The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) states that Duterte supporters’ altered Philippine flag violates Republic Act No. 8491, the “Flag and Heraldic Code.”
Modifying the national flag during a rally in Australia.
The altered flag featured an eagle superimposed over the traditional design, accompanied by the slogans “WE STAND WITH PRRD” and “BRING HIM HOME.”
The NHCP emphasized that RA 8491 explicitly prohibits adding “any work, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisement, or any imprint of any nature on the national flag.”
In a Facebook post on Monday night, the commission urged the public to treat the Philippine flag with respect, stating, “The Philippine flag is a symbol of our being Filipino and our country, so let’s give it a high degree of respect.”
Republic Act No. 8491 explicitly prohibits adding any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawing, advertisement, or imprint of any nature on the national flag.
Violations can result in penalties ranging from fines of ₱5,000 to ₱20,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
This incident coincides with ongoing demonstrations by overseas Filipinos supporting Duterte, who was arrested on March 11 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
He is currently detained in The Hague, facing charges related to his controversial anti-drug campaign.
The NHCP’s response serves as a reminder of the legal and cultural significance of the Philippine flag, underscoring the necessity for all citizens to honor and preserve its sanctity.
Supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte modified the Philippine flag during a demonstration in Australia. The altered flag featured an eagle, along with the slogans “WE STAND WITH PRRD” and “BRING HIM HOME.”
Modifying the national flag violates Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. This law prohibits adding any design, text, or markings to the official flag.
The protest coincided with demonstrations supporting Duterte, who was arrested on March 11 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. He is currently detained in The Hague, facing charges related to his anti-drug campaign.
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