THE 4 FILIPINO CORE VALUES Baguio City, locals even offer the comforts of their
own homes for tourists who need a place to stay for
Amor Propio – A Spanish word meaning, self-love.
It is a sense of self-esteem or self-respect that
prevents a person from the loss of social acceptance.
Utang na Loob – Basically means giving back
what you owe to a person.
Bayanihan, Pakikisama, Pagtutulungan – Are all
synonymous with each other. Community,
Cooperation, and Togetherness are debatably the
driving factors of the Filipino culture.
Tayo vs Kami / Barkada – “Us with you” and “Us
without you” is the result of being loyal to one
group and the dismissal of non-members.
CLASSIC FILIPINO POSITIVE AND
NEGATIVE TRAITS AND
CHARACTERISTICS
The Philippines is a site of natural wonders
and eye-catching scenery. The archipelago is not
without verdant hills and mountains, lush forestry,
exotic animals, and rolling waves. More
importantly, the Filipinos make the Philippines fun
to visit, thanks to their unique traits and laudable
talents and crafts.
What tourist could even forget the jeepney,
the only vehicle of its kind in the world? Or the
Filipinos’ habit of kissing the hands of their elders
and adding the words “po” and “opo” to their
sentences, a language feature that is not evident in
other cultures? Truly, the Philippines is also a
melting pot of various traditions cultivated within
centuries of colonial rule and shaped by indigenous
practices handed down from generation to
generation.
For tourists, it is a marvel to see the unique
traits of Filipinos. These characteristics give them
their own identity and eventually attract tourists to
visit the country more often. These unique traits are
the following:
1. Hospitality
Filipinos are known for being hospitable,
especially to tourists and wanderers who do not
have a place to stay. In some tourist spots such as
a night or two.
2. Optimism
Despite being a path for typhoons, Filipinos
remain positive about their situation. Whatever
problems come their way, they always greet visitors
with a smile on their faces and say “It’s okay”
3. Resourcefulness
Filipinos are talented and highly creative.
They can fashion instruments out of kitchen
utensils, and could solve problems at a snap of a
finger, thanks to their resourcefulness.
4. Respect for elder
They have a habit of kissing the hands of
elders, an act that means they are asking for their
elder’s blessing. (They call it – “Mano”)
5. Strong family ties
Only in the Philippines will you see families
that bond together like no other. In a typical
household, you’ll see extended families like the
grandparents and the couple’s siblings, all co-
existing harmoniously with the nuclear family.
6. Collective pride
Filipinos are mighty proud of their cultural
heritage and are doubly proud when they hear of
Filipinos making it big in other countries. For them,
there is no “half-Filipino”. A person born with
Filipino blood, no matter how small the percentage
is, is regarded with respect and pride.
7. Strong work ethic
Filipinos are also committed individuals,
especially in the workforce. Tourists admire
Filipino valets and bellboys who always extend a
helping hand to them, despite calling on their
service in the wee hours. There is no snobbish
attitude among the Filipinos.
8. Industriousness
Once berated by national hero Jose Rizal for
following after the colonizers’ siesta rule and
indolence, the typical Filipino is hard working and
has no qualms about working beyond their
schedule.
Helpfulness
Filipinos are generally liked by tourists
because they do not choose whom to help. When
someone needs assistance, they readily come to
their aid.

10. Gratefulness
Filipinos are known for saying “thank
you” whenever they are helped in return. Locals
also give presents to tourists to thank them for
taking time to visit their region.
11. Honesty
Have you heard of the Honesty store in
Batanes, where no one guards the store, thus letting
residents and tourists purchase goods and pay
whatever amount they want? How about the cab
drivers who return wallets and other belongings to
their passengers? These show how honest Filipinos
can be, and this is also the reason why tourists trust
them completely.
12. Courtesy
Aside from saying “po” and “opo”, Filipinos
are known worldwide to be very polite. They make
sure that they give their visitors a warm welcome.
13. Bravery
The Filipino spirit is marked with courage,
especially in times of distress and other problems.
14. Unity
Also referred to as the “Bayanihan”,
Filipinos help one another when their fellowmen
need them.
15. Faith
The Philippines is predominantly a Catholic
country, and wherever the Filipinos go, they always
make it a point to honor God Almighty. Tourists
can attest to the many churches, old and new,
erected in the country.
If there’s a positive trait there would also be
a negative. Let’s admit it; at some point in our lives,
we have been guilty of one or two (or more) of the
Pinoy bad habits listed below. Although these
negative traits do not diminish the fact that Filipinos
are a very awesome people, it’s just sad that they
have continued to pull us down personally and as a
nation.
Therefore, for the good of ourselves and our
country, it is imperative that we should discard the
following negative traits:
 
1. Crab Mentality
“If I can’t have it neither can you!”
Simply put, this refers to the behavior of preventing
someone from achieving something due to jealousy
or envy. Instead of praising or rendering assistance,
someone with crab mentality would think “if I can’t
have it, then you can’t as well” and will purposely
try to bring his/her victim down. And just like the
crabs who could have escaped from the bucket if
they only stopped pulling each other down, nothing
ever gets accomplished.
2. Ningas-Kugon
“Leaving our work either half-baked or unfinished”
One reason why we sometimes exert half-
hearted effort in our undertakings is due to this
attitude. Translated to “burning cogon grass” in
English, this idiom is meant to illustrate how
Filipinos initially exhibit great enthusiasm at the
beginning of a project. Our eagerness however,
fades away just as quickly as the fire is
extinguished, leaving our work either half-baked or
unfinished.
3. Mañana Habit
“Mamaya na” o “bukas nalang”
It is ironic that the Spanish would accuse
Filipinos of being lazy when they themselves taught
us the mañana habit in the first place. Known as
“tomorrow” in English, the habit encourages
procrastination, an “ability” we Filipino have since
turned into an art form. Even the most urgent of
projects and tasks can be relegated for some other
time; we are only forced to work on them when the
deadline is near. It’s a miracle we get things done in
this country.
4. Filipino Time
...Minutes or hours behind the standard time…
Related to the mañana habit, Filipino time
refers to the Filipinos’ own unique brand of time,
which is known to be minutes or hours behind the
standard time.  In other words, we tend not to
observe punctuality at all. This behavior usually
drives time-observant foreigners crazy. While we
Filipinos with our easy-going ways have somewhat
become used to Filipino time, it still is a bad habit
that needs to be dropped.
5. Being Onion-Skinned (Balat Sibuyas)
“Filipinos extra- sensitivity to insults”
We Filipinos are famous for being onion-
skinned or easily slighted at perceived insults.
