House OKs steeper fines for disrespect of 'Lupang Hinirang'

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has approved House Bill 5224, which, if passed into law, will impose a fine of up to P100,000 for failing to stand at attention when the national anthem plays and for failing to sing it "with fervor."

The bill, which seeks to repeal the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, updates the rules on the proper rendition of the "Lupang Hinirang" as well as the specifications and proper display of the Philippine flag and heraldic symbols.

The proposed Revised Flag and Heraldic Code also raises penalties to between P50,000 and P100,000 for violating the code from the P5,000 to P20,000 fine imposed by the current law.

House Bill 5224 states that singing the national anthem will be "mandatory and must be done with fervor" when the "Lupang Hinirang" is "played at a public gathering, whether by a band or through the playing of a recording in any format."

The same bill requires the public to stand at attention and face the Philippine flag when the anthem is played. In case no flag is displayed, the public should face the band or the conductor.

Members of the uniformed services, security guards and trainees in uniform should execute a salute to the anthem as prescribed by their regulations. The public is also required to put their right palms over their left chests until the last note of the anthem.

The House bill requires the rendition to be standard and in accordance with the original arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe: in 2/4 beat when played, 4/4 beat when sung and within the range of 100 to 120 metronome.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines is mandated to disseminate a copy of the "official music score sheet that reflects the manner in which the national anthem should be played or sung” to ensure standards are followed. 

The bill also prescribes the official lyrics for the national anthem, which is in Filipino, but allows versions in other Philippine languages. 

The House approved the bill on May 2 and transmitted it to the Senate on May 4.