Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol| 1

PHILIPPINE NATIONALISM- NATIONAL SYMBOL

At the end of this lesson, you

Examine the values highlighted by the various representations of Rizal as a national symbol
Advocate the values Rizal’s life encapsulates

“I have observed that the prosperity or misery or each people is in direct proportion to
its liberties or its prejudices and, accordingly, to the sacrifices or the selfishness of its
forefathers.”
-Juan Crisostomo Ibarra
According to National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), official
national symbols of the Philippines represent the country’s traditions and ideals and
convey the principles of Philippine sovereignty and national solidarity. With this, a
country has their own national symbols to identify themselves from others and to unite its
citizens through nationalism.
National Flag
The Philippines national flag, as defined by the National Historical Commission
of the Philippines, is made of silk, had a white equilateral triangle at the left containing a
sunburst of eight rays at the center, a five-pointed star at each angle of the triangle, an
upper stripe of blue and a lower stripe of red. The sun stands for liberty; the sunburst of
eight rays for the first eight provinces to take up arms against Spain; and the three stars
for the three island groups of the Philippines – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The white
triangle signifies Filipino hope for equality; the upper blue stripe stands for peace, truth
and justice; while the lower red stripe stands for patriotism and valor.
You don’t throw away an old Philippine flag. Section 14 of Republic Act 8491
(Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines) states that 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.
That is why the CCP was doing the right thing when it burned 100 worn-out out flags
recently.

National Anthem
For more than a year, the national anthem, Lupang Hinirang remained without
words. Our national anthem was just music when it was first played by Banda San
Francisco de Malabon on the occasion of the declaration of Philippine Independence on
June 12, 1898. The words of Jose Palma’s “Filipinas, Letra Para La Marcha Nacional”
published on September 3, 1899 was used as lyrics for the national anthem. In 1943, the
Institute of National Language was ordered by the late President Jose P. Laurel to
translate the original Spanish text into Filipino and English. But a more spontaneous
and apt
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translation was produced by a committee formed by the Department of Education thirteen

years later. This was entitled “Lupang Hinirang.”

National Anthem: “Lupang Hinirang”

The Philippine national anthem is entitled

“Lupang Hinirang” and composed
by Julian Felipe. “Lupang Hinirang” was
first played publicly on June 12,
1898 during the proclamation of
Philippine Independence. Its lyrics were
adopted from the Spanish poem,
Filipinas, which was written by José
Palma.
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Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag Patriotic Oath of the Philippines

Ako ay Pilipino Iniibig ko ang Pilipinas, aking lupang

Buong katapatang nanunumpa sinilangan,
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas Tahanan ng aking lahi, kinukupkop ako at
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag tinutulungang
Na may dangal, katarungan at kalayaan Maging malakas, masipag at marangal
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang Dahil mahal ko ang Pilipinas,
Maka-Diyos Diringgin ko ang payo ng aking
Maka-tao magulang,
Makakalikasan at Susundin ko ang tuntunin ng paaralan,
Makabansa. Tutuparin ko ang mga tungkulin ng isang
mamamayang makabayan,
Naglilingkod, nag-aaral at nagdarasal
nang buong katapatan.
Iaalay ko ang aking buhay, pangarap,
pagsisikap Sa bansang Pilipinas.

National Flower: Sampaguita

The Philippine national flower is called

“sampaguita” which is generally known as the Arabian
Jasmine. Its white color symbolizes purity, simplicity,
humility and strength.

Sampaguita or Arabian Jasmine (Jasminium sambac)- Philippine Sampaguita

flower is a white, star-shaped blossom which has a sweet fragrance. It opens at night and
droops in less than a day. The white flowers are often made into wreath and its extract
made into perfumes. Sampaguita is not a tree but a woody vine. The flower called was
accepted as the National Flower of Philippines in 1934 which also happens to be the
National Flower of Indonesia.
The national flower sampaguita symbolizes purity, simplicity, humility and
strength. Declared as the national flower by Gov. Gen. Frank Murphy through
Proclamation No. 652 s. 1934, the sweet-smelling white flowers of sampaguita (the plant
is a woody vine or shrub) has long been celebrated in song, stories and legends.
Originally from India, they are often made into garlands and its essence made into
perfumes. The tiny flowers display their purity in the evening when the flower buds begin
to open at dusk.
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National Tree: Narra

The Philippine national tree is called “narra”
generally known as rosewood. It was made official by
Gov. Gen. Frank Murphy through Proclamation No. 652
s. 1934. In fact, under the DENR Memorandum Order
dated February 5, 2013, cutting of Narra needs to be
approved by the DENR Central Office, particularly by
the Office of the Undersecretary for field Operations.
Narra tree is a striking, large and strong shady tree. It is one of the most wanted
wood for furniture but because there are only a few trees left, cutting down a Narra tree is
no longer allowed. It is mostly found in Bicol, Mindanao and the Cagayan Valley forests.
The Narra trees grow all over the Philippine islands and are mostly found and grown in
Bicol, Mindanao and the Cagayan Valley forests.
A special permit is needed when cutting Narra, our national tree which is already
considered an endangered specie. It was declared by Gov. Gen. Frank Murphy as the
national tree through Proclamation No. 652 s. 1934. Narra and other premium hardwood
trees require a special permit under DENR (Department of Environment and Natural
Resources) Adm. Order No. 78, S. of 1987 and DENR Memo Circular No.22, S. of 1990.
And under DENR Memorandum Order dated February 5, 2013, the cutting of Narra
needs to be approved by the DENR Central Office, particularly by the Office of the
Undersecretary for field Operations.
National Bird: Philippine Eagle
The Philippine national bird is called “Philippine
eagle” scientifically known as Pithecophaga jeffery. It was
made official in 1978 by former President Ferdinand Marcos
through Proclamation No. 1732.
Philippine Eagle or also known as the monkey eating eagle stands over 3 feet
(1m) tall. It has a large, sharp, curved beak. It has feathers that seem to bristle on its head.
It is a giant forest raptor and is considered excellent hunters. It is considered one of the
largest and most powerful eagles in the world and one of the world's rarest and definitely
one of the world’s most seriously endangered vertebrate bird kind with only about 500
birds in the wild. It lives in tropical rain forests and it lays only one or two eggs each
year. There are only a few of them now because of the disappearance of trees in our
mountains.
The Philippine Eagle knows a thing or two about monogamy. Declared by Pres.
Fidel V. Ramos as the national bird through Proclamation No. 615 s. 1995, the Philippine
eagle is monogamous, with pairs mating for life. If one of the pair dies, however, the
surviving eagle will usually find another companion.
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National Gem: Philippine Pearl

