Bautista, Kim Ericka L.

BSIT-2A -IRREG

Reflection:

From the video, they showed the Do’s and Don’ts of our flag. They also emphasize on
how now the youth nowadays show their respect to our flag and National Anthem. Our
Constitution declares that it is state policy to inculcate nationalism and patriotism in our
youth. Republic Act 8491, or the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,” mandates
that reverence and respect shall be accorded at all times to the Philippine flag, the
national anthem and other national symbols that embody the country’s ideals and
traditions, and express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity. It penalizes
violators. The code thus prescribes some rules on the Philippine flag like the flag, if
flown from a flagpole, shall have its blue field on top in time of peace and the red field
on top in time of war if in a hanging position, the blue field shall be to the right (left of the
observer) in time of peace and the red field to the right (left of the observer) in time of
war. A flag worn out through wear and tear shall not be thrown away. It shall be
solemnly burned to avoid misuse or desecration. The flag shall be replaced immediately
when it begins to show signs of wear and tear. The Philippine flag stood as witness to
the glorious events of our history.  It encountered the most significant events in the
Filipinos’ struggle for freedom.  And since it symbolizes our ideals and sentiments as a
nation, it deserves to be treated with solemnity and dignity. The display of the Philippine
Flag from May 28 to June 12 of each year honors the sacrifices of our heroes for our
hard-earned freedom.  This also a fitting respect and affection for our national flag the
symbol of our sovereignty and solidarity.

3.

a. Do you constantly show respect to the flag and the national anthem?

Honestly, I give so much respect for the Philippine Flag and our National
Anthem. Not just because of the laws or I might violate rules but because I am proud
being a Filipino. I may not live in the past but the lessons I’ve got from the studies about
the history of our country made me realize that I should appreciate all the sacrifices of
all those who fought for our freedom. For me, respecting our flag and National Anthem
is the same as respecting ourselves. By simply putting our hand with palm facing the
heart and standing firmly as the flag being waived and National Anthem being played,
we are showing big respect to our nation, to the past and to the future that it embodies.

b. Is it really important to recognize and respect it?

The Philippine flag is important. It is the only flag that tells the status of the country in
terms of peace and war time. If blue was flown over red, the fag is at peace, if the flag
was flipped over, making red over blue, the country is at war.
The Philippine national flag has a rectangular design that consists of a white equilateral
triangle, symbolizing liberty, equality, and fraternity; a horizontal blue stripe for peace,
truth, and justice; and a horizontal red stripe for patriotism and valor. Our flag and
National Anthem are one of the most important symbols for any country. All nations
show keenness in honoring their flag and anthem, position it at the most prominent
places and prevent it from being abused or misused. It is an emblem behind which all
nations line up, both in their respective countries and abroad, and beneath which they
like celebrating their accomplishments in political, economic, sporting, cultural and other
fields. In addition to being a national symbol, the flag and anthem also reflects a
country’s identity and personality through its form and color. So, in way, honoring the
flag and anthem is a tribute to the national identity and its various dimensions. 

c. In your own way, how can you encourage other people most especially those of your
age to always respect the flag and national anthem?

Respect, it would seem, is in incredibly short supply in Philippines these days.

Inappropriate actions, offensive and rude language and a general lack of manners are,
unfortunately, becoming the norm. And increasingly, there seems to be little patience or
respect for the diverse ideas or experiences of others. Philippines has become a nation
of absolutists in love with their own perspectives and intolerant of differing ones. But
what has always made this country great is its diversity of people and their opinions,
ideas and culture. The greatest disrespect to the Philippine flag, National Anthem and
those who fight for our freedom comes when we forget that. As a youth myself, to
encourage other people to respect the flag and national anthem I will show them first on
how I do it. Because it will always come from yourself first. I will become a role model to
each of them. I will motivate them to show their gratitude to those who fought for our
freedom. By respecting the values and freedoms that those symbols represent. But not
only by showing respect but also by loving our nation and it’s past.