The Philippine National Anthem in its unblemished form was an “incidental music”.

As defined, this is the

kind of music that is used in a play, television program, a video game, film or some other types which are
not necessarily musical in nature. Likewise, this terminology is usually applied to film music. Simply, it is
background music with a harmonious rhythm and melody, vibrantly adding a historical atmosphere to
gestures or actions. Going back, the national hymn of the Philippines was eventually played during the
Proclamation of National Independence, on the 12th day of June 1898. Unfortunately, the song was
banned during the American Occupation after the Flag Law was passed, thereafter. But, the said law was
repealed in the year 1919. As a result, the Philippine National Anthem was finally transcribed in the
English language. Soon after, it was legalized by virtue of law; and was officially called as the Philippine
Hymn. Meanwhile, the Tagalog version of the “Lupang Hinirang” had began in the 1940’s. As for the
present reprise of the national anthem of the Philippines, the 1956 version and its revised format in the
1960’s; were used over the years.

Philippine National Anthem: The Historical Overview

According to the ancient pages of Philippine history, “Lupang Hinirang” was a masterpiece that was
merely employed as an international march, which would be used by General Emilio Aguinaldo in the
proclamation of Philippine National Independence on June 12, 1898. Initially, the official title attributed
to this national march was “Marcha Filipina Magdalo.” But, it was later modified as “Marcha Nacional
Filipina”. This was made possible after the adoption of the First Republic Act on June 11, 1898, a day
prior to the proclamation of Philippine Independence.

The “Lupang Hinirang” was played by a band, the “San Francisco de Malabon” marching band on June
12, 1898.

How did the Philippine National Anthem Began?

In August 1898, the brilliant and dynamic Jose Palma wrote its Spanish version. As previously mentioned,
it was simply entitled “Filipinas”. Incidentally, this particular musical piece was published in a daily, the
“La Independencia” on September 3, 1899. Afterwards, it was used as the lyrics of the national anthem
of the Philippines.

What Does the Philippine Law Say about the Philippine National Anthem?
The Philippine Law has mandated that the Philippine National Anthem must always be sang, according to
the musical arrangement and composition of its original composer. But sad to say, its ancient holograph
was nowhere to be found. Therefore, the time signature of Lupang Hinirang was changed to 4/4 to make
the singing of the national anthem livelier and more meaningful at the same time. Thus, its key was
rectified to G from the C major.

After the Flag Law was repealed, the American government had decided to translate the national hymn
of the Philippines to English from Spanish. As far as its first translation was concerned, it was authored
by Paz Marquez Benitez, of the University of the Philippines. On the other hand, one of the most popular
translations was called the “Philippine Hymn”. It was composed by Camilo Osias, along with another
American musical genius, Mary A. Lane. In effect, the Philippine Hymn was made into law by virtue of
Congress Act of 1938.

In another historical development, the Philippine National Anthem had its first- ever translated
manuscript that was given a very patriotic touch through its title, “Diwa Ng Bayan” or “Spirit of the
Country”. The said song was heartwarmingly rendered during the colonization of the Philippines by
Japanese forces.

Lupang Hinirang: Its Evolutionary and Historical Transformations

Moreover, the second rephrasing of the national anthem of the Filipinos was “O, Sintang Lupa” or “Oh
Beloved Land”. This was done in synchronize with these three remarkable minds in the history of
Philippine music. They were: Julian Cruz Balmaceda, Ildefonso Santos and Francisco Caballo. Actually,
this became the adopted and official rewording of Lupang Hinirang, in 1948. Conversely, the term of
President Ramon Magsaysay paved the way for another momentous revision of the lyrics of this tear
jerking national hymn. It was courtesy of the honorable commission, which was formed by then
Secretary of Education Gregorio Hernandez.

After all these significant evolutions of the Philippine National Anthem, the most unforgettable moment
in the lives of the Filipino people had come after several years of a long and painstaking anticipation. On
May 26, 1956, the unique Filipino translation of the national anthem had been sung. Then after four
years, some composers had made little rectifications of the anthem. Up to this very day, the present
version of the Philippine National Anthem was written and composed by Felipe Padilla de Leon. Hence,
its Filipino lyrics were mandated by Republic Act 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines
of 1998. Under the provisions of this Philippine Law, it strictly prohibits the use of the English and
Spanish renditions of Lupang Hinirang.

Usage of the Philippine National Anthem

Under the provisions of Article XVI, Section 2 of the new Philippine Constitution, it clearly states that,
the Philippine Congress might use a new country name for the Philippines, a national seal or a national
anthem which will signify or envisage the ideals, history and traditions of the Filipinos. Currently,
Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines strictly specified by virtue and full
context of Philippine Laws, that the use of the Philippine National Anthem is regulated. Under these
legal conditions, the singing of the anthem shall be in accordance with the original arrangement of Julian
Felipe. In this respect, the Lupang Hinirang must be exclusively performed by a pianist or a brass band;
as they were the only magnificent renditions which were masterfully created or produced by Felipe.

Legal and Controversial Issues in the Proper Rendition of Lupang Hinirang

As to the time signature aspect of the national anthem of the Philippines is concerned, it must be
performed in accordance with the original musical speed of the song. Also, it must be rendered along
with its wonderful lyrics. By virtue of the Philippine Law, the national hymn of the Philippines must be
sang in the national language of the Filipinos, regardless of venue. “How should the Lupang Hinirang be
sang?’ Well, based on the provisions of the Philippine Constitution, the national anthem of the Filipinos
must be sang with all fervor.

What is RA 8491?

Republic Act 8491 mandates that the Lupang Hinirang must be played in all public events or gatherings.
In a foreign land, the law also strictly provides the playing of the national hymn of the Filipinos shall be
lawfully done if there are adequate numbers of Filipino audiences. Nevertheless, Republic Act 8491
specifies that the Lupang Hinirang must be played in other important events, provided that it is with the
full consent of the National Historical Institute, an agency of the Philippine government which carefully
handles and objectively decides on the historical issues and problems of the country.
Prohibitions

The Philippine National Anthem is mandated by law, wherein the playing of the national hymn is
prohibited in the following areas of concern: For the sake of entertainment or recreation. However,
these are the exceptions to the rule of law:

Local competitions or contests

International games or competitions, where the Philippines is the host country or proud representative

The signing on and signing off of mass media both radio and television

Prior to the first and last screening of films

Before the opening of theatrical works of art or performances

Penalty