The Philippine national gem is called “Philippine
Pearl” as declared by Former President Fidel V. Ramos
through Proclamation No. 905 s. 1996. It is scientifically
known as Pinctada Maxima. In fact, world’s largest pearl was
discovered by a Filipino diver in a giant Tridacna (mollusk)
under the Palawan Sea in 1934.
The world’s largest pearl was discovered by a Filipino diver in a giant Tridacna
(mollusk) under the Palawan Sea in 1934. Known as the “Pearl of Lao-Tzu” and “Pearl of
Allah,” the gem weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches in
diameter. As of May 1984, it was valued at US$42 million. It is believed to be 600 years
old (Department of Tourism). Though it has now been trumped by another pearl in
the Guiness World Records, its size is still worthy of adoration. The Philippine pearl was
declared as the national gem by Pres. Fidel V. Ramos through Proclamation 905 s. 1996.
National Sport: Arnis
Arnis is to the Philippines like Japan’s Karate and
Korea’s Taekwondo. It’s both a martial art and a sport
whose origins are still largely unconfirmed because of lack
of documentation. It’s known by two other names: Kali and
Eskrima, and makes use of both bladed weapons,
batons/sticks, and bare hands. It became a national symbol in
2009 when then-Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed
Republic Act 9850 into law.
The official adoption of arnis as the national martial art and sport shall be
promulgated by inscribing the symbol of arnis in the official seal of the Philippine Sports
Commission and by making it as the first competition to be played by participating teams
on the first day in the annual Palarong Pambansa. The Philippine Sports Commission is
the lead agency to implement the provisions of this Act.
What follows here is the list of our country’s unofficial national symbols
Dr. Jose Rizal: National Hero
Long recognized in the country’s history books as our
National Hero, Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda’s
status as our national hero has not been the subject of debate for the
common Juan. Scholars, however, still argue about who should be
given the title: Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo,
Apolinario
Mabini, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Sultan
Dipatuan Kudarat, Juan Luna, Melchora Aquino, and Gabriela Silang were listed down
by former President Fidel V. Ramos as those worthy of being given the title of National
Hero. This list has not been acted on since being submitted by the National Heroes
Committee on November 22, 1995.
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Anahaw: National Leaf

Often referred to as the National Leaf, the anahaw
or round-leaf fountain palm is not part of the country’s national
symbols. Normally seen in the countryside as a roofing
material, anahaw leaves are seen as decorative pieces/plants in
the metro.
The Filipino word "Anahaw" (ana-how) are nice-looking, tropical palm known for
its round fan-shaped leaves. Its leaf has some uses like: to fan yourself during hot days.
The Tagalogs of Quezon Province even use it to wrap their brown and delicious tikoy.
Anahaw leaves are also a widespread symbol in the Philippines that is often used in
awards and medals to represent high achievement, strength, and loyalty. The Anahaw leaf
features a large, round outline and is glossy green in color. It spreads out grandly from
the center of the shaft and opens to a full crest divided shallowly at the ends and is known
to be one of the most beautiful plant in the Philippines.
Mango (Mangifera indica): National fruit
A common sight in Philippine wet and dry
markets, the mango has long been seen as the National
fruit. As popular as it is for making desserts, there is no
law that proclaims it as a national symbol.
Philippine Mango is a bizarre tropical fruit prevalently known to be yellow in
color which achieves its addictive taste through its scrupulous harvest procedures.
Philippine Mango is recognized worldwide for its best qualities, which cannot be beaten
by any kind of mangoes around the globe. It is a wonder fruit of versatile ways to enjoy
its taste. Green mango can be served as a salad constituent, while golden yellow mango
has diversities of ways to relish its uniqueness. It can be served as plain, processed, dried
or frozen, this delicious fruit is world known for its sweetest character. Philippine mango
is an ideal dessert served in many ways and has been known as the “Fruit of the Gods”.
Carabao: National Animal
If common men have dogs as their best friend, then
the carabao or Philippine water buffalo is the Filipino
farmer’s best friend. They’re beasts of burden, able to do
almost everything that needs to be done on the rice fields,
including carry the farmer and his goods. But, without any
laws to recognized them, they’ll remain an unofficial
symbol of the country.
The carabao or kalabaw in Filipino is a tamed type of water buffalo (Bubalus
bubalis or sometimes bubalus carabanesis) in the Philippines. Being the farm animal of
choice for pulling the plow and cart used to tow farm produce to the market, carabaos are
warmly associated with farmers. Its life span is 18 to 20 years and the female carabao can
deliver one calf each year.
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Bahay Kubo: National House

