THE House Committee on Basic Education and Culture has approved on its third and final reading the passage of proposed measure criminalizing the incorrect rendition of the national anthem.

Once House Bill 1137 is enacted into law, the singing of “Lupang Hinirang” contrary to the musical arrangement of the composer Julian Felipe will be considered a crime punishable under Republic Act 8491 signed on February 12, 1998.

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Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez, co-author of the bill said the National Anthem shall be within the range of 100 to 120 metronomes, in 2/4 beat when played and in 4/4 beat when sung.

The public, Rodriguez said should be enlightened that there is a law on how to show respect for the Philippine flag, the National Anthem, the great seal, and other heraldic items because there are symbols of the Filipino spirit and national identity.

“The National Anthem is a marching-type tempo wherein the Filipino participants are obliged to sing,” Rodriguez said.

HB 1137 imposes a punishment of a P100,000.00 fine and a two year imprisonment for violating the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.

It also requires all government and private offices including Filipino residences to display the Philippine flag during National Flag Day which is every May 28 to Independence Day -June 12 of each year.

Rep. Salvador Escudero III, author of the bill stated that the measure proposes to prescribe standards with respect to the signing of the Philippine National Anthem, protocol, and display of the Philippine Flag.

Reacting to the style of singing of Martin Nievera during the Hatton-Pacquiao fight on May 3, 2009, Rep. Teodoro Casiño said there is a need to correct some misconception that anyone can sing the national anthem in his or her preferred style.

Casino added that Nievera is not the first artist who sang the National Anthem in a different style and tempo. By Annabelle L. Ricalde