Babastos sa ‘Lupang Hinirang’ parurusahan

APRUBADO na sa ikatlong pagbasa ang panukalang batas na magpapataw ng multa at parusa sa mga hindi magbibigay respeto sa pambansang awit ng Pilipinas na “Lupang Hinirang”.

Sa botong 196 ng kabuuang bilang ng mga kongresista ay naipasa sa ikatlong pagbasa ang House Bill 465 o “ An Act Prescribing the Code of the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and other Heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines.”

Sa ilalim ng panukala, pagmumultahin ng P100,000 at makukulong ng dalawang taon ang sinumang performer na lalayo sa official musical arrangement ng “Lupang Hinirang” na binuo ni Julian Felipe.

“Lupang Hinirang” should be sung in a marching-type tempo, within the range of 100 to 120 metronome, in 4/4 beat and 2/4 beat when played,” binigyang diin pa ng pangunahing may-akda ng panukala na si Sorsogon Rep. Salvador Escudero.

Bukod sa Pambansang Awit, inaprubahan din ang consolidated bills na House Bills 603 at 465 na nagbabawal sa paggamit ng Philippine flag at iba pang heraldic items and devices bilang advertising tool para sa political o private purposes, at pananamit o fashion accessory.

Maaari lamang gamitin ang watawat na pangtakip sa casket o kabaong ng nasawing miyembro ng militar, veterans, national artists, o civilian na nagbigay ng karangalan sa bansa. Meliza Maluntag

Pacquiao picks Zyrene to sing anthem

Filipino boxing superstar and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao has chosen 24-year-old Zyrene Parsad to sing the Philippine anthem for his fight against Mexican boxer Antonio Margarito in Texas, USA on November 13.

According to Parsad, Pacquiao personally chose her to sing “Lupang Hinirang” after he heard her perform in an Investor’s night in Sarangani.

With all the controversies surrounding the rendition of “Lupang Hinirang” during previous Pacquiao fights, Parsad vowed to sing the anthem correctly.

The young singer said she is already preparing for the much awaited Pacquiao-Margarito bout.

She said she tries to sing the national anthem every morning so she can be more familiar with its tempo and lyrics. She also jogs every day to improve her breathing.

National Flag Law author Salvador Escudero III, meanwhile, said he will give Parsad references on the proper way to sing the national anthem.

Parsad is set to meet with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines on Friday or Monday to give her tips on how to sing the anthem correctliy.

According to Section 37 of Republic Act (RA) 8491, the rendition of the national anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe.

Felipe is the original music arranger of Lupang Hinirang in 1898. It has tune of march and the lyrics was adapted from the Spanish poem “Filipinas” written by Jose Palma only in 1899.

The NHCP, in coordination with the proper government agency, shall disseminate an official music score sheet that reflects the manner in which the national anthem should be played or sung.

When the national anthem is played, the public is required to sing and do so “with fervor.”

They are expected to sing while the right hand is placed over the left chest. Uniformed personnel, meanwhile, are to salute the flag as prescribed by their respective regulations.

Individuals whose faith prohibit them from singing “Lupang Hinirang” must still show full respect.

The national anthem, however, would not be allowed to be played and sung preceding “events of recreation, amusement, or entertainment purposes.”

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; national and local sports competitions, during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations, before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; Provided, that the owners and management of the establishments shall be mandated to enforce proper decorum and implement the pertinent provisions of this act; and other occasions as may be allowed by the NHCP.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in schools. The Pledge of Allegiance (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

Section 20 of the law also states: "The rendition of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo."

RA 8491 prescribes that any person who will violate its provisions may be punished by a fine of at least P20,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year. If the Congress raises the penalty and make P100,000 or imprisonment of not more than two years.

Even moviegoers who do not stand up when the National Anthem is being played in cinemas will be sanctioned 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.

RPN-9 CEBU: THE LEADER (Vistas, 9/25/82)

Article by JERUEL N. ROA

If there's any factor that would earn the Radio Philippines Network (RPN) the sobriquet "The Leader," hands down it would be its Domestic Satellite (DOMSAT) facilities.

Through DOMSAT, RPN is ahead of the rest of the television networks by being able to simulcast in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for about seven hours daily.

While other networks, all based in the nation's capital, have to ship their taped programs to their provincial stations for delayed viewing, RPN gets to its provincial stations at once.

The modern facility responsible for this is a satellite owned by Indonesia and leased to the Philippines initially for five years. DOMSAT is owned by three companies: the Kanlaon Broadcasting System (KBS), RPN's mother company; the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT); and the Philippine government.

Its mother earth station is located in Antipolo. Its eight receiving areas around the country are in Tuguegarao, Palawan, Bacolod, Davao, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, and Cebu.

In Cebu, DOMSAT-facilitated programs are transmitted to its Channel 9 station's translator. The Cebu translator is a product of Filipino ingenuity, being locally-made and costing a mere ₱120,000.

"DOMSAT was supposed to run only for an hour daily for news and public affairs," explains RPN-9 Cebu station manager Frank Jalandoon. "But realizing the need of televiewers from Batanes down to Marawi, we discussed it with the top executives and decided to have DOMSAT programming for five hours every evening starting January 16, 1980," he adds.