While it’s perfectly normal for us to taunt and
criticize others, we can’t handle the same when it’s
being hurled back at us. Incidents showcasing our
extra-sensitivity to insults usually involve a
foreigner making either a Bonafede racist remark or
a humorous jab at us Filipinos. True to form, our
reactions would range from righteous indignation to
excessive grandstanding. While it is alright to feel
incensed, throwing a fit in front of the world would
inevitably do us no good at all.
6. General Disregard for Rules
“Filipinos penchant for law-breaking”
Why is it so hard for Filipinos to obey the
rules? This social phenomenon is not exclusive to
hardened criminals either—a look at everyday life
in the country shows Filipinos from the entire social
strata nonchalantly breaking the rules, whether it is
something as benign as jaywalking or as dangerous
as beating the red light.
An interesting theory goes that the Filipinos’
penchant for law-breaking goes beyond mere lack
of discipline or failure to implement the rules. It is
something that is ingrained in our very culture.  positive aspects of this behavior include belief in
Being oppressed under the yoke of colonization for
such a long time made our ancestors defiant of the
rules they believed to be discriminatory. Although
such “self-righteous disobedience” may have been
alright during their time, the behavior would
continue to manifest itself among the later Filipinos,
resulting in an utter lack of respect for the rules.
7. Colonial Mentality
...A preference for all foreign over our own…
Probably one of the biggest flaws we have
as a nation is our colonial mentality, defined as a
preference for all things foreign over our own, a
negative trait we acquired from our days under the
Spanish and the Americans. As a result, we
Filipinos have been indoctrinated with the
misconception that our culture is inferior to that of
our past colonizers. Glaring examples of colonial
mentality include patronizing foreign instead of
local brands, favoring foreign values over our own,
and even desiring to look more “Western” (think
whitening products). If we can’t even have pride in
our own country, then unfortunately we will always
be stuck with this self-defeating mentality.
8. Balikbayan Box Mentality
...Exploitative or jealous of the success of the
OFW…
While there is nothing wrong with giving
gifts to one’s family and friends (we Filipinos do
highly value them after all), it becomes a different
matter when said family and friends either
misconstrue or abuse the OFW’s generosity.
In local parlance, this has become known as
the “Balikbayan box mentality.” People ingrained
with this mentality either become exploitative or
jealous of the success of the OFW, not knowing that
he/she is working hard away from his loved ones in
a foreign country. Some also believe that the
practice undoubtedly contributes to the Filipinos’
colonial mentality.
9. Bahala Na Attitude
“Bahala na si Batman”
Roughly translated as “come what may”,
this is the Filipinos’ own version of fatalism, the
belief of leaving everything to the hands of fate.
This attitude, while not inherently detrimental in
itself, is still a double-edged sword. On one hand,
Divine Providence and national social
responsibility. On the other hand, the attitude can
also promote a sense of helplessness and resignation
of one’s fate at the local level, and a countrywide
lack of empathy and collective action on the
national level. This is also the reason why we tend
to have amnesia over past wrongdoings committed
by our leaders.
10. Corruption
“Lagay”
One of the biggest social ills our country has
continued to face since time immemorial is the issue
of corruption.  Let’s face it, our “culture of
corruption” is embedded deep within our system
and reinforced by a complex web of economic and
social factors which include personal ambitions and
a twisted sense of loyalty to friends and kin. The
Philippines is in for a long haul if our officials and
we ourselves do not get rid of this very negative
habit.
11. Maintaining Double Standards
“When a situation is desirable for one group but
deplorable for another”
This behavior can be observed in just about
every sector of Philippine society, with the most
common example being the condemnation of an
adulterous woman while applauding a polygamous
man. On the national scale, we see politicians
spouting promises of reform and good governance
only to break them in the end. Long story short,
some Filipinos are hypocrites to the core.
12. Excessive Partying
“Celebrating like there’s no tomorrow”
Now there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a
fiesta and party every now and then, it’s just that we
Filipinos tend to overdo it.  Birthdays,
anniversaries, graduations, and even somber
funerals are celebrated by Filipinos like there is no
tomorrow. Sometimes we even make up the
slightest of reasons just so we could have an excuse
to party. What’s more, a host would sometimes
even strain his own finances just to impress his
guests.
As for fiestas, it seems that every LGU down to the
smallest barangay in the country has a fiesta to
celebrate. Like we said, it’s alright to party, but we
should really focus on austerity and working hard
first.
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.
ARTICLE I
National Territory
The national territory comprises the
Philippine archipelago, with all the islands and
waters embraced therein, and all other territories
over which the Philippines has sovereignty or
jurisdiction, consisting of its terrestrial, fluvial, and
aerial domains, including its territorial sea, the
seabed, the subsoil, the insular shelves, and other
submarine areas. The waters around, between, and
connecting the islands of the archipelago, regardless
of their breadth and dimensions, form part of the
internal waters of the Philippines.
ARTICLE II
Declaration of Principles and State Policies
SECTION 1. The Philippines is a democratic and
republican State. Sovereignty resides in the people
and all government authority emanates from them.
SECTION 2. The Philippines renounces war as an
instrument of national policy, adopts the generally
accepted principles of international law as part of
the law of the land and adheres to the policy of
peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation, and
amity with all nations.
SECTION 3. Civilian authority is, at all times,
supreme over the military. The Armed Forces of the
Philippines is the protector of the people and the
State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the
State and the integrity of the national territory.
SECTION 4. 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 citizens may be required,
under conditions provided by law, to render
personal military or civil service.
SECTION 5. The maintenance of peace and order,
the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the
promotion of the general welfare are essential for
the enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of
democracy.
SECTION 6. The separation of Church and State
shall be inviolable.
State Policies
SECTION 7. The State shall pursue an independent
foreign policy. In its relations with other states the
paramount consideration shall be national
sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest,
and the right to self-determination.
SECTION 8. The Philippines, consistent with the
national interest, adopts and pursues a policy of
freedom from nuclear weapons in its territory.
SECTION 9. The State shall promote a just and
dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity
and independence of the nation and free the people
from poverty through policies that provide adequate
social services, promote full employment, a rising
standard of living, and an improved quality of life
for all.
SECTION 10. The State shall promote social
justice in all phases of national development.
SECTION 11. The State values the dignity of every
human person and guarantees full respect for human
rights.
SECTION 12. The State recognizes the sanctity of
family life and shall protect and strengthen the
family as a basic autonomous social institution. It
shall equally protect the life of the mother and the
life of the unborn from conception. The natural and
primary right and duty of parents in the rearing of
the youth for civic efficiency and the development
of moral character shall receive the support of the
Government.
SECTION 13. The State recognizes the vital role of
the youth in nation-building and shall promote and
protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual,
and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth
patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their
involvement in public and civic affairs.
SECTION 14. The State recognizes the role of
women in nation-building, and shall ensure the
fundamental equality before the law of women and
men.
SECTION 15. The State shall protect and promote
the right to health of the people and instill health
consciousness among them.
