before January 17, 1973, of Filipino
mothers, who elect Philippine citizenship upon
reaching the age of majority; and
[4] Those who are naturalized in accordance with law.
What are the modes in acquiring Philippine
citizenship?
1. Filipino by Birth
a. Jus Soli (right of soil) which is the legal
principle that a person’s nationality at birth is
determined by the place of birth (Territory of
a given state)
b. Jus Sanguinis (right of blood) which is the
legal principle that at birth, an individual
acquires the nationality of his/her natural
parent/s. (The Philippines adheres to this
principle)
2. Filipino by Naturalization which is the judicial
act of adopting a foreigner and clothing him
with the privileges of a native-born citizen.
Section 2.
Natural-born citizens are those who are citizens of
the Philippines from birth without having to perform
any act to acquire or perfect their Philippine
citizenship. Those who elect Philippine citizenship in
accordance with paragraph (3), Section 1 hereof shall
be deemed natural-born citizens.
Section 3. Philippine citizenship may be lost or
reacquired in the manner provided by law.
Section 4. Citizens of the Philippines who marry aliens
shall retain their citizenship, unless by their act or
omission, they are deemed, under the law, to have
renounced it.
Section 5. Dual allegiance of citizens is inimical to the
national interest and shall be dealt with by law.
As enumerated in the Philippine Constitution
there is a corresponding obligation that the citizens
should possess. Yes, they have all the rights of which
they cannot deprive but they also have duties not to
be disregard. People should be aware not only for
their rights but also for their obligations to attain
peace and order in the society.
Hereunder are the important duties and
obligations of every citizen in a democratic society
under Article IV Section 5.
Duties and Obligations of Citizens
1. To be loyal to the Republic. This means that
we have faith and confidence in the Republic
and love for and devotion to the country. We
have to be proud being Filipinos, respect our
customs, traditions, language and
institutions. He must not commit any act of
disloyalty, such as treason, rebellion, sedition
or other similar act. On the contrary, the
citizen must be willing and ready whenever
necessary to cast his life and fortunes in
defense of his country.
2. To defend the State. It is our prime duty to
love and defend the state at all costs
regardless of our creed, religious beliefs, and
wisdom. Love of country shown not by words
but by deeds. The citizens receive benefits
and protection from the State in which they
are part. In return, it is their prime duty and
honorable duty to defend the State against
any perils, whether from within and from
without (Article II, Sec.3), and be ready to
sacrifice and due for it if necessary
3. To contribute to the development and
welfare of the State. The development and
welfare of the State should be the concern of
every citizen for he will be the first to enjoy
the benefits thereof. Anything that affects
the country and the people as a whole
indirectly affects him, individually and
personally. The citizen can contribute to the
development and welfare of the State in
many ways such as paying taxes, by
cooperating in its activities and projects,
patronizing local products and trades, by
engaging in productive works, etc. and also
by working together for the common good.
The citizens do not live for themselves and
their families alone. They are part of the
society to which they owe definite
responsibilities. They should all be working
for the common good and thereby “build a
just and humane society.”
 The Flag and the Heraldic Code of the
4. To uphold the Constitution and obey the
laws. The Constitution is the expression of
Philippines
the Sovereign will of our people. Laws are
Flags of the Katipunan
enacted in accordance with it for the good of
all. It is, therefore, the duty of every citizen to
The first Filipino flag can be
defend and respect the Constitution and
traced from the time of
obey the laws. If the people will disregard
them the government would collapse, and the Andres Bonifacio's
this would mean lawlessness and the secret society named:
disintegration of the social order. Kataastaasang
Kagalanggalang Katipunan
5. To cooperate with duly constituted ng mga Anak ng Bayan (Highest and Most Honorable
authorities. Community living imposes Society of the Sons of the Nation) or the Katipunan or
obligations and responsibilities upon the
KKK for short. Benita Rodriquez and Bonifacio's wife,
individual. In every organization, there is
always a leader to manage the affairs of all Gregoria de Jesus, made the first Filipino flag.
the constituents. If the members will not
cooperate, we can never expect to become
successful in all the undertakings that our The first Philippine flags was
government would like to do for the goods of
made of red cloth with
its citizens.
white KKK initials sewn in
6. To exercise rights responsibly and with due white. The red color
regard for the rights of others. “No man is an symbolized the blood of the members of the
island” and we have to live with others. It is Katipunan in which inductee to the society signed in
necessary that the citizen be imbued with a their names with their own blood.
sense of awareness not only of his rights but
also of his obligations to his fellow citizens.

7. To engage in gainful work. Every citizen The Filipino flag had

should be responsible and should strive to variations (from 1892 to
become a useful and productive member of 1896). Some members
the society to assure not only for himself but arranged the KKK in a
also to his family to have a better life. The triangle while some generals of the revolution
essence of life is work. Every citizen should
designed their own flags.
realize that the only way to live and survive is
to work hard and sustained.

