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.

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. 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.

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. 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.
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.

Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible
in evidence against him.

The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for violations of this Section as well as
compensation to the 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. No person shall be held to answer for a criminal offense without due process of law.

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. No person shall be detained solely by reason of his political beliefs and aspirations.

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. 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.

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.

 THE HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY

The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) is a non-stock, non-profit

alliance duly registered under the laws of the Philippines, with SEC No. ANO92-03505. It was
established on August 9, 1986 in a Congress that was participated in by more than a hundred
organizations from all over the Philippines. It was formed as an alliance of individuals, institutions
and organizations committed to the promotion, protection and realization of human rights in the
Philippines.

Among its founding members are organizations and individuals who were in the forefront of
the struggle against the dictatorial regime of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. The
establishment of PAHRA was a consolidation of the human rights movement in the country and an
acknowledgement of the role played by the human rights organizations in the anti-dictatorship
struggle. It was recognition of the need for a formal venue for cooperation and coordination among
human rights groups in the country. From its founding, PAHRA has consistently been in the forefront
of struggle for human rights. Today, it has established itself not only as one of the major human
rights formations but as one of the leading voices in human rights advocacy in the Philippines.
Through its initiative, the Philippine Declaration of Human and People’s Rights was adopted in
December 1993 during the Human Rights Summit, which PAHRA convened. Such Declaration led to
the adoption of The Human and Peoples’ Rights Declaration of the Philippines, which is meant to be
the contribution of the Philippines to the long-envisioned ASEAN Human Rights Declaration.

Also, PAHRA is the sole civil society representative in the Philippine Government’s
Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), and is an affiliate of the International Federation of
Human Rights Leagues (FIDH). It is also a member of regional organizations like the Asian Forum of
Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA), and the Asian Network for Free Elections
(ANFREL).

VISION

PAHRA envisions a just, democratic, and peaceful Philippines founded on human rights
culture. It envisions a society where there is gender equity, recognition of multiculturalism,
environmental protection, and sustainable development. As such, all individuals and peoples are
able to fully realize their potentials, participate and contribute in the economic, political, social and
cultural life of society, and share equitably in the benefits of economic progress.

MISSION

To achieve its vision, PAHRA commits itself to the development of a strong, progressive,
dynamic, and pluralist human rights movement that engages the state to comply with its HR
obligations and non-state actors to fulfill their HR responsibilities. To do this, PAHRA constitutes
itself as a campaign and advocacy center and develops an education and information center in
partnership with its member organizations and other NGOs, POs and individual members, and in the
government at all levels.

GOALS

To promote and defend human rights, and prevent Human Rights violations and abuses by:
 Establishing structures, and processes for Human Rights;
 Working for gender equality;
 Attaining justice through indemnification for human rights victims and abuse;
 Protecting environment and developing sustainable development strategies; and
 Working for peace based on justice and Human Rights

PAHRA Advocacy Work

Since its founding in 1986, PAHRA serves as an advocacy center and has been committed
to work for the respect and promotion, protection and fulfillment of human rights:
We are committed to work for the recognition and realization of all human rights embodied in
the international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International
Covenant on Social, Economic and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights, the Declaration on the Right to Development, and the Universal Declaration on the Rights of
the Peoples. We support the implementation by the International Committee of the Red Cross of
International Humanitarian Law embodied in Geneva Conventions and their additional Protocols.
 Tenth Congress

Republic Act No. 8491 February 12, 1998

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 House 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 Frivolity" shall mean places of hilarity marked by or providing boisterous

merriment or recreation; and

l) "Institute" shall mean the National Historical Institute.

 CHAPTER I
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 every day throughout the year.

Section 6. The flag shall be permanently hoisted, day and night throughout the year, in front of the
following: at Malacañang 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 ng mga Bayani; Musoleo de los
Beteranos dela Revolucion; all International Ports of Entry and all other places as may be
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
on flag-staffs in front of said buildings every April 9 (Araw ng Kagitingan); May 1 (Labor Day); May
28 (National Flag Day) to June 12 (Independence Day); last Sunday of August (National Heroes
Day); November 30 (Bonifacio Day); 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 flag-staff at the stern when the ship is at
anchor. The flag shall be hoisted to the gaff at the aftermast when the ship is at sea.

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 a 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.

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 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 facing 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 the 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, if available, and at
the first note, the flag shall be raised briskly.

The same procedure shall be observed when the flag is passing in review or in parade.

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 the 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 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 may be 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 Pilipino
Buong katapatang nanunumpa
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag
Na may dangal, katarungan at kalayaan
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang
Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at
Makabansa.

Such pledge shall be recited while standing with the right hand with palm open raised shoulder high.
Individuals whose faith or religious beliefs prohibit them from making such pledge must nonetheless
show full respect when the pledge is being rendered by standing at attention.

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, craftsmanship 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 craftsmanship specifications by the Institute,
through its Heraldry and Display Sec., 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 canvas submitted, conforms to government
requirement as to quality of the material. The samples shall be sent annually to the
ITDI/PTRI by the manufacturer. The laboratory test results 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 Sec. 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 or commit any act or omission
casting dishonor or ridicule upon the flag or 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
6) As trademarks, or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or designs.
d) To display the flag:
1) Under any painting or picture;
2) Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely;
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, advertisement, 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 or 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 ng dahil sa iyo.

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.

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, citizens 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 the "signing off" and "signing on" of radio broadcasting and television stations;
d) Before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater
performances; and
e) Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

Section 39. All officials and employees of the national and local government, and any agency or
instrumentality thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned
entities or offices displaying the national flag and government institutions of 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
THE 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 rayonnant
with eight minor and 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
Sec., 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 also 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 by custom and usage. The President shall have
custody of the Great Seal.

