The Fun-Filled Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines

AKA The Law That Quantifies Your Love of Country. Amendments have been proposed (which you can read here, PDF format). Much to nitpick about it, like whether it is consistent with the spirit of Ebralinag (see Section 25), or whether it can lead to our own Texas v. Johnson (see Section 34a). But I have one special gripe, one that boils my blood. Section 37.

The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe. 

The proposed amendment is even worse.

The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe, the original copy of which is officially kept at the National Library of the Philippines, in Two/Four (2/4) beat within the range of 100 to 120 metronome.

Now, I'm corny enough to say I love our national anthem, that I get goosebumps when I hear it at appropriate moments. Better than that old drinking song Americans mangle with glee, than that feckless tune that Canadians manage to eep out. But a few things to keep in mind.

First. As made clear by the amendment, Lupang Hinirang was designed as a march. Sousa march, Colonel Bogey march. That is why it had no lyrics. The "musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe", as played in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898, was not designed for singing. The original lyrics came one year later, courtesy of Jose Palma.

Second. Wikipedia says: "In the 1920s, the time signature was changed to 4/4 to facilitate its singing and the key was changed from the original C major to G." Mira! That "musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe" in 2/4 glory? Not designed for singing. 

Third. The obvious purpose of the law is to maintain fealty to Tierra Adorada in its original conception. For the government of Emilio Aguinaldo. Who consolidated power after having Bonifacio executed. Who bluntly named himself "Dictator of the Dictatorial Government". If we are all for historical accuracy, it is Aguinaldo's vision of the Philippines, and not our current democratic system which Tierra Adorada in 2/4 beat glory celebrates.

Fourth. And yes, we are a democracy, with freedom of expression and all, freedom to celebrate our love of country in the manner that we see fit and not in the way our government dictates us to under threat of imprisonment or fine. What better symbolizes the Philippines? A free-flowing interpretation of Lupang Hinirang made with the benefit of the artist's inherent and guaranteed right to freely express herself/himself? Or a military march, deviation from which is sanctioned with military-style discipline.

Here's a version of Lupang Hinirang made in defiance of the Flag and Heraldic Code. Its arranger and singers are, under the Flag and Heraldic Code, liable for public censure, fine or imprisonment. So what if this version gets you teary-eyed, evokes the memory of martyrs like Rizal and Bonifacio, enraptures you over the talent of Filipino singers, makes you appreciate your nation even just a little bit more. (I overestimate the quality of that version, but you get my point)