Protocol and Social Amenities Lecture

Protocoland Social
Am enities
Part 1
BFP Custom s and Traditions
General Statement The Firefighters

shall adopt common and acceptable
beliefs, practices, customs and traditions of
the BFP as inspiration in achieving goals
and objectives of the organization.
Som e D efi
nition of Term s
Beliefs positive conviction of customs and
traditions of firefighters
Traditions Bodies of beliefs, stories, customs and
usages handed down from generation to generation
with the effect of an unwritten law.
Courtesy A manifestation of expression of
consideration and respect for others.
Ceremony A formal act or set of formal acts
established by customs or authority as proper to
special occasion.
Som e D efi
nition of Term s
Social Decorum A set of norms and standards
practiced by members during social activities
and other functions.
BFP Custom s on Courtesy

The following are customs on courtesy in the BFP:
Salute Salute is the usual greetings rendered by uniformed
members upon meeting and recognizing person entitled to a salute.
Salute to National Color and Standard Members stand at attention
and salute the national color and standard as these pass by them or
when the national color is raised or lowered during ceremonies.
Address/Title Junior in rank address senior members who are

entitled to salute with the word Sir or Maam. All BFP
Commissioned Officers shall be addressed sir or maam by BFP NonCommissioned Officers and Non-Uniformed Personnel.
W hen and W here to Salute?

As a general rule, all junior ranking firefighters must
salute to senior ranking firefighters of the BFP who are
entitled to a salute as an expression of courtesy and
respect to senior officers, active or retired, government
officials and foreign dignitaries.
BFP personnel while in complete uniform are required to
salute when they meet and recognize persons entitled
(by rank/grade) to asaluteexcept when it is
inappropriate or impractical (in public conveyances such
as planes and buses, in public places such as inside
theaters, or when driving a vehicle).
Salute when in Doubt is necessary.
Asaluteis also rendered:
National Anthem, "To the Color or foreign national anthems are

played.
To uncased National Color outdoors.
On ceremonial occasions as prescribed by the BFP
At reveille and retreat ceremonies, during the raising or lowering
of the flag.
During the sounding of honors.
When rendering reports/ reporting to senior officers entitled to a
salute.
To officers of friendly foreign countries
When future regulations prescribes
W hen Salute is not required

When driving
When right arm is amputated or incapacitated
During actual operations or while working
Both hands are occupied
When indoors or social gathering
When not in prescribed uniform
When future regulations required
M anner of saluting w hile in

Form ation/M arching
If marching while in a formation with two or three
personnel, all will render salute.
If marching while in a formation with 4 and above, the
squad leader/platoon leader/Coy/Battalion Commander
shall render salute.
If in stationary formation, a command shall signal
everybody to salute.

Courtesy Calls The following are the customs
on courtesy calls:
Courtesy Call of Newly Assigned/Appointed

Member BFP members who are newly
appointed or assigned in a unit must have a
command call on the chief of the unit or
command and other key personnel as a matter
of courtesy, as well as for accounting,
orientation and other purposes.

Christmas Call BFP members pay a Christmas Call on
their local executives in their respective areas of
responsibility.
New Years Call BFP members pay a New Years call on
their commanders and /or key officials in their
respective areas of responsibility.
Promotion Call Newly promoted BFP members call on
their unit head. On this occasion, they are usually given
due recognition and congratulations by their peers for
such deserved accomplishment. On the other hand, all
subordinates shall pay a call to newly promoted senior
officers.

Exit Call BFP members pay an Exit Call on their
superiors in the unit or command when relieved or
reassigned out of the said unit or command.
Courtesy of the Post/Host Courtesy The host unit
extend hospitality to visiting personnel who pay respect
to the command or unit.
Rank Has Its Own Privilege (RHIP) BFP members
recognize the practice that different ranks carry with
them corresponding privileges.
Custom s on Cerem onies

Anniversary the founding anniversary of the Bureau of Fire
Protection is commemorated by celebrating every 2 nd day of
August of the year.
Fire Service Recognition Day It is celebrated every 14 th of
December. All units may celebrate their recognition day
Wedding Ceremony - During marriage of BFP members, a

ceremony is conducted with participants in uniform and swords
drawn.
Honor Ceremony Arrival and departure honor ceremonies are

rendered to visiting dignitaries, VIPs, BFP Officers with the grade
of Chief Superintendent and above and AFP officers of equivalent
grade, unless waived.