CHAPTER VI
OFFICIAL SEAL 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, and banners; and initiate awards, citations,
orders or decorations; as may be authorized by 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 order or decoration 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, shall 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 proper notice and hearing, shall cause the cancellation
of the recognition or permit of any private educational institution which fails or refuses to observe the
provisions of this Act for the second time.

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 the general public.

Section 50. Any person or juridical 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 (P5,000) nor more than
Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000), 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, further, That in case the
violation is committed by a juridical person, its President or Chief Executive Officer thereof shall be
liable.

CHAPTER VIII
COMMON PROVISIONS

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 provisions of this
Act. It may call upon any government department, agency, office, or government instrumentality,
including government corporations, and local government units, for such assistance as it may deem
necessary for the effective discharge of its functions under this Act.

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 or regulation contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of
this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly.

Section 55. Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its publication
in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved: February 12, 1998

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
NATIONAL HISTORICAL INSTITUTE

RULES AND REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491, S. 1998—”THE CODE
OF THE NATIONAL FLAG, ANTHEM, MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS
AND DEVICES OF THE PHILIPPINES“

RULE 1
GENERAL PROVISIONS

SECTION 1. Title. — These rules shall be known, cited and referred to as the “RULES AND
REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491, series of 1998, THE CODE OF THE
NATIONAL FLAG, ANTHEM, MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS AND
DEVICES OF THE PHILIPPINES”, hereinafter called the “Rules”.

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy and Objectives. — It is the policy of the state to herein prescribe the
Code of the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and other Heraldic Items and Devices of
the Philippines, ensure the promotion and implementation of its corresponding rules and regulations,
and adopt effective administrative, regulatory, coordinative and supervisory programs and activities,
where appropriate, in conformity with national government policies. Further, reverence and respect
shall at all times be accorded to the flag, anthem, and other national symbols which embody the
national ideals and traditions and which express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity.

SEC. 3. Scope of Application. — These Rules shall apply to individuals, public and private entities,
military and police agencies, and other branches and/or instrumentalities of the national and local
government including government-owned and/or controlled corporations, and shall also be observed
in and within the entire territory of the Philippines as such is defined in the Constitution and laws of
the Republic of the Philippines.

SEC. 4. Interpretation. — In the interpretation of the provisions of Republic Act No. 8491, Series of
1998, The Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, hereinafter called R.A. No. 8491, and of these
Rules, that interpretation which will promote or sustain reverence and respect for the flag, the
anthem, and other national symbols, all of which embody national ideals and traditions, shall be
given paramount consideration.

RULE 2
THE IMPLEMENTING AGENCY

SEC. 5. The Implementing Agency. — the National Historical Institute, hereinafter referred to as
the Institute, shall be the agency tasked to implement these Rules.

SEC. 6. Scope of Powers and Functions. — The Institute shall perform planning, monitoring,
coordinating, implementing, and policy-formulating functions, wherever and whenever appropriate,
and, in the process, exercise administrative, regulatory, and supervisory authority over the
implementation of the provisions of R.A. No. 8491 within the Philippine territorial limits, and in
conformity with national government policies. Such powers and functions shall include the following:

a. Formulate, coordinate and regulate the implementation of the Code of the National Flag, Anthem,
Motto, Coat-of-Arms and other Heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines, consistent with the
purposes and objectives of R.A. No. 8491;

b. Plan, prepare and coordinate effective educational and information dissemination strategies which
shall increase the level of national awareness of these Rules and other implementing details that
may subsequently be formulated;

c. Coordinate and monitor the implementation of these Rules and ensure the compliance of all the
provisions stipulated under R.A. No. 8491; and deputize, assign and/or designate government
agencies, non-government organizations, major branches and units of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Philippine National Police, and other groups or individuals for the purpose of
implementing, monitoring and coordinating tasks;

d. Set policies and procedures concerning the concept and design/visual interpretation of the
national motto, coat-of-arms, seals of various local government units (town/city/province), and other
government instrumentalities, medallions, awards and other forms and devices of national
recognition, and strict enforcement thereof;

e. Formulate and devise appropriate legal procedures, assistance and coordinating systems for
cases arising from the violations of R.A. No. 8491, including appropriate integration of this law into
the Shariya Courts; and

f. Perform other related functions required to achieve the objectives of R.A. No. 8491 and these
Rules.

SEC. 7. Definition of Terms. — Whenever used in these Rules, the term:

a. “Military” shall mean all branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines including the Philippine
National Police, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Bureau of Fire Protection;

b. “Festoon” shall mean to hang in a curved shape between two points as a decoration;

c. “National Flag” shall mean the National Flag and Ensign of the Philippines, unless stated
otherwise, used on land and sea by public, private and the military and shall refer to the flag or any
other design that so resembles it as likely to cause any person to believe that it is the flag or design
stated, expressed or provided in the Constitution of the Philippines, R.A. No. 8491 and these Rules;

d. “Fly” shall mean the part of the flag outside the hoist or length;

e. “Hoist” shall mean the sleeve or heading; part of the flag nearest the staff or the canvass to which
the halyard is attached;

f. “Symbol”shall mean any conventional sign which reveals man’s achievement and heroism (for
orders and decorations), identification, authority and a sign of dignity (for coat-of-arms, logo and
insignia);

g. “Half-mast”shall mean lowering the flag to one-half the distance between the top and bottom of
the pole;

h. “Halyard” shall mean the long rope where the flag fastens and which runs up the length of the flag
pole;

i. “Inclement Weather” shall mean that a typhoon signal is raised in the locality;

j. “National Anthem” shall mean the “Lupang Hinirang”, the Philippine National Anthem;

k. “Official Residences” shall mean Malacañang, and other government-owned structures where the
President resides, and other structures occupied by the Philippine Consulate or Embassies abroad;

