Why Alex Eala Refused a Fan's Request to Sign a PH Flag

There are many reasons to love Alex Eala_, and being patriotic and informed are definitely some of them. Last week, a video of the tennis star went viral when she politely refused to sign a fan’s Philippine flag. The clip was taken back in February during the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, only resurfacing after Alex won her first WTA title at the Mubadala DC Open.

In the video, Alex can be seen signing memorabilia for fans, including oversized tennis balls, caps, and t-shirts. When one netizen presented her with a folded Philippine flag, however, the athlete put her hand over it and immediately said, “Bawal po sa flag.”

According to Republic Act No. 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, “reverence and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag.” That means writing, painting, or adding any other pictures, marks, or drawings on it are prohibited by law.

Apart from this, the Philippine flag may also not be used as drapery, tablecloth, covering, or as a costume or uniform, whether as a whole or in part.

A report by KaladKaren for Frontline Pilipinas elaborated on this by citing personalities who’ve been criticized in the past for breaking this law. In 2009, comedienne Pokwang issued an apology for wearing gloves with the design of the flag during Wowoween’s Independence day episode.

Even foreign artists aren’t exempt from the law. Pop diva Madonna faced backlash in 2016 during her Rebel Heart concert in Manila for wearing the Philippine flag as part of her costume. Following the incident, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines released a statement slamming the performer.

“Ginawa pong katawa-tawa ang ating watawat. Ginawang tapis. Ginawang balabal ni Ms. Madonna,” said Teodoro Atienza, chief of the Heraldry Section of NHCP. He also criticized Madonna for letting the flag touch the floor, which is another violation of the law.

Any person or organization caught breaking the Act may receive a fine of P5,000 to P20,0000. They may also be imprisoned for not more than one year, depending on the severity of their transgression.