SECTION 16. The State shall protect and advance
the right of the people to a balanced and healthful
ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of
nature.
SECTION 17. The State shall give priority to
education, science and technology, arts, culture, and
sports to foster patriotism and nationalism,
accelerate social progress, and promote total human
liberation and development.
SECTION 18. The State affirms labor as a primary
social economic force. It shall protect the rights of
workers and promote their welfare.
SECTION 19. The State shall develop a self-reliant
and independent national economy effectively
controlled by Filipinos.
SECTION 20. The State recognizes the
indispensable role of the private sector, encourages
private enterprise, and provides incentives to needed
investments.
SECTION 21. The State shall promote
comprehensive rural development and agrarian
reform.
SECTION 22. The State recognizes and promotes
the rights of indigenous cultural communities within
the framework of national unity and development.
SECTION 23. The State shall encourage non-
governmental, community-based, or sectoral
organizations that promote the welfare of the nation.
SECTION 24. The State recognizes the vital role of
communication and information in nation-building.
SECTION 25. The State shall ensure the autonomy
of local governments.
SECTION 26. The State shall guarantee equal
access to opportunities for public service, and
prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by
law.
SECTION 27. The State shall maintain honesty and
integrity in the public service and take positive and
effective measures against graft and corruption.
SECTION 28. Subject to reasonable conditions
prescribed by law, the State adopts and implements
a policy of full public disclosure of all its
transactions involving public interest.
ARTICLE III
Bill of Rights
SECTION 1. No person shall be deprived of life,
liberty, or property without due process of law, nor
shall any person be denied the equal protection of
the laws.
SECTION 2. The right of the people to be secure in
their persons, houses, papers, and effects against
unreasonable searches and seizures of whatever
nature and for any purpose shall be inviolable, and
no search warrant or warrant of arrest shall issue
except upon probable cause to be determined
personally by the judge after examination under
oath or affirmation of the complainant and the
witnesses he may produce, and particularly
describing the place to be searched and the persons
or things to be seized.
SECTION 3. (1) The privacy of communication
and correspondence shall be inviolable except upon
lawful order of the court, or when public safety or
order requires otherwise as prescribed by law.
(2) Any evidence obtained in violation of this or the
preceding section shall be inadmissible for any
purpose in any proceeding.
SECTION 4. No law shall be passed abridging the
freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or
the right of the people peaceably to assemble and
petition the government for redress of grievances.
SECTION 5. No law shall be made respecting an
establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free
exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of
religious profession and worship, without
discrimination or preference, shall forever be
allowed. No religious test shall be required for the
exercise of civil or political rights.
SECTION 6. The liberty of abode and of changing
the same within the limits prescribed by law shall
not be impaired except upon lawful order of the
court. Neither shall the right to travel be impaired
except in the interest of national security, public
safety, or public health, as may be provided by law.
SECTION 7. The right of the people to information
on matters of public concern shall be recognized.
Access to official records, and to documents, and
papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or
decisions, as well as to government research data
used as basis for policy development, shall be
afforded the citizen, subject to such limitations as
may be provided by law.
SECTION 8. The right of the people, including
those employed in the public and private sectors, to
form unions, associations, or societies for purposes
not contrary to law shall not be abridged.
SECTION 9. Private property shall not be taken for
public use without just compensation.
SECTION 10. No law impairing the obligation of
contracts shall be passed.
SECTION 11. Free access to the courts and quasi-
judicial bodies and adequate legal assistance shall
not be denied to any person by reason of poverty.
SECTION 12. (1) Any person under investigation
for the commission of an offense shall have the
right to be informed of his right to remain silent and
to have competent and independent counsel
preferably of his own choice. If the person cannot
afford the services of counsel, he must be provided
with one. These rights cannot be waived except in
writing and in the presence of counsel.
(2) No torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation,
or any other means which vitiate the free will shall
be used against him. Secret detention places,
solitary, incommunicado, or other similar forms of
detention are prohibited.
(3) Any confession or admission obtained in
violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be
inadmissible in evidence against him.
(4) The law shall provide for penal and civil
sanctions for violations of this section as well as
compensation to and rehabilitation of victims of
torture or similar practices, and their families.
SECTION 13. All persons, except those charged
with offenses punishable by reclusion perpetua
when evidence of guilt is strong, shall, before
conviction, be bailable by sufficient sureties, or be
released on recognizance as may be provided by
law. The right to bail shall not be impaired even
when the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus is
suspended. Excessive bail shall not be required.
SECTION 14. (1) No person shall be held to
answer for a criminal offense without due process
of law.
(2) In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be
presumed innocent until the contrary is proved, and
shall enjoy the right to be heard by himself and
counsel, to be informed of the nature and cause of
the accusation against him, to have a speedy,
impartial, and public trial, to meet the witnesses
face to face, and to have compulsory process to
secure the attendance of witnesses and the
production of evidence in his behalf. However, after
arraignment, trial may proceed notwithstanding the
absence of the accused provided that he has been
duly notified and his failure to appear is
unjustifiable.
SECTION 15. The privilege of the writ of habeas
corpus shall not be suspended except in cases of
invasion or rebellion when the public safety requires
it.
SECTION 16. All persons shall have the right to a
speedy disposition of their cases before all judicial,
quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies.
SECTION 17. No person shall be compelled to be
a witness against himself.
SECTION 18. (1) No person shall be detained
solely by reason of his political beliefs and
aspirations.
(2) No involuntary servitude in any form shall exist
except as a punishment for a crime whereof the
party shall have been duly convicted.
SECTION 19. (1) Excessive fines shall not be
imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman
punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be
imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving
heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for
it. Any death penalty already imposed shall be
reduced to reclusion perpetua.
(2) The employment of physical, psychological, or
degrading punishment against any prisoner or
detainee or the use of substandard or inadequate
penal facilities under subhuman conditions shall be
dealt with by law.
SECTION 20. No person shall be imprisoned for
debt or non-payment of a poll tax.
SECTION 21. No person shall be twice put in
jeopardy of punishment for the same offense. If an
act is punished by a law and an ordinance,
conviction or acquittal under either shall constitute a
bar to another prosecution for the same act.
SECTION 22. No ex post facto law or bill of
attainder shall be enacted.
ARTICLE XIV
Education, Science and Technology, Arts, Culture,
and Sports
Education
SECTION 1. The State shall protect and promote
the right of all citizens to quality education at all
levels and shall take appropriate steps to make such
education accessible to all.
SECTION 2. The State shall:
(1) Establish, maintain, and support a complete,
adequate, and integrated system of education
relevant to the needs of the people and society;
(2) Establish and maintain a system of free public
education in the elementary and high school levels.