l. “Places of Frivolity” shall mean places of hilarity marked by or providing boisterous merriment or
recreation;

m. “Advertisement or Infomercial” shall mean advertisement or any information material in print,

radio, television, cinema, video and the like, outdoor and electronic media, seeking to promote
individuals, entities, products or services for commercial, political purposes or information campaigns;

n. “Heraldic Items and Devices” shall mean coat-of-arms, seals, logos, insignia, badges,flashes,
patches, orders and decorations, medals, stars, citations, lapel pins, trophies, dry, wax or wet seals,
and imprints on letterheads, envelopes and cards;

o. “Government Entities” shall mean all branches of the government, its bureaus and attached
agencies, constitutional offices, local government offices, government-owned and/or controlled
corporations, government financial institutions, state universities and colleges,Armed Forces of the
Philippines including its basic component units; and

p. “Vexillary Items” shall mean national, local, house flags, or administrative,institution, corporate,
unit and other organization’s banners.
 RULE 3
CHAPTER I
The National Flag

A. Design of the National Flag

SEC. 8. The National Flag shall be blue, white and red with an eight rayed golden yellow sun and
three stars that are five-pointed, as consecrated and honored by the people.

B. Hoisting and Display of the National

Flag

SEC. 9. The National Flag shall be displayed in all public buildings, official residences, public plazas,
and institutions of learning everyday throughout the year.

SEC. 10. The National Flag shall be permanently hoisted, day and night, throughout the year, in
front of the following: at Malacañang Palace; Congress of the Philippines building;Supreme Court
building; Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila; Bonifacio Monument in Kalookan City; Emilio Aguinaldo
Shrine in Kawit, Cavite; Barasoain Church Historical

Landmark in Malolos, Bulacan; Marcela Agoncillo Historical Landmark in Taal, Batangas; Tomb of
the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng mga Bayani, Makati City, Mausoleo de losVeteranos de la
Revolucion, North Cemetery, Manila; all International Ports of Entry and all other places as may be
designated by the Institute.

The National Flag of these sites shall be properly illuminated at night.

SEC. 11. The National Flag shall also be displayed in private buildings and residences or raised in
the open flag-staffs in front of said buildings every April 9 (Araw ng Kagitingan); May 1 (Labor Day);
(National Flag Days) from May 28 to June 12 (Independence Day); last Sunday of August (National
Heroes Day); November 30 (Bonifacio Day); and December 30(Rizal Day); and on such other days
as may be declared or approved by the President and/or local chief executives.

The National Flag may also be raised and displayed at sunrise and lowered at sunset and
throughout the year in the open flagstaff in front of private buildings: Provided, that proper flag
ceremonies be observed in accordance with these Rules.

SEC. 12. All Government Entities should observe flag days with appropriate ceremonies. Socio-civic
groups, non-government organizations and the private sector are enjoined to observe and cooperate
in making the celebration a success.

SEC. 13. The National Flag shall be flown on all naval vessels and on merchant ships of Philippine
registry, of more than one thousand (1,000) gross tons.

Military, civil or state vessels should fly the National Flag. Pleasure, merchant, fishing boats or
yachts are also encouraged to fly the National Flag.

On board vessels of Philippine registry, the National Flag shall be displayed on the flagstaff at the
stern when the vessel is at anchor. The National Flag shall be hoisted to the gaff at the aftermast
when the vessel is at sea.

SEC. 14. On all aircraft of Philippine registry, the National Flag shall be prominently displayed
horizontally on its fuselage at the head portion with the hoist side pointing the forward direction.

SEC. 15. ‘The National Flag, if flown from a flagpole, shall have its blue field on top in time of peace
and the red field on top in time of war; if in a hanging position, the blue field shall be to the left
(observer’s point of view) in time of peace, and the red field to the left(observer’s point of view) in
time of war.

The National Flag could be knotted to signal that assistance is badly needed.
SEC. 16. If planted on the ground, the flagpole shall be at a prominent place and shall be of such
height as would give the National Flag commanding position in relation to the buildings in the vicinity.
The flagpole must not be of equal height or higher than the Independence Flagpole at the Rizal Park,
Manila.

The flagpole that is planted on the ground must be straight and slightly tapering at the top.The
minimum length of the National Flag is one fourth (¼) the height of the flagpole, while maximum
length of the National Flag is one-third (1/3) the height of the flagpole.

SEC. 17. When the National Flag is flown with flag or flags of other countries, the flags must be of
equal size and on separate staffs of the same height. The National Flag shall be hoisted first and
lowered last.

When displayed in a semi-circle of flags with other countries or house flags, the National Flag should
be at the center.

When displayed in a circle of flags with other countries or house flags, the National Flag should be
flown on the flagpole facing the main read (point of reference- KM 0 Rizal Park,Manila); or in front of
a monument; or the main entrance of the building. The flags of other countries or house flags should
be arranged counter clockwise in alphabetical order, by precedence or by protocol.

SEC. 18. When displayed in a row or in a parade with flags of other countries, the National Flag shall
be on the left (observer’s point of view) of the other flags. The flags of other countries should be
arranged in alphabetical order from left to right.

When displayed in a row of house flags, the National Flag shall be in front of the center of the line or
on the left (observer’s point of view) of the row. The house flags should be arranged in alphabetical
order, by precedence or by protocol order from left to right (the observer’s point of view).

When in a parade with house flags, the National Flag shall be in front of the center of the first line.
The house flags should be arranged in alphabetical order, by precedence or by protocol order from
left to right (the observer’s point of view).

During special occasions, if there is only one flagpole, the house flag may be flown at the same
halyard with the National Flag but below the latter and it cannot be bigger than the National Flag.

