Definition of LAW 1 a (1) : a binding custom or practice of a community : a rule of conduct or action prescribed or formally recognized as binding or enforced

by a controlling authority (2) : the whole body of such customs, practices, or rules (3) : common law http://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/law

IN AN OFT-QUOTED DEFINITION, St. Thomas Aquinas defines law as "nothing other than a certain dictate of reason (rationis ordinatio) for the common good, made by him who has the care of the community and promulgated." ST. IaIIae, Q.90, art.4. http://lexchristianorum.blogspot.com/2009/ 05/st-thomas-aquinass-definition-oflaw.html

Whether law is something pertaining to reason Law is a rule and measure of actions through which one is induced to act or restrained from acting. Lex, "law," is derived from ligare, "to bind," because it binds one to act. The rule and measure of human activity is reason, however, for it is the first principle of human acts. Indeed, it is the function of reason to order to an end, and that is the first principle of all activity according to Aristotle. That which is the first principle in any genus is the rule and measure of that genus, e.g., unity in the genus of number or first movement in the genus of movement. Thus it follows that law is something pertaining to reason.

Whether law is always ordered to the common good Law pertains to that which is the principle of human acts because it is a rule and measure. Just as reason is the principle of human acts, however, there is something in reason which is principle of all the rest. It is to this that law principally and mostly pertains. The first principle in activity, the sphere of practical reason, is the final end. The final end of human life is happiness or beatitude. Thus law necessarily concerns itself primarily with the order directing us toward beatitude.

Furthermore, since each part is ordered to the whole as imperfect to perfect, and since each single man is a part of the perfect community, law necessarily concerns itself particularly with communal happiness. Thus Aristotle, in defining legal matters, mentions both happiness and the political community, saying, "We term 'just' those legal acts which produce and preserve happiness and its components within the political community." For the state is a perfect community, as he says in his Politics.

In any genus, that which is called "most of all" is the principal of everything else in that genus, and everything else fits into the genus insofar as it is ordered to that thing. For example, fire, the hottest thing, is cause of heat in mixed bodies, which are said to be hot insofar as they share in fire. Thus, since law is called "most of all" in relation to the common good, no precept concerning action has the nature of law unless it is ordered to the common good.

Whether anyone can make laws Law principally and properly seeks the common good. Planning for the common good is the task of the whole people or of someone ruling in the person of the whole people. Thus lawmaking is the task of the whole charge of the whole people; for in all other matters direction toward an end is the function of him to whom the end belongs.

Whether promulgation is an essential part of law

Law is imposed on others as a rule and measure. A rule and measure is imposed by being applied to those who are ruled and measured. Thus in order for a law to have binding power - and this is an essential part of law - it must be applied to those who ought to be ruled by it. Such application comes about when the law is made known to those people through promulgation. Thus such promulgation is necessary if a law is to have binding force.

Thus from the four preceding articles we arrive at a definition of law: Law is nothing other than a certain ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by him who has care of the community. http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/aquinas2.html

Law is characterized as:

An ordinance of reason
Promulgated

By competent authority
For the sake of the common good

Various Kinds of Law

(1) eternal law - is the ideal type or order of the universe pre-existing in the mind of God The eternal law of God is God's wisdom in both "planning" and then creating the universe the eternal law has both an inaccessible and accessible dimension to it On the one hand it resides in the mind of God alone, mysterious and inaccessible. On the other hand, since it stands behind the movements of the planets or the numerous complex regularities of nature, we can figure out aspects of the eternal law We obey the eternal law by following what Thomas calls our "natural inclinations"--either in making a reasoned judgment or even chewing our food thoroughly.

2. Natural law - a participation by the human in the eternal law first principle of natural law--the discernment or knowledge of good and evil our inclination to do good and avoid evil is derived by our "participation" in the eternal law of God. 3. Human Law - is a dictate of the practical reason
4. Divine Law - is basically the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments This law was necessary for four reasons: (1) humans need explicit divine guidance on how to perform proper acts (2) uncertainty of human judgment needs a check (3) humans need divine insight on issues on which they are not competent to judge--i.e., the interior movements of the mind (4) it proves that God will punish some deeds that even go beyond the ability of human

Mark Chua Mark Welson Chua (died sometime between March 1518, 2001) was a student of the University of Santo Tomas whose death is widely believed to be linked to his expos of alleged irregularities in the Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC) Unit of the university. His death became the catalyst for the passage of Republic Act 9163 or the "National Service Training Program (NSTP)" Law, which removed completion of mandatory ROTC as a precondition for graduation for male college students.

