The Philippines flag, also known as the “Bandila ng Pilipinas,” is a representation of the country’s national identity and pride. It is a symbol of the Filipino people’s struggle for freedom and sovereignty against colonial oppression.
History of the Philippines Flag
The first Philippine flag was created during the Philippine Revolution in 1898. It was designed by Andres Bonifacio, the founder of the secret society called the Katipunan. The flag was made up of three colors: red, blue, and white, with a sun and three stars in the middle.
When the Americans took over the Philippines in 1901, they banned the use of the Philippine flag and replaced it with the American flag. It was only in 1919 when the Philippine Legislature passed Act No. 1696, which officially recognized the Philippine flag as the national flag.
Through the years, the design of the Philippine flag has undergone several changes. In 1936, President Manuel L. Quezon designed a new national flag, which featured a sun with eight rays and three stars. In 1985, during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos, the number of rays on the sun was increased to eight, which symbolized the eight provinces that revolted against Spanish colonial rule.
Finally, in 1998, during the centennial celebration of Philippine Independence, President Fidel V. Ramos signed Republic Act No. 8491, which officially declared the specifications and design of the Philippine flag.
Meaning Behind the Philippine Flag
The Philippine flag is composed of two main elements: the blue and red horizontal stripes and the white equilateral triangle on the left side. The blue stripe represents peace, truth, and justice, while the red stripe symbolizes patriotism, valor, and bravery.
The white triangle, on the other hand, represents equality and brotherhood among all Filipinos. Inside the triangle is a yellow sun with eight rays, which represents the first eight provinces that revolted against Spanish colonial rule. The three stars on each corner of the triangle stand for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao – the three major island groups of the Philippines.
Protocol and Etiquette for Displaying the Philippine Flag
The Philippine flag is a sacred symbol of the country’s sovereignty and should be treated with utmost respect and dignity. There are certain protocols and etiquette to follow when displaying the flag:
- The flag should always be hoisted with the blue stripe on top, except in times of war when the red stripe is on top.
- The flag should be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset.
- The flag should not be displayed during inclement weather, unless it is an all-weather flag.
- The flag should not be displayed in a position inferior to any other flag or banner.
- The flag should not be used as a drapery or decoration.
- The flag should not be used as a costume or uniform.
- The flag should not be used as a tablecloth or seat cover.
- The flag should not be stepped on, defaced, or mutilated.
- The flag should be handled with clean hands and in a dignified manner.
Celebrating Philippine Independence Day
Every year on June 12, the Philippines celebrates its Independence Day. It is a day to commemorate the country’s freedom from Spanish colonial rule and its sovereignty as a nation.
During Independence Day, the Philippine flag is prominently displayed in public places, government offices, and private establishments. It is also common for Filipinos to wear clothing with the colors of the Philippine flag – blue, red, and white.
Independence Day is a time for Filipinos to reflect on their history, honor their heroes, and celebrate their national identity and pride.
Conclusion
The Philippines flag is more than just a piece of cloth with colors and symbols. It is a representation of the Filipino people’s struggle for freedom and sovereignty. It is a symbol of their national identity and pride. As Filipinos, we should always treat the Philippine flag with the utmost respect and dignity, and honor it as a sacred symbol of our nation.