Without limiting the natural right of parents to rear
their children, elementary education is compulsory
for all children of school age;
(3) Establish and maintain a system of scholarship
grants, student loan programs, subsidies, and other
incentives which shall be available to deserving
students in both public and private schools,
especially to the underprivileged;
(4) Encourage non-formal, informal, and indigenous
learning systems, as well as self-learning,
independent, and out-of-school study programs
particularly those that respond to community needs;
and
(5) Provide adult citizens, the disabled, and out-of-
school youth with training in civics, vocational
efficiency, and other skills.
SECTION 3. (1) All educational institutions shall
include the study of the Constitution as part of the
curricula.
(2) They shall inculcate patriotism and nationalism,
foster love of humanity, respect for human rights,
appreciation of the role of national heroes in the
historical development of the country, teach the
rights and duties of citizenship, strengthen ethical
and spiritual values, develop moral character and
personal discipline, encourage critical and creative
thinking, broaden scientific and technological
knowledge, and promote vocational efficiency.
(3) At the option expressed in writing by the parents
or guardians, religion shall be allowed to be taught
to their children or wards in public elementary and
high schools within the regular class hours by
instructors designated or approved by the religious
authorities of the religion to which the children or
wards belong, without additional cost to the
Government.
SECTION 4. (1) The State recognizes the
complementary roles of public and private
institutions in the educational system and shall
exercise reasonable supervision and regulation of all
educational institutions.
(2) Educational institutions, other than those
established by religious groups and mission boards,
shall be owned solely by citizens of the Philippines
or corporations or associations at least sixty per
centum of the capital of which is owned by such
citizens. The Congress may, however, require
increased Filipino equity participation in all
educational institutions.
The control and administration of educational
institutions shall be vested in citizens of the
Philippines.
No educational institution shall be established
exclusively for aliens and no group of aliens shall
comprise more than one-third of the enrollment in
any school. The provisions of this subsection shall
not apply to schools established for foreign
diplomatic personnel and their dependents and,
unless otherwise provided by law, for other foreign
temporary residents.
(3) All revenues and assets of non-stock, non-profit
educational institutions used actually, directly, and
exclusively for educational purposes shall be
exempt from taxes and duties. Upon the dissolution
or cessation of the corporate existence of such
institutions, their assets shall be disposed of in the
manner provided by law.
Proprietary educational institutions, including those
cooperatively owned, may likewise be entitled to
such exemptions subject to the limitations provided
by law including restrictions on dividends and
provisions for reinvestment.
(4) Subject to conditions prescribed by law, all
grants, endowments, donations, or contributions
used actually, directly, and exclusively for
educational purposes shall be exempt from tax.
SECTION 5. (1) The State shall take into account
regional and sectoral needs and conditions and shall
encourage local planning in the development of
educational policies and programs.
(2) Academic freedom shall be enjoyed in all
institutions of higher learning.
(3) Every citizen has a right to select a profession or
course of study, subject to fair, reasonable, and
equitable admission and academic requirements.
(4) The State shall enhance the right of teachers to
professional advancement. Non-teaching academic
and non-academic personnel shall enjoy the
protection of the State.
(5) The State shall assign the highest budgetary
priority to education and ensure that teaching will
attract and retain its rightful share of the best
available talents through adequate remuneration and
other means of job satisfaction and fulfillment.
Language
SECTION 6. The national language of the
Philippines is Filipino. As it evolves, it shall be
further developed and enriched on the basis of
existing Philippine and other languages.
Subject to provisions of law and as the Congress
may deem appropriate, the Government shall take
steps to initiate and sustain the use of Filipino as a
medium of official communication and as language
of instruction in the educational system.
SECTION 7. For purposes of communication and
instruction, the official languages of the Philippines
are Filipino and, until otherwise provided by law,
English.
The regional languages are the auxiliary official
languages in the regions and shall serve as auxiliary
media of instruction therein.
Spanish and Arabic shall be promoted on a
voluntary and optional basis.
SECTION 8. This Constitution shall be
promulgated in Filipino and English and shall be
translated into major regional languages, Arabic,
and Spanish.
SECTION 9. The Congress shall establish a
national language commission composed of
representatives of various regions and disciplines
which shall undertake, coordinate, and promote
researches for the development, propagation, and
preservation of Filipino and other languages.
Science and Technology
SECTION 10. Science and technology are essential
for national development and progress. The State
shall give priority to research and development,
invention, innovation, and their utilization; and to
science and technology education, training, and
services. It shall support indigenous, appropriate,
and self-reliant scientific and technological
capabilities, and their application to the country’s
productive systems and national life.
SECTION 11. The Congress may provide for
incentives, including tax deductions, to encourage
private participation in programs of basic and
applied scientific research. Scholarships, grants-in-
aid, or other forms of incentives shall be provided to
deserving science students, researchers, scientists,
inventors, technologists, and specially gifted
citizens.
SECTION 12. The State shall regulate the transfer
and promote the adaptation of technology from all
sources for the national benefit. It shall encourage
the widest participation of private groups, local
governments, and community-based organizations
in the generation and utilization of science and
technology.
SECTION 13. The State shall protect and secure
the exclusive rights of scientists, inventors, artists,
and other gifted citizens to their intellectual
property and creations, particularly when beneficial
to the people, for such period as may be provided by
law.
Arts and Culture
SECTION 14. The State shall foster the
preservation, enrichment, and dynamic evolution of
a Filipino national culture based on the principle of
unity in diversity in a climate of free artistic and
intellectual expression.
SECTION 15. Arts and letters shall enjoy the
patronage of the State. The State shall conserve,
promote, and popularize the nation’s historical and
cultural heritage and resources, as well as artistic
creations.
SECTION 16. All the country’s artistic and historic
wealth constitutes the cultural treasure of the nation
and shall be under the protection of the State which
may regulate its disposition.
SECTION 17. The State shall recognize, respect,
and protect the rights of indigenous cultural
communities to preserve and develop their cultures,
traditions, and institutions. It shall consider these
rights in the formulation of national plans and
policies.
SECTION 18. (1) The State shall ensure equal
access to cultural opportunities through the
educational system, public or private cultural
entities, scholarships, grants and other incentives,
and community cultural centers, and other public
venues.
(2) The State shall encourage and support
researches and studies on the arts and culture.
Sports
SECTION 19. (1) The State shall promote physical
education and encourage sports programs, league
competitions, and amateur sports, including training
for international competitions, to foster self-
discipline, teamwork, and excellence for the
development of a healthy and alert citizenry.
(2) All educational institutions shall undertake
regular sports activities throughout the country in
cooperation with athletic clubs and other sectors.
ARTICLE XV
The Family
SECTION 1. The State recognizes the Filipino
family as the foundation of the nation. Accordingly,
it shall strengthen its solidarity and actively promote
its total development.
SECTION 2. Marriage, as an inviolable social
institution, is the foundation of the family and shall
be protected by the State.
