First flag retirement ceremony marks Quezon observance

By Engr. Jay B. Laurino Boy Scouts conduct the retirement of an unserviceable Philippine flag during Quezon province's first flag retire...

By Engr. Jay B. Laurino

Boy Scouts conduct the retirement of an unserviceable Philippine flag during Quezon province's first flag retirement ceremony. (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Flames rose from a worn Philippine flag Friday as Quezon province conducted its first flag retirement ceremony. The event applied a national law requiring unserviceable flags to be retired with dignity rather than discarded.

That observance formed part of the Provincial Government of Quezon's first formal retirement ceremony for unserviceable Philippine flags at the provincial capitol on June 5. Provincial authorities said the activity complied with Republic Act 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.



Governor Helen Tan led the ceremony attended by provincial officials, employees and representatives of partner institutions. The activity focused on the retirement of worn, faded and damaged Philippine flags.

Officials from the Quezon Province Heritage, History, Culture and Arts Council, the Provincial Tourism Office and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines joined the observance. Department heads and provincial employees also attended.

The flag was displayed for its final day of service before the retirement rites. Organizers said the procedure followed provisions of the Flag and Heraldic Code.

Provincial authorities said the activity aimed to promote proper handling of retired flags. They said respect for national symbols remains a shared responsibility.

In her remarks, Tan said the Philippine flag represents the nation's history, freedom, identity and unity. She said those values remain relevant despite the effects of time and exposure to the elements.

“Ang watawat ay hindi lamang isang telang ating iwinawagayway sa mga pagdiriwang at mahalagang okasyon. Higit pa rito, ito ay sagisag ng ating kasaysayan, kalayaan, pagkakakilanlan at pagkakaisa bilang isang sambayanan,” Tan said.

Tan said the ceremony honored both the flag and the ideals it represents. She said patriotism must be reflected in daily actions and public service.

“Maaaring naluma na ang tela nito dahil sa pagdaan ng panahon at sa pagkakalantad sa iba't ibang elemento ng kalikasan. Ngunit hindi kailanman kumupas ang kahulugan at mga pagpapahalagang kinakatawan nito,” Tan said.

The ceremony highlighted concerns over the improper disposal of national flags. Cases of retired flags being found among discarded materials have underscored the need for greater public awareness of proper retirement procedures.

Republic Act 8491 prescribes a formal retirement process for Philippine flags that have become worn, faded, torn or no longer fit for display. Unserviceable flags cannot be discarded as ordinary waste and must instead be retired through burning.

Friday's observance marked the first formal flag retirement ceremony conducted by the Provincial Government of Quezon. Provincial officials said similar activities may be held in the future for other unserviceable flags.