Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Zyrene consults NHCP over national anthem

Zyrene Parsad, the young singer chosen by boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao to sing the Philippine national anthem in his upcoming fight in Dallas, Texas this November, visited the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Tuesday to get pointers on how to sing the anthem properly. 

Parsad arrived at the NHCP at 10 a.m. to consult the organization on the proper way of singing the anthem.

Parsad was asked to render “Lupang Hinirang” as NHCP officials observed the pacing of her song.

NHI’s Heraldry section chief Teddy Atienza reminded Parsad not to change the tune and tempo of the song when she performs in November. He said taking liberties with the national anthem could lead to a fine of P5,000 to P20,000 plus a 1-year jail sentence, in accordance with the provisions of the National Flag Law. If Congress raises the penalty and makes P100,000 plus a 2-years jail sentence.

All citizens to stand at attention and sing with fervor, as a sign of respect, when the National Anthem is played at public gatherings.

Even moviegoers who do not stand up when the National Anthem is being played in cinemas will be sanctioned if the measure subsequently, as it empowers the security personnel and ushers in movie houses to arrest a violator and summon law enforcement officers to assist in conducting citizens’ arrest.

Atienza advised Parsad not to be nervous so she won’t forget her lines like what happened to singer Christian Bautista.

The NHCP has previously reminded Filipino artists singing the national anthem during Pacquiao fights not to take liberties with the song. Among those chastised by the institution for their wrong renditions of the anthem are Martin Nievera, Arnel Pineda, La Diva, Sarah Geronimo, Lani Misalucha and Charice Pempengco. 

The NHCP said that if properly sung with a two-fourths beat and 100 metronomes, the national anthem should last 53 seconds.