ONE OF the activities in the Miss Universe 2020 beauty pageant was the national costume competition. This was not included in the judging criteria in choosing the next Miss Universe but it caught a lot of attention and stoke comments from the audience, especially from the Philippines.
During the competition, our very own Rabiya Mateo did not wear her headpiece. Her costume carried the blue, red and yellow colors of the Philippine national flag.
There were claims that Rabiya did not know that it is a violation of the law to wear the Philippine flag as a costume.
Was there really a violation? Let us dissect the law to fully understand it.
Republic Act 8491 or the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines” mandates that reverence and respect shall be accorded at all times to the Philippine flag, the national anthem and other national symbols that embody the country’s ideals and traditions, and express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity.
Section 34 of the said law enumerates the prohibited acts in view of the use and handling of the Philippine national flag. The law mentioned that it is prohibited to wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform. Additionally, it is prohibited to print, paint or attach representation of the flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other articles of merchandise.
The flag referred here is an actual flag. The rationale of the law is to give respect to the flag.
The law does not prevent to show our national flag’s colors in representation of our country.
Furthermore, under the Intellectual Property Code, state flags or emblems, or coat of arms are not allowed. These symbols cannot be owned by anyone because they belong to the public.
Rabiya’s national costume was inspired by the Philippine flag which symbolizes royalty, courage, and strength of an independent woman. The colors used were, of course, blue, red and yellow that when put together become a symbol of Philippines and its people.
There was no violation of the law. Even the National Historical Commission of the Philippines said wearing the flag as a fashion accessory is acceptable as long as it is approved by its office./PN