"We are now on our second year of DOMSAT and I think we have reached our objective. What is being seen in Manila should also be seen by the people of Surigao or Butuan. Before, it took two weeks for Manila tapes to reach Cebu, in Davao, three weeks, in Iriga, four. Now, we have eliminated that problem. Ngayon, para bang napagbigyan natin ang mga taga-probinsya," he points out.

RPN-9 Cebu signs on at 6:30 in the morning and gets its first DOMSAT feed at 7:00 for a 30-minute newscast in Pilipino. After this, a 15-minute Cebuano edition of the news is aired and for another 15 minutes, a canned musical program is shown before the machines and equipment are given a 90-minute rest. Then Channel 9 goes back to its regular non-stop telecast for the day.

At 11:55 in the morning, Channel 9 Cebu, as in other RPN stations around the country, receives another DOMSAT feed, this time for the hour and a half noontime show, Eat Bulaga!. From 1:30 to 5:30 P.M., all shows shown are taped. Then at 5:30 up to 10:30 P.M., its uninterrupted DOMSAT programming highlighted by the popular NewsWatch hosted by Harry Gasser and Ninez Cacho-Olivares.

DOMSAT has affected local programming, but not adversely.

Said Frank Jalandoon: "Naturally, it has affected local programming. But on the other end, we have to develop the slots for local programs. That is our target. In Manila, daytime programs have 50 to 60% viewership. I think we can reach that also. Right now, we are reaching 40% in the daytime."

"At the moment, we have local programs but supported by independent producers like Galactica which comes up with two live programs. And of course, there are our public affairs programs. Another thing we've been planning to do is to revive the local programs. To do this, we need sophisticated equipment, which will prove to be expensive. A studio camera alone costs ₱400,000. To have good production, the investment has to be tremendous, costing millions of pesos."

"If you will try to sustain this kind of program by only using backpack cameras, quality-wise, it's not really comparable to the shows produced in Manila. So, our plan really is to support Cebu and we've discussed these matters with Manila people and they know that Cebu is the priority," Jalandoon added.

Channel 9 Cebu has given importance to the talk show. "The talk show is one of the important aspects of our plan. A public affairs program should be considered in this kind of business. In image-building, it's public affairs which really count aside from the news," Jalandoon said.

It had a program, Free to Choose, aired 11:00 to 11:45 A.M. daily but it encountered the problem of high production expense. "You have to shoot outside and that would need a mobile unit, automatic editing machines."

Advertising is the least of RPN-9 Cebu's worries. "The bulk of the business is still Manila, it's 85% while 15% is local. But for local clients to come in, we have really to develop the local programming." It has produced 12 moving local commercials.

Channel 9 Cebu has a radio station, DYKC, which is a drama-music station. It airs 13 30-minute soap operas which are replayed to seven RPN radio stations in Mindanao.

As one way of cutting costs, RPN Cebu's radio and television operations are combined, especially in administration. There are seven departments, namely: radio department of engineering, production, sales, technical engineering on television, security, and news and public affairs all manned by 28 regular employees and three contractual workers.

Station manager Frank Jalandoon says that his personnel are among, if not the best, there are in Cebu.

RPN-9 Cebu started operations on October 30, 1971, a branch of Channel 9 in Manila, the first colored station operating during those days.

It is situated in a one-hectare lot in Maguikay, Mandaue City.

Among its objectives are: to entertain the public, serve the community, to make money in order to give proper benefits to its employees, and in order to improve its facilities.

As Jalandoon revealed: "The business cycle of the television (industry) is the improvement of the equipment, adoption of more modern ideas coming in so that you can adequately serve the public, educate, and form public opinion. And mind you, RPN-9 is really trying to invest. Since we are not only contented in being ‘The Leader,' expect more innovations from RPN-9 next year."

Frank Jalandoon assumed station managership of RPN-9 Cebu on March 1974.

A student of mining in the ‘60s, his interest shifted to electronics in his search for greener pastures. He had worked as a salesman for Amon Trading and Aboitiz Marketing and worked with PLDT before devoting his time fully for KBS.

A native of Bacolod City, Jalandoon is at present a member of the Katilingban Hiligaynon sa Cebu, Rotary Club of Mandaue-North, the Knights of Columbus, and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas-Cebu Chapter.

In most of the organizations he is with, he serves as public relations officer.

CCTV's "June 1" gets a new look

Starting from June 1, CCTV will comprehensively improve the channel packaging and launch some newly created columns.

From June 1 start of service our audience "Program Guide" to watch television programs, broadcast every day from the current nine to 12 times. In order to adapt to the changes in the broadcast of the program, the broadcast content will be adjusted at any time to strengthen the timeliness. Before the broadcast of each program and after the end of all the programs, add 2-3 minutes of beautifully melodic and well-made morning and evening songs.

In addition to vigorous efforts on the overall packaging of the channel, new columns such as "Approach to Science" and "TV Shopping" were also launched in the first and second sets of programs. Four and five programs have also been innovative in the overall packaging of programs. In this adjustment, the four programs-International Channels will add "Chinese Medicine", "A History of Qianqiu", "Oriental Homeland", "Cultural Report", "China News Financial Report" and other related news, services, education, etc. A new section of aspect content.