The humble bahay kubo or nipa hut is still seen in some
parts of the country, particularly in the provinces. While it has
long been a symbol of Filipino homes, it has not been recognized
as a national symbol.
Bahay kubo is a shelter made out of bamboo and palm leaves. It is a good place to
take rest and eat typical food in the farm because of its material which allows good
ventilation. The roof of the first Philippine houses, nipa huts, or bahay kubo, were high
inclined and typically open gabled to allow for ventilation. The steeply sloping pitch also
protected from the wind and rain in the typhoon season. The roof also provides wide
extension roof space to provide shade from the hot sun.
Bangus: National Fish
Bony, yet prized for its belly fat, which almost
everyone fights for on the dinner table. The bangus or
milkfish has long been seen as the country’s national fish,
yet without a law, it’s status will never be official.
Deboned milkfish, or "boneless bangus," has become popular in stores and
markets because milkfish is known for being bonier than other food fish in the
Philippines. Bangus is a popular table fare among Filipinos. To the biologist, it is a
naturally strong fish since it is capable in adapting and thrives even in the limited,
unusual environment of the fishpond. This feature is not frequently found in most other
fish class.
Lechon or Roasted Pig: National Dish
The lechon is a very popular and famous
food among Filipinos. Lechon (litson in tagalong) is
roasted whole pig cooked over burning charcoals. It
is a dish that is almost a fixed part and menu
centerpiece of any Filipino celebration which is
usually prepared for fiestas, family celebrations
(like parties and marriages) and also a favorite dish
during
Christmas. Lechon is the Spanish name for pig, in the Philippines it means a spit-
roasted pig. Lechon is prepared by filling the inside of the animal pig with herbs and
vegetables. The pigs are slowly hand roasted on top of charcoal for hours till their
skin turns into
reddish brown and the inside flesh becomes tender. Philippine Lechon is often served
with a thick liver sauce cooked with vinegar, sugar and herbs.

Philippine National Costume for Men

Barong Tagalog is an untucked or loose shirt of delicate
fabric showing Chinese, airy tropical appearance Indo-Malayan
and elongated effect of Hindu influences and the decorative
captivity of European men's clothing. The barong appears to
have preserved its fundamental look since it was first worn.
Almost unnoticeably, through the years, the barong's round
neck, straight long sleeves and mid-thigh hemline were
resourcefully
customized with collar, cuffs and side slits.
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Philippine National Costume for Women

Baro't Saya is a collarless blouse and skirt which means
baro at saya (blouse and skirt). From the original, half-naked
style, the bare upper torso was slowly covered with a short-
sleeved, collarless blouse called "baro". The whole look has
developed into a many-layered collection of the kimona or inner
shirt, the baro outershirt with its typically delicate materials,
fine embroidery and wide sleeves.

Bakya: National Footwear

This footwear is made from local light wood like santol
and laniti. It is cut to the desired foot size before being shaven
until smooth. The side of the bakya is thick enough to be
carved with floral, geometric or landscape designs. Afterwards,
the bakya could then be painted or varnished. Uppers of plastic
or rubber will then be fixed firmly using clavitos or tiny nails
and the bakya is now ready to wear. The word bakya may
also be
used in the Philippines to indicate something that is of "low-
class", "unsophisticated" or "cheap".
Kalesa: National Vehicle
Philippine kalesa is a horse-driven carriage that
looks like an inclined cart, was introduced during the 18th
century. The kalesa has two round wheels on each side
and two rows of seats that can accommodate four persons.
The driver sits on a block of wood located at the front of
the cart near the horse. This was one of the methods of
transportation introduced in the Philippines in the 18th
century by the Spaniards that only nobles and high ranked
Spanish officials could afford. The Ilustrados, who are the rich Filipinos who had their
own businesses, used the kalesa not only for traveling but as a way of transporting their
goods as well. They are hardly ever used in the streets nowadays except in tourist spots
and some rural areas
Other things have been cited over time as a national symbol, yet have never been
recognized. The battle has raged on between which should be recognized as the National
Dance: Tinikling or Cariñosa. A still-to-be-settled debate has also raged online between
those who love sinigang (sour soup) and those who love adobo as to which should be
recognized as the national dish.

Find and allocate distinct time comprehending the key information an

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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.
Republic of the Philippines
Congress of the Philippines Metro Manila
Tenth Congress
Third Regular Session
Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday the twenty-eighth day of July, nineteen hundred and
ninety-seven.
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.
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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 after mast 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 lineyard as the Philippine flag
but below the latter and it cannot be of greater size than the Philippine flag.
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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-flagpoles. If the flag is displayed indoors
on a flagpole, it shall be placed at the left of the observer as one enters the room;
b. From the top of a flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or a commanding
position in relation to the surrounding buildings;
c. From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, canopy, balcony or facade of a
building.
d. In 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 persons present shall place 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.
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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.
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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:
1. As a 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
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

6. As trademarks or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or designs.

d. Display the flag:
1. Under any painting or picture;
2. Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely;
3. Below any platform; or
4. In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places of
vice or where frivolity prevails.
e. To wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform;
f. To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisements, or imprint of any
nature on the flag;
g. To print, paint or attach representation of the flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and
other 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, display or be part of any advertisement of infomercial; and
j. To display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens.
CHAPTER II
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
SECTION 35. The National Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang.
SECTION 36. The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language within or
without 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 ma’y di magdidilim.
Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati’t pagsinta,
Buhay ay langit sa piling mo;
Aming ligaya na ‘pag may mang-aapi,
Ang mamatay nang dahil sa ‘yo.
SECTION 37. The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in
accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe.
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

SECTION 38. 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 Philippine flag, if there is one
displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the band or the conductor. At the first note, all
persons shall execute a salute by placing their right palms over their left chests. Those in military,
scouting, 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 anthem.
The anthem shall not be played and sung for mere recreation, amusement or entertainment
purposes except on the following occasions:
a. International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative;
b. Local competitions;
c. During “signing off” 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; and
e. Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

SECTION 39. All officials and employees of the national and local governments, and any
agencies or instrumentalities thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations,
privately- owned entities of offices displaying the national flag and 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 ray on nant 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
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

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.
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

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 reminder 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.
Approved:
(SGD.) JOSE DE VENECIA, JR.A (SGD.) NEPTALI A. GONZALES
Speaker of the House of Representatives President of the Senate

This Ace, which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 630 and House Bill No. 2586 was finally
passed by the Senate and House of Representatives on February 3, 1998 and February 6, 1998
respectively.