Chua took his elementary and high school education at Saint Jude Catholic School and his collegiate education at the University of Santo Tomas. He was a member of his ROTC Unit's intelligence monitoring team. He spilled out to UST's official publication The Varsitarian about his first-hand knowledge of corruption in the unit. This resulted into the relief of then commandant Major Demy Tejares and his staff.

Chua received death threats after his revelations. The new ROTC commandant advised him to undergo security training at Fort Bonifacio. On March 15, 2001, he was supposed to "meet" an agent but he was never seen alive again. Three days later, his decomposing body wrapped in a carpet floated in the dirty waters of Pasig River, with his hands and feet tied and face wrapped in cloth and packing tape. The autopsy report showed sludge in his lungs, indicating he was alive when he was thrown into the river.

On March 31, 2004, Arnulfo Aparri, one of the four suspects in the killing of Chua, was sentenced to die by lethal injection, and was ordered to pay 50,000 Philippine pesos to the victim's family. The whereabouts of the three other suspects (Eduardo Tabrilla, Paul Joseph Tan, and Michael Von Rainard Manangbao) remain unknown.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9163

Section 1. Short Title - This Act shall be known as the "National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001". Section 2. Declaration of Policy
Recognizing the youth's vital role in nationbuilding, the State shall promote civic consciousness among the youth and shall develop their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism, nationalism, and advance their involvement in public and civic affairs.

In pursuit of these goals, the youth, the most valuable resource of the nation, shall be motivated, trained, organized and mobilized in military training, literacy, civic welfare and other similar endeavors in the service of the nation.

Section 3. Definition of Terms "National Service Training Program (NSTP)" is a program aimed at enhancing civic consciousness and defense preparedness in the youth by developing the ethics of service and patriotism while undergoing training in any of its three (3) program components. Its various components are specially designed to enhance the youth's active contribution to the general welfare. "Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)" is a program institutionalized under Sections 38 and 39 of Republic Act No. 7077 designed to provide military training to tertiary level students in order to motivate, train, organize and mobilize them for national defense preparedness.

"Literacy Training Service" is a program designed to train students to become teachers of literacy and numeracy skills to school children, out of school youth, and other segments of society in need of their service "Civic Welfare Training Service" refers to programs or activities contributory to the general welfare and the betterment of life for the members of the community or the enhancement of its facilities, especially those devoted to improving health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, safety, recreation and morals of the citizenry

Section 4. Establishment of the National Service Training Program. - There is hereby established a National Service Training Program, which shall form part of the curricula of all baccalaureate degree courses and of at least two (2)-year technical vocational courses and is a requisite for graduation, consisting of the following service components (1) The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), which is hereby made option and voluntary upon the effectivity of this Act; (2) The Literacy Training Service; and (3) The Civic Welfare Training Service The ROTC under the NSTP shall instill patriotism, moral virtues, respect for rights of civilians, and adherence to the Constitution, among others. Citizenship training shall be given emphasis in all three (3) program components.

Section 5. Coverage - Students, male and female, of any baccalaureate degree course or at least two (2)-year technical vocational courses in public and private educational institutions shall be required to complete one (1) of the NSTP components as requisite for graduation. Section 6. Duration and Equivalent Course Unit - Each of the aforementioned NSTP program components shall be undertaken for an academic period of two (2) semesters. In lieu of the two (2) semester program for any of the components of the NSTP, a one (1)-summer program may be designed, formulated and adopted by the DND, CHED, and TESDA.

Section 10. Management of the NSTP Components The school authorities shall exercise academic and administrative supervision over the design, forumulation, adoption and implementation of the different NSTP components in their respective schools; Provided, That in case a CHED- or TESDA-accredited non government organization (NGO) has been contracted to formulate and administer a training module for any of the NSTP components, such academic and administrative supervision shall be exercised jointly with that accredited NGO; Provided, further, That such training module shall be accredited by the CHED and TESDA.

Section 11. Creation of the National Service Reserve Corps - There is hereby created a National Service Reserve Corps, to be composed of the graduates of the nonROTC components. Members of this Corps may be tapped by the State for literacy and civic welfare activities through the joint effort of the DND, CHED and TESDA. Graduates of the ROTC shall form part of the Citizens' Armed Force, pursuant to Republic Act No. 7077.

