It seems that Senator Richard Gordon has reached the end of the ropes in trying to promote himself to a higher position by coming out with a Bill that seeks to change the number of rays in the sun of the Philippine flag. Senator Gordon wants another Ray added to represent the Muslims who fought against the Spanish and American Colonial forces. He further adds that this will be a symbol of unity which is now lacking in the Philippine flag.
The National Historical Institute, the premier government body that serves as a guardian and resource to correct Philippine history has objected to the move as it does not have any historical basis. The sun and rays represent the 8 provinces that first fought the Spanish for the creation of a NATION, the first Philippine Republic. This is contrary to the various revolts and acts of defense that were conducted by individuals and groups for their communities as exhibited by Lapu-Lapu and other early filipinos. They did not even consider themselves to be filipinos then and there was no sense of nationhood as compared to the 8 provinces represented in the current Philippine flag.
What Senator Gordon refuses to accept is that the Muslims are already represented in the 3rd Star of the Philippine flag. He contends that it is not enough to honor the muslims who are part of our nation. By adding the Ray, it would stop the fighting in Mindanao and foster unity.
The question is, what is the real purpose of this Bill? First, the NHI already rejected the proposition for lack of historical basis. Second, the Muslims don’t really care because what they want is Autonomy and even secession from the Philippines. Third, those who have signed and supported the Bill in the lower house are known supporters and people of Sen. Richard Gordon. So, it brings the question to fore of what the true purpose of this Bill is.
We have known Gordon to shy away from the cost of advertising in running for a higher position. In fact, he puts all his money in the Red Cross. His dismal rating in the Presidential Polls, which he refuses to believe, does not stop him from his dream and goal of being the President of the Philippines. But why change the flag and make it an issue? Because that is how he is. He believes that it is better to do something radical and be talked about rather than to place an advertisement. He balks at mere idea of spending money for promoting his presidential ambition. Thing is, nobody wants to spend for him and his aspiration, so he looks for issues that will make him news worthy.
The good Senator defends the bill by saying that even in 1998, the flag colors where changed. In this he would be wrong. Yes, it was changed to conform to the real royal blue color of the original flag. Why did the flag for a time become navy blue or darker? One, because suppliers and flag makers did not have the raw material for the royal blue and, second, the government did not have the will to correct it.
So the question remains, is it worth bastardizing the flag for people who are already represented in it at its current design and layout? Or are we playing into another of Senator Gordon’s media stunts to promote his Presidential ambition. It seems that only President Arroyo can put an end to it because the Bill is already up for signing and final approval by the travel bug chief executive. Let’s hope she is more discerning.
San Lorenzo Village Monitor 