(SGD.) ROBERTO P. NAZARENO (SGD.) HAZEL P. GACUTAN

Secretary General House of Representatives Secretary of the Senate
Approved on February 12, 1998
(Sgd.) FIDEL V. RAMOS
President of the Philippines
SOURCE: Republic Act No. 8491 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1998/02/12/republic-act-no-8491/
February 12, 1998

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 75

CREATING THE NATIONAL HEROES

COMMITTEE UNDER THE OFFICE OF THE
PRESIDENT
MALACAÑANG
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 75

CREATING THE NATIONAL HEROES COMMITTEE UNDER THE OFFICE

OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, the State is mandated to foster patriotism and nationalism among the citizens,
especially the youth, pursuant to Article II, Sections 13 and 17, of the Constitutions;
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

WHEREAS, the State, through its educational system, is also mandated to inculcate patriotism
and nationalism, and the appreciation of the role of national heroes in the historical development
of the country pursuant to Article XIV, Section 3 (2), of the Constitution;

WHEREAS, Almighty God has gifted the sovereign Filipino people with National Heroes, the
men and women of sterling character and remarkable achievements that directed, and continue to
direct, the historic destiny of the country;

WHEREAS, it is timely and appropriate to proclaim these National Heroes, the renowned
achievers of their generations and the shinning exemplars of these times;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FIDEL V. RAMOS, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers
vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. A National Heroes Committee is hereby created, composed of the Secretary of

Education, Culture and Sports as Chairman, and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and the Secretary
of National Defense as Members, to study and recommend the proclamation of National Heroes.
SEC. 2. All departments, bureaus, offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the Government,
including government-owned or controlled corporations, are hereby directed to extend the fullest
support to the National Heroes Committee in the performance of its functions.
SEC. 3. The private sector is hereby urged to assist the National Heroes Committee in the
performance of its functions.
SEC. 4. The National Historical Commission shall act as Secretariat of the National Heroes
Committee.
SEC. 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 29th day of March in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-three.

(Sgd.) FIDEL V. RAMOS

President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) ANTONIO T. CARPIO

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel

Source: Presidential Management Staff. Office of the President of the Philippines. (1993). [Executive Order
Nos. : 1 – 125]. Manila : Presidential Management Staff.
https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1993/03/29/executive-order-no-75- 1993/#:~:text=A%20National
%20Heroes%20Committee%20is,the%20proclamation%20of%20National% 20Heroes

Selection and Proclamation of National Heroes

and Laws Honoring Filipino Historical Figures
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

Selection and Proclamation of National Heroes and Laws Honoring Filipino

Historical Figures
By the National Commission for Culture and the Arts
May 18, 2015

Executive Summary
No law, executive order or proclamation has been enacted or issued officially proclaiming any
Filipino historical figure as a national hero. However, because of their significant roles in the
process of nation building and contributions to history, there were laws enacted and
proclamations issued honoring these heroes.
Even Jose Rizal, considered as the greatest among the Filipino heroes, was not explicitly
proclaimed as a national hero. The position he now holds in Philippine history is a tribute to the
continued veneration or acclamation of the people in recognition of his contribution to the
significant social transformations that took place in our country.
Aside from Rizal, the only other hero given an implied recognition as a national hero is Andres
Bonifacio whose day of birth on November 30 has been made a national holiday.
Despite the lack of any official declaration explicitly proclaiming them as national heroes, they
remain admired and revered for their roles in Philippine history. Heroes, according to historians,
should not be legislated. Their appreciation should be better left to academics. Acclamation for
heroes, they felt, would be recognition enough.
1. Selection and Proclamation of National Heroes
1.1 National Heroes Committee
On March 28, 1993, President Fidel V. Ramos issued Executive Order No.75 entitled “Creating
the National Heroes Committee Under the Office of the President”.
The principal duty of the Committee is to study, evaluate and recommend Filipino national
personages/heroes in due recognition of their sterling character and remarkable achievements for
the country.
1.2 Findings and Recommendations of the National Heroes Committee
In compliance with Executive Order No. 75 dated March 28, 1993, the National Heroes
Committee submitted its findings and recommendations.
1.2.1 Criteria for National Heroes
The Technical Committee of the National Heroes Committee held a series of meetings on June 3,
1993, August 19,1993, September 12, 1994 and November 15, 1995, defining, discussing and
deliberating upon the merits of the various definitions and criteria of a hero. The Committee
adopted the following criteria as basis for historical researchers in determining who among the
great Filipinos will be officially proclaimed as national heroes:

Criteria for National Heroes

(Adopted by the Technical Committee of the National Heroes Committee on June 3, 1993,
Manila, Members of the Committee included Drs. Onofre D. Corpuz, Samuel K. Tan, Marcelino
Foronda, Alfredo Lagmay, Bernardita R. Churchill, Serafin D. Quiason, Ambeth Ocampo, then
known as Dom Ignacio Maria, Prof. Minerva Gonzales and Mrs. Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil)
1. Heroes are those who have a concept of nation and thereafter aspire and struggle for the
nation’s freedom. Our own struggle for freedom was begun by Bonifacio and finished by
Aguinaldo, the
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

latter formally declaring the revolution’s success. In reality, however, a revolution has no end.
Revolutions are only the beginning. One cannot aspire to be free only to sink back into bondage.
2. Heroes are those who define and contribute to a system or life of freedom and order for a
nation. Freedom without order will only lead to anarchy. Therefore, heroes are those who make
the nation’s constitution and laws, such as Mabini and Recto. To the latter, constitutions are only
the beginning, for it is the people living under the constitution that truly constitute a nation.
3. Heroes are those who contribute to the quality of life and destiny of a nation. (As defined by
Dr. Onofre D. Corpuz)