SEC. 19. A worn-out National Flag should not be thrown away. It should be solemnly burned to
avoid misuse or desecration. The National Flag shall be replaced immediately when it begins to
show signs of wear and tear.

SEC. 20. The National Flag shall be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. It shall be on the mast
at the start of official school and office hours and shall remain flying throughout the day.

The National Flag shall not be raised when the weather is inclement. If already raised, the National
Flag shall not be lowered for the whole day.

SEC. 21. The National Flag may be displayed:

a. Inside and/or outside a building, on stationary or movable flagpole. If the National Flag is
displayed indoors on a flagpole, it shall be placed at the left of the observer as one enters the room;

b. From the top of a flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or a commanding position in
relation to the surrounding buildings;

c. From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, roof, canopy, balcony or facade of a building;

d. In a suspended position from a rope extending from a building to a pole erected away from the
building;

e. Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and stars on top;
f. Hanging vertically in the middle of the two-way traffic road, the blue field should be pointing east, if
the road is heading south or north and if the road is heading east or west the blue field should be
pointing north; and

g. Hanging vertically at the sides or middle of the one-way traffic road, the blue field should be at the
left of the observer.

SEC. 22. The National Flag shall be hoisted to the top briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

The National Flag must be properly folded before hanging for the start of the ceremony. It shall not
be left hanging at the base of the flagpole while waiting for the flag ceremony.

The National Flag shall never touch anything beneath it, such as the base of the pole, ground or
other object.

After being lowered, the National Flag shall be handled and folded solemnly as part of the ceremony.

C. Conduct of Flag Raising and

Lowering Ceremonies

SEC. 23. All government offices, including national or local government units and institutions, shall
henceforth observe the flag raising ceremony every Monday morning and the flag lowering
ceremony every Friday afternoon.

These include private establishments who fly the National Flag on the flagpole in their compound.

Primary and secondary schools and other institutions of learning shall observe the flag ceremony as
ordered by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports and/or the Commission on Higher
Education.

SEC. 24. The observance of the flag ceremony shall be simple and dignified.

SEC. 25. During the flag raising ceremony, the assembly shall stand in formation facing the National
Flag. At the moment the first note of the National Anthem is heard, everyone in the premises shall
come to attention; moving vehicles shall stop. All persons present shall place their palms over their
chest, those with hats shall uncover, while those in military,scouting, security guard, and citizens
military training uniforms shall give the salute prescribed by their regulations, which salute shall be
completed upon the last note of the anthem

The same procedure shall be observed when the National Flag is passing in review or in parade.

SEC. 26. During the flag lowering, the National Flag shall be lowered solemnly and slowly so that the
flag shall be down the mast at the sound of the last note of the National Anthem. Those in the
assembly shall observe the same deportment or shall observe the same behavior as for the flag
raising ceremony.

D. Half-Mast

SECTION 27. The National Flag shall be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning on all the buildings
and places where it is displayed, as provided, on the day of the official announcement of the death of
any of the following officials:

a. The President or a former President, for ten (10) days;

b. The Vice-President, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the President of the Senate and the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, for seven (7) days;

c. Cabinet Secretaries, Associate Justices of the Supreme Court, Members of the Senate and House
of Representatives, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Director-
General of the Philippine National Police, for five (5) days;
d. Heads of National Government Agencies, including Government Owned and Control Corporations
and Government Financial Institutions, for three (3) days;

e. The Commanding Generals of the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Army and the Flag
Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy, for three (3) days;

f. Governors, Vice-Governors, city and municipal Mayors, city and municipal Vice-Mayors, for three
(3) days;

g. Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang Panlungsod and Sangguniang Bayan,

on the day of interment;

h. Barangay Chairmen and the Barangay Councilmen on the day of interment;

i. Former National or Local Government Officials, appointive or elective, other than those specified
above, on the day of interment, within their former respective territorial jurisdictions and by resolution
of their respective 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

SEC. 28. The National Flag may be used to cover the caskets of the honored dead of the military,
veterans of previous wars, National Artists, and of civilians who have rendered distinguished service
to the nation, as may be determined by the local government unit concerned. In such cases, the
National Flag shall be placed such that the white triangle shall be at the head and the blue portion
shall cover the right side of the casket. The National Flag shall not be lowered to the grave or
allowed to touch the ground, but shall be folded solemnly and handed over to the heirs of the
deceased or next of kin.

No object must be put on top of the National Flag, except for religious objects that symbolize”God
above Country”.

F. Pledge to the National Flag

SEC. 29. The following shall be the Pledge of Allegiance to the National Flag:

Ako ay Pilipino
Buong katapatang nanunumpa
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
 At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag
Na may dangal, Katarungan at Kalayaan
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanan
Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at
Makabansa.

Such pledge shall be recited right after the singing of the National Anthem, the throng standing with
the right palm open, raised shoulder high. Individuals whose faith or religious beliefs prohibit them
from making such pledge must nonetheless show full respect by standing at attention.

G. National Flag Days

SEC. 30. The period from May 28 to June 12 of each year is declared as National Flag Days, during
which period all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the government, business establishments,
institutions of learning, private buildings and homes are enjoined to display the National Flag.

SEC. 31. The government offices and local government units concerned shall display the National
Flag on main thoroughfares, parks, plazas, and other public places.

H. Specifications of the National Flag

SEC. 32. The National Flag shall have the following proportions: The width of the National Flag, 1,
and the length, 2. All the sides of the white triangle, 1.

SEC. 33. The technical specifications shall be as follows:

The blue color shall bear Cable No. 80173; the white color, Cable No. 80001; the red color,Cable No.
80108; and the golden-yellow, Cable No. 80068.

The assigned cable numbers are listed in the Tenth Edition of the Standard Color Reference of
America, created and issued by the Color Association of the United States, No. 343Lexington
Avenue, New York, New York, 10016, Series, 1981.

