(Photo source: Office of the Vice President)

What should take precedence – the singing of the National Anthem or the invocation?

This query, though seemingly mundane, carries profound implications, not only in terms of protocol but also in the affirmation of national identity and reverence for the divine.

During formal events or flag-raising ceremonies, it's common to observe a particular sequence in the program. Typically, the singing of the National Anthem comes after the invocation. This sequence is widely believed and followed by many Filipinos across the country.

This assumption may be rooted in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, particularly in its Preamble. The Preamble is the introductory part of a constitution that states the reasons for and intent of the law.

Some may argue that if you examine the words mentioned in the Preamble, evidently, “Almighty God” comes before “Government,” suggesting that the alternative practice may be unconstitutional.

As the Preamble reads: “We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid of Almighty God, in order to build a just and humane society and establish a Government that shall embody our ideals and aspirations, promote the common good, conserve and develop our patrimony, and secure to ourselves and our posterity the blessings of independence and democracy under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace, do ordain and promulgate this Constitution.”

But did you know that the singing of the National Anthem should take precedence over the invocation?

Yes. Embedded within the fabric of Republic Act 8491 or the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines” lies the blueprint for navigating this delicate balance, guiding us toward a harmonious and respectful commencement of events.

As explained by National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) History Researcher Mark Reinere Policarpio during the recent conference of the Association of Information Officers in Metro Manila held in Quezon City, according to Rule IV of the Implementing Rules and Regulations, the National Anthem must precede the invocation during flag raising ceremonies and other related programs.  

However, Policarpio said this is a non-obligatory practice for private institutions and schools, especially sectarian/religious learning institutions, where the invocation may be done prior to singing the National Anthem.

Apart from it already being practiced elsewhere in the world, the rationale behind is that citizens who gather together lawfully for a public program identify with a nation, and that same nation or state guarantees the exercise of freedom of faith. 

Respecting the National Anthem is crucial as it symbolizes patriotism, unity, and national pride. By following the protocols outlined in the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, individuals show reverence for their country's heritage and values. 

It, likewise, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and independence, fostering a sense of collective identity and belonging among citizens.

Failure to respect the National Anthem, on the other hand, not only disrespects the nation's symbols but also undermines the significance of national unity and respect for one's country.

This includes actions like not singing it with fervor at public gatherings, not standing at attention, not facing the Philippine flag or conductor, not saluting appropriately, and using the anthem for recreation or entertainment purposes not specified in the law.

Mutilating, defacing, or showing contempt towards the Philippine flag is also considered disrespectful.

For disrespecting the National Anthem, the Philippine Flag, or other important symbols of our country, the law also sets penalties which can include fines ranging from P5,000 to P20,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both upon conviction. 

Repeat offenses may lead to both a fine and imprisonment. Additionally, the president or chief executive officer of a juridical entity may be held liable for violations.

The rules serve not only to govern a society but also aim to exemplify the virtues of Filipino citizens who take pride in their homeland, our homeland, the Philippines. (JVD/PIA-NCR)