Comedienne Marietta Subong aka “Pokwang” apologized recently at the Movie and Television Regulation and Classification Board (MTRCB) office for using the Philippine flag as the design for a costume she wore in the TV show “Wowowee.”

Pokwang wore a stylized boxer’s getup that incorporated the Philippine flag in the design. She was impersonating Mommy Dionesia, mother of boxing hero Manny Pacquiao.

The design is in violation of the Philippine flag law, said MTRCB chairperson Ma. Consoliza P. Laguardia.

Laguardia laments the incident saying they already conducted a free seminar weeks ago to all TV networks about the provisions and penalties imposed under the new Philippine flag law.

In the new measure, violation of the Philippine Flag Law shall lead to penalties of up to two-year imprisonment and a fine of P100, 000.

Malacanang, according to Press Secretary Cerge Remonde, supports the measure.

“This is to further instill our sense of patriotism,” Remonde said in an interview.

Pokwang, “Wowowee” show host Willie Revillame and the show organizers immediately issued an apology on air after receiving several complaints from viewers.

The comedienne admits her mistake.

“I’m not ashamed to say I am ignorant [of the Philippine Law] and I’m not ashamed to say I did wrong,” she said in Filipino.

Pokwang added: “It wasn’t my intention to ridicule the Philippine flag. I am a Filipino, I won’t do that to our flag.”

She defended her costume designer.

“It was a decision we both made. I just wanted to make the televiewers happy. As I said, I am really sorry.”

Together with Pokwang during her visit to the board’s office were “Wowowee” Executive Producer Phoebe Anieva and stylist Tonette Nazareno.