SEC. 34. In order to establish uniform criteria in the making of our National Flag and to guarantee its
durability by the use of quality materials, the following standards and procedures shall be observed:

a. All requisitions for the purchase of the National Flag must be based on strict compliance with the
design, color, craftsmanship and material requirements of the Government;

b. The manufacturer shall send annually one meter for each color (blue, red, white and golden-
yellow including canvas) of textile material to the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI)
or the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the Department of Science and Technology
(DOST) for evaluation. The PTRI/ITDI shall evaluate the quality and serviceability of the said textile
material;

c. Flag manufacturers shall apply for annual accreditation at the Institute. Together with their
application, they will submit the PTRI/ITDI laboratory test results, copy of business license, permit,
company profile and other pertinent documents; and

d. All submitted sample/s of the National Flag by accredited suppliers offered for purchase for
government use shall be evaluated as to design, color, materials and craftsmanship specifications
by the Institute, through its Heraldry and Display Section, which shall stamp its approval or
disapproval on the canvas reinforcement of the National Flag sample submitted. The National Flag
sample/s shall be sent to the Institute by the requisitioning office and not by the flag supplier.

SEC. 35. All deliveries of the National Flags requisitioned by government entities shall be inspected
by the requisitioning office’s internal inspector and by the Commission on Audit (COA) using the
National Flag stamped “APPROVED” by the Institute as reference
The internal inspector of the requisitioning office and the COA, in case of confusion, may send
another sample of the National Flag picked at random from the delivered flags for re-evaluation by
the Institute.

SEC. 36. For effective information dissemination, all accredited manufacturers are required to inform
all flag consumers of the provisions of these Rules.

SEC. 37. All government entities shall ensure that the requirements under the R.A. No.8491 and
these Rules, with respect to the standard requisitions and deliveries of the National Flags are strictly
complied with.

SEC. 38. All departments, agencies, offices, and instrumentalities of the government,government-
owned or controlled corporations, local government units, including barangays, shall include in their
annual budgets the necessary outlay for the purchase of the National Flag.

I. Prohibited Acts

SEC. 39: It shall be prohibited:

a. To mutilate, deface, defile, trample on, cast contempt, or commit any act or omission casting
dishonor or ridicule upon the National Flag or over its surface;
b. To dip the National Flag to any person or object by way of compliment or salute;
c. To use National Flag
1. As drapery, festoon, tablecloth;
2. As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or other objects;
3. As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of motor vehicles;
4. As a staff or whip;
5. For unveiling monuments or statues; and
6. As trademarks, or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or designs.
d. To display the National Flag:
1. Under any painting or picture;
2. Horizontally. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely;
3. Below any platform; or
4. In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places 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 4
CHAPTER II
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

SEC. 40. The National Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang.

SEC. 41. The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language within oroutside the
country. The following shall be the lyrics of the National Anthem:

Bayang Magiliw
Perlas ng Silanganan,
Alab ng puso
Sa Dibdib mo’y buhay.
Lupang Hinirang
Duyan ka ng magiting,
Sa manlulupig.
Di ka pasisiil.
Sa dagat at bundok,
Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw,
 May dilag ang tula
At awit sa paglayang minamahal.
Ang kislap ng watawat mo’y
Tagumpay na nagniningning
Ang bituin at araw niya,
Kailan pa may di magdidilim.
Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati’t pagsinta,
Buhay ay langit sa piling mo,
Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi,
Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.

SEC. 42. The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with
the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe and in accordance with its original Filipino
lyrics and march tempo that was adopted under Department Order No. 5 dated May 26, 1956
covered by Circular No. 21 dated June 22, 1956 and Executive Order No. 60 dated December 19,
1963.

B. Conduct in Relation to the National

Anthem

SEC. 43. When the National. Anthem is played at a public gathering, whether by a band or by
singing or both, or reproduced by any means, the attending public shall sing the anthem. The singing
must be done with fervor.

As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention and face the National Flag, if there is one
displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the band or the conductor. At the first note,all persons
shall execute a salute by placing their right palms over their chests. Those in military, scouting,
citizen’s military training and security guard uniforms shall give the salute prescribed by their
regulations. The salute shall be completed upon the last note of the National Anthem.

When the National Anthem is to be played or sung with the Anthem of any other country, the
National Anthem shall be sung first.

The National Anthem shall not be played or sung for mere recreation, amusement or entertainment
purposes except on the following occasions:

a. International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative;

b. National or local competitions;

c. During the “signing of” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations;

d. Before the initial and last screening of films or before the opening of theater performances;

e. Civic activities, cultural shows or presentations; and

f. Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

SEC. 44. All officials and employees of the national and local governments, and any agencies or
instrumentalities thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations, institutions of
learning, and privately-owned entities or offices displaying the National Flag are hereby directed to
comply strictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of the National Anthem.

RULE 5
CHAPTER III
THE NATIONAL MOTTO

SEC. 45. The National Motto shall be “MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-TAO,MAKAKALIKASAN AT

MAKABANSA.”

RULE 6
CHAPTER IV
NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS
SEC. 46. The National Coat-of-Arms shall have:

Paleways of two (2) pieces, azure and gules; a chief argent studded with three (3) mullets
equidistant from each other; and, in point of honor, ovoid argent over all the sun rayonnant with eight
minor and lesser rays. Beneath shall be the scroll with the words “REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS,”
inscribed thereon.

RULE 7
CHAPTER V
THE GREAT SEAL

SEC. 47. The Great Seal shall be circular in form, with the arms as described in the preceding
section, but without the scroll and the inscription “Republika ng Pilipinas” thereon.Surrounding the
whole shall be a double marginal circle within which shall appear the words”Republika ng Pilipinas.”

