34 arrested in Philippines for sitting through national anthem

Police in the Philippines arrested 34 people for allegedly failing to stand while the national anthem was being played at a cinema in Batangas province, according to an official report.

The incident took place on Thursday at a movie theatre inside a shopping mall in Lemery town, where police detained the individuals after the national anthem, “Lupang Hinirang”, was played before a film screening.

In the Philippines, cinemas are required to play the national anthem before movie screenings. Audiences are expected to stand at attention as a mark of respect during the anthem.

Police said the 34 individuals had violated Republic Act 8491, commonly known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.

The law states that people present during the playing of the national anthem must stand at attention and face the Philippine flag when one is displayed. If no flag is present, they are required to face the band or conductor.

The legislation treats failure to comply as an offence and provides for penalties upon conviction. Violators can face a fine ranging from 5,000 pesos ($93) to 20,000 pesos ($371), imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

The incident highlights how the Philippines legally enforces certain forms of public respect for national symbols. The national anthem is routinely played in cinemas before films, making compliance with the law part of the country's public entertainment culture.