SECTION 3. The State shall defend:
(1) The right of spouses to found a family in
accordance with their religious convictions and the
demands of responsible parenthood;
(2) The right of children to assistance, including
proper care and nutrition, and special protection
from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty,
exploitation, and other conditions prejudicial to
their development;
(3) The right of the family to a family living wage
and income; and
(4) The right of families or family associations to
participate in the planning and implementation
of policies and programs that affect them.
SECTION 4. The family has the duty to care for its
elderly members but the State may also do so
through just programs of social security.
ARTICLE XVI
General Provisions
SECTION 1. The flag of the Philippines shall be
red, white, and blue, with a sun and three stars, as
consecrated and honored by the people and
recognized by law.
SECTION 2. The Congress may, by law, adopt a
new name for the country, a national anthem, or a
national seal, which shall all be truly reflective and
symbolic of the ideals, history, and traditions of the
people. Such law shall take effect only upon its
ratification by the people in a national referendum.
SECTION 3. The State may not be sued without its
consent.
SECTION 4. The Armed Forces of the Philippines
shall be composed of a citizen armed force which
shall undergo military training and serve, as may be
provided by law. It shall keep a regular force
necessary for the security of the State.
SECTION 5. (1) All members of the armed forces
shall take an oath or affirmation to uphold and
defend this Constitution.
(2) The State shall strengthen the patriotic spirit and
nationalist consciousness of the military, and
respect for people’s rights in the performance of
their duty.
(3) Professionalism in the armed forces and
adequate remuneration and benefits of its members
shall be a prime concern of the State. The armed
forces shall be insulated from partisan politics.
No member of the military shall engage directly or
indirectly in any partisan political activity, except to
vote.
(4) No member of the armed forces in the active
service shall, at any time, be appointed or
designated in any capacity to a civilian position in
the Government including government-owned or
controlled corporations or any of their subsidiaries.
(5) Laws on retirement of military officers shall not
allow extension of their service.
(6) The officers and men of the regular force of the
armed forces shall be recruited proportionately from
all provinces and cities as far as practicable.
(7) The tour of duty of the Chief of Staff of the
armed forces shall not exceed three years. However,
in times of war or other national emergency
declared by the Congress, the President may extend
such tour of duty.
SECTION 6. The State shall establish and maintain
one police force, which shall be national in scope
and civilian in character, to be administered and
controlled by a national police commission. The
authority of local executives over the police units in
their jurisdiction shall be provided by law.
SECTION 7. The State shall provide immediate
and adequate care, benefits, and other forms of
assistance to war veterans and veterans of military
campaigns, their surviving spouses and orphans.
Funds shall be provided therefor and due
consideration shall be given them in the disposition
of agricultural lands of the public domain and, in
appropriate cases, in the utilization of natural
resources.
SECTION 8. The State shall, from time to time,
review to upgrade the pensions and other benefits
due to retirees of both the government and the
private sectors.
SECTION 9. The State shall protect consumers
from trade malpractices and from substandard or
hazardous products.
SECTION 10. The State shall provide the policy
environment for the full development of Filipino
capability and the emergence of communication
structures suitable to the needs and aspirations of
the nation and the balanced flow of information
into, out of, and across the country, in accordance
with a policy that respects the freedom of speech
and of the press.
SECTION 11. (1) The ownership and management
of mass media shall be limited to citizens of the
Philippines, or to corporations, cooperatives or
associations, wholly-owned and managed by such
citizens.
The Congress shall regulate or prohibit monopolies
in commercial mass media when the public interest
so requires. No combinations in restraint of trade or
unfair competition therein shall be allowed.
(2) The advertising industry is impressed with
public interest, and shall be regulated by law for the
protection of consumers and the promotion of the
general welfare.
Only Filipino citizens or corporations or
associations at least seventy per centum of the
capital of which is owned by such citizens shall be
allowed to engage in the advertising industry.
The participation of foreign investors in the
governing body of entities in such industry shall be
limited to their proportionate share in the capital
thereof, and all the executive and managing officers
of such entities must be citizens of the Philippines.
SECTION 12. The Congress may create a
consultative body to advise the President on policies
affecting indigenous cultural communities, the
majority of the members of which shall come from
such communities.
THE OFFICIAL AND UNOFFICIAL
SYSMBOLS OF THE PHILIPPINES
The Philippine Flag (Ang Pambansang Watawat
ng Pilipinas)
The Philippine flag carries the colors and
elements that symbolize the country’s struggle to
gain its freedom after almost 400 years of
oppressive Spanish domination and subjugation.
The band of royal blue should always be atop the
crimson band to signify the prevalence of peace,
justice and freedom. Otherwise, hoisting the flag in
a manner that places the red band, which
symbolizes valor and patriotism, over the blue band,
signifies that the country is in a state of war.
Positioning the red band over the blue means the
people are ready to lay down their lives in order to
preserve the country’s independence and freedom.
The triangular white section signifies
equality and brotherhood throughout the three major
islands of the country. The three stars in each corner
of the triangle represent the three islands, namely
Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The golden-yellow
sun at the center of the white triangle has eight
major rays representing the eight provinces that
initiated the revolt against the Spanish government:
Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Manila,
Pampanga, Nueva Ecija and Tarlac.
The Philippine National Coat of Arms and
Great Seal, carry the same tri-colors, as well as the
sun and stars to denote the symbolisms signified by
the Philippine flag.
Sampaguita (Jasminum Sambac)
The Philippine national flower is the
“sampaguita” (Jasminium sambac), which was
declared as the national flower in 1934 during the
American occupation of the Philippines under the
administration of General Frank Murphy.
Sweet but delicately scented, its smooth
velvety petals tend to coil as they surround a golden
corolla. The flowers are in bloom all year round
from evergreen woody vines. However, they have
been observed to blossom only at night, starting at
around six to eight in the evening. The blooms will
all too soon wither after 12 to 20 hours.
Although the closest derivation of the
name sampaguita is the Sanskrit word sampenga for
champaca legends have it that the name was derived
from the words sumpa kita (I vow to you).
It’s a story about a pair of star-crossed
lovers, in which the girl is a pretty maiden with soft
and delicate features similar to that of the
sampaguita’s. The year-round blooms symbolize
her vow not to leave her beloved, even after her
death. She fulfilled her promise through the sweet-
scented flowers that sprung from her grave, as she
makes her presence felt each night when the flowers
come into bloom.
Hence, the sampaguita flower symbolizes
the Filipino’s sense of commitment to a vow or duty
to always keep a promise no matter what. However,
in today’s more practical context,
the sampaguita flower symbolizes hope for some of
the poor Filipino folks.