Section 17. Effectivity - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two (2) newspapers of national circulation, but the implementation of this Act shall commence in the school year of 2002-2003.

This Act which is a consolidation of H.B. No. 3593 and S.B. No. 1824 was finally passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate on December 19, 2001.
Approved: January 23, 2002

LUPANG HINIRANG

The national anthem, "Lupang Hinirang" Composed by Julian Felipe on June 12, 1898

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 lualhati't pagsinta, buhay ay langit sa piling mo. Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi, ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo

English Version Land of the morning Child of the sun returning With fervor burning Thee do our souls adore. Land dear and holy, Cradle of noble heroes, Ne'er shall invaders Trample thy sacred shores.

Ever within thy skies and through thy clouds And o'er thy hills and seas; Do we behold thy radiance, feel the throb Of glorious liberty.
Thy banner dear to all hearts Its sun and stars alright, Oh, never shall its shining fields Be dimmed by tyrants might.

Music: Julian Felipe 1898 Lyrics: Jose Palma 1899

Lupang Hinirang is the national anthem of the Philippines. Its music was composed in 1898 by Julin Felipe, with lyrics in Spanish adapted from the poem Filipinas, written by Jos Palma in 1899. Originally written as incidental music, it did not have words when it was adopted as the national anthem of the Philippines and subsequently played during the proclamation of Philippine independence on June 12, 1898. During the American occupation of the Philippines, the colonial government banned the song from being played with the passage of the Flag Law. The law was repealed in 1919 and the song was translated into English and would be legalized as the "Philippine Hymn". The anthem was translated into Tagalog beginning in the 1940s. A 1956 Pilipino (standardised Tagalog) version, revised in the 1960s, serves as the present anthem.

Lupang Hinirang in Filipino or Tagalog means "Chosen Land" in English. Some English sources erroneously translate Lupang Hinirang as "Beloved Land" or "Beloved Country"; however, "Beloved Land" is a translation of the first line of Filipinas, which would be Tirra adorada, and "Beloved Country" is likewise a translation of the first line of the current version of the anthem, which would be Bayang Magiliw. The anthem is also colloquially known as Bayang Magiliw.

Julin Felipe

The Lupang Hinirang began as an instrumental march which Emilio Aguinaldo commissioned for use in the proclamation of Philippine independence from Spain. This task was given to Julin Felipe and was to replace a march which Aguinaldo did not find to be satisfactory. The title of the new march was Marcha Filipina Magdalo ("Magdalo Philippine March") and was later changed to Marcha Nacional Filipina ("Philippine National March") upon its adoption as the national anthem of the First Philippine Republic on June 11, 1898, a day before the date when Philippine independence was to be proclaimed. It was played by the San Francisco de Malabon marching band during the proclamation on June 12, 1898.

In August 1899, Jos Palma wrote the poem Filipinas in Spanish. The poem was published for the first time in the newspaper La Independencia on September 3, 1899. It was subsequently adopted as the lyrics to the anthem.
Philippine law requires that the anthem always be rendered in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julin Felipe, but the original holograph cannot be located. In the 1920s, the time signature was changed to 4/4 to facilitate its singing and the key was changed from the original C major to G.

During the 1920s, with the repeal of the Flag Law, which banned the use of all Filipino national symbols, the American colonial government decided to translate the national hymn from Spanish to English. The first translation was written around that time by Paz Marquez Benitez of the University of the Philippines, who was also a famous poet during that time. The most popular translation, called the "Philippine Hymn", was written by senator Camilo Osas and an American, Mary A. Lane. The "Philippine Hymn" was legalized by an act of the Philippine Congress in 1938.

Tagalog translations started appearing during the 1940s, with the first translation known as Diwa ng Bayan ("Spirit of the Country"), which was sung during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, followed by the next most popular O Sintang Lupa ("O Beloved Land") by Julian Cruz Balmaceda, Ildefonso Santos, and Francisco Caballo. O Sintang Lupa was approved as the national anthem in 1948. Upon the adoption of Diwa ng Bayan, the song Awit sa Paglikha ng Bagong Pilipinas and the Japanese national anthem Kimigayo was replaced.

