In compliance with Section 14 of Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, the City Government of San Fernando recently conducted the Ceremonial Burning of worn-out flags in front of the City Hall.
During the program also dubbed as “Huling Pagpupugay sa Watawat ng Pilipinas,” the Philippine National Anthem was sung by the City officials and employees before lowering the flag from the pole.
It was then paraded shortly by the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines Pampanga.
Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago, together with Mutya ning San Fernando 2017 Vanessa Yvonne Sicat who represented “Inang Bayan” and other officials then led the burning ceremony wherein patriotic songs were simultaneously played.
Finally, the ashes were transferred in a pot and were placed in a burial plot located at the City Hall grounds.
In an interview, Mayor EdSa said the worn-out flags must be properly and solemnly disposed to avoid misuse or desecration as stated by the law.
“The Philippine flag is the most sacred symbol of our motherland. Therefore, it must be, at all times, treated with utmost respect whether it is displayed or for disposal,” he added.
The city mayor added the importance of making the public, especially the youth, aware of the do’s and don’ts of the Philippine flag which serves as a moral representation of patriotism.