Adopted in 1898
| Capital | Manila |
|---|---|
| Population | 115 843 670 inh. |
| Area | 300 000 km² |
| Population density | 386.1 inh./km² |
| Local time | --:-- |
| Language(s) | Filipino, English |
| Political system | Unitary presidential constitutional republic |
| National motto | Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Makakalikasan at Makabansa (For God, People, Nature, and Country) |
| National anthem | Lupang Hinirang (Chosen Land) |
| Currency | Philippine peso (PHP) |
| Maritime borders | South China Sea, Celebes Sea, Sulu Sea |
The flag: history and symbolism
Flag History
The Philippine flag was designed in 1897 by the revolutionary leader Emilio Aguinaldo, then in exile in Hong Kong. It was sewn there by Marcela Agoncillo, her daughter Lorenza and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad.
It was unfurled for the first time on 12 June 1898, at Kawit, when the independence of the Philippines from Spain was proclaimed.
Under American administration, a law of 1907 banned its public display until the ban was lifted in 1919. The national symbols law of 1998 now sets out the rules for its use.
Meaning of Colours & Emblems
The elements of the Philippine flag have a precise meaning:
- Blue: peace, truth and justice.
- Red: patriotism and valour.
- White triangle: equality and fraternity.
- Eight-rayed sun: the eight provinces that were the first to rise up against Spain in 1896.
- Three stars: the country's three main island groups, Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.
Anecdotes & Fun Facts
The Philippines is one of the few countries whose flag changes appearance in wartime: the law provides that it should then be flown with the red band on top.
Every year, from 28 May to 12 June, Filipinos are encouraged to display the flag on their homes and buildings: these are the ‘National Flag Days’, which end on Independence Day.
The Philippine flag resembles that of the Czech Republic, which also combines two horizontal bands and a triangle at the hoist.
Similar Flags Around the World
Sport and history
Frequently asked questions
What is the capital of the Philippines?
Manila is the capital of the Philippines.
What do the colours of the flag of the Philippines mean?
The elements of the Philippine flag have a precise meaning: Blue: peace, truth and justice. Red: patriotism and valour. White triangle: equality and fraternity. Eight-rayed sun: the eight provinces that were the first to rise up against Spain in 1896. Three stars: the country's three main island groups, Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.