PATRIOTISM Modernized

What's the first thing that enters into your mind whenever you hear of the combination of the colors Red, Yellow, Blue, and White? And I am sure you are familiar with the 3 stars and a sun pattern, aren't you? Well, I think I know what you’re thinking. These signify the identity of our very own country, the Philippine Flag. This is primarily the concept of  one of the latest and hottest trends ever to hit the season- Patriotism in a modern and cool way to which the youth could relate. This trend is what I call the I Am Pinoy fever.

Many people, especially teens, are avid aficionados of the said trend. I mean, who wouldn’t be? The iAMPiNOY trend is not just hip but it also lets us express our love and loyalty for our country. This trend taught me to be proud of being proud of our dear Philippines. Because of these, many top brands and boutiques have released their respective lines patterned on the trend; top brands like Bench (Pinoy Lab), Penshoppe (iamninoy.) and 3 stars& a sun created by Francis M. himself, to name a few.

The iAMPiNOY has a range of articles of clothing, from tagalog statement shirts to RYBW colored shirts, from vintage tees to Ninoy and Cory shirts- name it! But do you ever wonder why designers and creators of these clothes do not make shirts that are like the Philippine flag? Why? Because it is against the law. Yep. You heard it right! It is against the Republic Act 8491 or otherwise known as an act prescribing the code of the national flag, anthem, motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices of the Philippines. It is mentioned in the said act that Several commercial uses of the flag are prohibited, including using the flag as a trademark or for commercial labels or designs. Also, RA 8491 prescribes that any person who will violate its provisions may be punished by a fine of at least P20,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year. Yikes!

As conclusion, there are many ways to show our gratitude and patriotism to our beloved country. Let us reminisce upon the hard work and the dedication our heroes gave just to save this archipelago from falling down. Kudos Filipinos! Stand up, loud and proud!