The Flag of the Philippines (Filipino: Pambansang Watawat ng Pilipinas) also known as the Three Stars and A Sun (Filipino: Tatlong Bituin at Isang Araw) is the national flag and ensign of the Republic of the Philippines.
It is a horizontal flag bicolor with equal bands of royal blue and crimson red, and with a white, equilateral triangle at the hoist. In the center of the triangle is a golden-yellow sun with eight primary rays. At each vertex of the triangle there is a five-pointed, golden-yellow star.
A unique feature of this flag is its ability to indicate a state of war if it is displayed with the red side on top.
Design[]
It was designed by Emilio Aguinaldo and Sewn by the Agoncillio Sisters during his Exile in Hong Kong. and later used it during the Battle of Alapan.
Symbols[]
The sun[]
The eight-rayed sun symbolizes the first eight provinces that revolted against the Spanish government. Specifically, they are Manila, Cavite, Batangas, Bulacan, Laguna, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija.
The stars[]
The three five-pointed stars represent the three main island groups: Luzon, Visayas (originally Panay), and Mindanao.
The colors[]
White[]
The white equilateral triangle stands for equality and fraternity which is also seen in various Katipunan flags and has Freemasonic origins.
Blue[]
The blue stripe means peace, truth, and justice.
Red[]
The red stripe represents Filipino patriotism and valor.