Tuesday, May 06, 2008 DepEd holds orientation on proper handling of RP flag
AN ORIENTATION seminar to start a nationwide campaign on the proper handling and use of the Philippine Flag was held recently in Banaue, Ifugao.
The Department of Education (DepEd) said public school teachers handling Music, Makabayan, Values Education, English and Filipino subjects as well as school administrators from Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region and the Cordillera were oriented in the proper conduct of flag raising and retreat ceremonies.
Education Secretary Jesli Lapus issued guidelines on the proper use of the flag, as it is a symbol of the country's sovereignty and unity.
It was explained that in DepEd Order 83, Lapus directed field offices to strengthen, respect and pay allegiance to Philippine Flag by banning canned music during flag ceremonies or programs. It also prohibits the use of tattered or badly faced flags in all schools and offices.
DepEd is tasked to monitor and ensure strict compliance with the order and at the same time institute appropriate sanctions to erring institutions and personnel, Taberdo said.
Sanctions include fines ranging from P5,000 to P20,000 and jail terms up to one year or both. For private schools, violation means cancellation of their permit to operate.
The following are prohibited acts:
* Mutilating, defacing or trampling on the flag;
* Clipping the flag to salute or compliment a person or object;
* Using the flag as drapery, table cloth, covering for walls;
* Wearing the flag as costume or uniform;
* Printing or attaching the flag on handkerchiefs and napkins; and
* Using the flag as display of any advertisement or info-commercial
The DepEd's advocacy campaign is part of the National Flag Day on May 28 and Friendship or Independence Day on June 12 festivities, Taberdo added. (Press release)
