SP Escudero: ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ hymn directive only applies to the executive branch

June 10, 2024 , 03:48 PM

By Lace Anne Ebuña

(June 10, 2024) – Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero said on Monday the recent directive from Malacañang, mandating the recital of the “Bagong Pilipinas” hymn and pledge during weekly flag ceremonies applies only to the executive branch. The Senate, House of Representatives, Supreme Court, and other constitutional commissions are not required to adopt this hymn in their ceremonies.

“Ang memorandum na ‘yun ay aplikable sa executive branch ng pamahalaan kabilang ang GOCC. Bilang rule, hindi ‘yan automatic na aplikable sa Senado o Kamara gayundin sa Korte Suprema at constitutional commissions,” SP Escudero said, following the Senate’s decision not to use the hymn in their flag ceremony earlier this morning, June 10.

However, he said he is not against using the hymn in the Senate if necessary because no names or personalities are mentioned or favored in the hymn.

“Pero kung ako ang tatanungin, wala naman masamang awitin o sambitin ang mga katagang dapat meron tayong pag-asa, dapat magtulungan tayo at dapat ambisyunin nating umangat ang ating bansa. Wala naman akong nakikitang masama doon,” he said.

On the other hand, Sen. Koko Pimentel suggested that the Executive Branch should submit a bill to amend existing laws governing the national anthem, pledge, and flag raising ceremonies if they wish to implement such changes nationwide, stating, “The Executive Order is not sufficient. I believe a law is needed to authorize that.”

According to Sen. Francis Tolentino, the directive’s specifics, including its effective date and scope, need further clarification, especially concerning whether it applies solely to the executive branch or extends to the judiciary and legislature.

Meanwhile, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada noted that Memorandum Circular No. 52 is neither illegal nor irregular, and said it aims to foster a culture of good governance and progressive leadership.

“Walang pinagkaiba ito sa pagkanta ng Senate, school, at university hymns na isang paraan para ipaalala ang pagiging makabayan at pagkakaisa nating mga Pilipino,” he said.

The Malacañang directive, issued on Saturday, has sparked debates among netizens, with some questioning the underlying motives. The administration defended the hymn, stating it aims to instill principles supporting the government’s inclusive plan for comprehensive social transformation across all sectors.

(PB)

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