Why Do Countries Need a Flag?

That piece of colored fabric (sometimes in one color or with fancy patterns) that is used as a symbol, or decoration, or for sending messages and signals is called a flag.

Anyone can make any kind of flag for any occasion or reason. But as a country, we only have one standard flag. We unfurl the Philippine flag every Monday morning, before the first class of the week begins, during the flag ceremony.

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On June 12 this month we celebrated Philippine Independence Day. The main rites in Manila, led by President Benigno Aquino III, was highlighted by the raising of a giant flag while everyone stood in attention, right palm on chest, singing Lupang Hinirang. 

What is so important about a country’s flag? Why do we even have a flag?

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Each country needs a flag as a visual representation of its people—and to distinguish it from other nations. A flag is also a code of honor.  When anyone sees a Filipino flag, he gets reminded of a country called the Philippines and its people

Where on earth did the word flag come from?  From Vexillum, a latin word meaning flag or banner. Over 4,000 years ago, the first flags were called vexilloid and they were made of metal or wooden poles with carvings.

They helped ancient armies coordinate on the battlefield—identify the allies from the enemies. They were also used to honor those who lost their lives in the fight. 

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Today, every country has a national flag made of fabric. It is hoisted on a flagpole and flown so that everyone can be reminded of the values and history of the country.

Flying a flag is also a way to show pride and ownership. If you find a building anywhere in the world with the Philippine flag, you can be sure it is Philippine territory—a consulate, embassy, or headquarters. 

A country’s flag also helps to unite people. By having the same flag, we Filipinos have a common symbol to bring us closer together—at home or abroad.          

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Countries usually design their flag with certain colors or shapes to stand for specific meanings. Sometimes, a flag is altered to represent new messages or events.

Flags show ideas which would otherwise take many words. On sad occasions, country flags are flown at half-mast to honor the dead, and draped over the coffins of national heroes.

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I know you’re familiar with our own flag, but let’s review what the symbols and colors mean so we can pass on the knowledge to younger children:

Three stars: three main regions of the country—Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao.

White triangle: peace and purity; equality of the Katipunan organization

Sun: independence; its eight rays represent the provinces that revolted against                the Spaniards (Manila, Bulacan, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Batangas, Tarlac,   Cavite and Pampanga)

Blue: patriotism and justice

Red: courage and blood shed for freedom and independence

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My friend Vince has had a Philippine flag proudly flown outside his house for over twenty years now—every single day, except during storms. Passersby wonder whether it is the house of a government official. I wish that one day all homes will  also do the same.  

How can we, individually, show respect for the symbol of our country? By standing in attention when the Philippine National Anthem is being played. Better yet, by singing our heart out!

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