8. To register and Vote. It is the prime duty of Of note is the black banner of
the citizens to register and vote. Suffrage is General Mariano Llanera in
both a privilege and a duty which every
Nueva Ecija with a letter K and
citizen at the legal age must perform. As to
constitutional obligation it is not only by a skull with two cross bones
registering and casting vote but it carries with underneath.
duty to vote responsibly through a mature
and independent judgment according to the
personal qualities and qualification of
candidates to become a better public servant.
 Another variation of the Filipino flag
was that of General Pio del Pilar. It
had an equilateral triangle with a K at
each angle with a rising sun behind a
mountain.
In this Philippine flag picture,
the Sun with
the KKK underneath was also a
derivative of previous Filipino
flags.
In 1896, the
Magdalo faction of the
Katipunan in Cavite headed
by General Emilio Aguinaldo
had a red ensign with
a sun and at the center of the sun is the letter K
written in the ancient Filipino alphabet.
Another variation is
the Sun of Liberty of the Naic
Assembly in 1897 and the
flag used by the Republic of
Biak-na Bato.
General Gregorio del
Pilar also used another flag
during the Battle of Pasong
Balite and at the Battle of
Tirad Pass. This Filipino flag
is similar to the flag of Cuba, according to del Pilar.
The Philippine revolution of 1898 started at ten o'clock in
the morning, a fight that lasted till three o'clock in the
afternoon, when the Spaniards surrendered with all their
arms to the Philippine revolutionaries.
I took advantage of this glorious opportunity to introduce
and wave the national flag, which was saluted by an
immense multitude with cheers of delirious joy and
tremendous vivas for a Filipinas Independiente.
Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo
May 28, 1898
The Philippine Flag Evolution
The Filipino flag has an interesting story*
During his exile in Hongkong, General Emilio
Aguinaldo designed the flag as it looks today. Mrs.
Marcela de Agoncillo sewed it with the help of her 7-
year old daughter Lorenza and Mrs. Josefina Herbosa
de Natividad (niece of Dr. Jose Rizal) in the tradition
of fine embroidery of Taal, Batangas.
It was made of silk with a white triangle at the left
containing a gold sunburst of eight rays at the center,
a five pointed star at each angle of the triangle, an
upper stripe of dark blue, and a lower stripe of red.
The white triangle stands for equality and the
emblem of the Katipunan; the upper blue stripe for
peace, truth and justice; and the lower red stripe for
patriotism and valor. The sunburst of eight rays inside
the triangle represented the first eight provinces
placed under Martial Law by Spain because of the
insurrection, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna,
Manila, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac. The three
stars symbolized Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The flag which Mrs. Agoncillo made in Hongkong was
taken to the Philippines by General Aguinaldo aboard
the ship McCullough. After the Battle of Alapan in
Imus Cavite, this flag was first unfurled by Gen.
Aguinaldo at the Teatro Caviteño in Cavite Nuevo (
now Cavite City ) on May 28, 1898 before victorious
Filipino revolutionaries. It was witnessed by 270
captured Spanish marines, plus officers and men of
the U.S. Asiatic Squadron under Admiral George
Dewey.
The same flag was first hoisted officially at Kawit on
June 12, 1898, during the proclamation of Philippine
independence. From that date, it has served as the
National Flag of the Filipinos.
I visited Admiral Dewey, who after complimenting me on
the "rapid successes of the Philippine Revolution,"
informed me that the French and German admirals had
asked him why he permitted the Filipinos to use a flag
unrecognized by their navies, to which Dewey had replied
that the Filipinos used the same flag with his knowledge
and consent (because) by their courage and firmness in
war, they were worthy of such a right.
Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo
The Flag of the Philippines
(Wikipedia)
Flag used from 1898 to 1907.
The flag of the Philippines as conceived by Emilio
Aguinaldo, and first displayed in Alapan and Cavite
Nuevo on May 28, 1898. Used from 1898 to 1901 (the
shade of blue is still a matter of debate.)
The Philippine-American war broke out in 1899. The
flag was first flown with the red band up, signifying a
state of war, on February 4, 1899.
After the Filipinos were defeated, the country was
placed under American rule. On August 23, 1907,
display of the Philippine flag was declared illegal by
the Sedition Act of 1907.
Flag used from 1919 to 1941.
The Sedition Law of 1907 was repealed on October
30,1919. The Philippine Legislature passed Act. No
2928 on March 26, 1920, which legally adopted the
Philippine flag as the official flag of the Philippine
Islands.
Due to availability of red and blue cloth with shades
similar to the red and blue of the United States flag,
the Philippine flag adopted the navy blue color.
The flag was banned December 1941 with the
Japanese invasion of World War II.
Flag used from 1943 to 1945.
In October 1943, the flag of the Second Philippine
Republic was hoisted by Emilio Aguinaldo with the
original Cuban blue and red colors restored. The flag
was initially flown with the blue stripe up, until
President Jose P. Laurel proclaimed the existence of a
state of war with the Allied Powers in 1944.
Flag used from 1919 to 1941, then 1944 to 1981.
The Commonwealth government-in-exile in
Washington DC continued to use the flag with the
American colors, and had flown it with the red stripe
up since the initial invasion of the Japanese. With the
combined forces of the Filipino and American soldiers
and the liberation of the Philippines in 1944 to 1945,
the flag with the American colors was restored, and it
was this flag that was hoisted upon the granting of
Philippine independence from the United States on
July 4, 1946.
Flag used from 1981 to 1986.
The shade of Blue used here is Light Blue, similar to
the shade used in the Cuban Flag at the time of the
proclamation of the Philippine Declaration of
Independence. In 1985, President Ferdinand Marcos
officially ordered the colors of the flag restored to the
original blue and red of the Cuban flag.
Flag used from 1986 to 1998.
The Marcos order was reversed, and the flag with the
American colors was used after the People Power
Revolution.
Flag used from 1998 to present.
For the 1998 centennial of the proclamation of
Philippine independence, the Flag and Heraldic Code
of the Philippines (RA 8491) was passed, changing the
shade of blue to royal blue, as a compromise. This
was used for the Philippine Centennial Celebration
Reference:
Filipino.biz.ph - Philippine Culture;
https://filipino.biz.ph/history/philippine-flag.html
The Philippine National Anthem
Bayang Magiliw
perlas ng Silanganan
Alab ng puso
Sa dibdib mo’y buhay
Lupang hinirang
Duyan ka ng magiting
Sa manlulupig