For as long as the woody vines give off
sweet smelling blooms all year round, the poor
families who grow these woody vines will always
have a source of income that will see them through
each day. Since the flowers’ fragrance lasts long
during the day, the dainty blooms are stringed up
and sold as garlands and peddled among
churchgoers. Motorists or vehicle owners also buy
the sampaguita garlands from street peddlers, as
natural perfumes for their air-conditioned cars.
Narra Tree (Pterocarpus)
The Philippine national tree is the sturdy and
durable narra, which symbolizes the Filipino
people’s indomitable spirit and strength of
character. It is known to easily adapt to a wide
range of soil varieties but grows best in fine-grained
fertile soil set down by overflows coming from river
beds or flood plains. The tree is agriculturally useful
as a windbreaker to protect vegetations of food
crops and as natural fencing for pastures. In
addition, their presence in secondary forests
contributes to soil stabilization because of its
nitrogen fixing properties. The tree’s broad canopy
is capable of providing ample shade as a place of
rest for farmers and agricultural workers in open
fields or grazing lands.
The tree’s timber is well-known known in
the wood industry, from which elegantly crafted
furniture and cabinetry are crafted. In fact, wood
carvers prefer the narra material because of its
pleasant rose-like scent, its pliancy, and adaptability
to any type of climate or condition. However, these
desirable properties have caused the narra tree’s
rapid decline, as illegal logging operators took
advantage of the wide demand for its timber.
The narra tree was officially declared as a national
symbol by Gen. Frank Murphy along with the
sampaguita’s declaration in 1934.
The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi)
The Philippine Eagle was declared as the
country’s national bird in 1995, by then President
Fidel V. Ramos. Majestic and huge at about 86 cm
to 102 cm or about 3.346 feet in size**, ** it has a
large, deep bluish-grey bill and an elongated black-
feathered nape, topped with a smooth cream-colored
crown. Its body is cloaked in dark brown feathers
while its underparts and underwings are white. The
majestic bird’s legs and sharp large claws are in
contrasting yellow. Loss of habitat, uncontrolled
hunting for food and captive breeding have caused
the rapid decline in the eagle’s population; hence, it
has been listed as a critically endangered species.
In 1992, one of the eggs rescued by the
Philippine Eagle Foundation had hatched
successfully and the chick was given the name
“Pag-asa”, which means hope. Since then, the
Philippine eagle has symbolized the nation’s
concerted effort to rebuild and save the remaining
rainforests. Although Filipinos are largely known
for their differences in religion, language and
ideologies, they have always manifested the
willingness to unite as one nation if it means
working for the good of all.
Arnis (Eskrima)
Republic Act 9850 of 2009 is the official
declaration of arnis, as the country’s national sport
and form of martial art, signed by then president
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Arnis refers to one or
two sticks made from rattan, and used as weapons
for defending one’s self by way of striking,
thrusting and parrying techniques to immobilize an
attacker.
The Department of Education, Culture and
Sports (DECS) proposed its official recognition as a
national weapon for martial arts to reawaken the
country’s sense of nationalism and patriotism, as
well as pride for the country’s historical
development. Th e objective is to instill among
the Filipino youths, the appreciation of a national
heritage being recognized by foreign countries.
Three Hollywood blockbuster movies made
use of arnis and its fighting-techniques. These
include; “The Bourne Identity”, “Mission
Impossible 3”, and “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The
Cradle of Life.” In addition, a crew from the
Discovery Channel came over to the Philippines
specifically to document the art and technique of
using arnis as a weapon and was featured by the
said channel in the show “Fight Quest”.
Unofficial Symbols
There are other national symbols taught in
preschool and elementary schools, as a means to
promote nationalism and foster appreciation for
indigenous elements that typify the Filipino as an
individual. Below is a list that briefly rounds-up the
unofficial national symbols of the Philippines:
National Dance: These are the “Carinosa” for grace
and refinement of movements and the “Tinikling”
for poise and dexterity as dancers try to avoid
getting caught between two bamboo poles.
National Animal: Carabao (water buffalo) which
symbolizes the Filipino’s willingness to perform
hard work with diligence and forbearance.
National Fish: The bangus (milkfish) symbolizes
the Filipino’s versatility, since there are many ways
by which the milkfish is prepared and cooked.
National Fruit: Philippine mango is acclaimed as
the sweetest variety of its kind on a global scale.
The dried mango is one of the most in demand
products being exported to other countries.
National Dress – Male: The barong tagalong is
another widely acclaimed Philippine product
because its intricate embroidery and crisp elegance
make it suitable as well as comfortable for formal
gatherings, in lieu of the tuxedo ensemble.
National Dress – Female: The “baro’t saya” is the
traditional white loose-fitting blouse with bell-
shaped sleeves used to overlap an equally loose-
fitting long skirt that often comes in plaid or
checkered prints of red, yellow and orange.
National Plant: Anahaw (Livistona rotundifolia) is
another indigenous material, which symbolizes the
resourcefulness and craftsmanship of the Filipino
people.
Republic Act No. 8491
An Act Prescribing the Code of the
National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-
Arms and Other Heraldic Items and
Devices of the Philippines.
Be it enacted by the Senate and Home of
Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:
SECTION 1. Short Title — This act shall be
known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the
Philippines.”
SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy – Reverence
and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag,
the anthem and other national symbols which
embody the national ideals and traditions and which
express the principles of sovereignty and national
solidarity. The heraldic items and 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.
SECTION 3. Definition of Terms — Whenever
used in this Act, 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. “Flag” shall mean the Philippine National Flag,
unless stated otherwise;
d. “Fly” shall mean 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. “Half-Mast” shall mean lowering the flag to one-
half the distance between the top and bottom of the
staff;
g. “Hoist” shall mean the part of the flag nearest the
staff or the canvass to which the halyard is attached;
h. “Inclement Weather” shall mean that a typhoon
signal is raised in the locality;
i. “National Anthem” shall mean the Philippine
National Anthem’
j. “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;
k. “Places of Frivolty” shall mean places of hilarity
marked by or providing boisterous merriment or
recreation; and
l. “Institute” shall mean the National Historical
Institute.
Chapter 1
THE NATIONAL FLAG
A. Design of the National Flag
SECTION 4. 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
SECTION 5. The flag shall be displayed in all
public buildings, official residences public plazas,
and institutions of learning everyday throughout the
year.
SECTION 6. The flag shall be permanently
hoisted, day and night throughout the year, in front
of the following; at Malacanang Palace; the
Congress of the Philippines building; Supreme
Court building; the Rizal Monument in Luneta,
Manila; Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite;
Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan; the Tomb of
the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ngmga Bayani;
Mausuleo de los Beteranos dela Revolucion; all
International Ports of Entry and all other places as
maybe designated by the Institute.
The flag shall be properly illuminated at night.
