ACTING Cebu City Mayor Donaldo “Dondon” Hontiveros has called on the public to surrender worn-out Philippine flags to the City’s Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission (Chac) for proper disposal.
This, he said, is in strict observance of Republic Act (RA) 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.
In an interview on Monday, June 9, 2025, Hontiveros, who also chairs Chac, reminded residents that damaged or tattered flags should never be simply discarded.
Instead, they must undergo a solemn burning ceremony to prevent any form of desecration, as mandated by Section 14 of RA 8491.
He said flags showing signs of wear and tear should be promptly replaced.
A solemn burning ceremony for retired flags is scheduled on Tuesday, June 10, at the Cebu City National Science High School in Labangon at 4:30 p.m.
Hontiveros extended an invitation to Mayor-elect Nestor Archival to participate in the activity.
Hontiveros also announced that a civic parade has been set for Thursday, June 12 to commemorate the country’s 127th Independence Day celebration.
The parade will commence at Plaza Independencia and proceed to Plaza Sugbu. It will be followed by a Holy Mass at 7 a.m.
Reflecting on the significance of Independence Day, Hontiveros underscored the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who valiantly fought for the nation’s freedom.
“It’s easy to forget what a person has done, even as a councilor, it’s easy to forget. Much more so our heroes who really fought hard for our independence have done,” he said in a mix of Cebuano and English.
He called for a collective effort to preserve the legacy of our heroes.
“Hopefully in our own way, we can do something. Even though it’s really small, if there are many of us, it will create a ripple effect,” Hontiveros said, citing the City Council’s initiative to use personal tumblers during sessions as a small but impactful example.
Hontiveros also called on the youth to remember the sacrifices of our heroes and the principles they had fought for.
He concluded by stressing the role of today’s youth as future leaders. / JPS