The Great Seal shall bear the National Motto.

SEC. 48. The Great Seal shall be affixed to or placed upon all commissions signed by the President
and upon such other official documents and papers of the Republic of the Philippines as may be
provided by law, or as may be required by custom and usage. The President shall have custody of
the Great Seal.

RULE 8
CHAPTER VI
OFFICIAL SEALS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS
AND DEVICES

SEC. 49. Any branch of the government, whether national or local, government-owned or controlled
corporations, state colleges and universities, including the military, may adopt appropriate coat-of-
arms, seal, logo, insignia, badge, patches, banners and initiate awards,trophies, citations, orders or
decorations, as may be authorized by the Office of the President or by Congress.

SEC. 50. These heraldic devices and items shall be filed with the Institute for recording and
evaluation as to precedence, design, customs and traditions.

The application for approval of design and specification of the proposed heraldic items and devices
shall be supported with the following documents:

a. Orders, or any forms of grants, laws of authority or creations;

b. Brief historical background, symbolism, and significance of every design component;and c.

Photographs of existing structures, objects, spots, etc. to be incorporated in the design.

The Institute shall recommend such heraldic design together with the needed documents tot he
Office of the President or Congress for final approval.

The approved design shall be returned to the Institute for proper recording in the National Registry of
Heraldic Items and Devices and for transmittal to the requesting government entity.

SEC. 51. To conform to the basic heraldic traditions, the following shall be observed in the design,
creation, modification, revision and approval of heraldic items and devices:

a. It may feature either abstract or natural emblems/visuals, representing significant aspects, or

events representative or related to its history, mandates, duties, functions and visions;

b. Components of heraldic designs must feature indigenous Filipino culture, values,history, traditions
and sense of nationalism;

c. Every component must be recognizable as if it is rendered or reduced to its normal required sizes;

d. No personal heraldic devices shall be allowed except the Seal of the President and the Vice-
President;
e. Symbols, names, initials, logos, pictures, silhouettes or images of living persons shall not be
featured in the design;

f. The name of the government entity or title of heraldic items and devices must be in prominent
position;

g. All heraldic items and devices, including ribbons or sashes, must be unique from each other;

h. The National Coat-of-Arms, which may or may not include the scroll, when used as the main part
or as a component of the seal, must occupy the place of honor. It shall be used only by the major
branches of the government;

i. In using the National Coat-of-Arms or the Great Seal for numismatic purposes, wet or dry seals
and painted or printed in monochrome, tincture representations shall be used;

j. The use of the National Flag is prohibited except where the flag has become part of its history;

k. The motto, title or phrase to be incorporated in the heraldic items and devices may be in the
national language or in any local dialect; and

l. These heraldic items and devices shall not be revised or changed more than once every ten (10)
years.

SEC. 52. All government entities including the military are hereby ordered to purchase all Heraldic
Items and Devices from manufacturers accredited and authorized by the Institute.

SEC. 53. Engravers or manufacturers shall apply for annual accreditation at the Institute. Together
with their application, they will also submit copies of business license, permit, company profile with
list of Heraldic Items and Devices they made for the year and other pertinent documents.

Such items and devices shall be subject to inspection by the purchasing agency’s internal inspector
and the COA representative using the design and specifications approved by the Office of the
President or by Congress, through the Institute.

Any violation of R.A. No. 8491 or these Rules shall be a ground for suspension, revocation or non-
renewal of accreditation.

SEC. 54. No government official or employee shall accept any orders or decorations from any
foreign government without the consent of Congress, and without the prior evaluation and
documentation of such order or decoration by the Institute.

SEC. 55. Heraldic and Vexillary designs and/or items, including the National Motto, National Anthem
and Pledge of Allegiance to the National Flag shall not be used or employed for numismatic,
philatelic, advertisement and/or any informative purposes unless duly approved in writing by the
Institute, through its Heraldry and Display Section.

RULE 9
CHAPTER VII
PENALTIES

SEC. 56. Failure or refusal to observe the provisions of R.A. No. 8491, and/or any violation of these
Rules shall, after proper notice and hearing, be penalized as stipulated in R.A. No. 8491

RULE 10
CHAPTER VIII
EFFECTIVITY

SEC. 57. Effectivity. — These Rules shall be effective fifteen (15) days after the approval of the
Office of the President and filing with Congress of the Philippines and the University of the
Philippines Law Center.
 RULE 11
CHAPTER IX
AMENDMENT OF RULES

SEC. 58. Amendments. — The Chairman and Executive Director shall have the authority to amend,
revise, repeal, or otherwise modify these RULES or any provision thereof, as may be deemed
necessary to achieve the objectives of the R.A. No. 8491 and these Rules.

ISSUED this 30th day of January, Two Thousand and Two, in the City of Manila, the Philippines.

Recommending Approval:

(Sgd.) PABLO S. TRILLANA III

Chairman and Executive Director

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

Approved by Authority of the President

(Sd.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO

Executive Secretary

Thirteenth Congress
Third Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-fourth day of July, two thousand six.

REPUBLIC ACT No. 9418 April 10, 2007

AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING A STRATEGY FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT, STRENGTHENING

VOLUNTEERISM AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

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

SECTION 1. Title. - This Act shall be known and cited as the "Volunteer Act of 2007".

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It shall be the policy of the State to promote the participation of the
various sectors of the Filipino society, and as necessary, international and foreign volunteer
organizations in public and civic affairs, and adopt and strengthen the practice of volunteerism as a
strategy in order to attain national development and international understanding. The inculcation of
volunteerism as a way of life shall rekindle in every Filipino the time-honored tradition of bayanihan
to foster social justice, solidarity and sustainable development.