During the term of President Ramon Magsaysay, Education Secretary Gregorio Hernndez formed a commission to revise the Tagalog lyrics. On May 26, 1956, the national anthem, Lupang Hinirang, was finally sung in Pilipino. Minor revisions were made in the 1960s, and it is this version, made by Felipe Padilla de Len, which is in use today. The Filipino[9] lyrics have been confirmed by a new national symbols law (Republic Act No. 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines) in 1998, but not the English and Spanish.[6]

The translation of Lupang Hinirang was used by Felipe Padilla de Leon as his inspiration for Awit sa Paglikha ng Bagong Pilipinas, commissioned by the government of the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines during World War II, and adapted during the Martial Law period under Ferdinand Marcos. Lupang Hinirang was not the first Filipino national anthem to be conceived. The composer and revolutionist Julio Nakpil composed Marangal na Dalit ng Katagalugan (Honorable Hymn of Katagalugan), which later called Salve Patria (Save our Motherland). Which was intended as the official anthem of the Katipunan, the secret society that spearheaded the Revolution. It is considered a national anthem because Andrs Bonifacio, the chief founder of the Katipunan, converted the organization into a revolutionary government - with himself as president known as the Republika ng Katagalugan (Tagalog Republic) just before hostilities erupted.[11] The Katipunan or Republika ng Katagalugan was superseded by Aguinaldo's Republica Filipina. The anthem, later renamed Himno Nacional, was never adopted by Aguinaldo for unspecified reasons. It should be noted that Katagalugan, in its usage in the anthem, meant the Philippines as a whole and not just the Tagalog-speaking Filipinos.

Several versions of the anthem in various Philippine languages exist, but these are unofficial: An Ilocano language version was once used in Ilocos, but was stopped because of the status of the Filipino version as the only legal way of singing the national anthem. A Chavacano language version was made for Zamboanga City in Mindanao, but was never enforced due to the same legal reasons as above

The following Spanish, Tagalog/Filipino and English versions of the national anthem have been given official status throughout Philippine history. However, only the latest and current Filipino version is officially recognized by law. The Flag and Heraldic Code, approved on February 12, 1998, specifies, "The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language within or without the country", and provides fine and imprisonment penalties for violations.

Official Filipino lyrics: Lupang Hinirang (1958, rev. 1960s)

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 mangaapi, Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.

Unofficial English translation: Chosen Land Country Beloved, Pearl of the Orient, The burning [fervour] of the heart In thy chest is alive. Chosen Land, Cradle Thou [art] of the valourous. To the invaders, Thou shalt never submit. In [the] seas and [the] mountains, in [the] air, and in skies of Thine azure, There is beauty in the poem And [in the] song for freedom beloved.

The sparkle of the flag of Thine Is victory that is shining. The Stars and Sun of it Forevermore shall never dim.

Land of the sun, of glory, and loving, Life is Heaven in Thine embrace. 'Tis our joy, when there be oppressors, To die because of Thee.

Original Spanish version: Filipinas (1899)

Tierra adorada, hija del sol de Oriente, su fuego ardiente en ti latiendo est. Tierra de amores, del herosmo cuna, los invasores no te hollarn jams.

En tu azul cielo, en tus auras, en tus montes y en tu mar esplende y late el poema de tu amada libertad. Tu pabelln que en las lides la victoria ilumin, no ver nunca apagados sus estrellas ni su sol.

Tierra de dichas, de sol y amores en tu regazo dulce es vivir; es una gloria para tus hijos, cuando te ofenden, por ti morir

Official Commonwealth-era English version: The Philippine Hymn (1938)

Land of the morning, Child of the sun returning, With fervor burning, Thee do our souls adore. Land dear and holy, Cradle of noble heroes, Ne'er shall invaders Trample thy sacred shore.

Ever within thy skies and through thy clouds And o'er thy hills and sea, Do we behold the radiance, feel the throb, Of glorious liberty.
Thy banner, dear to all our hearts, Its sun and stars alight, O never shall its shining field Be dimmed by tyrant's might!

Beautiful land of love, o land of light, In thine embrace 'tis rapture to lie, But it is glory ever, when thou art wronged, For us, thy sons to suffer and die.

Official Japanese-era Tagalog version: Diwa ng Bayan (1943)

Lupang mapalad, Na mutya ng silangan; Bayang kasuyo, Ng sangkalikasan.

Buhay at yaman, Ng kapilipinuhan; Kuha't bawi, Sa banyagang kamay.

