9th Ray for RP Flag?
In a bicameral session seeking to amend Flag and Heraldic Code, both the Upper and Lower Houses approved of adding a ninth ray to Philippine Flag recognizing contributions of our Muslim brothers in defending the country’s independence.
Senator Richard Gordon, the prime author of Senate Bill 3307 pointed out that the additional ray of sun on the Philippine Flag would promote unity within the nation, citing the conflict against Muslim militant extremists.
As for me, it clearly violates our heritage and would just bring so much confusion and again would take a lot of money that would otherwise be allotted to more pressing issues affecting the entire nation. While the effort of Senator Gordon to try bridge the gap between Christians and Muslims in the country is admirable, am afraid that merely adding a ray of sun on our flag isn’t enough.
Mindanao is considered as Muslim region and it is already included in the flag as one of the three stars. Besides, don’t you think it is irrelevant since the original 8-rays of the sun of our National Flag symbolizes specific provinces who initiate battle against the tyranny of Spaniards namely Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Cavite, Manila, Nueva Ecija, Batangas and Laguna?
History itself does not ignore the great contributions of our Muslim brothers. In fact, it speaks of heroism and nobility, conveying the storyline that once Muslim people dominate the country thus making our culture so diverse and so rich with artistic pride. It is this kind of thinking that aggravates misunderstanding between fellow Filipinos with different religious affiliations.
As an artist, it is so painful to see our heritage being destroyed by few people who only have themselves and distorted views to consider. If Senator Gordon believes that the saga of antagonism between Muslim militants and the government would be halted permanently through this, then it’s time to rouse the Senator from his deep slumber. Enough of this rubbish laws! It’s about time to prioritize the people of this country instead focusing on advertising one’s selves in order to gain popularity. Change of perspective and the political system is what this country needs and not any alterations that would promote further antagonism, misunderstanding and confusion. Again, please stop this nonsense and begin thinking and considering the real welfare of the citizens of this country, especially by not considering the difference between Muslims and Christians but rather the similarity that we are all Filipinos under one authentic Flag.
