The Philippine Commission Passes Act No. 1696

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

SEPTEMBER 6, 1907

The Philippine Commission passed Act No. 1696 which is known as the Flag Act. It is "An act to prohibit the display of flags, banners, emblems, or devices used in the Philippine islands for the purpose of rebellion or insurrection against the authorities of the United States and the display of Katipunan flags, banners, emblems, or devices, and for other purposes.” 

This was the result of the August 23, 1907 meeting of the members of the American community at the Manila Grand Opera House where a resolution was passed calling for the proscription of the Philippine Flag. 

Long before the Flag Act was passed, the use or display of the Philippine flag was banned. The Philippine Constabulary was the law enforcement agency tasked to apprehend and incarcerate anyone who used any button, pin, watch chain and trinkets bearing the colors or the design of the Philippine flag. 

During the military occupation, the display or mere possession of the Philippine flag was considered a disloyalty or hostility towards the United States and its government in the Philippine islands. 

The Flag Act was repealed by the Philippine Legislature in 1919.

Design, concept, stamps and research: (Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: official gazette