SEC. 3. Statement of Goals and Objectives. – To carry out the foregoing policy, the government
shall pursue the attainment of the following goals and objectives:

(a) To provide a policy framework on volunteerism that shall underscore the fundamental
principles necessary to harness and harmonize the broad and diverse efforts of the voluntary
sector in the country into an integrative and effective partnership for local and national
development as well as international cooperation and understanding;
 (b) To provide a conducive and enabling environment for volunteers and volunteer service
organizations by setting mechanisms to protect volunteers' rights and privileges and give due
recognition to highlight their roles and contributions to society; and

(c) To provide an effective institutional mechanism to strengthen the role of the Philippine
National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) to perform its mandates and to
oversee the implementation of this Act.

SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. – For purposes of this Act, the following shall mean:

(a) "Volunteerism" refers to an act involving a wide range of activities, including traditional
forms of mutual aid and developmental interventions that provides an enabling and
empowering environment both on the part of the beneficiary receiving and the volunteer
rendering the act, undertaken for reasons arising from sociodevelopmental, business or
corporate orientation, commitment or conviction for the attainment of the public good and
where monetary and other incentives or reward are not the primary motivating factors.

(b) "Volunteer" refers to an individual or group who for reasons arising from their
sociodevelopmental, business and corporate orientation, commitment or conviction,
contribute time, service and resources whether on full- time or part-time basis to a just and
essential social development cause, mission or endeavor in the belief that their activity is
mutually meaningful and beneficial to public interest as well as to themselves.

(c) "Volunteer service organization" refers to a local or foreign group that recruits, trains,
deploys and supports volunteer workers to programs and projects implemented by them or
by other organizations or any group that provides services and resources, including but not
limited to, information, capability building, advocacy and networking for the attainment of the
common good.

(d) "Voluntary sector" refers to those sectors of Philippine society that organizes themselves
into volunteers to take advocacy and action primarily for local and national development as
well as international cooperation and understanding.

SEC. 5. Role and Modalities of Volunteerism in the Private Sector. –

(a) Volunteerism in the academe includes, but is not limited to, provision of technical
assistance and sharing of technology within the academic circle, target communities and
other clienteles and the upgrading of the quality of education and curriculum methodologies
while providing career enhancement and exposure to the volunteers;

(b) Volunteerism in the corporate sector as an expression of corporate social responsibility

and citizenship, refers to activities recognized by the company, where employees give their
time, skills and resources in the service of the company's internal and/or external
communities. These volunteering activities include, but are not limited to, employee giving of
material resources to specific causes; employee-led fund-raising; one-time outreach
activities; environmental campaign; medical and health related advocacies; knowledge and
change management; scholarship programs; and sharing of expertise, particularly of
business and developmental skills through mentoring, tutoring, training, business,
consulting/advising and rendering of pro bono services on a case-to-case basis; and

(c) Volunteerism by not-for-profit organizations includes, but is not limited to, provision of
complementary service delivery and human resource development in underserved
communities as well as advocacy and articulation of the cause of the disadvantaged and
vulnerable groups.

SEC. 6. Role and Modalities of Volunteerism by Foreign Volunteer Organizations. –

Volunteerism by foreign volunteer organizations includes, but is not limited to, provision of technical
assistance not locally accessible in priority development areas within the framework of technical
cooperation and socio cultural exchange.

SEC. 7. Role of the Government. – The government shall coordinate, facilitate and encourage the
participation of the voluntary sector in the promotion, utilization and recognition of volunteerism in
national development and international cooperation. This shall be achieved through the provision of
enabling and conducive environment for volunteer work.

SEC. 8. The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA). – The
PNVSCA created by Executive Order No. 134, as amended, shall undertake the implementation and
execution of the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 9. Mandates of the PNVSCA. – The PNVSCA shall have the following functions:

(a) Review and formulate policies and guidelines concerning the national volunteer service
program consistent with national development priorities;

(b) Coordinate, monitor and evaluate the national volunteer service program in order that
volunteer assistance may fit into the total national development goals;

(c) Act as clearing house for matters pertaining to international volunteer services;

(d) Develop and implement prototypes and models of volunteering for adoption by institutions
and communities;

(e) Provide technical services and support for capability building of volunteers and volunteer
organizations;

(f) Undertake advocacy for the promotion and recognition of volunteerism as a tool for
development;

(g) Establish and maintain a national network of volunteer organizations and serve as liaison
between and among local and foreign governmental private voluntary organizations including
the United Nations Volunteers (UNV); and

(h) Administer all the PNVSCA funds from all sources including foreign aid in accordance
with accounting and auditing requirements. For this purpose, the executive director of the
PNVSCA shall submit an organizational plan upon advice of the MultiSectoral Advisory Body
to the Department of Budget and Management.

SEC. 10. The MultiSectoral Advisory Body (MSAB). – To assist the PNVSCA, the Body created
under Executive Order No. 635 shall be reconstituted with the following members:

(a) The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA);

(b) The Department of Education (DepED);

(c) The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA);

(d) The Department of Justice (DOJ);

(e) The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG);

(f) The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD);

(g) The Commission on Higher Education (CHED);

(h) The Presidential Management Staff (PMS), Office of the President;

(i) The Representative/s from the corporate sector;

(j) The Representative/s from the private academe sector; and

(k) The Representative/s from the not-for-profit sector. All member government agencies
shall be represented at least by an assistant secretary while the private sector agencies shall
be represented at least by their highest executive officers. The government agencies shall be
permanent members while the representatives from the private sector shall serve for a
 twoyear term. The chair of the MSAB shall be elected from among the members of the body.
The PNVSCA executive director, being an ex officio member, shall serve as the permanent
vice chair.

The MSAB may call on representatives of other government agencies and/or the private sector to
serve as resource person/s on volunteerism as the need arises.