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 niya
Kailan pa ma’y di magdidilim
Lupa ng araw
ng luwalhati’t pagsinta
Buhay ay langit sa piling mo.
Aming ligaya
Na pag may mang-aapi
Ang mamatay nang dahil sa iyo.’
*The Philippine National Anthem was composed by
Julian Felipe, a Filipino music teacher and composer
of Cavite. It was first played by the band of San
Francisco de Malabon during the unfurling of the
Filipino flag at Kawit during the Independence Day
ceremony.
For more than a year, the anthem remained without
words. Towards the end of August of 1899, a young
poet-soldier named Jose Palma wrote the poem titled
Filipinas. This poem expressed in elegant Spanish
verses the ardent patriotism and fighting spirit of the
Filipino people. It became the words of the anthem,
and today, the anthem is sung in Filipino, its official
lyrics translated by Felipe de Leon, from the original
Spanish lyrics in the early 1900s.
REFERENCE: https://thehaguepe.dfa.gov.ph/
THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL ANTHEM AND R.A. 8491
Himig Collection, On Philippine History and Culture
Lupang Hinirang, the national anthem of the
Philippines is played or sung during flag ceremonies
in schools and offices, “signing off” and “signing on”
of broadcast stations, before the initial and last
screening of films, and other official or important
occasions. Though it is expected that the national
anthem be sung with utmost fervor, every Filipino
must do so with utmost respect as well.
The singing and playing of the Philippine national
anthem is governed by the law, specifically R.A. 8491
or the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.” As
stipulated in Section 37, “The rendition of the
National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in
accordance with the musical arrangement and
composition of Julian Felipe.”
Moreover, according to Section 38, the attending
public shall sing the anthem whenever it is played at
a public gathering. While doing so, the public shall
stand at attention facing the Philippine flag as a sign
of respect. The other provisions on the national
anthem are detailed in Chapter II, Sections 35 to 39 of
R.A. 8491.
The development of the Philippine national anthem
into what it is today took several years. It began in
1898 with Julian Felipe’s composition titled Marcha
Nacional Filipina (also known as Himno Nacional
Filipino). In 1899, Jose Palma’s poem Filipinas was
used as lyrics which were later translated into English
in the 1920s. It was translated into Filipino in 1956
and the version which is now sung publicly is a
product of revisions made in 1962.
https://www.filipinaslibrary.org.ph/himig/the-
philippine-national-anthem-and-r-a-8491/
Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act
No. 8491
January 30, 2002
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
NATIONAL HISTORICAL INSTITUTE
RULES AND REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING REPUBLIC
ACT NO. 8491, S. 1998—”THE CODE OF THE
NATIONAL FLAG, ANTHEM, MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS
AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES OF THE
PHILIPPINES “
RULE 1
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 1. Title. — These rules shall be known, cited
and referred to as the “RULES AND REGULATIONS
IMPLEMENTING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491, series of
1998, THE CODE OF THE NATIONAL FLAG, ANTHEM,
MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS AND OTHER HERALDIC
ITEMS AND DEVICES OF THE PHILIPPINES”,
hereinafter called the “Rules”.
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy and Objectives. — It is
the policy of the state to herein prescribe the Code of
the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and
other Heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines,
ensure the promotion and implementation of its
corresponding rules and regulations, and adopt
effective administrative, regulatory, coordinative and
supervisory programs and activities, where
appropriate, in conformity with national government
policies. Further, reverence and respect shall at all
times be accorded to the flag, anthem, and other
national symbols which embody the national ideals
and traditions and which express the principles of
sovereignty and national solidarity.
SEC. 3. Scope of Application. — These Rules shall
apply to individuals, public and private entities,
military and police agencies, and other branches
and/or instrumentalities of the national and local
government including government-owned and/or
controlled corporations, and shall also be observed in
and within the entire territory of the Philippines as
such is defined in the Constitution and laws of the
Republic of the Philippines.
SEC. 4. Interpretation. — In the interpretation of the
provisions of Republic Act No. 8491, Series of 1998,
The Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,
hereinafter called R.A. No. 8491, and of these Rules,
that interpretation which will promote or sustain
reverence and respect for the flag, the anthem, and
other national symbols, all of which embody national
ideals and traditions, shall be given paramount
consideration.
RULE 2
THE IMPLEMENTING AGENCY
SEC. 5. The Implementing Agency. — the National
Historical Institute, hereinafter referred to as the
Institute, shall be the agency tasked to implement
these Rules.
SEC. 6. Scope of Powers and Functions. — The
Institute shall perform planning, monitoring,
coordinating, implementing, and policy-formulating
functions, wherever and whenever appropriate, and,
in the process, exercise administrative, regulatory,
and supervisory authority over the implementation of
the provisions of R.A. No. 8491 within the Philippine
territorial limits, and in conformity with national
government policies. Such powers and functions shall
include the following:
a. Formulate, coordinate and regulate the
implementation of the Code of the National Flag,
Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and other Heraldic
Items and Devices of the Philippines, consistent with
the purposes and objectives of R.A. No. 8491;
b. Plan, prepare and coordinate effective educational
and information dissemination strategies which shall
increase the level of national awareness of these
Rules and other implementing details that may
subsequently be formulated;
c. Coordinate and monitor the implementation of
these Rules and ensure the compliance of all the
provisions stipulated under R.A. No. 8491; and
deputize, assign and/or designate government
agencies, non-government organizations, major
branches and units of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Philippine National Police, and
other groups or individuals for the purpose of
implementing, monitoring and coordinating tasks;
d. Set policies and procedures concerning the
concept and design/visual interpretation of the
national motto, coat-of-arms, seals of various local
government units (town/city/province), and other
government instrumentalities, medallions, awards
and other forms and devices of national recognition,