Turnover Ceremony The relinquishment and assumption
of command or key position is publicly announced in a
Turnover Ceremony by the outgoing and incoming officers
in the presence of the immediate superior or his
representative. Outgoing Commander/Director should not
leave his post without proper turnover. Turn-over includes
turnover of properties/equipment, human and material
resources.
Flag Raising/Lowering Ceremony BFP members honor
the flag by hoisting/lowering it and singing the National
Anthem on Mondays/Fridays.

Other Flag Ceremonies Firefighters must observe
proper
display
of
the
National
Flag
during
indoor/outdoor ceremonies.
Half-Mast The flag is raised at half-mast in deference
to deceased uniformed members of the organization
during the wake.
Funeral Service and Honors Departed uniformed
members, retirees, war veterans or former PC/INP
members are given vigil, necrological services and
graveside honors as a gesture of farewell by sounding of
sirens and nozzle/turret showers in an appropriate time
during internment.

Ceremony Tendered to Retirees In recognition of their
long, faithful and honorable service to the BFP, a
testimonial activity shall be tendered in their honor.
Investiture pinning of rank of newly promoted shall
done appropriately
Attendance to Required Activities

BFP members shall religiously attend activities
but not limited to the following:
Scheduled Ceremonies
Physical Fitness
Convention and Seminar Workshop
Training
Meeting, Conferences, other Gatherings and Assemblies
Tradition and Practices in SocialD ecorum
Proper Attire BFP members always wear appropriate

and proper attire in conformity with the occasion.
Table Manners BFP members observe table etiquette
at all times.
Social Graces BFP members conduct themselves
appropriately based on existing protocols and norms to
be stablished in dealing dealing with people during
social functions.
Tradition and Practices in SocialD ecorum

Uniform/Appearance The public looks upon a BFP member as
distinctively a man among men. It is a welcome sight when BFP
members wear their uniform properly wherever they may be.
Bulging stomach is a taboo in the uniformed service. Since
disciplined BFP members are best exemplified by those who are
neat in appearance and wearing the prescribed uniform, they
must therefore observe the following:
- Wearing of prescribed uniform.
-Adherence to haircut prescribed by rules & regulations.
-Manner of Walking- Every BFP Member is expected to walk with
pride and dignity.
O ther BFP Practices

Visiting the Sick- Immediate commanders or other
available officers or his peers of the unit visit BFP
Members who are sick in the hospital, their residence or
any place of confinement.
Survivor Assistance of Heir of Deceased Members- A
survivor officer is designated whenever BFP members
die, to render maximum assistance to their bereaved
family until all benefits due shall have been received.
Visiting the Religious Leaders- BFP Officers visit religious
leaders in their areas of assignment to establish or
maintain rapport and cooperation between the different
religious leaders and the BFP.
O ther BFP Practices

Athletics- BFP members indulge in physical fitness
activities to insure that their proper physical
appearance and bearing.
Socialization
respective BFP
moment which
jeopardizing the
Firefighters shall gather together at

