MANILA, Philippines – A Malacañang official on Monday clarified news report that quoted Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III as saying that the Palace is keen on banning Madonna after she draped the Philippine flag on her shoulders during her Manla concert.
Communications Secretary Hermino Coloma Jr. said that Quezon was only reminding the performers and organizers of the strict flag law of the Philippines.
Coloma said what Quezon meant was "our flag law is strict about respect for the flag as a national symbol."
"Hence, this should be made clear to organizers and performers in concerts to prevent a repetition of the incident," he added.
Madonna’s two-night “Rebel Heart” tour concert at the Mall of Asia Arena last February 25 became controversial after she used a Philippine flag as drape while performing. This move from the American pop star drew ire from netizens and caught the attention of National Historical Commission of the Philippines which said she violated the law.
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The singer was said to violate Section 34 , item C of Republic Act 8491, otherwise known as the "Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines," prohibiting the wearing of the flag "in whole or in part as a costume or a uniform." Those who violate this law may be penalized with not less than P5,000 but not more than P20,000 or may be imprisoned for more than a year.
Quezon earlier said that although ignorance of the law excuses no one, it should not always be punitive.