and strict enforcement thereof;
e. Formulate and devise appropriate legal
procedures, assistance and coordinating systems for
cases arising from the violations of R.A. No. 8491,
including appropriate integration of this law into the
Shariya Courts; and
f. Perform other related functions required to achieve
the objectives of R.A. No. 8491 and these Rules.
SEC. 7. Definition of Terms. — Whenever used in
these Rules, the term:
a. “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;
b. “Festoon” shall mean to hang in a curved shape
between two points as a decoration;
c. “National Flag” shall mean the National Flag and
Ensign of the Philippines, unless stated otherwise,
used on land and sea by public, private and the
military and shall refer to the flag or any other design
that so resembles it as likely to cause any person to
believe that it is the flag or design stated, expressed
or provided in the Constitution of the Philippines,
R.A. No. 8491 and these Rules;
d. “Fly” shall mean the part of the flag outside the
hoist or length;
e. “Hoist” shall mean the sleeve or heading; part of
the flag nearest the staff or the canvass to which the
halyard is attached;
f. “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);
g. “Half-mast”shall mean lowering the flag to one-half
the distance between the top and bottom of the
pole;
h. “Halyard” shall mean the long rope where the flag
fastens and which runs up the length of the flag pole;
i. “Inclement Weather” shall mean that a typhoon
signal is raised in the locality;
j. “National Anthem” shall mean the “Lupang
Hinirang”, the Philippine National Anthem;
k. “Official Residences” shall mean Malacañang, and
other government-owned structures where the
President resides, and other structures occupied by
the Philippine Consulate or Embassies abroad;
l. “Places of Frivolity” shall mean places of hilarity
marked by or providing boisterous merriment or
recreation;
m. “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,
entities, products or services for commercial, political
purposes or information campaigns;
n. “Heraldic Items and Devices” shall mean coat-of-
arms, seals, logos, insignia, badges,flashes, patches,
orders and decorations, medals, stars, citations, lapel
pins, trophies, dry, wax or wet seals, and imprints on
letterheads, envelopes and cards;
o. “Government Entities” shall mean all branches of
the government, its bureaus and attached agencies,
constitutional offices, local government offices,
government-owned and/or controlled corporations,
government financial institutions, state universities
and colleges,Armed Forces of the Philippines
including its basic component units; and
p. “Vexillary Items” shall mean national, local, house
flags, or administrative,institution, corporate, unit
and other organization’s banners.
RULE 3
CHAPTER I
The National Flag
A. Design of the National Flag
SEC. 8. The National Flag shall be blue, white and red
with an eight rayed golden yellow sun and three stars
that are five-pointed, as consecrated and honored by
the people.
B. Hoisting and Display of the National
Flag
SEC. 9. The National Flag shall be displayed in all
public buildings, official residences, public plazas, and
institutions of learning everyday throughout the year.
SEC. 10. The National Flag shall be permanently
hoisted, day and night, throughout the year, in front
of the following: at Malacañang Palace; Congress of
the Philippines building;Supreme Court building; Rizal
Monument in Luneta, Manila; Bonifacio Monument
in Kalookan City; Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit,
Cavite; Barasoain Church Historical
Landmark in Malolos, Bulacan; Marcela Agoncillo
Historical Landmark in Taal, Batangas; Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng mga Bayani, Makati
City, Mausoleo de losVeteranos de la Revolucion,
North Cemetery, Manila; all International Ports of
Entry and all other places as may be designated by
the Institute.
The National Flag of these sites shall be properly
illuminated at night.
SEC. 11. The National Flag shall also be displayed in
private buildings and residences or raised in the open
flag-staffs in front of said buildings every April 9
(Araw ng Kagitingan); May 1 (Labor Day); (National
Flag Days) from May 28 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 declared or
approved by the President and/or local chief
executives.
The National Flag may also be raised and displayed at
sunrise and lowered at sunset and throughout the
year in the open flagstaff in front of private buildings:
Provided, that proper flag ceremonies be observed in
accordance with these Rules.
SEC. 12. All Government Entities should observe flag
days with appropriate ceremonies. Socio-civic groups,
non-government organizations and the private sector
are enjoined to observe and cooperate in making the
celebration a success.
SEC. 13. The National Flag shall be flown on all naval
vessels and on merchant ships of Philippine registry,
of more than one thousand (1,000) gross tons.
Military, civil or state vessels should fly the National
Flag. Pleasure, merchant, fishing boats or yachts are
also encouraged to fly the National Flag.
On board vessels of Philippine registry, the National
Flag shall be displayed on the flagstaff at the stern
when the vessel is at anchor. The National Flag shall
be hoisted to the gaff at the aftermast when the
vessel is at sea.
SEC. 14. On all aircraft of Philippine registry, the
National Flag shall be prominently displayed
horizontally on its fuselage at the head portion with
the hoist side pointing the forward direction.
SEC. 15. ‘The National Flag, if flown from a flagpole,
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 blue field shall be to the left (observer’s
point of view) in time of peace, and the red field to
the left(observer’s point of view) in time of war.
The National Flag could be knotted to signal that
assistance is badly needed.
SEC. 16. If planted on the ground, the flagpole shall
be at a prominent place and shall be of such height as
would give the National Flag commanding position in
relation to the buildings in the vicinity. The flagpole
must not be of equal height or higher than the
Independence Flagpole at the Rizal Park, Manila.
The flagpole that is planted on the ground must be
straight and slightly tapering at the top.The minimum
length of the National Flag is one fourth (¼) the
height of the flagpole, while maximum length of the
National Flag is one-third (1/3) the height of the
flagpole.
SEC. 17. When the National Flag is flown with flag or
flags of other countries, the flags must be of equal
size and on separate staffs of the same height. The
National Flag shall be hoisted first and lowered last.
When displayed in a semi-circle of flags with other
countries or house flags, the National Flag should be
at the center.
When displayed in a circle of flags with other
countries or house flags, the National Flag should be
flown on the flagpole facing the main read (point of
reference- KM 0 Rizal Park, Manila); or in front of a