Mali na naman daw!

ISANG kontrobersiya ukol sa tamang pagkanta ng Pambansang Awit ang nagaganap ngayon. Si Arnel Pineda ng bandang Journey ang napili para kantahin ang Lupang Hinirang sa laban nina Manny Pacquiao at Joshua Clottey. At katulad ng nangyari nung si Martin Nievera ang kumanta rin sa isang laban din ni Manny, binatikos ng National Historical Institute (NHI) ang pagkanta ni Pineda. Masyado raw mabagal at nawala pa sa tono. Ilang umawit na rin sa nasabing kanta ang pinagalitan din ng NHI.

Pagalitan na lang ng NHI ang lahat ng kumanta na ng Pambansang Awit. Natatandaan ko, palaging pinatutugtog ang Lupang Hinirang sa mga sinehan bago magsimula ang isang sine. May isang grupo na nagsimulang kantahin ng mabagal na mabagal ang awit, at pagkatapos ng ilang bersikulo ay kinanta na ng regular na bilis. Napakaganda ng rendisyon ng grupong iyon sa Pambangsang Awit. Naramdaman ko ang ganda ng awit, pati ang ganda ng estilo sa pagkanta nito. Hindi nabawasan ang halaga ng awit dahil sa rendisyon. Sa totoo nga, mas lumakas ang damdamin ko ukol sa pagiging Pilipino. Kaya anong masama naman doon?

May kumanta pa kaya ng Pambansang Awit dahil sa mala-agilang pagbantay ng NHI sa pag-awit nito. May umawit pa kaya sa mga darating na laban ni Manny kung mapapagalitan lang sila at babantaan pa ng demanda? Lahat ng mang-aawit ay may iba’t ibang estilo sa pagkanta. Nadadala sila sa damdamin nung kanta, at kung anong klaseng kahalagahan ang meron nito sa kanila. Ang isang magaling at madamdaming mang-aawit ay kakantahin ang isang kanta ayon sa kanyang damdamin. Kung pupunahin na lang ng NHI ang lahat, siguro mag-recording na lang sila ng sa tingin nila ay ang tamang paraan sa pagkanta nung Lupang Hinirang, at ito na lang ang patugtugin sa lahat ng okasyon na kailangan simulan ng Pambansang Awit. Nang sa ganun, wala na silang mapapagalitan. Kung ganun din sana ang pagbantay nila sa mga ibang ahensiya ng gobyerno, lalo na doon sa may kasaysayan ng katiwalian at korapsyon, wala na rin sigurong gagawa ng kalokohan sa gobyerno, at tuluyang uunlad ang bansa!

http://www.philstar.com/opinyon/558676/mali-na-naman-daw

NHI mulls filing a case vs Arnel Pineda

The National Historical Institute (NHI) is looking into the possibility of filing a complaint against Journey’s Filipino front man Arnel Pineda.

In a phone interview, Teddy Atienza, chief of NHI’s Heraldry Section, disclosed that the board was not pleased when it heard Pineda’s version of “Lupang Hinirang” during the Manny Pacquiao-Joshua Clottey fight in the United States.

Atienza lamented that Pineda, who was also criticized for wearing a cowboy-inspired polo instead of Barong Tagalog, sang the anthem slowly as opposed to the original march tempo.

He also scored the singer for belting out the last 2 words of “Lupang Hinirang.”

He said this was a clear violation of Republic Act (RA) 8491.

"Sa amin po personally hindi po niya nasunod ang sinasaad sa RA 8491 na ang sinasabi, ang pagkanta ng Lupang Hinirang ay dapat sundin ang komposisyon ni Julian Felipe," he said.

"Ngayon po ay nangangalap kami ng ebidensiya at testimonya ng kababayan natin tungkol dito. Gagawin namin ang report at pag-aaralan ng NHI board kung ano ang aksyon ng aming tanggapan,” he added.

Atienza said the board might hold a special meeting within the week to discuss the issue.

RA 8491 prescribes that any person who will violate its provisions may be punished by a fine of at least P20,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year.

Even moviegoers who do not stand up when the National Anthem is being played in cinemas will be sanctioned, 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.

Not alone

Pineda was not the first singer to be reprimanded by the NHI in connection with the wrong rendition of Lupang Hinirang. The institute also called the attention of Charice, Christian Bautista, Jennifer Bautista and Martin Nievera.

Atienza said the NHI is reprimanding these singers because it is part of the job of the institute to ensure that they follow the law.

"Nasa batas po kasi. Bilang tanggapan ng gobyerno na siyang nagpapatupad ng batas, hinihingi po namin ang tulong ng lahat, lalo na itong mga mangangantang sikat, na sana po ay kung ano ang natutunan natin sa paaralan ay sana po ay sundin natin,” he said.

Mixed reactions

Meantime, abs-cbnNEWS.com readers are divided over the issue.

While some lambasted the NHI for criticizing Pineda, others were also unhappy with the singer’s rendition of the national anthem.