Additional Criteria for Heroes

(Adopted by the Technical Committee of the National Heroes Committee on November 15, 1995,
Manila)
1. A hero is part of the people’s expression. But the process of a people’s internalization of a
hero’s life and works takes time, with the youth forming a part of the internalization.
2. A hero thinks of the future, especially the future generations.
3. The choice of a hero involves not only the recounting of an episode or events in history, but of
the entire process that made this particular person a hero. (As defined by Dr. Alfredo Lagmay)
1.2.2 Historical Figures Recommended as National Heroes
On November 15, 1995, the Technical Committee after deliberation and careful study based on
Dr. Onofre D. Corpuz’ and Dr. Alfredo Lagmay’s criteria selected the following nine Filipino
historical figures to be recommended as National Heroes:
a. Jose Rizal
b. Andres Bonifacio
c. Emilio Aguinaldo
d. Apolinario Mabini
e. Marcelo H. del Pilar
f. Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat
g. Juan Luna
h. Melchora Aquino
i. Gabriela Silang

1.2.3 Status of the Report/Recommendations Submitted by the National Heroes Committee.

Since the submission of the report/recommendations by the National Heroes Committee to then
Secretary Ricardo T. Gloria of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports on November
22,1995, no action has been taken. This was probably because this might trigger a flood of
requests for proclamations. Another possibility is that the proclamations can trigger bitter debates
involving historical controversies about the heroes.

2. Laws Honoring/ Commemorating Filipino Historical Figures

2.1 Heroes

2.1.1 Jose Rizal

2.1.1.1 Decree of December 20, 1898 , issued by General Emilio Aguinaldo, declared
December 30 of every year a day of national mourning in honor of Dr. Jose Rizal and other
victims of the Philippine Revolution.
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

2.1.1.2 Act No. 137, which organized the politico-military district of Morong into the Province
of Rizal , was the first official step taken by the Taft Commission to honor our greatest hero and
martyr.

2.1.2 Andres Bonifacio

2.1.2.1 Act No. 2946, enacted by the Philippine Legislature on February 16, 1921 , made
November 30 of each year a legal holiday to commemorate the birth of Andres
Bonifacio
2.1.2.2 Act No. 2760, issued on February 23, 1918 , confirmed and ratified all steps taken for the
creation, maintenance, improvement of national monuments and particularly for the erection of a
monument to the memory of Andres Bonifacio

2.1.3 Other Heroes

2.1.3.1 Act No. 3827, enacted by the Philippine Legislature on October 28, 1931 , declared the
last Sunday of August of every year as National Heroes Day.
2.1.3.2 Proclamation No. 510, issued by Pres. Fidel V. Ramos on November 30, 1994 , declared
the year 1996 as the year of Filipino Heroes as a tribute to all Filipinos who, directly and
indirectly, gave meaning and impetus to the cause of freedom, justice, Philippine independence
and nationhood.
2.1.3.3 R.A. No. 9070, April 8, 2001, declaring the eighteenth of December of every year as a
special working public holiday throughout the country to be known as the Graciano Lopez-Jaena
Day

2.2 Other Historical Figures

2.2.1 R.A. No. 6701, February 10, 1989, declaring September One of every year, the death
anniversary of Gregorio Aglipay y Labayan, as Gregorio L. Aglipay Day and a special non-
working holiday in the Municipality of Batac, Province of Ilocos Norte
2.2.2 R.A. No. 7285, March 24, 1992, declaring February Nineteen of each year as Doña
Aurora Aragon Quezon Day a special nonworking holiday in the Province of Aurora in order to
commemorate the birth anniversary of Doña Aurora Aragon Quezon, the first President of the
Philippine National Red Cross, and Foundation Day of the Province
2.2.3 R.A. No. 7805, September 1, 1994, declaring January 28 of every year as a non-working
special public holiday in the City of Cavite to be known as Julian Felipe Day
2.2.4 R.A. No. 7950, March 25, 1995, declaring December Eighteen of every year as “Araw ng
Laguna” and a special working day in the Province of Laguna and the City of San Pablo to
commemorate the memory and death of the late Governor Felicisimo T. San Luis
2.2.5 R.A. No. 9067, April 8, 2001 , declaring April 15 of every year as President Manuel A.
Roxas Day which shall be observed as a special working public holiday in the Province of Capiz
and the City of Roxas
*From the Reference and Research Bureau Legislative Research Service, House of Congress
https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/selection-and-proclamation-of-national-heroes-
and-laws-honoring-filipino-historical- figures/#:~:text=Selection%20And%20Proclamation%20Of
%20National%20Heroes%20And%20Laws%2 0Honoring%20Filipino%20Historical%20Figures&text=No
%20law%2C%20executive%20order%20or,fi gure%20as%20a%20national%20hero.
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9850

