NHCP CITES FLAG CODE VIOLATION IN VIRAL PARTY CLIP
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has expressed grave concern over a viral video featuring individuals singing the national anthem in a "disrespectful and rowdy" manner during a party. The short-form video, which gained traction over the weekend, depicts a crowd at an outdoor rave singing "Lupang Hinirang" under a marquee in what the commission described as a noisy and irreverent manner.
Despite receiving numerous complaints, the NHCP admitted legal options are limited as the event reportedly occurred in the United States around December 2025. Because Philippine domestic laws cannot be applied extraterritorially, the agency is technically constrained from pursuing criminal charges against those involved.
Nevertheless, the Commission issued a stern reminder to the global Filipino community regarding Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. The law strictly prohibits the use of the anthem for entertainment, amusement, or recreational purposes. Furthermore, Section 37 of the act mandates that the anthem must always be sung in its original march tempo and musical arrangement by Julián Felipe.
"Lupang Hinirang" is a symbol of national identity and must be treated with utmost reverence at all times. The NHCP emphasized that while patriotic fervor can be expressed in many ways, it must be done with "discretion and circumspection" to avoid causing offense or misrepresenting national symbols.
Under the penal provisions of RA 8491, violators within Philippine jurisdiction can face fines ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱20,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. The commission concluded by reminding the public that these symbols represent a legacy paid for by the "blood, sweat, and tears" of Filipino heroes.
📷 Karlo Magno Caracas; NHCP / Facebook
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