Club or appropriate place for light
is suitable to the occasion without
mandated task.
BFP Tradition
Valor- History attests that Firefighters have exemplified
the tradition of valor in protecting lives and properties in
the frontline of firefighting, search and rescue
operations by sacrificing limbs and lives for the sake of
humanity.
Patriotism- The BFP members are traditionally patriotic
by nature. They manifest their love of country with a
pledge of allegiance to the flag, to uphold the
constitution and a vow to defend the people.
Discipline- The discipline of the BFP members is
manifested by instinctive obedience to lawful orders
and thorough and spontaneous actions towards
BFP Tradition
Gentlemanliness and integrity - BFP members are
upright in character, gentle in manners, dignified in
appearance, and sincere in their concern to public
interest and beyond reproach.
Word of Honor- BFP members word is their bond. They
stand by and commit to uphold it.
Devotion to Duty- BFP members have historically
exemplified themselves as dedicated public servants,
performing the tasks without fear or favor and with a
deep sense of responsibility, self-sacrifice and
commitment to work ethics.
BFP Tradition
Loyalty- PNP members are traditionally loyal to the
organization, country and people as borne by history
and practice.
Camaraderie- The binding spirit that enhances
teamwork and cooperation in the BFP organization,
extending to the people they serve., in manifested by
the PNP members deep commitment and concern for
one another.
Espirit De Corps Firefighters are oblige to protect the
integrity and honor of fellow fire firefighter and so the
organization in general. Making or causing anonymous
letter and unnecessary complaints against any member
of the organization is taboo.
RAN K AN D PRECED EN CE
In the early times official and social functions were
often marred by squabbles, in some cases ending in
fatalities among officials and dignitaries each trying
to claim precedence over the other. Conflicts over
rank and precedence were especially rampant
among diplomatic representatives in various courts
in Europe during the period of from emergence of
nation-states. In order, therefore, to avoid untoward
incidents resulting from improper treatment of rank
and honors, rules of precedence have been adopted
to cover the situations in which officials and
dignitaries may be grouped together in official and
Precedence of O f f
cials in the Philippines-although no law
i
or executive order has established the order of
precedence in the Philippines, in practice the follow ing
order prevails:
The President
The Vice President
Former Presidents of the Philippines
The President of the Senate
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
"Foreign Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Members of the Cabinet who are Department Heads
Foreign Affairs Secretary
Secretary of Finance
The Secretary of the Interior and Local Government
The Secretary of National Defense
The Secretary of Public Works & Highways The Secretary
of Agriculture & Natural Resources
The Secretary of Education, Culture & Sports
The Secretary of Labor & Employment
The Secretary of Health
The Secretary of Trade and Industry
The Executive Secretary
The Secretary of Technology
The. Secretary of Social Welfare and Services
The Secretary of Budget and Management
Part 2
G eneralC ourtesy and Sim ple Am enity
Education and training are normal standards for
commission in the Fire service. A commission carries the
obligation to observe the customs and traditions is the
Fire service. Among these traditions is the acceptance of
an Firefighter as a gentleman. The officer must live up
to this expectation.
A gentleman conducts himself with dignity and grace. It
should appear that a Firefighter is tailor-made to
become a gentleman. However, this does not follow
automatically. There are certain efforts to be done,
largely in the field of social relations.
Foreign Envoys Extraordinary & M inisters

Plenipotentiary O f f
cials w ith Cabinet rank
i
The Commission on Immigration
The Chairman, National Economic Council
The .Press Secretary
The Commissioner on Audit
Members of the Senate (by length of Service)
Members of the House of Representatives (by length of
Service) Associate Justices of the Supreme Court
The Commissioners on Elections
Members of the Council of State (not cabinet members)

Acting Heads of Departments & former Vice Presidents of
the Philippines
The Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs
Ambassadors of the Philippines
Undersecretaries of Departments including the Assistant
Executive Secretaries
The Governor of the Central Bank
Principal Officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs
Envoys Extraordinary and M inisters

Plenipotentiary of the Philippines:
Foreign Charges' d' Aftaires en pied
Foreign Charges' d'Affaires ad in
The Mayor of Manila, the Presiding Justice of the Court
of Appeals, The President of the University of the
Philippines,
The Chief of Staff, AFP, The Chief, PNP, Commissioners
and officials with the rank of Undersecretary
Heads of permanent United Nations Agencies in the
Philippines with the rank of Director
The Provincial Governors

The Vice Chief of Staff, AFP and Deputy Chiefs, PNP
Foreign Ministers - Counselors, Counselors of embassies
and legations, Consuls-Generals, Foreign Military
Attaches with the rank of Brigadier General or the
equivalent rank in the AFP, and PNP and other officers
of equivalent rank
Mayor of Chartered Cities
Directors of Bureaus and Chiefs of Offices
Presidents, Chairman & Managers of Government

Corporations
Second Secretaries & Consuls of Foreign Embassies and
legations, foreign Assistant Police Attahces with the rank
of Major or Captain, and otherss of equivalent rank in
the PNP, Subordinate officials
The precedence which includes civil and military and

diplomatic representatives would vary under certain situations.
For instance, in the absence of the President, Vice President,
the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of
Representatives, and the Chiefs of the Supreme Court, the
Secretary of Foreign Affairs who is the senior member of the
Cabinet, takes over in which case he outranks foreign
ambassador.
Again, in a function wherein the host is a foreigner, Filipino

officials present therein precede their foreign counterparts.
Thus, if Mr Tong, a Chinese residing in Manila invites the Chief
PNP to a party in his house, the Chief PNP precedes the
Chinese Chiefs of Police.
The G uest of H onor
The guest of
honor precedes all other
guests. Usually no person of a higher Rank
than the guest of honor is invited to the
same function. Should it become necessary
to invite such a person of a higher rank, h
should be properly informed Acceptance on
his part after being so informed means that
he has no objection to being outranked by a
guest of honor.
Precedence am ong W ives

