The head of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) called on government officials and employees nationwide Friday to manifest patriotism by properly honoring the Philippine flag during the annual National Flag Days from May 28 to June 12.
In a memorandum circular, CSC Chairperson Karlo Nograles reminded state workers that the nearly two-week flag commemoration provides “an opportune time for all Filipinos to collectively reflect on the significance of our National Flag.”
“The Philippine flag is more than a symbol of independence. It represents the collective pursuit of Filipinos for freedom and national progress,” Nograles said. “As civil servants, let us lead by example in demonstrating our patriotism not only through words but through actions, starting with the simple act of respecting the flag.”
The CSC chief cited Republic Act 8491, the Flag and Heraldic Code, which mandates that “reverence and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag, the anthem and other national symbols.”
Under the law, all government offices must conduct flag-raising ceremonies every Monday morning and retreats on Friday afternoons. It prohibits mutilating, trampling or casting dishonor on the Philippine colors.
Improper display or use of the flag for advertising, merchandise, costumes or uniform is also not allowed.
Nograles reminded officials and employees to abide by the “nationalism and patriotism” norm under the Code of Conduct for Public Sector Workers.
The National Flag Days commemorates the first unfurling of the Philippine flag on May 28, 1898, after revolutionary forces defeated Spanish troops in the Battle of Alapan in Cavite province, south of Manila. (Alice Sicat/PIA-NCR)