Tsubibo commented: "Well, I didn't like Arnel Pineda's rendition of the Philippine National Anthem. He changed the melody in the end part of the song and got out of tune in the process. Notice the reaction on the face of Mr. Lito Camo who is standing next to him while Arnel Pineda was belting out and went out of tune? What a shame (sic)."

"Walang passion ang pagkakakanta ni arnel ng lupang hinirang. mali rin ang last few notes nung kinanta nya ito kahapon (sic)," cee chimed in.

Reader HammerSmithGrove, on the other hand, called for the amendment of the law.

“Wala naman sigurong masama don. yong mga kanta nga sa simbahan ilang beses ng pinapalitan ang notes. marahil yong batas noon maaaring hindi na angkop ngayon! (sic)" HammerSmithGrove noted.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/03/15/10/nhi-mulls-filing-case-vs-arnel-pineda

OSG: Stylized rendition of anthem violates law

A stylized rendition of the national anthem violates Republic Act 8491, the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, it will be mandatory for students to memorize the national anthem at schools, Solicitor General and acting Justice Secretary Alberto Agra said yesterday.

Agra’s statement follows a plan expressed by the National Historical Institute (NHI) to file charges against Journey lead singer Arnel Pineda for his rendition of the national anthem before the bout of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and Ghana native Joshua Clottey in Texas last Sunday.

Agra told reporters that Section 37 of RA 8491 prohibits the singing of Lupang Hinirang in a musical arrangement other than what was composed by Julian Felipe.

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; local competitions; during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations; before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; and other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic education institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

Section 20 of the law also states: “The rendition of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the national anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.”

“We have to follow the law, and our law is very categorical. In singing the national anthem, you have to follow the arrangement of Julian Felipe,” he said.

He said this is the position of the Office of the Solicitor General, which he concurrently heads, when asked for its legal opinion by the NHI in connection with the stylized rendition of singer Martin Nievera during the bout of Pacquiao and British national Ricky Hatton last year.

But Agra said the NHI did not pursue the case because it was also told by the OSG there is a problem with jurisdiction since the alleged violation was committed in the US.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) chief also said he is not aware of any case wherein a person was charged and convicted for violating this law.

But Agra clarified that there is no case filed yet against Pineda in the DOJ so he could not comment yet on the latter’s possible violation of law.

“I also haven’t watched (Pineda’s rendition),” he added.

He said violators face a fine of P5,000 to P20,000, or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, at the discretion of the court.

Officials of the National Historical Institute are pushing to stuff a stocking in Pineda’s mouth as if he committed some earth-shaking crime.

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.

On Sunday, the NHI said it will file charges against Pineda before the DOJ.

But Pineda reportedly defended his version, saying he had sung it with all his heart. He said he would ask his lawyer to deal with the complaint once it is filed.

The NHI was criticized last year for painting the Calamba, Laguna house of national hero Jose Rizal green. The house, reconstructed in the 1950s, was dirty gray before it was repainted in May 2009.

http://www.philstar.com/metro/558054/osg-stylized-rendition-anthem-violates-law

Arnel Pineda apologizes to NHI (Update)

Whenever Pinoy boxing champ Manny Pacquiao fights, the Filipinos always look forward not only to the event itself, as well in flag-raising and lowering ceremonies in schools and offices but also to whoever will perform the Philippine national anthem, "Lupang Hinirang."

For several times already, the National Historical Institute (NHI) has given their thumbs down to the renditions of even the country's most popular singers who sang the National Anthem in Pacquiao's fights and other boxing matches. Among these were Pop Idol Jolina Magdangal, Concert King Martin Nievera, international singing sensation Charice Pempengco, Asia's Nightingale Lani Misalucha, romantic balladeer Christian Bautista, and Popstar Princess Sarah Geronimo.

NHI had also warned Geneva Cruz, RnB Princess Kyla, Jennifer Bautista, and La Diva (composed of Jonalyn Viray, Aicelle Santos, and Maricar Garcia) for not following the right tempo of "Lupang Hinirang."

After Pacquiao's bout against Ghana's Joshua Clottey last Sunday, March 14, the NHI said it might file a complaint against Arnel Pineda, the Filipino frontman of rock band Journey, for the "wrong" rendition of "Lupang Hinirang."

And that's what Pineda did.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News today, March 16, Pineda said: "I apologize for my dissatisfactory performance dun sa fight ni Pacquiao and Clottey sa Dallas, Texas, according to their standards. What can I do? I'm just doing my job... but then again hindi ako sorry kasi artistic freedom ko 'yon. It doesn't make me less of a Filipino dahil sa nabago ang pagkakanta."

Pineda also said that what he did was to the song was part of his "artistic freedom."

"Ano ba ang bago? 'Yong traditional na pagkanta ng 'Lupang Hinirang' ang gusto nilang marinig. On my part, I'm just doing my artistic freedom. I was there as Filipino representing Pacquiao and the Philippines, 'yon ang importante," he explained.

BELTING OUT THE LAST PART. In a separate interview with ABS-CBN News, NHI Heraldry Division chief Teddy Atienza related his disappointment on Pineda for singing the anthem slowly on the first part instead of the marching tempo. He also pointed out that the singer belted out the last part of "Lupang Hinirang."