monument; or the main entrance of the building. The
flags of other countries or house flags should be
arranged counter clockwise in alphabetical order, by
precedence or by protocol.
SEC. 18. When displayed in a row or in a parade with
flags of other countries, the National Flag shall be on
the left (observer’s point of view) of the other flags.
The flags of other countries should be arranged in
alphabetical order from left to right.
When displayed in a row of house flags, the National
Flag shall be in front of the center of the line or on
the left (observer’s point of view) of the row. The
house flags should be arranged in alphabetical order,
by precedence or by protocol order from left to right
(the observer’s point of view).
When in a parade with house flags, the National Flag
shall be in front of the center of the first line. The
house flags should be arranged in alphabetical order,
by precedence or by protocol order from left to right
(the observer’s point of view).
During special occasions, if there is only one flagpole,
the house flag may be flown at the same halyard with
the National Flag but below the latter and it cannot
be bigger than the National Flag.
SEC. 19. A worn-out National Flag should not be
thrown away. It should be solemnly burned to avoid
misuse or desecration. The National Flag shall be
replaced immediately when it begins to show signs of
wear and tear.
SEC. 20. The National Flag shall be raised at sunrise
and lowered at sunset. It shall be on the mast at the
start of official school and office hours and shall
remain flying throughout the day.
The National Flag shall not be raised when the
weather is inclement. If already raised, the National
Flag shall not be lowered for the whole day.
SEC. 21. The National Flag may be displayed:
a. Inside and/or outside a building, on stationary or
movable flagpole. If the National 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, roof, canopy, balcony or facade of a building;
d. In a suspended position from a rope extending
from a building to a pole erected away from the
building;
e. Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and
stars on top;
f. Hanging vertically in the middle of the two-way
traffic road, the blue field should be pointing east, if
the road is heading south or north and if the road is
heading east or west the blue field should be pointing
north; and
g. Hanging vertically at the sides or middle of the one-
way traffic road, the blue field should be at the left of
the observer.
SEC. 22. The National Flag shall be hoisted to the top
briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
The National Flag must be properly folded before
hanging for the start of the ceremony. It shall not be
left hanging at the base of the flagpole while waiting
for the flag ceremony.
The National Flag shall never touch anything beneath
it, such as the base of the pole, ground or other
object.
After being lowered, the National Flag shall be
handled and folded solemnly as part of the
ceremony.
C. Conduct of Flag Raising and
Lowering Ceremonies
SEC. 23. All government offices, including national or
local government units and institutions, shall
henceforth observe the flag raising ceremony every
Monday morning and the flag lowering ceremony
every Friday afternoon.
These include private establishments who fly the
National Flag on the flagpole in their compound.
Primary and secondary schools and other institutions
of learning shall observe the flag ceremony as
ordered by the Department of Education, Culture and
Sports and/or the Commission on Higher Education.
SEC. 24. The observance of the flag ceremony shall be
simple and dignified.
SEC. 25. During the flag raising ceremony, the
assembly shall stand in formation facing the National
Flag. At the moment the first note of the National
Anthem is heard, everyone in the premises shall
come to attention; moving vehicles shall stop. All
persons present shall place their 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 same procedure shall be observed when the
National Flag is passing in review or in parade.
SEC. 26. During the flag lowering, the National 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
SECTION 27. The National Flag shall be flown at half-
mast as a sign of mourning on all the buildings and
places where it is displayed, as provided, on the day
of the official announcement of the death of any of
the following officials:
a. The President or a former President, for ten (10)
days;
b. The Vice-President, the Chief Justice of the
Supreme Court, the President of the Senate and the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, for seven
(7) days;
c. Cabinet Secretaries, Associate Justices of the
Supreme Court, Members of the Senate and House of
Representatives, the Chief of Staff of the Armed
Forces of the Philippines and the Director-General of
the Philippine National Police, for five (5) days;
d. Heads of National Government Agencies, including
Government Owned and Control Corporations and
Government Financial Institutions, for three (3) days;
e. The Commanding Generals of the Philippine Air
Force and the Philippine Army and the Flag Officer in
Command of the Philippine Navy, for three (3) days;
f. Governors, Vice-Governors, city and municipal
Mayors, city and municipal Vice-Mayors, for three (3)
days;
g. Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan,
Sangguniang Panlungsod and Sangguniang Bayan, on
the day of interment;
h. Barangay Chairmen and the Barangay Councilmen
on the day of interment;
i. Former National or Local Government Officials,
appointive or elective, other than those specified
above, on the day of interment, within their former
respective territorial jurisdictions and by resolution of
their respective Sanguineness;
j. Regional Directors, Superintendents, Supervisors,
Principals, Teachers and other school officials, on the
day of interment and by order of the proper school
authorities concerned;
k. Recipients of national orders and decorations, on
the day of interment and by order of the President or
the Congress; and
l. Other persons to be determined by the Institute,
for a period of less than seven (7) days.
In cases “c” to “e” the National Flag shall be flown at
half-mast in front of the building where the deceased
official is holding office and in cases “f” to “h”
through Sanggunian Resolution or by order of the
Local Chief Executive.
The National Flag, when flown at half-mast, shall be
first hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered
to the half-mast position. The National Flag shall
again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for
the day.
The National Flag shall also be flown at half-mast
during calamities/tragedies of national or
international significance as ordered by the Office of
the President.
The National Flag shall be permanently hoisted at
half-mast day and night throughout the year at the
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng mga
Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, MakatiCity; Mausoleo de los