Precedence among wives of officials follows that of their
husbands. There are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance,
Mrs. Reyes, wife of Senator Reyes, is' requested by the President
of the Philippines to be the hostess in an affair in Malacanang in
the absence of the First Lady. Mrs. Reyes, then will precede all
the ladies present in the affair.
In case the official is a lady, the husband does not follow the
order of precedence of his wife. Thus, the' husband of a Filipino
lady ambassador ranks after the last accredited minister. A safe
rule to follow in the case of lady official precedes according to
the normal order of precedence; If spouses are included, the
lady official ranks after the wife of the official immediately
preceding her. As for her husband, it is sometimes easier for
him to feign diplomatic illness in order to avoid awkward
situation.
BFP Ranks and G rade

The ranks or grades of officers of the BFP follow more
or less the common pattern of officers' ranks which has
evolved in the armed forces of the worlds major
military.
Ranks and G rades

The different ranks or grades of officers can be divided into
the following categories
General or Flag Officers. This category includes all Directors
or Chief , Superintendents.
Field Officers. The US Navy and the British services call
this category senior officers. which includes Sr. Supt.,
Supt., C Insp and their equivalents..
Company Officers. This group includes all junior officers in
the ranks of Sr Insp, and Insp.
Cadets. This grade is below the normal officer grades.
Individuals holding, this rank enjoy officer status but do not
have full officer responsibility. :
Based on regulations and traditions of tile service, the

follow ing rules or precedence in the BFP are being follow ed:
The Chief BFP, precedes all officers of the BFP.
The DCA follows the DCO.
Retired Chief, BFP follows the incumbent DCA. Where there are more
one retired Chiefs, BFP, they precede each other according to the date
of retirement irrespective of rank.
CDS follows the DCO.
Directorial Staff Follows the CDS.
Directorial Staff by rank promotion seniority and other assignment of

the latter.
Other officers not mentioned above shall observe rank seniority

protocol, irrespective of assignments.
G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

A Firefighter shows breeding, and is therefore considered
a gentleman by his conduct in all dealings. He knows
that:
Being late for any engagement is the height of bad
manners.
A Firefighter is expected to behave and conduct

himself with dignity and restraint. Under the present
taste, smoking is a form of discourtesy.
It is bad taste to address a woman by her first name
or nickname unless she has indicated otherwise.

A Firefighter always ask himself to be permitted to smoke in
the presence of a woman especially in a room or in an
automobile.
If a Firefighter invites a friend to his club, he should be out of
sight only when necessary.
A Firefighter stands when introduced to a woman, a

clergyman, an official or an old man.
It is not polite to compliment a person in a company

because the others might feel slighted.

INTRODUCTIONS
Introduction is the act of formally making

persons known to each other or the art of
presenting one person to another. It follows
either of the two types; self introduction (or
introducing one self), and the introduction by a
third person.

When to Introduce ?
It is the duty of the host or hostess to introduce all
his or her guests to the guest of honor.
At formal dinners, every gentleman is introduced to

the lady he is paired with, except when the
introduction would be impractical.

When to Introduce ?
Strangers when seated next to each other at a table
should introduce themselves to each other.
When taking a house guest not known in your

neighborhood, he should be introduced to all close
acquaintances at a party.

When not to Introduce?
A guest who have just arrived is not introduced to
another who is just leaving.
An animated conversation should not be interrupted
to introduce another person.

Whom to Introduce ?
The younger person is always introduced to the older.
A Firefighter is always introduced to a lady regardless

of his rank.
A woman is never presented to any Firefighter

regardless of his rank or to any man, except to the
President, a royal personage or a church dignitary.

How to Introduce?
In introduction, the words "introduce:' and "present" are
equally proper. However, the latter is more formal.
"
"Director Baruelo, may I present (introduce) Insp Rapanot.
"Mr. President, I have the honor to present Mrs. Cruz. "

General Introduction
Director Baruelo, Insp Rapanot. (The first name is
spoken with a slightly rising inflection; the second is said
as a mere statement of fact)

What to Say when Introduced ?
Under all possible circumstances, persons introduced
to each other should say, How do you do?
A member of the reigning family is

addressed, "Your Royal Highness."
A foreign ambassador is addressed, "Your
Excellency.
A judge, doctor, or bishop is addressed,
"Judge ", "Doctor," or Bishop respectively.

A senator is addressed, "Senator" even
if he is no longer in office.
An ex-president is introduced as "Mr.
President" not as "Ex President.
Repetitions such as Director Cruz, Supt
Reyes; Supt Reyes, Director Cruz
should be avoided.