SEC. 11. Functions of the MSAB. – The MSAB shall have the following functions:

(a) Provide advice in the formulation of policies and guidelines for the national volunteer
service program;

(b) Provide consultative and technical advisory services on volunteer matters; and

(c) Serve as a forum to enhance and strengthen linkages between and among volunteer
groups and communities.

SEC. 12. Special Provisions. –

(a) Establishment of a National Volunteer Infrastructure and Forum. – The PNVSCA shall
develop and establish a system of national registration and networking to improve
coordination of volunteers and volunteer service organizations to widen horizon for sharing
and complementing information, experiences and resources.

(b) Integration of Volunteerism in the Basic and Higher Education Curriculum. – The DepEd
and the CHED shall integrate volunteerism as part of the curriculum in basic and higher
education to raise the consciousness of the youth and develop the culture of volunteerism
among the citizenry.

(c) Establishment of Volunteer Program in National Government Agencies and Local

Government Units (LGUs). – National government agencies and LGUs shall establish
volunteer programs in their respective offices to promote and encourage volunteering in
government programs and projects as well as enjoin government employees to render
volunteer service in social, economic and humanitarian development undertakings in the
community.

(d) Recognition and Incentives to Volunteers. – Government agencies and nongovernment

organizations (NGOs) implementing volunteer programs are encouraged to develop and
provide volunteers recognition and incentive package which may include, but not limited to
allowance, insurance, training and the grant of privileges and status to Filipino overseas
volunteers at par with Filipino overseas workers.

(e) Visa Privileges for Foreign Volunteers. – Foreign volunteers approved for assignment by
the PNVSCA as well as their legal dependents may be entitled to 47 (a) (2) visa with multiple
entry privileges and corresponding exemption from visa and immigration fees and other
related processing/application fees or charges. Foreign nationals already in the Philippines
who have been approved for volunteer assignment by the PNVSCA may avail of the above
visa category and privileges upon endorsement by the PNVSCA to the DOJ.

SEC. 13. Institutional Mechanism for Research, Documentation, Recognition and Modeling of
Best Volunteer Practices. – To carry out the purposes of this Act, an institutional mechanism shall
be established, to be spearheaded and administered by the PNVSCA, for continuing research,
documentation, recognition and modeling of best volunteer practices as an important component of
implementing development programs and projects and undertaking humanitarian activities. For this
purpose, the PNVSCA in consultation with any and all relevant government agencies, NGOs, private
institutions and persons shall effect the setting up of the mechanism as well as determine all
requirements and, or necessary acts to ensure its effective implementation.

SEC. 14. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – The PNVSCA, with advice from the MSAB, shall
promulgate the rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 15. Repealing Clause. – All laws, decrees, executive orders and rules and regulations or
parts thereof contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, including Section 12 of
Executive Order No. 635 are hereby deemed repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 16. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its publication in the
Official Gazette or in at least two newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,

MANNY VILLAR JOSE DE VENECIA JR.

President of the Senate Speaker of the House of
Representatives

This Act which originated in the House of Representatives was finally passed by the House of
Representatives and the Senate on April 5, 2006 and February 5, 2007, respectively.

OSCAR G. YABES ROBERTO P. NAZARENO

Secretary of Senate Secretary General
House of Represenatives

Approved: APR 10, 2007

GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO
President of the Philippines
 THREATS TO NATIONAL SECURITY

INTERNAL THREATS

1. Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) – the MILF in constructive peace negotiation, the
armed activities of the group continue to be a source of serious concern, particularly the
build-up its defensive and offensive capabilities. Hand in hand with this security problem is
the threat from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a small band of highly mobile terrorists with
suspected links to international networks.

2. The Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army/National Democratic

Front (CPP/NPA/NDF)- continuous ton pose a serious threat to national security, although
presently weakened in comparison with their peak strength in the period 1985-87.

3. Organized crime - is a national security concern. The challenge of illegal drugs in particular,
has grown into a major threat to the national community.

4. Grave incidence of poverty -is also a serious threat to national security, especially to the
extent that it breeds rebellion, crime and dissidence. Poverty incidence affects about one-
third (1/3) of Filipino nationwide.

5. Economic sabotage- undermines the market economy, the financial system and the
nation’s resources. Under this category are underground activities such as counterfeiting,
money laundering, large-scale smuggling, inter-oceanic poaching and commercial dumping.

6. Graft and corruption -has become another threat to our national security by virtue of the
huge scale by which it saps public resources, undermines the morale of the civil service and
affects the delivery of quality basic services.

7. Severe calamities - causes serious food shortages, abet hoarding and profiteering tool
stands at more than 13,000 lives lost and p179 Billion worth of property destroyed.

8. Persistent environment degradation – poses a long term security threat. The attrition of
forest and watersheds, air-land-water pollution and the proliferation of toxic substances are a
cause of sickness, death and the diminution of national productivity and well-being.

EXTERNAL THREATS

1. The multi-lateral dispute over the Spratly Island is a source of intermittent tensions, owing to
the buildup structures, believed to be military-oriented, by some claimant countries in the
area.

2. The smuggling firearms and contraband, illegal migration and occasional movement of
foreign terrorists through the porous borders of our southwestern frontier have elicited
transnational concern. Philippine law enforcement agencies work closely with international
police organizations, bilaterally and multilaterally, to check these activities.

3. The lingering effects of the currency crisis affecting the countries within the Association of
South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) are a cause of regional anxieties which tend to
aggravate the political instabilities and socio-economic dislocations involving the poorest
people.

4. The serious economic disparity between rich and poor nations keeps the world in a state of
instability and virtually on the brink of war in many places.

5. Ethnic, religious and cultural conflict pervades many regions and nations including our own.
It is constantly exacerbated by mass poverty, limited access to resources, denial of human
rights, lack of national integration and international issues.