Veteranos de la Revolucion, North Cemetery, Manila;
and in all memorial cemeteries dedicated to war
veterans. The National Flag of these declared sites
shall be properly illuminated at night.
E. Casket
SEC. 28. The National 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 may be determined by the local
government unit concerned. In such cases, the
National 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 casket. The National
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 or next of
kin.
No object must be put on top of the National Flag,
except for religious objects that symbolize”God
above Country”.
F. Pledge to the National Flag
SEC. 29. The following shall be the Pledge of
Allegiance to the National 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 sambayanan
Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at
Makabansa.
Such pledge shall be recited right after the singing of
the National Anthem, the throng standing with the
right palm open, raised shoulder high. Individuals
whose faith or religious beliefs prohibit them from
making such pledge must nonetheless show full
respect by standing at attention.
G. National Flag Days
SEC. 30. The period from May 28 to June 12 of each
year is declared as National Flag Days, during which
period all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of
the government, business establishments,
institutions of learning, private buildings and homes
are enjoined to display the National Flag.
SEC. 31. The government offices and local
government units concerned shall display the
National Flag on main thoroughfares, parks, plazas,
and other public places.
H. Specifications of the National Flag
SEC. 32. The National Flag shall have the following
proportions: The width of the National Flag, 1, and
the length, 2. All the sides of the white triangle, 1.
SEC. 33. The technical specifications 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.
The assigned cable numbers are listed in the Tenth
Edition of the Standard Color Reference of America,
created and issued by the Color Association of the
United States, No. 343Lexington Avenue, New York,
New York, 10016, Series, 1981.
SEC. 34. 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 National
Flag must be based on strict compliance with the
design, color, craftsmanship and material
requirements of the Government;
b. The manufacturer shall send annually one meter
for each color (blue, red, white and golden-yellow
including canvas) of textile material to the Industrial
Technology Development Institute (ITDI) or the
Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for
evaluation. The PTRI/ITDI shall evaluate the quality
and serviceability of the said textile material;
c. Flag manufacturers shall apply for annual
accreditation at the Institute. Together with their
application, they will submit the PTRI/ITDI laboratory
test results, copy of business license, permit,
company profile and other pertinent documents; and
d. All submitted sample/s of the National Flag by
accredited suppliers offered for purchase for
government use shall be evaluated as to design,
color, materials and craftsmanship specifications by
the Institute, through its Heraldry and Display
Section, which shall stamp its approval or disapproval
on the canvas reinforcement of the National Flag
sample submitted. The National Flag sample/s shall
be sent to the Institute by the requisitioning office
and not by the flag supplier.
SEC. 35. All deliveries of the National Flags
requisitioned by government entities shall be
inspected by the requisitioning office’s internal
inspector and by the Commission on Audit (COA)
using the National Flag stamped “APPROVED” by the
Institute as reference
The internal inspector of the requisitioning office and
the COA, in case of confusion, may send another
sample of the National Flag picked at random from
the delivered flags for re-evaluation by the Institute.
SEC. 36. For effective information dissemination, all
accredited manufacturers are required to inform all
flag consumers of the provisions of these Rules.
SEC. 37. All government entities shall ensure that the
requirements under the R.A. No.8491 and these
Rules, with respect to the standard requisitions and
deliveries of the National Flags are strictly complied
with.
SEC. 38. 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.
I. Prohibited Acts
SEC. 39: It shall be prohibited:
a. To mutilate, deface, defile, trample on, cast
contempt, or commit any act or omission casting
dishonor or ridicule upon the National Flag or over its
surface;
b. To dip the National Flag to any person or object by
way of compliment or salute;
c. To use National Flag
1. As drapery, festoon, tablecloth;
2. As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or
other objects;
3. As a pennant in the hood, side, back and
top of motor vehicles;
4. As a staff or whip;
5. For unveiling monuments or statues; and
6. As trademarks, or for industrial,
commercial or agricultural labels or designs.
d. To display the National Flag:
1. Under any painting or picture;
2. Horizontally. It shall always be hoisted aloft
and be allowed to fall freely;
3. Below any platform; or
4. In discotheques, cockpits, night and day
clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places
office or where frivolity prevails.
e. To wear the National Flag in whole or in part as a
costume or uniform;
f. To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design,
drawings, advertisement, or imprint of any nature on
the National Flag;
g. To print, paint or attach representation of the
National Flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions,
and articles of merchandise;
h. To display in public any foreign flag, except in
embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and
in offices of international organizations;
i. To use or display or be part of any advertisement or
infomercial; and
j. To display the National Flag in front of buildings or
offices occupied by aliens.
RULE 4
CHAPTER II
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
SEC. 40. The National Anthem is entitled Lupang
Hinirang.
SEC. 41. The National Anthem shall always be sung in
the national language within or outside the country.
The following shall be the lyrics of the National
Anthem:
Bayang Magiliw
Perlas ng Silanganan,
Alab ng puso
Sa Dibdib mo’y buhay.
Lupang Hinirang
Duyan ka ng magiting,
Sa manlulupig.
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 niya,
Kailan pa may di magdidilim.
Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati’t pagsinta,
Buhay ay langit sa piling mo,
Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi,
Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.
SEC. 42. The rendition of the National Anthem,
whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with
the musical arrangement and composition of Julian
Felipe and in accordance with its original Filipino
lyrics and march tempo that was adopted under
Department Order No. 5 dated May 26, 1956 covered
by Circular No. 21 dated June 22, 1956 and Executive
