Understanding the Philippine Flag and Heraldic Code

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Philippine Flag, Heraldic Code (RA 8491), legal bases, and national symbols.

Republic Act No. 8491

The Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, which prescribes the code of the national flag, anthem, motto, coat-of-arms, and other heraldic items and devices.

Republic Act No. 9163

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001, which emphasizes patriotism, civic consciousness, nationalism, and community involvement.

White Triangle (Philippine Flag)

The part of the Philippine Flag that symbolizes equality, liberty, and fraternity.

Blue Field (Philippine Flag)

The part of the Philippine Flag that symbolizes peace, truth, and justice.

Red Field (Philippine Flag)

The part of the Philippine Flag that symbolizes patriotism and valor.

Golden Sun (Philippine Flag)

A symbol of freedom on the Philippine Flag whose eight rays represent the first eight provinces placed under martial law during the revolution: Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas, and Cavite.

Three Stars (Philippine Flag)

The three five-pointed golden stars representing the three main island groups of the Philippines: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

State of War Flag Position

The official display of the Philippine Flag with the red field on top instead of the blue field.

Half-Mast

A position where the flag is flown below the peak as a sign of respect, mourning, or state grief.

Half-Mast Duration for Current or Former President

Ten (10) days following the official announcement of death.

Half-Mast Duration for Vice President, Chief Justice, Senate President, and Speaker of the House

Seven (7) days following the official announcement of death.

National Coat of Arms

The official heraldic symbol of the Philippines representing sovereignty, history, and national identity, featuring a white equilateral triangle, golden sun, three stars, a bald eagle, a lion rampant, and a scroll bearing 'REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS'.

Bald Eagle (Coat of Arms)

The element on the blue field of the Philippine Coat of Arms serving as a historical reminder of the American period.

Lion Rampant (Coat of Arms)

The element on the red field of the Philippine Coat of Arms serving as a historical reminder of the Spanish colonial period.

National Motto of the Philippines

"Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Makakalikasan at Makabansa."

Maka-Diyos

Faith in God; recognizing the importance of spirituality and moral values as part of the National Motto.

Maka-tao

Respect for human dignity, compassion, and concern for others as part of the National Motto.

Makakalikasan

Care for and protection of the environment and natural resources as part of the National Motto.

Makabansa

Love of country, patriotism, and commitment to national development as part of the National Motto.

Great Seal of the Republic of the Philippines

The official seal used to authenticate official documents issued by the President, government agencies, and authorized offices, featuring the National Coat of Arms surrounded by the inscription 'REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS'.