The Republic Act 8941 (under Section 37) or the Flag and Heraldic Code states that: "The national anthem must be sung in accordance with the original musical arrangement of composer Julian Felipe, who gave it a marching tempo.

Felipe is the original music arranger of Lupang Hinirang in 1898. It has tune of march and the lyrics was adapted from the Spanish poem “Filipinas” written by Jose Palma only in 1899.

The NHI, in coordination with the proper government agency, shall disseminate an official music score sheet that reflects the manner in which the national anthem should be played or sung.

When the national anthem is played, the public is required to sing and do so “with fervor.”

They are expected to sing while the right hand is placed over the left chest. Uniformed personnel, meanwhile, are to salute the flag as prescribed by their respective regulations.

Individuals whose faith prohibit them from singing “Lupang Hinirang” must still show full respect.

The national anthem, however, would not be allowed to be played and sung preceding “events of recreation, amusement, or entertainment purposes.”

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; local competitions; during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations; before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; and other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic education institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

Section 20 of the law also states: “The rendition of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the national anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.”

Under Section 48 of RA 8491, “failure or refusal to observe the provisions of this Act; and any violation of the corresponding rules and regulations issued by the Office of the President, shall after proper notice and hearing, shall be penalized by public censure which shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.”

“We have to follow the law, and our law is very categorical. In singing the national anthem, you have to follow the arrangement of Julian Felipe,” he said.

He said this is the position of the Office of the Solicitor General, which he concurrently heads, when asked for its legal opinion by the NHI in connection with the stylized rendition of singer Martin Nievera during the bout of Pacquiao and British national Ricky Hatton last year.

But Agra said the NHI did not pursue the case because it was also told by the OSG there is a problem with jurisdiction since the alleged violation was committed in the US.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) chief also said he is not aware of any case wherein a person was charged and convicted for violating this law.

But Agra clarified that there is no case filed yet against Pineda in the DOJ so he could not comment yet on the latter’s possible violation of law.

“I also haven’t watched (Pineda’s rendition),” he added.

He said violators face a fine of P5,000 to P20,000, or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, at the discretion of the court.

Officials of the National Historical Institute are pushing to stuff a stocking in Pineda’s mouth as if he committed some earth-shaking crime.

Even moviegoers who do not stand up when the National Anthem is being played in cinemas will be sanctioned, 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.

Pineda admitted that he went off-pitch on the last two stanza of “Lupang Hinirang.”

"Alam ko naman na nag-flat ako, kasi ang parte na 'yon na nagsimula nang magsigawan ang tao. Wala akong ear monitor. Hindi ko na marinig ang sarili ko noong pumapasok ako doon sa line na 'Lupa ng araw ng luwalhati't pagsinta.' Sumisigaw na sila, highlight ng melody ng kanta 'yon so unti-unti hindi ko naririnig," he said.

On Sunday, the NHI said it will file charges against Pineda before the DOJ.

But Pineda reportedly defended his version, saying he had sung it with all his heart. He said he would ask his lawyer to deal with the complaint once it is filed.


The NHI was criticized last year for painting the Calamba, Laguna house of national hero Jose Rizal green. The house, reconstructed in the 1950s, was dirty gray before it was repainted in May 2009.

Arnel Pineda’s version of RP anthem criticized

(Updated 9:20 p.m.) The National Historical Institute said Sunday it was filing a complaint against Journey lead singer Arnel Pineda for changing the tone and tempo of the Philippine national anthem when he sang it before the Pacquiao-Clottey bout in Texas.

Pineda sang "Lupang Hinirang" (Beloved Land) during Pacquiao’s successful bout against Joshua Clottey of Ghana on Saturday (Sunday in Manila), his powerful, high-pitched voice filling the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

But Teddy Atienza, chief of the Heraldry Section of the NHI, was not pleased. A "24 Oras" report quoted him as saying that they would file a complaint against Pineda before the Department of Justice for his "wrong" version of the national anthem.

The NHI is the government body tasked to ensure respect for the national anthem, Philippine flag and other national symbols.

Under Section 37 of Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code, the national anthem must be sung in accordance with the original musical arrangement of composer Julian Felipe, who gave it a marching tempo. Violators may be fined P5,000 to P20,000 or jailed for a year.

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, 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.

Pineda, for his part, defended his version, saying he had sung it with all his heart. He said he would ask his lawyer to deal with the complaint once it is filed.

Pineda, who rose to fame in 2007 when members of the US-based band discovered him on YouTube, belted out before a crowd of almost 51,000 boxing fans his somewhat slow rendition of "Lupang Hinirang."

The singer, wearing a brown long-sleeved polo with native prints, started well in the song but faltered when he tried to raise the pitch — a practice frowned upon by NHI — of the final part of the anthem. The crowd cheered nonetheless.

Cheers and jeers

"What happened to your voice and to the anthem?" asked a fan of the singer on his Facebook fan page.

"Ba’t iniba mo ‘yung [last notes] ng anthem (Why did you change the last notes of the anthem)?" asked another. "Parang malalagutan na ng hininga (You sounded like you were running out of breath)," still another said.