Sa iyong langit, bundok, batis, dagat na pinalupig; Nailibing na ang karimlan, Ng kahapong pagtitiis. Sakit at luha, hirap, Sisa at sumpa sa pagaamis; ay wala nang lahat at naligtas, Sa ibig manlupit.

Hayo't magdiwang lahi kong minamahal, Iyong watawat ang siyang tanglaw; At kung sakaling ikaw ay muling pagbantaan, Aming bangkay ang siyang hahadlang.

Unofficial English translation: Spirit of the Country

Land that is blessd, that is Pearl of the East; Nation in union with [the whole of] nature. The life and riches Of the Filipino people Taken and reclaimed From foreign hands.

In Thy skies, mountains, Springs, seas that were invaded Buried already is the darkness Of yesterday's suffering. Pain and tears, hardship, Difficulty and curse of oppression Are all gone and [we] are saved From those who wish to be cruel [to us].

Let us celebrate, my beloved race, With Thy flag as our guiding light; And if ever Thou are once more threatened, Our corpses will stand in the way.

Official post-World War II Tagalog version: O Sintang Lupa (1948)

O Sintang Lupa, Perlas ng Silanganan; Diwang apoy kang Sa araw nagmula. Lupang magiliw, Pugad ng kagitingan, Sa manlulupig 'Di ka papaslang.

Sa iyong langit, simoy, parang, Dagat at kabundukan, Laganap ang tibok ng puso Sa paglayang walang hanggan. Sagisag ng watawat Mong mahal Ningning at tagumpay; Araw't Bituin niyang maalab Ang s'yang lagi naming tanglaw.

Sa iyong lupa ng ligaya't pagsinta, Tamis mabuhay na yakap Mo, Datapwa't Langit ding kung ikaw ay apihin Ay mamatay ng dahil sa 'Yo

Unofficial English translation: O Beloved Land

O beloved land, Pearl of the Orient, A fiery spirit art thou Coming from the sun. Land of our affection, Cradle of bravery, To the conquerors Thou shall never fall.

Through thy skies, air, meadows, Seas and mountains, Widespread is the heartbeat For eternal freedom. Thy dear flag symbolizes Brilliance and victory; Its radiant sun and stars Will always be our guiding light.

In thee, land of joy and affection, Sweet life in thine embrace. Though heaven will it be too, if thou art oppressed To die because of thee.

Article XVI, Section 2 of the present Philippine Constitution specifies that "The Congress may, by law, adopt a new name for the country, a national anthem, or a national seal, which shall be truly reflective and symbolic of the ideals, history, and traditions of the people. Such law shall take effect only upon its ratification by the people in a national referendum." At present, the 1998 Republic Act (R.A.) 8491. (the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines) regulates the usage of the Philippine national anthem. It also contains the complete lyrics of Lupang Hinirang.

R.A. 8491 specifies that Lupang Hinirang "shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe." However, when literally followed, this means that the national anthem should only be performed by a pianist or by a brass band, as these were the only versions that were produced by Julian Felipe. Moreover, because the original version was composed in duple time (i.e. in a time signature of 2/4) as compared to the present quadruple time (4/4), it is uncertain if this will either slow down or even double the music's speed, making it difficult for singers to keep up with the music. Regardless of this, the national anthem is still sung with the lyrics. R.A. 8491 also states that Lupang Hinirang "shall always be sung in the national language" regardless if performed inside or outside the Philippines, and specifies that the singing must be done with fervor.

The National Anthem is usually played during public gatherings in the Philippines or in foreign countries where the Filipino audience is sizable. R.A. 8491 also provides that it be played at other occasions as may be allowed by the National Historical Institute. R.A. 8491 prohibits its playing or singing for mere recreation, amusement, or entertainment except during the following occasions:

1.International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; 2.Local competitions; 3.During the "signing off" and "signing on" of radio broadcasting and television stations; and

4.Before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances.

R.A. 8491 specifies fine or imprisonment penalties for any person or juridical entity which violates its provisions. A public or government official or employee who fails to observe the regulations of R.A. 8491 may face administrative sanctions in addition to the penalties imposed by law. This also applies to persons connected with government-held corporations, public schools, and state colleges and universities.

Pilipinas Kong Mahal (English: My Beloved Philippines) is one of the most popular patriotic songs in the Philippines, others being Bayan Ko ("My Country") and Magkaisa ("Unite"). In the Philippines, patriotic songs are often sung by people at political rallies, protests and demonstrations. These are also performed in plays and patriotic song or dance numbers, especially in schools during Araw ng Kasarinln (Independence Day) celebrations in June and Buwan ng Wik (National Language Month) in August.

