MANILA, Philippines — “Lupang Hinirang” trends on twitter social media as a video of House Deputy Speaker Jesus Crispin Remulla went viral on Wednesday, July 1. Remulla was seen writing while the national anthem was playing before one of the joint hearings on the ABS-CBN franchise.
The Cavite 7th district congressman apologized for what he did and blamed “ABS-CBN people” for playing it up on social media.
“I’d like to apologize for an earlier incident na ako po’y may sinusulat na note nung nagf-flagceremony tayo. As usual, the ABS -CBN people are the ones playing it up on social media. But I will forgive them.”
jesus crispin remulla, cavite 7th district rep.
Remulla explained the note saying that it is not an excuse, however, “something went into my mind for the questions I will ask tonight.”
“Ako’y humihingi ng dispensa sa ating mga kababayan.”
(I am asking for forgiveness from our countrymen)
Netizens have expressed their dismay over the lawmaker’s actions saying Remulla should be held accountable as Chapter 2 sec. 39 of RA 8491 or the National Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines states that “All officials and employees of the national and local governments, and any agencies or instrumentalities thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned entities of offices displaying the national flag and government institutions of learning are hereby directed to comply strictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of the anthem. Failure to observe the rules shall be a ground for administrative discipline.”
According to the National Flag and Heraldic code of the Philippines:
During the flag-raising ceremony, the assembly shall stand in formation racing the flag. At the moment the first note of the anthem is heard, everyone in the premises shall come to attention; moving vehicles shall stop. All persons present shall :.ace their right palms over their chests, those with hats shall uncover, while those in military, scouting, security guard, and citizens military training uniforms shall give :.-.£ salute prescribed by their regulations, which salute shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem.