You may agree or disagree, but the legislature of at least one country currently battling ISIS terrorists has sent a message out to their citizens. Either you sing the National Anthem with pride or face a stiff fine. A message that is sure to have their snowflakes melting away into the shadows.
The new bill currently in the Philippine legislature which would require people in the Philippines to enthusiastically sing the national anthem, or face a steep fine , is now one step closer to becoming a law. Known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,” the proposed law states that “singing [of the national anthem] shall be mandatory and must be done with fervor,” according to a report on the BBC. Sources say the existing legislation does not make this a requirement.
In addition to residents being required to sing with fervor, they will also be required to sing “Lupand Hinirang,” the national anthem, when its played during public gatherings and to face the Philippine flag, band or conductor while doing so. The new law sets a fine of as much as $5,590 for anyone caught breaking the law. In addition, it provides for an increasing penalty each time an offender is caught buy up to 14 times the initial amount.
The new law also requires that repeat offenders be “named and shamed” in a national newspaper. “Any act which casts contempt, dishonor or ridicule upon the national anthem shall be penalized,” the bill says. It also requires the national anthem to be played at all public gatherings, according to The Philippines National Inquirer. Sources said the bill passed in the House of Representatives this week and is currently waiting for approval in the country’s Senate.
I don’t know if this will improve patriotism or not, but I bet everyone will know the words to the song from that point on.
Sassy Liberty