DOST pushes amendments to recycle retired Philippine flags instead of burning

The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) is pushing for amendments to the Flag and Heraldic Code to allow retired Philippine flags to be recycled instead of burned.

DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius Leaño Jr. said the proposal aims to address environmental concerns associated with burning flags made from synthetic materials.

“Before, flags were made of cotton and silk, so burning them did not pose a problem since these are natural materials. Now, our flags are made of polyester and nylon, and burning them emits toxic gases into the atmosphere,” Leaño said in an interview on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.

The DOST-PTRI has been collecting worn-out Philippine flags since April in preparation for a retirement ceremony on Tuesday, May 26. Instead of the traditional burning, the institute proposes a recycling process.

Under Republic Act No. 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, worn-out flags must not be discarded but should be “solemnly burned” to prevent misuse or desecration.

Leaño said the proposed changes would still uphold respect for the flag despite altering the method of retirement.

He added that the institute is exploring recycling technologies that can repurpose flag fibers into new textile products without diminishing their value.

“Our proposal and technology involve physically separating the fibers of the flag, which can then be used to produce new threads and re-enter the supply chain,” Leaño explained.

“Since these are made of polyester and nylon, they have a sheen that makes them suitable for embroidery or for reuse as thread in garments,” he added.

Aside from this, the DOST-PTRI is also encouraging the use of cotton or silk for ceremonial indoor flags as a more eco-friendly alternative.