AN ACT DECLARING ARNIS AS THE NATIONAL
MARTIAL ART AND SPORT OF THE
PHILIPPINES
Republic of the Philippines
Congress of the Philippines
Metro Manila
Fourteenth Congress
Third Regular Session
Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-seventh day of July, two thousand nine.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9850
AN ACT DECLARING ARNIS AS THE NATIONAL MARTIAL ART AND SPORT OF
THE PHILIPPINES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:
SECTION 1. It is the policy of the State to inculcate patriotism, nationalism and appreciation of
the role of national heroes and symbols in the historical development of the country. Furthermore,
the State must give priority to education, science and technology, arts and culture, and sports to
foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total human liberation
and development.
SEC. 2. Definition of Arnis. — Arnis, also known as Eskrima, Kali, Garrote and other names in
various regional languages, such as Pananandata in Tagalog; Pagkalikali, Ibanag; Kabaraon and
Kalirongan, Pangasinan; Kaliradman, Bisaya; and Didja, Ilokano, is an indigenous Filipino
martial art and sport characterized by the use of swinging and twirling movements, accompanied
by striking, thrusting and parrying techniques for defense and offense. This is usually done with
the use of one (1) or two (2) sticks or any similar implements or with bare hands and feet also
used for striking, blocking, locking and grappling, with the use of the same principle as that with
the canes.
SEC. 3. Arnis is hereby declared as the Philippine National Martial Art and Sport. The official
adoption of arnis as the national martial art and sport shall be promulgated by inscribing the
symbol of arnis in the official seal of the Philippine Sports Commission and by making it as the
first sport competition to be played by participating teams on the first day in the annual Palarong
Pambansa. The Philippine Sports Commission shall be the lead agency to implement the
provisions of this Act.
SEC. 4. The Department of Education, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the
Philippine Sports Commission shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to carry out
the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 5. Any provision of law, decree, executive order, rule or regulation in conflict or
inconsistent with the provisions and/or purposes of this Act is hereby repealed, amended or
modified accordingly.
SEC. 6. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in
the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

(Sgd.) PROSPERO C. NOGRALES

(Sgd.) JUAN PONCE ENRILE
Speaker of the House
President of the Senate
of Representatives
This Act which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 3288 and House Bill No. 6516 was finally
passed by the Senate and House of Representatives and on October 14, 2009.

(Sgd.) MARILYN B. BARUA-YAP

(Sgd.) EMMA LIRIO REYES
Secretary General
Secretary of the Senate
House of Representatives

Approved: DEC 11 2009

(Sgd.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO
President of the Philippines
Source: CDAsia

REPUBLIC ACT 11106

An Act Declaring the Filipino Sign Language as The National
Sign Language of The Filipino Deaf and The Official Sign
Language of Government in All Transactions Involving the
Deaf, And Mandating Its Use in Schools, Broadcast Media,
And Workplaces
Republic of the Philippines
Congress of the Philippines
Metro Manila

Seventeenth Congress
Third Regular Session
Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-third day of July, two thousand
eighteen.

Republic Act No. 11106

AN ACT DECLARING THE FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE AS THE NATIONAL SIGN
LANGUAGE OF THE FILIPINO DEAF AND THE OFFICIAL SIGN LANGUAGE OF
GOVERNMENT IN ALL TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING THE DEAF, AND
MANDATING ITS USE IN SCHOOLS, BROADCAST MEDIA, AND WORKPLACES

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

assembled:
Section 1. Title – This Act shall be known as “The Filipino Sign Language Act”.
Section 2. Declaration of Policy. – The State shall, in compliance with the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, promote, protect, and ensure the full and
equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons with disabilities. Thus,
national and local State agencies shall uphold respect for their inherent dignity, individual
autonomy, and independence by guaranteeing accessibility and eliminating all forms of
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

discrimination in all public interactions and transactions, thereby ensuring their full and effective
participation and inclusion in society. The State shall also take all appropriate measures to ensure
that the Filipino deaf can exercise the right to expression and opinion. Accordingly, the State
recognizes and promotes the use of sign languages embodying the specific cultural and linguistic
identity of the Filipino deaf.
The State also furthers the vision taken with the Early Years Act (Republic Act No. 10410) and
the Enhanced Basic Education Act (Republic Act No. 10533), which have already recognized
Filipino Sign Language in the education of the deaf learners from early childhood up to the
secondary level.
Section 3. Filipino Sign Language as the National Sign Language . – Filipino Sign Language,
hereinafter referred to as FSL, is hereby declared as the national sign language of the Philippines.
The FSL shall be recognized, promoted, and supported as the medium of official communication
in all transactions involving the deaf, and as the language of instruction of deaf education, without
prejudice to the use of other forms of communication depending on individual choice or
preference.
Section 4. Filipino Sign Language in Education. – (a) Medium of Instruction and Curriculum. –
The Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and all other national and local
government agencies involved in the education of the deaf, are tasked to henceforth use, and
coordinate with each other on the use of FSL, as the medium of instruction in deaf education. The
FSL shall also be taught as a separate subject in the curriculum for deaf learners. The reading and
writing of Filipino, as the national language, other Philippine languages, and English shall also be
taught to deaf learners.
(b) Deaf Teachers. – To promote the licensing and mobilization of deaf teachers in formal
education as well as alternative learning systems, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)
together with teacher education programs nationwide are directed to employ alternative
assessment procedures as affirmative action measures which shall consider the conditions,
abilities, and social barriers of the deaf teachers. These procedures shall be language-appropriate
and culture-fair to deaf education graduates.
(c) FLS in Teacher Education Programs. – In the context of inclusive education and Universal
Design, the learning of FSL shall be a curricular or co-curricular offering in teacher education
programs as deemed appropriate.
(d) Training and Evaluation Programs. – All national and local government agencies and centers
providing education to deaf students are hereby tasked to undertake regular pre-/in-service
training and evaluation of their teachers. These shall be designed and taught in partnership with
the representative of the Filipino deaf community.
The University of the Philippines (UP), together with the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (WKP),
professional sign linguistics and linguistics researchers, in collaboration with the CHED and the
DepEd, and the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council, shall develop
guidelines for the development of training materials in the education of the deaf for use by all
state universities and colleges (SUCs), as well as their teachers and staff.