Filipino Ang bayan ko'y tanging ikw Pilipinas Kong Mahl Ang puso ko at buhay man Sa iy'y ibibigay Tungkulin kong gagampann na lagi kang paglngkurn Ang laya mo'y babantayn Pilipinas kong Hirang...

English Version I love my own native land Philippines, my Philippines To thee I give my heart and hand Philippines, my Philippines. the trees that crown thy mountains grand, the seas that beat upon thy strand Awake my heart to thy command, Philippines, my Philippines.

English Literal Translation My one and only country Philippines, my love My heart and my life For you I'll freely give. I willingly perform my duty, To always serve my country Your freedom I will protect, Philippines, my love.

The national flag of the Philippines (Tagalog: Pambansang Watawat ng Pilipinas) is a horizontal flag bicolor with equal bands of royal blue and scarlet red, and with a white equilateral triangle at the hoist; in the center of the triangle is a golden yellow sun with eight primary rays, each containing three individual rays, which represent the country's provinces; and at each vertex of the triangle is a five-pointed golden yellow star, each of which, represent the country's 3 main islands, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. This flag can indicate a state of war if it is displayed with the red side on top

The flag's length is twice its width, which translates into an aspect ratio of 1:2. The length of all the sides of the white triangle are equal to the width of the flag. Each star is oriented in such manner that one of its tips points towards the vertex at which it is located

Usage as war ensign The Philippines does not utilize a separate war flag; instead, the national flag itself is used for this purpose. This flag is unique in the sense that it can indicate a state of war when the red field is displayed on top, or on the observer's left when the flag is displayed vertically (i.e., with the white equilateral triangle at the top).[2] In times of peace, however, the blue area is the superior field (as seen in the above illustrations). Historical examples of this wartime reversal in orientation are during the Revolution of 1896, World War II, and some flags carried by the demonstrators who stormed Malacaang Palace during the EDSA Revolution in 1986

Philippine Government "Flag and Anthem" web page states that the white triangle stands for equality and fraternity; the blue field for peace, truth and justice; and red field for patriotism and valor. The sun for unity, freedom and People's Democracy. While the eight rays of the sun stand for eight provinces to revolt against the Spanish colonizers. The three stars symbolize Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.The 8 rays represent the 8 provinces that took part in the initial revolution against the Spanish. Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista, who wrote the Philippine Declaration of Independence and who read it on the occasion of its proclamation on June 12, 1898, has listed the eight provinces as Manila, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Laguna, and Batangas, saying that these eight were declared in a state of war almost from the start of the revolution. Historian Ambeth Ocampo has supported this, as have other sources. Ocampo has also included Tarlac among the eight listed instead of Bataan, as have other sources.

The symbolism given in the 1898 Proclamation of Philippine Independence differs from the current official explanation. It says that the white triangle signifies the emblem of the Katipunan, the secret society that opposed Spanish rule. It says the flag's colors commemorate the flag of the United States as a manifestation of gratitude for American protection against the Spanish during the Philippine Revolution. It also says that one of the three stars represents the island of Panay, rather than the entire Visayan islands. The proclamation also declares that the sun represents the gigantic steps made by the sons of the country along the path of Progress and Civilization, and lists Bataan among the eight provinces symbolized by the sun's rays.

Flags of the Philippine Revolution It has been common since the 1960s to trace the development of the Philippine flag to the various war standards of the individual leaders of the Katipunan, a pseudo-masonic revolutionary movement that opposed Spanish rule in the Philippines and led the Philippine Revolution.However, while some symbols common to the Katipunan flags would be adopted into the iconography of the Revolution, it is inconclusive whether these war standards can be considered precursors to the present Philippine flag.