SECTION 7. The 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 ngKagitingan); May 1 (Labor Day);
May 28 (National Flag Day) to June 12
(Independence Day); last Sunday of August
(National Heroes Day); November 30 (Bonifacio
Day); and December 30 (Rizal Day); and on such
other days as may be declared by the President
and/or local chief executives.
The flag may also be displayed throughout the year
in private buildings or offices or raised in the open
on flag-staffs in front of private buildings: Provided,
that they observe flag-raising ceremonies in
accordance with the rules and regulations to be
issued by the Office of the President.
SECTION 8. All government 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-government organizations and the private
sector are exhorted to cooperate in making the
celebrations a success.
SECTION 9. The flag shall be flown on merchant
ships of Philippine registry of more than one
thousand (1000) gross tons and on all naval vessels.
On board naval vessels, the flag shall be displayed
on the flagstaff 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.
SECTION 10. The 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 right (left of
the observer) in time of peace, 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.
SECTION 11. If planted on the ground, the
flagpole shall be at a prominent place and shall be
of such height as would give the flag commanding
position in relation to the buildings in the vicinity.
If attached to a building, the flagpole shall be on top
of its roof or anchored on a sill projecting at an
angle upward.
If on stage or platform or government office, the
flag shall be at the left (facing the stage) or the left
of the office upon entering.
SECTION 12. 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 hoisted first and lowered last.
If the other flag is not a national flag, it may be
flown in the same line yard as the Philippine flag
but below the latter and it cannot be of greater size
than the Philippine flag.
SECTION 13. When displayed with another flag,
the Philippine flag shall be on the right of the other
flag. If there is a line of other flags, the Philippine
flag shall be in the middle of the line.
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.
SECTION 14. A flag worn out through wear and
tear shall not be thrown away. It shall be solemnly
burned to avoid misuse or desecration. The flag
shall be replaced immediately when it begins to
show signs of wear and tear.
SECTION 15. The flag shall be raised at sunrise
and lowered at sunset. It shall be on the mast at the
start of official’ office hours, shall remain flying
throughout the day.
SECTION 16. The flag may be displayed:
a. Inside or outside-a building or on a stationary
flagpole. 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 a suspended position from a rope extending
from a building to pole erected away from the
building;
e. Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and
stars on top; and
f. Hanging in a vertical position across a street, with
the blue field pointing east, if the road is heading
south or north, or pointing north if the road is
heading east or west.
The flag shall not be raised when the weather is
inclement. If already raised, the flag shall not be
lowered.
SECTION 17. The flag shall be hoisted to the top
briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
The flag shall never touch anything beneath it, such
as the ground, flood, water or other objects.
After being lowered, the flag shall be handled and
folded solemnly as part of the ceremony.
C. Conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony
SECTION 18. All government offices and
educational institutions shall henceforth observe the
flag-raising ceremony every Monday morning and
the flag lowering ceremony every Friday afternoon.
The ceremony shall be simple and dignified and
shall include the playing or singing of the Philippine
National Anthem.
SECTION 19. The office of the President upon the
recommendation of the Institute shall issue rules
and regulations for the proper conduct of the flag
ceremony.
SECTION 20. The observance of the flag
ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be
simple and dignified and shall include the playing
or singing of the anthem in its original Filipino
lyrics and march tempo.
SECTION 21. During the flag-raising ceremony,
the assembly shall stand in formation racing the
flag. At the moment the first note of the anthem is
heard, everyone in the premises shall come to
attention; moving vehicles shall stop. All person’s
present shall: ace their right palms over their chests,
those with hats shall uncover, while those in
military, scouting, security guard, and citizens
military training uniforms shall give: salute
prescribed by their regulations, which salute shall
be completed upon the last note of the anthem.
The assembly shall sing the Philippine national
anthem, accompanied by a band, r 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.
SECTION 22. 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 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 23. The flag shall be flown at half-mast
as a sign of mourning on all buildings and places
where it is displayed, as provided for in this Act, on
the day of 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, the
President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the
House of Representatives, for seven (7) days; and
c. Other persons to be determined by the Institute,
for any period less than seven (7) days.
The flag shall be flown at half-mast on all the
buildings and places where the decedent was
holding office, on the day of death until the day of
interment of an incumbent member of the Supreme
Court, the Cabinet, the Senate or the House of
Representatives, and such other persons as may be
determined by the Institute.
The flag when flown at half-mast shall be first
hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered to
the half-mast position. The flag shall again be raised
briskly to the peak before it is lowered for the day.
E. Casket
SECTION 24. 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
government unit concerned. In such cases, the flag
shall be placed such that the white triangle shall be
at the head and the blue portion shall cover the right
side of the caskets. 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.
F. Pledge to the Flag
SECTION 25. The following shall be the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Philippine Flag:
Ako ay Filipino
Buong katapatang nanunumpa
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag
Na may dangal, katarungan, at kalayaan
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang
Maka-Diyos,
Makatao,
Makakalikasan, at
Makabansa.
Such pledge shall be recited while standing with the
right-hand 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.
G. Flag Days
SECTION 26. The period from May 28 to June 12
of each year is declared as Flag Days, during which
period all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of
government, business establishments, institutions of
learning and private homes are enjoined to display
the flag.
H. Specifications of the National Flag
SECTION 27. The flag shall have the following
proportions. The width of the flag, 1; the length of
the flag, 2; and the sides of the white triangle, 1.
SECTION 28. 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.
SECTION 29. 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, craftmanship and material
requirements of the Government.
b. All submitted samples of flags by accredited
suppliers offered for purchase for government use
shall be evaluated as to design, color and
craftmanship specifications by the Institute, 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 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 requirement as to quality of the
material. The samples shall be submitted by the said
office to the Institute.
SECTION 30. 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 as reference.
SECTION 31. In carrying out its responsibilities
under Section 4 hereof, the Institute, COA, the
ITDI/PTRI shall prepare guidelines to be approved
by the Office of the President.
SECTION 32. All government agencies and
instrumentalities shall ensure that the requirements
under this Act with respect to the standards,
requisitions and delivery of the national flag are
strictly complied with.
SECTION 33. 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
SECTION 34. It shall be prohibited
a. To mutilate, deface, defile, trample, on or cast
contempt any act or omission casting dishonor or
ridicule upon the flag over its surface;
b. To dip the flag to any person or object by way of
compliment or salute;
c. To use the flag:
As a drapery, festoon, tablecloth
As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or other
objects;
As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw,
motor vehicles; May dilag ang tula
As a staff or whip; At awit sa paglayang minamahal.
For unveiling monuments or statues; and Ang kislap ng watawat mo’y
As trademarks or for industrial, commercial or Tagumpay na nagniningning;
agricultural labels or designs. Ang bituin at araw niya,
d. Display the flag: Kailan pa ma’y di magdidilim.