Order No. 60 dated December 19, 1963.
B. Conduct in Relation to the National Anthem
SEC. 43. When the National. Anthem is played at a
public gathering, whether by a band or by singing or
both, or reproduced by any means, the attending
public shall sing the anthem. The singing must be
done with fervor.
As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at
attention and face the National 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 chests. Those in military, scouting, citizen’s
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
National Anthem.
When the National Anthem is to be played or sung
with the Anthem of any other country, the National
Anthem shall be sung first.
The National Anthem shall not be played or sung for
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 local competitions;
c. During the “signing of” and “signing on” of radio
broadcasting and television stations;
d. Before the initial and last screening of films or
before the opening of theater performances;
e. Civic activities, cultural shows or presentations;
and
f. Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.
SEC. 44. All officials and employees of the national
and local governments, and any agencies or
instrumentalities thereof, including government-
owned or controlled corporations, institutions of
learning, and privately-owned entities or offices
displaying the National Flag are hereby directed to
comply strictly with the rules prescribed for the
rendition of the National Anthem.
RULE 5
CHAPTER III
THE NATIONAL MOTTO
SEC. 45. The National Motto shall be “MAKA-DIYOS,
MAKA-TAO, MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA.”
RULE 6
CHAPTER IV
NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS
SEC. 46. The National Coat-of-Arms shall have:
Paleways of two (2) pieces, azure and gules; a chief
argent studded with three (3) mullets equidistant
from each other; and, in point of honor, ovoid argent
over all the sun rayonnant with eight minor and
lesser rays. Beneath shall be the scroll with the words
“REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS,” inscribed thereon.
RULE 7
CHAPTER V
THE GREAT SEAL
SEC. 47. The Great Seal shall be circular in form, with
the arms as described in the preceding section, but
without the scroll and the inscription “Republika ng
Pilipinas” thereon.Surrounding the whole shall be a
double marginal circle within which shall appear the
words”Republika ng Pilipinas.”
The Great Seal shall bear the National Motto.
SEC. 48. 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.
RULE 8
CHAPTER VI
OFFICIAL SEALS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS
AND DEVICES
SEC. 49. Any branch of the government, whether
national or local, government-owned or controlled
corporations, state colleges and universities,
including the military, may adopt appropriate coat-of-
arms, seal, logo, insignia, badge, patches, banners
and initiate awards,trophies, citations, orders or
decorations, as may be authorized by the Office of
the President or by Congress.
SEC. 50. These heraldic devices and items shall be
filed with the Institute for recording and evaluation
as to precedence, design, customs and traditions.
The application for approval of design and
specification of the proposed heraldic items and
devices shall be supported with the following
documents:
a. Orders, or any forms of grants, laws of authority or
creations;
b. Brief historical background, symbolism, and
significance of every design component;and c.
Photographs of existing structures, objects, spots,
etc. to be incorporated in the design.
The Institute shall recommend such heraldic design
together with the needed documents to the Office of
the President or Congress for final approval.
The approved design shall be returned to the
Institute for proper recording in the National Registry
of Heraldic Items and Devices and for transmittal to
the requesting government entity.
SEC. 51. To conform to the basic heraldic traditions,
the following shall be observed in the design,
creation, modification, revision and approval of
heraldic items and devices:
a. It may feature either abstract or natural
emblems/visuals, representing significant aspects, or
events representative or related to its history,
mandates, duties, functions and visions;
b. Components of heraldic designs must feature
indigenous Filipino culture, values, history, traditions
and sense of nationalism;
c. Every component must be recognizable as if it is
rendered or reduced to its normal required sizes;
d. No personal heraldic devices shall be allowed
except the Seal of the President and the Vice-
President;
e. Symbols, names, initials, logos, pictures,
silhouettes or images of living persons shall not be
featured in the design;
f. The name of the government entity or title of
heraldic items and devices must be in prominent
position;
g. All heraldic items and devices, including ribbons or
sashes, must be unique from each other;
h. The National Coat-of-Arms, which may or may not
include the scroll, when used as the main part or as a
component of the seal, must occupy the place of
honor. It shall be used only by the major branches of
the government;
i. In using the National Coat-of-Arms or the Great Seal
for numismatic purposes, wet or dry seals and
painted or printed in monochrome, tincture
representations shall be used;
j. The use of the National Flag is prohibited except
where the flag has become part of its history;
k. The motto, title or phrase to be incorporated in the
heraldic items and devices may be in the national
language or in any local dialect; and
l. These heraldic items and devices shall not be
revised or changed more than once every ten (10)
years.
SEC. 52. All government entities including the military
are hereby ordered to purchase all Heraldic Items and
Devices from manufacturers accredited and
authorized by the Institute.
SEC. 53. Engravers or manufacturers shall apply for
annual accreditation at the Institute. Together with
their application, they will also submit copies of
business license, permit, company profile with list of
Heraldic Items and Devices they made for the year
and other pertinent documents.
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 Congress, through the Institute.
Any violation of R.A. No. 8491 or these Rules shall be
a ground for suspension, revocation or non-renewal
of accreditation.
SEC. 54. No government official or employee shall
accept any orders or decorations from any foreign
government without the consent of Congress, and
without the prior evaluation and documentation of
such order or decoration by the Institute.
SEC. 55. Heraldic and Vexillary designs and/or items,
including the National Motto, National Anthem and
Pledge of Allegiance to the National Flag shall not be
used or employed for numismatic, philatelic,
advertisement and/or any informative purposes
unless duly approved in writing by the Institute,
through its Heraldry and Display Section.
RULE 9
CHAPTER VII Do's and Don'ts of the Philippine Flag
PENALTIES http://www.thepinoywarrior.com/