The first flag of the Katipunan

Flag of the Magdalo Katipunan faction of Cavite

Flag of the Magdiwang Katipunan faction of Cavite

The flag adopted by the Katipunan in 1897

The first flag of the Katipunan was a red rectangular flag with a horizontal alignment of three white Ks (an acronym for the Katipunan's full name, Kataas-taasang Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan Supreme and Venerable Society of the Sons of the Nation). The flag's red field symbolized blood, as members of the Katipunan signed their membership papers in their own blood

The first flag of the Katipunan was a red rectangular flag with a horizontal alignment of three white Ks (an acronym for the Katipunan's full name, Kataastaasang Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan - Supreme and Venerable Society of the Sons of the Nation). The flag's red field symbolized blood, as members of the Katipunan signed their membership papers in their own blood. The various leaders of the Katipunan, such as Andrs Bonifacio, Mariano Llanera, and Pio del Pilar, also had individual war standards. The organization was represented in Cavite province by two factions: the Magdiwang faction and the Magdalo faction, with each adopting a flag. Both used a white sun. Instead of the letter K the flags bore the symbol for the syllable ka in the pre-Hispanic baybayin writing system. The Katipunan adopted a new flag in 1897 during an assembly at Naic, Cavite. This new flag was red and depicted a white sun with a face. The sun had eight rays, representing the eight provinces that Spain had placed under martial law.

The modern design of the Philippine flag was conceptualized by President Emilio Aguinaldo during his exile in Hong Kong in 1897. The first flag was sewn by Marcela Marino de Agoncillo with the help of her daughter Lorenza and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad (a niece of Propagandista Jos Rizal). It was displayed in battle on May 28, 1898.

The flag was formally unfurled during the proclamation of independence on June 12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite. However, a Manila Times article by Augusto de Viana, Chief History Researcher, National Historical Institute, mentions assertions in history textbooks and commemorative rites that the flag was first raised in Alapan, Imus, Cavite, on May 28, 1898, citing Presidential Proclamation No. 374, issued by then-President Diosdado Macapagal on March 6, 1965. The article goes on to claim that historical records indicate that the first display of the Philippine flag took place in Cavite City, when General Aguinaldo displayed it during the first fight of the Philippine Revolution.

The flag's original symbolism was enumerated in the text of the independence proclamation, which makes reference to an attached drawing, though no record of the drawing has surfaced. The original design of the flag adopted a mythical sun with a face, a symbol common to several former Spanish colonies. The particular shade of blue of the original flag has been a source of controversy. Based on anecdotal evidence and the few surviving flags from the era, historians argue that the colors of the original flag were the same blue and red as found on the flag of Cuba. Hostilities broke out between the Philippines and the United States in 1899. The flag was first flown with the red field up on February 4, 1899 to show that a state of war existed. Aguinaldo was captured by the Americans two years later, and swore allegiance to the United States.

With the defeat of the Philippine Republic, the Philippines was placed under American colonial rule and the display of the Philippine flag was declared illegal by the Sedition Act of 1907. This law was repealed on October 30, 1919. With the legalization of the Philippine flag, the cloth available in most stores was the red and blue of the flag of the United States, so the flag from 1919 onwards adopted the navy blue color. The Philippine Legislature passed Act. No 2928 on March 26, 1920, which legally adopted the Philippine flag as the official flag of the Philippine Islands. Up until the eve of World War II, Flag Day was celebrated on annually on October 30, commemorating the date the ban on the flag was lifted. The Commonwealth of the Philippines was inaugurated in 1935. On March 25, 1936, President Manuel L. Quezon issued Executive Order No. 23 which provided for the technical description and specifications of the flag.] Among the provisions of the order was the definition of the triangle at the hoist as an equilateral triangle, the definition of the aspect ratio at 1:2, the precise angles of the stars, the geometric and aesthetic design of the sun, and the formal elimination of the mythical face on the sun. The exact shades of colors, however, were not precisely defined. These specifications have remained unchanged and in effect to the present. In 1941, Flag Day was officially moved to June 12, commemorating the date that Philippine independence was proclaimed in 1898.

The flag was once again banned with the Japanese invasion and occupation of the Philippines beginning December 1941, to be hoisted again with the establishment of the Japanese-sponsored Second Republic of the Philippines. In ceremonies held in October 1943, Emilio Aguinaldo hoisted the flag with the original Cuban blue and red colors restored. The flag was initially flown with the blue stripe up, until President Jose P. Laurel proclaimed the existence of a state of war with the Allied Powers in 1944. The Commonwealth government-in-exile in Washington DC continued to use the flag with the American colors, and had flown it with the red stripe up since the initial invasion of the Japanese. With the combined forces of the Filipino & American soldiers and the liberation of the Philippines in 1944 to 1945, the flag with the American colors was restored, and it was this flag that was hoisted upon the granting of Philippine independence from the United States on July 4, 1946.