Section 5. Standards for Filipino Sign Language Interpreting. – The KWF, with the involvement
of the deaf community and other stakeholders, shall establish a national system of standards,
accreditations, and procedures for FSL interpreting, without prejudice to other forms of
communication which respect the right of a deaf person to accessibility, and to seek, receive,
impart ideas on an equal basis with others according to their choice. This shall include policies on
the
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practice of interpreting as a profession such as compensation rates and benefits, working

conditions, procedures for grievances and others.
Section 6. Filipino Sign Language in the Justice System. – The FSL shall be the official language
and legal interpreting for the deaf in all public hearings, proceedings, and transactions of the
courts, quasi-judicial agencies, and other tribunals. To ensure effective access to justice for the
deaf on an equal basis with others and to facilitate their effective role as direct and indirect
participants in the legal system, courts, quasi-judicial agencies, and other tribunals are hereby
mandated to ensure the availability of a qualified sign language interpreter in all proceedings
involving deaf, without prejudice to the right of the deaf to choose other forms or modes of
communication, if they so prefer.
For purposes of this Act, “hearings, proceedings, and transactions” shall include those in police
stations and before the Lupong Tagapamayapa of the Katarungang Pambarangay, as well as
preliminary investigations and other initial stages in the courts, quasi-judicial bodies, and other
tribunals.
The Supreme Court and other concerned agencies shall promote appropriate training for those
working in the administration of justice, including hearing interpreters, deaf relay interpreters,
and other court personnel, police and prison staff. Support staff shall also be trained in translation
from FSL to written English or Filipino.
The Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government
(DILG), and the Judiciary, with the involvement of the deaf community and other stakeholders,
are tasked to create a national system of standards, accreditation, and procedures for legal
interpreting in FSL.
Section 7. – Filipino Sign Language in All Workplaces. – The FSL shall be the official language
of the Filipino deaf employed in the civil service and in all government workplaces. For this
purpose, all government offices shall take reasonable measures to encourage the use of FSL
among its deaf and hearing employees, including the conduct of awareness and training seminars
on the rationale and use of FSL.
The UP, together with the KWF, professional linguistics organizations and deaf linguistics
researchers, shall formulate guidelines for the development of training materials for the
employees of the DOJ, the Judiciary, the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Social
Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), the Council
for the Welfare of Children (CWC), and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), in the
conduct of the mandates and activities of these concerned offices.
Section 8. Filipino Sign Language in the Health System. – State hospitals and all health facilities
shall take steps to ensure access of the Filipino deaf to health services, including the free
provision of FSL interpreters and accessible materials upon request of deaf patients, or
individuals who have family members who are deaf. As part of their corporate social
responsibility, private health facilities are encouraged to provide access to health services to all
deaf patients and their family members.
Section 9. Filipino Sign Language in All Other Public Transactions, Services, and Facilities. –
All national agencies including government-owned or –controlled corporations (GOCCs), and
local government units (LGUs) are hereby directed to use FSL as the medium of official
communication
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in all public transactions involving the deaf. Qualified FSL interpreters and accessible materials
shall be provided whenever necessary or requested during fora, conferences, meetings, cultural
events, sports competitions, community affairs, and activities conducted by government agencies
and GOCCs.
Section 10. Filipinos Sign Language in Media. – The FSL shall be the language of broadcast
media interpreting. To guarantee access to information and freedom of expression of the Filipino
deaf, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP), and the Movie and Television
Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) shall, within one (1) year from the effective date of
this Act, require FSL interpreter insets, compliant with accessibility standards for television, in
news and public affairs programs. Subsequently, the MTRCB shall take steps to promote
progressive use of FSL in all other broadcasts and programming, especially in educational
television programs designed for children, in conjunction with the National Council for
Chidlren’s Television and the DepEd.
The KBP and the MTRCB, the deaf community, and other stakeholders are tasked to create a
national system of standards, procedures and accreditation for broadcast media interpreting in
FSL.
All videos published online, including those on social media, shall also conform to Philippine
web accessibility standards.
Section 11. Promotion of Filipino Sign Language. – The DepEd, CHED, UP, KWF, Linguistic
Society of the Philippines, and other national agencies and LGUs shall, in consultation with
professional organizations with expertise and experience in language policy and planning and the
deaf community, take appropriate steps to propagate sign language competency among hearing
people, by offering FSL as an elective subject in the regular or mainstream curriculum,
particularly of SUCs.
In coordination with the KWF, SUCs, led by the UP, are directed to undertake continuing research
for the development, propagation, and preservation of FSL and its cultural society.
Section 12. Instructional Materials for Schools and Child Development Centers. – The DepEd
Instructional Materials and Council Secretariat shall, in coordination with the Bureau of Learning
Resources and the Bureau of Learning Delivery, as well as the ECCD Council, develop guidelines
for the selection, production, procurement, and distribution of print and video materials in FSL to
all public schools, day care centers, and national child development centers. Seventy-five percent
(75%) of all procurement contracts shall be reserved for deaf people’s organizations, including
regional or provincial enterprises and cooperatives run by the deaf and recognized by the LGUs.
Section 13. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – The KWF, in coordination with the Secretary
of Education, the Chairperson of the CHED, the Director General of the TESDA, the Chairperson
of the PRC, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Secretary of Justice, and the heads of
other relevant agencies, and in consultation with the representatives of the deaf community,
teachers with knowledge and experience with the use of FSL in deaf education, the academe,
interpreters, and other persons concerned, shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for
the effective implementation of this Act within one hundred eighty (180) days after its effective
date. These rules and regulations shall be published in accessible formats in the respective
websites of the concerned agencies and through other means necessary.
Section 14. Strict Monitoring and Implementation of this Act. – The monitoring and
implementation of this Act shall be strictly upheld. For this purpose, an Inter-Agency Council is
hereby created which shall consist of one (1) representative each from the CHR, the CWC, the
PCW, the KWF and the FSL organizations or institutions. The Inter-Agency Council shall make
an annual report
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on the monitoring and implementation of this Act and the copy of which shall be submitted to
both Houses of Congress and published in accessible formats in their respective websites and
through other means necessary to serve the purpose of effective dissemination. Failure to comply
with any of the provisions of this Act shall be a matter that can be referred to the Civil Service
Commission, DILG, Sandiganbayan or Office of the Ombudsman or other pertinent offices or
bodies for appropriate sanctions pursuant to existing laws and regulations.
Section 15. Appropriations. – The initial funding of this Act shall be taken from the current year’s
appropriations of the concerned agencies. Thereafter, the amount necessary for is continued
implementation shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. Relevant and
allowable expenditures related to education may also be charged to the ECCD Council, the LGU
Special Education Fund, or other relevant fund.
Section 16. Separability Clause. – If any provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional or
invalid, the remaining parts or provisions not affected shall remain in full force and effect.
Section 17. Repealing Clause. – All laws executive issuances inconsistent with the provisions of
this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
Section 18. Effectivity Date. –This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in
the Official Gazette or in one (1) newspaper of general circulation.
Approved,
GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO VICENTE C. SOTTO III
Speaker of the House of Representative President of the Senate
This Act was passed by the Senate of the Philippines as Senate Bill No. 1455 on August 28, 2018
and adopted by the House of Representatives as an amendment to House Bill No. 7503 on
September 10, 2018.
DANTE ROBERTO P. MALING MYRA MARIE D.
Acting Secretary General VILLARICA
House of Representatives Secretary of the Senate