Some, however, praised Pineda for a job well done.

"Good job Arnel! Your patriotic rendition of ["Lupang Hinirang"] was awesome. You made me so proud to be Pinay," a fan said. "I love you Arnel Pineda. Beautiful anthem, beautiful voice," another said.

The institute has criticized a number of Filipino singers who had sung the Philippine national anthem in recent fights of Pacquiao for supposedly creating their own interpretation of the song.

Crooner Martin Nievera’s rendition of "Lupang Hinirang" in Pacquiao’s fight against British Ricky Hatton in May 2009 caused an uproar for its deviation from the prescribed musical arrangement.

Aside from Nievera, pop girl group "La Diva" also received a failing grade from the National Historical Institute for its version of the anthem during Pacquiao’s match with Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto in November 2009.

"I’m sure you guys will be proud," Pineda told GMA News before his fight with Clottey.

Other singers

The NHI earlier noted that if properly sung with a two-fourths beat and 100 metronomes, the national anthem should last 53 seconds. Pineda’s version was 89 seconds long.

Among the singers reprimanded by the NHI for deviating from the song’s original form were Charice Pempengco, Jennifer Bautista and Christian Bautista. The latter is remembered for leaving out several lines of the anthem during a boxing match of Gerry Peñalosa in Muntinlupa in 2007.

All three singers have apologized, claiming they had not intended to change some notes.

Singers like Sarah Geronimo, Lani Misalucha and Kyla, whose versions of the anthem at different Pacquiao matches had lasted for over a minute, have also been criticized by the NHI for turning the national anthem into a ballad. — with Norman P. Aquino/KBK, GMANews.TV

Gone in 55 seconds

Raising this matter again may somehow groan like the broken record. But this is very elementary, you know (sounding like Manny Pacquiao)! I do have this big respect for artistic freedom but please – por Dios, por Santo – spare the “Lupang Hinirang”.

After all those booboos, I feel that it’s about time the National Historical Institute train an official singer of the national anthem and commission him/her to any match, of sorts, whenever-wherever there’s the need to sing the patriotic hymn. It would be best for the NHI to tap a grader who looks up at his/her mentor as the bearer of the absolute truth; so, he/she executes as directed, and as expected.

Yes, this is very elementary. At grade one, children listen and sing the national song until they get familiar with it. Also, the children are taught the proper way of saluting the flag. At second grade, children are expected to read and sing along and able to identify “Lupang Hinirang” as a symbol of the Philippines.

As they move on to grade three, they are to perfectly sing the lyrics correctly: its melody, proper timing, and dynamics; to sing with proper expression and feelings. At grade four, children are now expected to understand the national anthem by heart and continue participating solemnly in singing the “Lupang Hinirang” with feelings.

As for the fifth grader, love of country is now deeply instilled through the song. And that it shows them how our heroes bravely fought and fearlessly died for our country’s independence so we could enjoy being FREEMAN.

At the sixth grade, children already view our national anthem in terms of nationalism and loyalty. And that we adults should have the initiative, at such crucial stages, to share and guide them in learning the song to heart.

Very elementary, indeed, as espoused by our Vibal-published books!

The “Lupang Hinirang” should be over in 55 seconds! How come? Go back to Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. Section 37 specifically provides that the rendition of the national anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe. The original version was composed in duple time (i.e. in a time signature of 2/4). But because some singers find it hard to literally follow the said measure, the quadruple time (4/4) was adopted.

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; local competitions; during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations; before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; and other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic education institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

Section 20 of the law also states: “The observance of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.”

Under Section 48 of RA 8491, “failure or refusal to observe the provisions of this Act; and any violation of the corresponding rules and regulations issued by the Office of the President, shall after proper notice and hearing, shall be penalized by public censure which shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.”

It prescribes that any person who will violate its provisions may be punished by a fine of at least P 20,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year.

Even moviegoers who do not stand up when the National Anthem is being played in cinemas will be sanctioned 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.

Amendment, as proposed by Akbayan Rep. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros-Baraquel, to give way to artistic freedom, should make it a requirement that the singer cares primarily for history, for patriotic pride and sensitivity; for the blood of our forefathers poured to reclaim our homeland. A well-raised child knows how to live up to the expectation that Filipinos, in this modern age, are indeed worth dying for.

 Why the fuss again? I’m fed up with our choices of “Lupang Hinirang” singers. If we “birit” the Lupang Hinirang, then why do we teach, in the first place, the youngsters to sing such in the so-called “proper manner” and “with fervor”? Why don’t we teach them then to do it the emo way; the hair rock fashion; the reggae-dub-ska?

This is very elementary. “Lupang Hinirang” is not only about the singer or about any boxer or his winning match. It’s about you and me and the rest who appreciate what it’s like to be held together by recurring themes of love of freedom, pride in motherland and shared cultural roots; of nationhood; of cultural traditions and ideals that various forms of colonization cum tyranny failed to strip off.

Treasuring and preserving our forefathers’ legacy is expected of us. Nothing less.