Colour The shade of blue used in the flag has varied over time, beginning with the original colour azul oscura. The exact nature of this shade is uncertain, but a likely candidate is the blue of the Cuban flag, which a theory says influenced the flag's design. Specifications for the flag's colours with shades matching those used in the American flag were adopted by the National Historical Institute in 1955. President Ferdinand Marcos ordered the colours restored to the original light blue and red of the Cuban flag in 1985, but this was immediately rescinded after the 1986 People Power Revolution that removed him from power. For the 1998 independence centennial celebrations, the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines (RA 8491) was passed, designating royal blue as the official variant.

Sun's rays Prior to the 1998 independence centennial celebrations, the provincial government of Zambales lobbied that the sunburst design accommodate a ninth ray, reasoning that their province was also in a state of rebellion in 1896. The Centennial Commission however refuted this change, based on research by the National Historical Institute. In 2009, a senate bill was introduced to add an additional ray to represent the Moro, and as of September 24, 2009, it is in the process of bill reconciliation in Congress.

The flag of the Philippines as conceived by Emilio Aguinaldo. Used from 1898 to 1901 (the shade of blue is still a matter of debate. 3 shades have sprung up and were used by the next administrations)

Flag used from 1919 to 1981. The shade of Blue used here is Navy Blue, following suit from the American Flag

The flag of the Philippines from 1943 to 1944 by the Second Philippine Republic

Flag used from 1981 to 1986. The shade of Blue used here is Light Blue, similar to the shade used in Cuban Flag at the time of the proclamation of the Philippine Declaration of Independence.

Flag used from 1986 to 1998. This was used after the People Power Revolution.

Flag used from 1998 to present. The shade of Blue used here is Royal, as a compromise. This was used for the Philippine Centennial Celebration

Section 10 of RA 8491 states that when the flag is displayed on a wall during peacetime, the blue field is to the observers' left, as shown here.

Flag protocol The flag should be displayed in all government buildings, official residences, public plazas, and schools every day throughout the year. The days of the 28th of May (National Flag Day) and the 12th of June (Independence Day) are designated as flag days, during which all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of government, business establishments, institutions of learning and private homes are enjoined to display the flag. But in recent years, the flag days are now from May 28 to June 30 yearly.

By law, the Philippine flag must be permanently hoisted and illuminated at night at the following locations: Malacaang Palace, the Presidential Residence The Congress of the Philippines buildings: Senate of the Philippines building House of Representatives of the Philippines building (Batasang Pambansa Complex) Supreme Court of the Philippines building The Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila

Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucin All international ports of entry All other places as may be designated by the National Historical Institute.

The flag may be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning. Upon the official announcement of the death of the President or a former President, the flag should be flown at half-mast for ten days. The flag should be flown at half-mast for seven days following the death of the Vice President, the Chief Justice, the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives The flag may also be required to fly at half-mast upon the death of other persons to be determined by the National Historical Institute, for a period less than seven 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 National Historical Institute.

When flown at half-mast, the flag should be first hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered to the half-mast position. It should be raised to the peak again before it is lowered for the day. The flag may also be used to cover the caskets of the dead of the military, veterans of previous wars, national artists, and outstanding civilians as determined by the local government. In such cases, the flag must be placed such that the white triangle is at the head and the blue portion covers the right side of the casket. The flag should not be lowered to the grave or allowed to touch the ground, but should be solemnly folded and handed to the heirs of the deceased.

Prohibited acts According to Republic Act 8491 itself, the flag cannot be used in the following rationales: Defacing or ridiculing the flag by dipping the flag as a salute, or adding additional marks on the flag, As a drapery, festoon, tablecloth, a covering, or as a part of a costume or a uniform, As a trademark or for commercial or agricultural labels or designs, As part of merchandise or in any advertisement or infomercial, As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of motor vehicles. Moreover, the flag may not be displayed "horizontally face-up, or under any painting, picture or platform." It may also not be displayed in "discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places of vice or where frivolity prevails."

Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat The Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine flag (distinct from the Patriotic Oath of Allegiance) should 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 are permitted to excuse themselves, but are required by law to show full respect when the pledge is being rendered by standing at attention.
Filipino 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. English translation I am a Filipino I pledge my allegiance To the flag of the Philippines And to the country it represents With honor, justice and freedom Put in motion by one nation For God for the People, for Nature and for the Country.

The law makes no statement regarding the language in which the pledge must be recited, but the pledge is written (and therefore recited) in the Filipino language.