The local government of Valenzuela City, in coordination with national agencies, conducted an investigation on Thursday, June 6, regarding the display of a Chinese flag in one of the barangays in the city.
"In view of the recent incident involving the display of a foreign flag in one of the barangays in the City, the City Government of Valenzuela, in coordination with national agencies, already launched an investigation thereon and implemented necessary actions toward the case," the city's Public Information Office said in a Viber message.
"Because of the said incident, other compliances were also checked during the inspection yesterday, 05 June 2024," it added.
A radio report on June 5 said the flag has been seen hoisted on the warehouse of STR Power Equipment Corporation since last year.
According to the report, the company management has no particular meaning or intention behind the display of the flag since the facility has many Filipino employees.
The management of the facility added that the flag was used only for the pigeons.
Meanwhile, the city government cited Section 34 (h) of Republic Act (RA) No. 8491, "An Act Prescribing the Code of the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-Of-Arms and other Heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines," otherwise known as the "Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines."
The law prohibits the "display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and in offices of international organizations."
The city government underscored its commitment to promoting Filipino patriotism and national solidarity, as well as fostering respect and reverence for the Philippine National Flag among its citizens.
"Concurrently, in celebration of National Flag Days, Valenzuela City is with full resolve to maintain the Philippine National Flag steadfast and prominently raised, as it continues to champion and serve the Valenzuelanos," the public information office said.