House panel to criminalize incorrect rendition of ‘Lupang Hinirang’

Improvised singing of “Lupang Hinirang” may soon be considered a criminal act.

The House committee on basic education and culture, chaired by Rep. Del de Guzman of Marikina City, announced the passage on third and final reading of House Bill (HB) Number 6424 or the measure proposing to criminalize the incorrect rendition of the National Anthem. The bill imposes two-year imprisonment and a fine of P100,000.

Rep. Salvador Escudero III of Sorsogon said once the bill is enacted into law, deviating from the musical arrangement of composer Julian Felipe when played and singing the national anthem “Lupang Hinirang” will be considered a crime punishable under Republic Act No. 8491 or Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines signed on February 12, 1998.

“This measure proposes to prescribe standards with respect to the singing of the National Anthem, protocol and display of the flag,” Escudero said.

Rep. Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro, co-author of the bill, said the National Anthem shall be within the range of 100 to 120 metronome, in 2/4 beat when played and in 4/4 beat when sung.

“The National Anthem is a marching-type tempo wherein the Filipino participants are obliged to sing,” de Guzman said.

The NHI, in coordination with the proper government agency, shall disseminate an official music score sheet that reflects the manner in which the national anthem should be played or sung.

When the national anthem is played, the public is required to sing and do so "with fervor."

They are expected to sing while the right hand is placed over the left chest. Uniformed personnel, meanwhile, are to salute the flag as prescribed by their respective regulations.

Individuals whose faith prohibit them from singing “Lupang Hinirang” must still show full respect.

The national anthem, however, would not be allowed to be played and sung preceding “events of recreation, amusement, or entertainment purposes."

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; national and local sports competitions, during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations, before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; Provided, that the owners and management of the establishments shall be mandated to enforce proper decorum and implement the pertinent provisions of this act; and other occasions as may be allowed by the NHI.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic educational institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

In Section 20 of the bill states: “The observance of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing and mandatory singing of the national anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.”

The bill also requires all government and private offices as well as Filipino residences to display the Philippine flag from National Flag Day (May 28) to Independence Day (June 12) of each year, declaring it the period as Flag Days.

Reacting to the style of singing of Martin Nievera during the Manny Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton fight on May 3, Rep. Teodoro Casiño of Bayan Muna said there was need to correct some misconception that anyone can sing the national anthem in his or her preferred style.

Casiño filed last month House Resolution 1137, calling for an inquiry into the correct manner of singing the National Anthem.

“The public should be enlightened that there is a law on how to show respect for the Philippine flag, the National Anthem, the great seal and other heraldic items because these are symbols of the Filipino spirit and national identity,” Casiño said.

The co-authors of the bill are Reps. Eduardo Nonato Joson (First District, Nueva Ecija), Carlos Padilla (Lone District, Nueva Viscaya) Jesi Lapus (Third District, Tarlac), Mariano Pia­monte (Party-List, A TEACHER), Candido Pancrudo Jr. (First District, Bukidnon) Maria Isabelle Climaco (First District, Zamboa­nga City), Roilo Golez (Second District, Parañaque City), Philip Pichay (First District, Surigao del Sur), Jaime Lopez (Second District, Manila), Ma. Victoria Sy-Alvarado (First District, Bulacan) and Isidro Ungab (Third District, Davao City).

The lawmaker noted that Nievera were not the first artist who has sung the national anthem in abbreviated and a different style and tempo. “There were other artists who were already criticized for singing “Lupang Hinirang” in their own preferred mood or tempo,” Casiño said.

Bill on RP flag OK’d

The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill that addresses controversies surrounding the wearing of fashion accessories containing items in the Philippine flag or seal and the propensity of Filipino artists to freely make their own interpretation of the National Anthem.

In a bid to make clear its stand against disrespect of the flag and other heraldic codes of the country, the chamber decided to hike the imposable fines up to five folds and doubled the prison term from one year to two years.

Congressmen also put in a new provision that would allow any person to conduct a citizen’s arrest while the law is being violated in his presence.

Before adjourning last week, lawmakers unanimously voted to pass House Bill 6424 which seeks to amend Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.

“The bill aims to update the law in the light of contemporary changes in attitudes and idioms among Filipinos. It also intends to instill love of country and underscore the importance of complying with standard expressions of respect for our national symbols,” said Marikina City Rep. Del de Guzman, chairman of the House committee on basic education and culture.

Approval of the measure came in the wake of the controversy surrounding the rendition of the national anthem by balladeer Martin Nievera during the celebrated boxing match between Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and British Ricky Hatton.

Also caught in the wake of the bill’s approval was the issue on the use of Philippine flag items such as the stars and the eight-ray sun in T-shirts and other fashion accessories.

Authored by Reps. Edno Joson (Independent, Nueva Ecija), Juan Edgardo Angara (LDP, Aurora); Rufus Rodriguez (PDP, Cagayan de Oro City) and Mark Leandro Mendoza (NPC, Batangas), HB 6424 prescribes the standard beat and tempo and requires mandatory singing of the National Anthem.

Under the bill the national anthem will be rendered in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe “in 2/4 beat when played” and in 4/4 beat when sung.”

It tasked the National Historical Institute to disseminate the official music score sheet for the anthem.

