CEBU, Philippines – Every Filipino is encouraged to buy flags and display it in houses, cars, establishments or in any other strategic locations as the country celebrates the National Flag Day starting Monday until June 30 this year.
By virtue of Republic Act 8491 which is the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, National Flag Day is celebrated to honor one of the symbols of the Philippine independence and identity which is the national flag.
Under RA 8491, all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of government, business establishments, schools and private homes are enjoined to display the Philippine Flag from May 28 to June 12, 2009 and hopefully throughout the year.
This year’s celebration is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources which has lined up various activities that will be participated in by various government agencies.
Through these activities, especially the display of flags everywhere, the DENR aims to awaken the people’s love of country to strengthen patriotic pride.
The theme this year is “Kagitingan, kagalingan at kasipagan tungo sa tunay na kalayaan.”
The Flag Day seeks to teach every Filipino to have respect and love for the national flag being the symbol for freedom of the country from its colonizers and for the sacrifices of both recognized and unsung heroes.
DENR-7 marked the celebration last Monday through a traditional flag-raising activity. DENR-7 administrative officer Cliff Abraham said that the Flag Day is just a prelude to the main event on June 12 which is the Independence Day.
On June 12, DENR-7 will hold a major Jobs Fair in SM City Cebu. Abraham said that traditionally, the kick-off would have to be marked by a parade but because it would be inconvenient for participants considering the warm weather, DENR just opted to celebrate indoor. – Jessica Ann R. Pareja/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)