What is RA 8491 and why is it important?

RA 8491 is the Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. It is a law that prescribes the code of the national flag, anthem, motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices of the Philippines. It was enacted by the Congress of the Philippines on February 12, 1998 and signed by then President Fidel V. Ramos.

RA 8491 is important because it aims to instill reverence and respect for the flag, the anthem, and other national symbols that embody the national ideals and traditions and express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity. It also seeks to manifest the national virtues and to inculcate in the minds and hearts of the people a just pride in their native land, fitting respect and affection for the national flag and anthem, and the proper use of the national motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices.

RA 8491 provides the guidelines for the design, display, hoisting, lowering, folding, saluting, singing, and other ceremonies involving the national flag and anthem. It also specifies the prohibited acts and the corresponding penalties for violating the law. For example, it is prohibited to mutilate, deface, defile, trample on, or cast contempt or ridicule upon the flag or over its surface. Any person who violates this provision shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than five thousand pesos (P5,000) nor more than twenty thousand pesos (P20,000), or by imprisonment for not more than one (1) year, or both such fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court.

RA 8491 also defines the other national symbols of the Philippines, such as the national motto, which is “Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Makakalikasan at Makabansa” (For God, People, Nature, and Country); the national coat-of-arms, which consists of the Philippine sun and three stars as depicted in the national flag, an eight-rayed sunflower, and the heraldic shield with the sea lion and the words “REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS” (Republic of the Philippines); and the national seal, which is a reproduction of the national coat-of-arms in black and white.

RA 8491 is a law that reflects the history, culture, and identity of the Filipino people. It is a law that honors the sacrifices and achievements of the heroes and martyrs who fought for the country’s independence and democracy. It is a law that celebrates the diversity and unity of the nation and its people. It is a law that reminds us of our duties and responsibilities as citizens of the Philippines.