Persons with religious beliefs prohibiting them from making pledge to the flag will also no longer be exempted from showing full respect for the flag and will be asked to stand at attention.

The national anthem, however, would not be allowed to be played and sung preceding “events of recreation, amusement, or entertainment purposes."

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; national and local sports competitions, during the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations, before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; Provided, that the owners and management of the establishments shall be mandated to enforce proper decorum and implement the pertinent provisions of this act; and other occasions as may be allowed by the NHI.

The Oath of Patriotism must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic educational institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

In Section 20 of the bill states: “The observance of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing and mandatory singing of the national anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.”

The proposal prohibits the wearing of the flag, seal or coat-of arms as part of a fashion accessory or merely as a design element.

It also bans the use or display of the flag as part of any advertisement or infomercial unless approved by the NHI.

To further instill national awareness for respect of the flag, education agencies of the government were tasked to ensure that students in all public and private institutions will “commit to memory” the national anthem.

Penalties imposed against violators include a fine ranging from P50,000 to P100,000 and imprisonment of up to two years.

A diary regarding the re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1 of Your Song presents Boystown

In the ABS-CBN's Sunday drama anthology Your Song presents Boystown, lead cast member Enchong Dee as Arnel on doing a diary regarding my re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1:

"In my diary regarding my re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1 of Your Song presents Boystown, shot on location at the Olympic-size swimming pool of Makati Aqua Sports Arena, without Coach Daniel portrayed by Romnick Sarmienta, as a solo artist along with my sister Maria Angelika "Anj" Dee, 2010 UAAP Swimming Championships Girls Division MVP Sabrina Ingrid Ilustre, 2022 UAAP Swimming Championships Women's Division MVP Xiandi Chua, 2009 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division Rookie of the Year and 2013 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division MVP Johansen Benedict "Johan" Aguilar, Joshua Desamero and Adrian Thomas Dionisio, I am the youngest swimmer from Naga, Camarines Sur, turned professional movie and television actor and comedian, dancer, TV commercial, print and ramp model, singer and songwriter, and a student of De La Salle University, Manila campus."

For the 20-year-old Enchong Dee, playing Arnel in the ABS-CBN’s Sunday mid-afternoon drama mini-series, Your Song presents “Boystown”, is seated, using Cofta Ruby 1 Monoblock – Plain White and a starter pack for his hair styling includes Bench Fix Hair Gel, Normal Hold 135g and Bench Fix Hair Wax in Rock Steady 80g, it wears Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and holding Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type), he does a hair styling and portrait session with hair & makeup artist Nilo Cruz before proceeding to the climb at the swimming block, where he is adjusting the Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) to do a men’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s 1,500-meter freestyle then Enchong Dee as Arnel was in lane 4 wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and adjusting his Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and his sister Anj Dee is in lane 3 wearing Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Recordbreaker Costume, Female – Black (8-008153218) and adjusting her Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle - Black (8-705893515) to do a men’s and women’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s and women’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s and women’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s and women’s 1,500-meter freestyle, Enchong Dee as Arnel was in lane 4 wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and adjusting his Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and Johan Aguilar is in lane 5 wearing Agonswim University Athletic Association, University of Florida Mesh Training Suit Fully Front and Back Lined (ACX111510TRS2MES) and adjusting his Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle – Black (8-705893515) to do a men’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s 1,500-meter freestyle when Arnel will training with us, before warm-up, to watch a one-on-one game, photo by Ronnie Salvacion, styling by Bang Pineda, makeup by Renato Lu, shot on location at the 50-meter Olympic-size swimming pool of Makati Aqua Sports Arena.

P.S. Big thanks to Dimo for lending his underwater housing!

It uses the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K, Canon EOS C100 Mark II with Dual Pixel CMOS AF & EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Zoom Lens Kit, Ewa-Marine Underwater Housing for Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K, and Ewa-Marine V102 Underwater Housing for Canon EOS C100 or C100 Mark II.

“Then, yours truly, Johan Aguilar, Fahad Alkhaldi, Tim Yap, Jheg Gonzales, Roch Santos, Sage Yabut, Aidan Kyle Paggabao, Adrian Dionisio, Joshua Desamero, Zach Maranon, Berber Berino and Sacho Ilustre, FAST – Ateneo Swimming Team members Jessie Lacuna, Axel Ngui, Marco Daos, Wacky Santos, Sean Tan, Evan Brian Uy, Janjan Chiu, Jonas Ramos and Chico Gueco, University of the Philippines (UP) Varsity Swimming Team (UPVST) members Gabe Castelo, Gian Berino, Joseph Gaston Beloso, Tenten Mercado, Yani Reynoso, Allan Jovero, Ken Uy, and Zeus Magbanlac, and University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tigersharks team captain Miggy Carandang and UST Tigersharks members Dexter Docong, Xavier Ilustre, Karlo Salonga, Aljon Salonga, Charles Ivan Yatco and Andrei Nikolai Yambao, have a Goldilocks Mango Dream premium cake with the staff of UAAP Magazine to commemorate the 15th year of my last appearance in the UAAP Swimming Championships holding seven gold medals.”