Press Release No. 16-2016

Date: 30 May 2016

(Jeddah, 25 May 2016) – The Philippine Consulate joins the Philippines in celebrating National Flag Days beginning 28 May until 12 June.

On 28 May 1898, the Philippine flag was first unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated Spanish forces in the Battle of Alapan, in Imus, Cavite.  The national flag was yet to be formally announced on that day of that battle.  It was formally presented to the people on 12 June 1898. From 1919, when the Philippine flag was once more legalized, until 1940, Flag Day was observed in October, the date the Philippine Legislature had restored the flag. From 1941 to 1964, Flag Day was commemorated on the date the national flag was unfurled in Kawit: June 12.

However, on 06 March 1965, since Flag Day coincided with Independence Day, President Diosdado Macapagal issued Proclamation No. 374, which moved National Flag Day to May 28.

On 23 May 1994, President Fidel V. Ramos issued Executive Order No. 179 extending the period of celebrating National Flag Days from May 28 to June 12, culminating in the celebration of Independence Day.

The design of the Philippine Flag has evolved from its original image that was sewn in 1898, but its color and symbols have kept the intended meaning as shown below:

Filipinos are encouraged to display the Philippine flag in all offices, agencies and instruments of government, business establishments, schools, and private homes throughout this period. END