Approved: October 30, 2018

RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE
President of the Philippines
SOURCE: RA 11106 https://www.ncda.gov.ph/disability-laws/republic-acts/ra-11106/

Let us determine how much you have learned

from the lesson.

MATCHING TYPE Directions: Match column A with the correct answer on column
B. Write only the letter of answer on the blank provided before each number
Column A Column B
1. The word Bayani is one of the word which a. discipline
came from the group of region that is our ancestors
2. Who is this non-Filipino writer who have the b. sampaguita
passion in studying Philippine history for nearly 50
years and found out Rizal is the most admirable
Filipino.
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3. He recited Rizal’s last poem in the U.S House c. Rizal Day

of Representative in 1902, in justifying the capacity of
the Filipinos for self – government
4. Who issued Executive Order No. 75 creating d. patriotism
the National Heroes Committee?
5. President Aguinaldo issued the First official e. Henry Cooper
proclamation making December 30 of that year…
6. This is considered as the Philippine’s national f. Ferdinand
flower Marcos
7. This denotes proud devotion and loyalty to g. Austronesian
one’s nation.
8. To accept the truth whatever it is, and live h. sincerity
according to it
9. The quality of being honest and having strong i. integrity
moral principles
10. This is the suppression of base desires j. Norman Owen
Take time to breath, digest, reflect and an answering.

Present a photo exhibit of different Rizal monuments in the Philippines and abroad. Write a short descr
Make an extemporaneous speech about a particular value Rizal advocated.
Students choose a key issue (eg. Heroism and the notion of sacrifice; literature and national consciousn

References:
Joaquin, Nick. A question of heores. Pasig: Anvil, 2005. (Chapters on Rizal, Bonifacio, and Aguinaldo)
Lahiri, Smitha. “Writer, hero, myth, and spirit: The changing image of Jose Rizal.” Cornell University
papers on Southeast Asia.
 Philippine Nationalism- National Symbol|

NAME: DATE:
COURESE/ YEAR/SECTION: _ EXPLORE IT OUT 9

A RIZALIANA TOUR SCAVENGER HUNT

As a culminating experience of the course, students will visit art museums and historical
places associated with our national hero. Students will research for a variety of items
located throughout the tour. This activity will encourage students to slow down, carefully
observe, interact with, and listen to the tour guides. (This can be done virtually during
quarantine periods.)
Procedures:
1. Divide class into teams or small groups of two or three.
2. Distribute the scavenger hunt activity sheet to each group.
3. Rotate the items on the lists so that team one starts looking for #1 on the list, while
team two is looking for #2, for example, so that groups are not running around after the
same items at the same time.
4. Have each group search for the items and record answers and observations in their
scavenger hunt activity sheet.
5. Walk back through the museum or site together as a class and have students share their
observations with their classmates.

Extensions: Afterwards, in the classroom, have each group of students select one or two
items they found interesting while visiting the museum or site. Find out more information
about each item and prepare a report to share with their classmates.
Excellent a. Made and followed a thorough plan to complete the task, listens and
(30) contributes, is a team player, performs all duties, and does not have to
be reminded to do work.
b. Made use of all the provided resources.
c. Complete the scavenger hunt assessment with 100% accuracy
Average a. Made and attempted to follow a plan to complete the task, listens
(20) and contributes some of the time, is sometimes cooperative, completes
some of the duties, and sometimes needs to be reminded to do the
work.
b. Made use of some of the resources provided.
c. Completed the scavenger hunt assessment with 70-90% accuracy.
Unsatisfactory a. Made no plan, rarely listens and contributes, poor team player,
(10) rarely performs duties
b. Relies on others to do the work.
c. Did not make use of any of the resources provided.
d. Complete the scavenger hunt assessment with less than 70%
accuracy.