"Miss" - This is the formal way to address fin unmarried
woman as well as a female child. The oldest daughter.
The oldest daughter of a family - even if she is only four
is, correctly, Miss Reyes. "Miss" is also used when one is
not sure if a woman is married or single.
"Master" - This is traditionally used in addressing a boy
under twelve.
"Messieurs" - It should be used only to addressed to

two brothers, not to father and son, thus: Messrs. Juan
and Pedro Reyes.

Handshakes in Introduction
Gentlemen always shake hands with each other when
introduced.
It is very rude not to look into the countenance of the
person whose hand one takes. A smile rendered during
the handshake is a very polite act.
The general rule is; a woman has the privilege of

offering to shake hands with a gentleman. However, she
should not embarrass a man who has offered his hand .

GREETINGS
A greeting is nothing more than a brief expression of thought or
salutation at a meeting.
How to Express Greetings
A "how are you?" greeting is correctly answered by "All right,

thank you."
"Good morning" and "good evening" are acknowledged by the
same greetings.
Other greetings may be acknowledged by a bow:
a. Formal Bow - This is done by joining the heels together with a
graceful bend over from the waist to the neck.

b. Ordinary Bow - An ordinary bow is similarly
executed as the formal bow but more with ease.
c. Lady's Bow - This is done by slightly inclining
the head and with a smile as if to say "/ am glad to
see you. "
4. In a public place, when a man greets' a woman,
he gestures by half rising and bowing gracefully.
5. Greetings are also acknowledged by lifting or
tipping the hat

Miscellaneous Rules in Greetings
It is customary in Europe (But opposite in the USA) for a lady
to bow first.
It is preferably to greet someone familiar to you than to
ignore an acquaintance.
It is a breach of manner to fail to acknowledge anothers bow.
Similarly a blank stare showing unrecognition is insulting.
Except in weddings, greetings are not done in church or
places of worship. When necessary, they should be done in
low tones.
Part 3
Custom s of the Service
Customs of the service are the long established
practices or usages in the Bureau of Fire Protection that
have, by reason of constant and repeated observance,
acquire the character of unwritten norms of conduct.
Most of the customs and traditions in the BFP are
embodied in regulations while others are simply
adopted to supplement the pleasantries of BFP life.
Despite the possible changes in customs to suits the
needs of modern living, these established precedents
remains as the minimum accepted practices in the Fire
service.

Firefighters Code
Official Statements
A Firefighters official statement, whether written or
unwritten, is accepted without reservation. Making
false official statements knowingly is not only
Contrary BFP ethics but is also punishable under
existing penal laws.

Responsibilities
It is a Firefighters duty to prepare himself
professionally for higher responsibilities, The rank of a
Firefighter
carries
with
it
commensurate
responsibilities. When an Firefighter accepts his
commissionship, it is also his duty to prepare himself
for higher responsibilities.

Tact and Foresight
A Firefighter must not only be discreet in the exercise
of his duties but must be prepared to perform his task
skillfully under all circumstances.

Personal appearances
A firefighter must at all times appear neat and clean.
Nothing destroys the respect and confidence of
subordinates than the shadiness of their superiors.

Welfare of the Police Personnel
The welfare of the BFP Personnel should be
the paramount concern of a BFP Officer.

THE PRIVILEGES OF FIREFIGHTER
BFP personnel are required to extend unfailing
obedience and loyalty to senior commissioned and
non-commissioned officers. Obedience should be
shown with respect and courtesy.
A senior Commissioned Officer is normally addressed
by the use of the word, "Sir" by NCO's and NUP's.
For example: "Sir, a messenger wants to see you, "
"Sir, do you wish to attend the conference tomorrow?"
"Yes, sir

A senior BFP Officer is accorded the place of honor. In
walking or riding, junior sit, walks, or rides at the left
or behind the senior officer.
Courtesy demands that an officer use polite words in
a well modulated tone to convey an order. The use of
phrases, "I wish" or "desire" partakes of the full force
of a direct order.
A Firefighter enjoys the reputation of being a good
creditor. He is expected to settle all account promptly.
MISCELLANEOUS CUSTOMS
FIREFIGHTERS DEPORTMENT
The BFP Officer's uniform should reflect the dignity of his

organization. Under no circumstances must his uniform
be dishonored. A Firefighter in uniform should behave
with the dignity expected of him.
Leaning or sitting on desks is taboo. It is always proper to

stand erect and sit only when invited to do so
Part 4
Courtesy to the N ationalFlag and the N ational
Anthem
Design of the National Flag
The flag of the Philippines shall be blue, white

and red with an eight-rayed golden-yellow sun
and three five-pointed stars, as consecrated and
honored by the people.
Courtesy to the N ationalFlag and the

