These 10 Facts About The Philippine Flag Might Surprise You

The Philippine national flag has a rectangular design that consists of a white equilateral triangle, symbolizing liberty, equality, and fraternity; a horizontal blue stripe for peace, truth, and justice; and a horizontal redstripe for patriotism and valor. 

Here are quick facts about the Philippine Flag:

1. Emilio Aguinaldo designed the Philippine flag

He conceived its design while exiled in Hong Kong in 1897. The flag then underwent minor alterations in 1997.

2. The flag was first unfurled on May 28, 1898

It was first unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated Spanish forces in the Battle at Alapan, Imus, Cavite.

3. The flag’s length is twice its width

President Manuel L. Quezon issued Executive Order No. 23, s. 1936 that institutes the description and specifications of the Filipino flag.

4. The national flag itself serves as the war flag

Unlike other countries which utilize other flags in times of war, the Philippine flag is still used, but is flown with the red field on top and to the left if displayed in hanging position.

5. Marcela Agoncillo sewed the first flag

6. New flag proposal

On June 15, 1995 President Fidel Ramos suggested to incorporate a crescent moon into the current national flag to represent the Filipino Muslims.

7. The blue color of the flag used to be darker

The blue color of the flag in 1946 is reported to be navy blue, darker than what is used today. According to Flag Bulletin No 180, a change was made to the national flag on September 16, 1997 when the shade of blue was altered from navy blue to royal blue.

8. Adding a ninth ray to the sun

Richard Gordon authored the Ninth Ray Bill to acknowledge the bravery of Filipino Muslims who fought for our independence.

9. It is prohibited to display the Philippine flag in nightclubs

10. A worn out flag shall not be thrown away

In cockpits, casinos and other places of vice or where frivolity prevails.

It shall be solemnly burned to avoid desecration. A flag that is beginning to show signs of wear and tear shall be replaced immediately.

Source : http://tenminutes.ph