MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure updating the rules on the correct rendition of the Philippines’ national anthem.

House Bill No. 5224 seeks to impose stiff penalties of P50,000 to P100,000 on “any person who, or entity which violates any provision” of the proposed law.

Under the proposed measure, singing along when the anthem is played at public gatherings “shall be mandatory and must be done with fervor.” It must also  be sung properly,  in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe: in 2/4 beat when played, and within the range of 100 to 120 metronome, in 4/4 beat when sang.

There is no truth to the rumor that those who sing the anthem “out of tune” will also be penalized.

However, a separate House Bill, No. 666, penalizes any elected official “who is out of tune with the Filipino people.”

Many will recall that in a recent BBC interview with Antonio Trillanes, host Stephen  Sacukur asked the senator if he was out of tune with the Filipino people.

Violation of House Bill No. 666 carries a penalty of permanent disbarment from running for public office and banishment to Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

So, you can be out of tune with the national anthem but not the Filipino people.