Under any painting or picture; Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati’t pagsinta,
Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft Buhay ay langit sa piling mo;
and be allowed to fall freely; Aming ligaya na ‘pag may mang-aapi,
Below any platform; or Ang mamatay nang dahil sa ‘yo.
In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, SECTION 37. The rendition of the National
casinos, gambling joints and places of vice or where Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in
frivolity prevails. accordance with the musical arrangement and
e. To wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume composition of Julian Felipe.
or uniform; SECTION 38. When the National Anthem is
f. To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, played at a public gathering, whether by a band or
drawings, advertisements, or imprint of any nature by singing or both, or reproduced by any means, the
on the flag; attending public shall sing the anthem. The singing
g. To print, paint or attach representation of the flag must be done with fervor.
on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at
articles of merchandise; attention and face the Philippine flag, if there is one
h. To display in public any foreign flag, except in displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the
embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and band or the conductor. At the first note, all persons
in offices of international organizations. shall execute a salute by placing their right palms
i. To use, display or be part of any advertisement of over their left chests. Those in military, scouting,
infomercial; and citizen’s military training and security guard
j. To display the flag in front of buildings or offices uniforms shall give the salute prescribed by their
occupied by aliens. regulations. The salute shall be completed upon the
last note of the anthem.
Chapter II The anthem shall not be played and sung for mere
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM recreation, amusement or entertainment purposes
except on the following occasions:
SECTION 35. The National Anthem is entitled a. International competitions where the Philippines
Lupang Hinirang. is the host or has a representative;
SECTION 36. The National Anthem shall always b. Local competitions;
be sung in the national language v/ithin or without c. During “signing off” and “signing on” of radio
the country. The following shall be the lyrics of the broadcasting and television stations;
National Anthem. d. Before the initial and last screening of films or
Bayang magiliw, before the opening of theater performances; and
Perlas ng silanganan, e. Other occasions as may be allowed by the
Alab ng puso Institute.
Sa dibdib mo’y buhay. SECTION 39. All officials and employees of the
Lupang hinirang, national and local governments, and any agencies or
Duyan ka ng magiting, instrumentalities thereof, including government-
Sa manlulupig owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned
Di ka pasisiil. entities of offices displaying the national flag and
Sa dagat at bundok, government institutions of learning 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.
Chapter III
THE NATIONAL MOTTO
SECTION 40. The national Motto shall be
“MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-TAO,
MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA.”
Chapter IV
NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS
SECTION 41. 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 resonant with eight minor
lesser rays. Beneath shall be the scroll with the
words “REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS,” inscribed
thereon.
Chapter V
THE GREAT SEAL
SECTION 42. 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.
SECTION 43. 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 bv
custom and usage. The President shall have custody
of the Great Seal.
Chapter VI
OFFICIAL SEALS AND OTHER HERALDIC
ITEMS AND DEVICES
SECTION 44. Any government entity, including
the military, may adopt appropriate coat-of-arms,
administrative seals, logo, insignia, badges, patches,
banners and initiate awards, citations, orders or
decorations, as may be authorized by the Congress
or the Office of the President.
SECTION 45. Such heraldic devices and items
shall be filed with the Institute for recording and
evaluation as to precedence, design, customs and
traditions. The institute shall promulgate the
corresponding rules and regulations which shall be
submitted for approval to the Office of the President
or to Congress.
SECTION 46. All government offices including the
military are hereby ordered to purchase all heraldic
items and devices from manufacturers accredited
and authorized by the Institute. 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.
SECTION 47. 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.
Chapter VII
PENALTIES
SECTION 48. 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 shall, after proper notice and
hearing, be penalized by public censure which shall
be published at least once in a newspaper of general
circulation.
The Department of Education, Culture and
Sports and the Commission on Higher Education,
upon the recommendation of the Institute and after
the proper notice and hearing, shall cause the
cancellation of the recognition of permit of any
private educational institution which fails or refuses
to observe the provisions of this Act for the second
time.
SECTION 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 he general public.
SECTION 50. Any person or judicial entity which
violates any of the provisions of this Act shall, upon
conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than
Five thousand pesos (5,000.00) not more than
Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000.00), or by
imprisonment for not more than one (1) year, 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, That in case the
violation is committed by a juridical person, its
President or Chief Executive Officer thereof shall
be liable.
Chapter VIII
COMMON PROVISION
SECTION 51. The Institute shall issue the
necessary-rules and regulations to implement the
provisions of this Act within ninety (90) days after
effectivity. The Institute shall submit its rules and
regulations to the Office of the President and the
Congress of the Philippines.
SECTION 52. The Institute shall also be
responsible for the strict enforcement of the
provision 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.
SECTION 53. Separability Clause— If any
provision, or part hereof, is held invalid or
unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act not
otherwise affected shall be valid and subsisting.
SECTION 54. Repealing Clause – Any law,
presidential decree or issuance, executive order,
letter of instruction, administrative order, rule and
regulation contrary to or inconsistent with the
provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified,
or amended accordingly.
SECTION 55. Effectivity — This Act shall be
effective fifteen (15) days from the date of its
publication in Official Gazette or in at least two (2)
newspapers of general circulation.
Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic
Act No. 8491 January 20,2022.
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”.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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 f. Perform other related functions required to
THE IMPLEMENTING AGENCY
SECTION 5. The Implementing Agency. — the
National Historical Institute, hereinafter referred to
as the Institute, shall be the agency tasked to
implement these, Rules.
SECTION 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
achieve the objectives of R.A. No. 8491 and these
Rules.
SECTION 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 observe flag days with appropriate ceremonies.
CHAPTER 1
The National Flag
A. Design of the National Flag
SECTION 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
SECTION 9. The National Flag shall be displayed
in all public buildings, official residences, public
plazas, and institutions of learning everyday
throughout the year.
SECTION 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, anila; 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 12. All Government Entities should
Socio-civic groups, non-government organizations
and the private sector are enjoined to observe and
cooperate in making the celebration a success.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 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.
SECTION 24. The observance of the flag
ceremony shall be simple and dignified.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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 Sanggunians;
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
SECTION 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
SECTION 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
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 36. For effective information
dissemination, all accredited manufacturers are
required to inform all flag consumers of the
provisions of these Rules.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 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 ofvice 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
CHAPTER
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
SECTION 40. The National Anthem is
entitled Lupang Hinirang.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 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
4 band or the conductor. At the first note,all persons
II 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. Iinternational 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 45. The National Motto shall be
“MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-
TAO,MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA.”
RULE 6
CHAPTER IV
NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS
SECTION 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 together with the needed documents to the Office of
CHAPTER V the President or Congress for final approval.
THE GREAT SEAL
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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.
SECTION 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
PENALTIES
SECTION 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
SECTION 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
SECTION 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.
ISSUED this 30th day of January, Two Thousand
and Two, in the City of Manila, the Philippines.