FLAG and HERALDIC CODE
FLAG AND HERALDIC CODE of the PHILIPPINES (R.A. 8491)
Page 1
Introduction to the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.
Page 2
Overview of RA 8491
Known as the "Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines."
Emphasizes reverence and respect for the flag, anthem, and national symbols.
Represents national ideals, traditions, sovereignty, and solidarity.
Page 3
Design of the National Flag
Colors: Blue, white, and red.
Features an eight-rayed golden-yellow sun and three five-pointed stars.
Page 4
Flag Symbolism
Design Elements:
White triangle: Symbolizes equality and fraternity.
Blue stripe: Represents peace, truth, and justice.
Red stripe: Stands for patriotism and valor.
Sun Symbolism:
Eight rays symbolize unity, freedom, democracy, and sovereignty.
Each ray represents one of the first eight provinces involved in the 1896 revolution.
Page 5
Stars Representation
Three stars represent the major geographical island groups:
Luzon
Visayas
Mindanao
Page 6
Hoisting and Display of the National Flag
Must be permanently hoisted and illuminated at night in designated locations:
Malacañang Palace
Congress buildings
Supreme Court
Rizal Monument, among others.
Page 7
Daily Display Requirements
Flag displayed in public buildings, residences, and educational institutions year-round.
Specific days for flag display include:
Araw ng Kagitingan (April 9)
Labor Day (May 1)
National Flag Day (May 28 to June 12)
National Heroes Day (last Sunday of August)
Bonifacio Day (November 30)
Rizal Day (December 30)
Page 8
Flag Raising Ceremony
Observed every Monday morning in government offices and educational institutions.
Ceremony includes playing or singing the Philippine National Anthem.
Page 9
Ceremony Conduct
Assembly stands facing the flag during the anthem.
Attendees must show respect by standing at attention and saluting as appropriate.
Page 10
Half-Mast Protocol
Flag flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning for specific officials:
President or former President: 10 days
Vice-President, Chief Justice, etc.: 7 days
Page 11
Casket Protocol
Flag may cover caskets of honored dead.
Proper placement and handling of the flag during funerals.
Page 12
Pledge to the Flag
Pledge of Allegiance recited while standing with the right hand raised.
Individuals with religious objections may excuse themselves but must show respect.
Page 13
Pledge Text
Filipino and English versions of the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Page 14
Prohibited Acts
Mutilation, defacement, or dishonor of the flag is prohibited.
Specific uses of the flag that are not allowed, such as drapery or as a costume.
Page 15
Additional Prohibitions
Flag cannot be displayed in certain venues or used inappropriately.
Restrictions on displaying foreign flags and using the flag in advertisements.
Page 16
Further Prohibitions
Prohibitions on adding designs or representations to the flag.
Restrictions on displaying the flag in front of buildings occupied by non-citizens.
Page 17
National Anthem
Title: "Lupang Hinirang."
Must be sung in the national language.
Page 18
Anthem Usage Guidelines
Anthem should not be played for entertainment except on specific occasions.
Page 19
National Motto
"MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-TAO, MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA."
Page 20
National Coat-of-Arms
Description of the coat-of-arms elements and design.
Page 21
The Great Seal
Circular form with arms from the national coat of arms.
Includes the national motto.
Page 22
The Great Seal (continued)
Further details on the