SEC. 56. Failure or refusal to observe the provisions

of R.A. No. 8491, and/or any violation of these Rules
shall, after proper notice and hearing, be penalized as
stipulated in R.A. No. 8491

RULE 10
CHAPTER VIII
EFFECTIVITY

SEC. 57. Effectivity. — These Rules shall be effective

fifteen (15) days after the approval of the Office of
the President and filing with Congress of the
Philippines and the University of the Philippines Law
Center.
RULE 11
CHAPTER IX
AMENDMENT OF RULES
SEC. 58. Amendments. — The Chairman and
Executive Director shall have the authority to amend,
revise, repeal, or otherwise modify these RULES or
any provision thereof, as may be deemed necessary
to achieve the objectives of the R.A. No. 8491 and
these Rules.
In accordance to Executive Order No. 179, of 1994,
we are encourage to display, in our homes and all
practicable places, prominently the symbol of our
nation from May 28 until June 12 every year.
However, not everyone is aware of the Do's and
Don'ts of displaying the Philippine Flag, so it is prone
to desecration. As public service, we've come up with
an article describing the guidelines of taking care of
our Flag.
The contents of this article are sourced from
the National Historical Commission Website.
Reverence for the Philippine Flag

ISSUED this 30th day of January, Two Thousand and

Two, in the City of Manila, the Philippines.
Recommending Approval:
(Sgd.) PABLO S. TRILLANA III
Chairman and Executive Director
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Approved by Authority of the President
The national flag alone should be displayed in all
public offices, buildings, official residences, public
squares and institutions of learning everyday of the
year.
The flag should be displayed in the open only from
sunrise to sunset, except on places designated by law
and therefore should be properly illuminated.

When flown from a flagpole, the flag should have its

(Sd.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO blue stripe on top in time of peace and red on top in
Executive Secretary time of war.

The flag should not be displayed on horizontal
position or hung fastened by its fly. The fly portion of
the flag should be free to move.
When displayed vertically, the triangle should be on
top. The blue field should be to the right (left of the
observer) in time of peace, and the red field to the
right (left of the observer) in rime of war.
When displayed over the middle of a street, as
between buildings or post, the flag should be
suspended vertically with the blue stripe pointing to
north or east.
When a number of flags are grouped and displayed
from stationary staffs, the Philippine flag should be in
the center at the highest point or at the right of the
other flag.
The Philippine National Flag must not be smaller than
the others.
When flown with flags or pennants of organizations
on the same halyard (for special occasion only), the
Philippine flag should be at the peak.
When displayed with another flag from crossed staff,
the Philippine flag should be on its right side (left side
of the observer), and its staff should be over the staff
of the other flag. Two Philippine flags should never be
thus displayed.
When the national flag is borne in a parade with
other flags or of other nations, it should always be in
front and in the center of the line of the other flags.
When used on a speaker's platform without the staff,
it should be displayed vertically and placed above and
behind the speaker. It should never be used to cover
the speaker's desk or to drape over the front of the
platform.
When mounted on a platform, the flag should be
placed on the presiding officer's right and a bit in
front, as he faces the congregation. Other flags
should be on his left. However, when it is displayed
on a level with the congregation, it is placed on the
right of the congregation.
The flag should be flown from a staff when displayed
on a float.
When the flag is flown at half-mast t symbolize
mourning, it must first be raised t full mast, allowing
it to fly there for a moment before bringing it down
to half-mast. To lower the flag at sunset or any other
time when ordered, it must again be raised to full
mast before it is brought down;
When the flag is displayed on a small staff or in a
parade, mourning is indicated by attaching black
ribbon to the spearhead, allowing the ribbon to fall
naturally.
When used to cover a casket, the triangle should be
over the head and the blue stripe over the right side
of the body. The flag should not touch the ground.
The flag should not be used as curtain or drape. Use
buntings of blue, white and red. The blue color in the
bunting should be at the top or at the point of honor
and it must be equally in width.
On national holidays and on historical and special
occasions as the President or local chief executive
may proclaim, the Philippine Flag shall be displayed in
all public and private places, buildings including
residences.

Tattered, faded or worn-out flags should be replaced To use the National Flag as pennant in the hood, side,
immediately. They should be disposed off or back and top of motor vehicles.
destroyed privately, preferably by burning.

Prohibited Acts on the Philippine Flag

To use the National Flag as a staff or whip.

To mutilate, deface, trample on, cast contempt, or

commit any act or ommission casting dishonor or
ridicule upon the National Flag or over its surface.

To use the National Flag for unveiling monuments or

statues.

To dip the National Flag to any person or object by

way of compliment or salute.

To use the National Flag as trademarks, or for

industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or
designs.

To use the National Flag as drapery, festoon or

tablecloth.
To diplay the National Flag under any painting or To wear the National Flag in whole or in part as a
picture. costume or uniform.

To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design,

To display the National Flag horizontally. It shall drawings, advertisement, or imprint of any nature on
always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely. the National Flag.

To display the National Flag below any platform. To print, paint or attach representation of the
National Flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions,
and articles of merchandise.

To display the National Flag in discotheques, cockpits,

night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and
places of vice or where frivolity prevails. To display in public any foreign flag, except in
embassies and other diplomatic establishment, and in
offices of international organizations.
To use or display or be part of any advertisement or
infomercial.

BOARD RESOLUTION
The contents of this article are sourced from
the National Historical Commission Website.

Resolution no. 8, s. 2017 – A resolution to include

additional sites under section 10 of the Implementing
Rules and Regulation (IRR) of R. A. 8491 known as “The
Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,” where the
Philippine flag shall be permanently hoisted.
Resolution no. 9, s. 2017 – A resolution prohibiting the
manufacture and use of heraldic items and devices
without the approval of the Office of the President, to
be included in section 49 of the Implementing Rules and
Regulation (IRR) of R. A. 8491 known as “The Flag and
Heraldic Code of the Philippines”
Resolution no. 10, 2. 2017 – A resolution to include the
custom of singing the National Anthem first before an
invocation under section 43 of the Implementing Rules
and Regulation (IRR) of R. A. 8491 known as the “The
Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines”.