N ationalAnthem
Hoisting and Display of the National Flag
The flag shall be displayed in all public buildings, official
residences public plazas, and institutions of learning everyday
throughout the year.
The flag shall be permanently hoisted, day and night throughout
the year, in front of the following; at Malacanang Palace; the
Congress of the Philippines building; Supreme Court building; the
Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila; Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit,
Cavite; Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan; the Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier,Libingan ngmga Bayani;Mausuleo de los
Beteranos dela Revolucion; all International Ports of Entry and all
other places as maybe designated by the Institute.

N ationalAnthem
The flag shall also be displayed in private buildings and
residences or raised in the open flag-staffs in front of said
buildings every April 9(Araw ngKagitingan);May 1(Labor
Day);May 28(National Flag Day)to June 12(Independence
Day);last Sunday of August(National Heroes Day);November
30(Bonifacio Day);and December 30(Rizal Day);and on such
other days as may be declared by the President and/or local
chief executives.
The flag may also be displayed throughout the year in private
buildings or offices or raised in the open on flag-staffs in front of
private buildings:Provided,that they observe flag-raising
ceremonies in accordance with the rules and regulations to be
issued by the Office of the President.

N ationalAnthem
The National Flag may also be raised and displayed at sunrise and lowered at
sunset and throughout the year in the open flagstaff in front of private
buildings: Provided, that proper flag ceremonies be observed in accordance
with these Rules.
All government agencies and instrumentalities, and local government offices,
government-owned corporations and local government units are enjoined to
observe flag day with appropriate ceremonies. Socio-civic groups, nongovernment organizations and the private sector are exhorted to cooperate in
making the celebrations a success.
The flag shall be flown on merchant ships of Philippine registry of more than
one thousand (1000) gross tons and on all naval vessels.
On board naval vessels, the flag shall be displayed on the flagstaff at the stern
when the ship is at anchor. The Flag shall be hoisted to the gaff at the
aftermast when the ship is at sea.

N ationalAnthem
The National Flag, if flown from a flagpole, shall have its
blue field on top in time of peace and the red field on
top in time of war; if in a hanging position, the blue field
shall be to the left (observers point of view) in time of
peace, and the red field to the left(observers point of
view) in time of war
The National Flag could be knotted to signal that
assistance is badly needed

N ationalAnthem
If planted on the ground, the flagpole shall be at a
prominent place and shall be of such height as would
give the National Flag commanding position in relation
to the buildings in the vicinity. The flagpole must not be
of equal height or higher than the Independence
Flagpole at the Rizal Park, Manila.
The flagpole that is planted on the ground must be
straight and slightly tapering at the top.The minimum
length of the National Flag is one fourth () the height
of the flagpole, while maximum length of the National
Flag is one-third (1/3) the height of the flagpole.

N ationalAnthem
When the National Flag is flown with flag or flags of
other countries, the flags must be of equal size and on
separate staffs of the same height. The National Flag
shall be hoisted first and lowered last.
When displayed in a semi-circle of flags with other
countries or house flags, the National Flag should be at
the center.
When displayed in a circle of flags with other countries
or house flags, the National Flag should be flown on the
flagpole facing the main read (point of reference- KM 0
Rizal Park,Manila); or in front of a monument; or the
main entrance of the building. The flags of other

N ationalAnthem
When displayed in a row or in a parade with flags of
other countries, the National Flag shall be on the left
(observers point of view) of the other flags. The flags of
other countries should be arranged in alphabetical order
from left to right.
When in a parade with house flags, the National Flag
shall be in front of the center of the first line. The house
flags should be arranged in alphabetical order, by
precedence or by protocol order from left to right (the
observers point of view).
During special occasions, if there is only one flagpole,
the house flag may be flown at the same halyard with

N ationalAnthem
A worn-out National Flag should not be thrown away. It
should be solemnly burned to avoid misuse or
desecration. The National Flag shall be replaced
immediately when it begins to show signs of wear and
tear.
The National Flag shall be raised at sunrise and lowered
at sunset. It shall be on the mast at the start of official
school and office hours and shall remain flying
throughout the day.
The National Flag shall not be raised when the weather
is inclement. If already raised, the National Flag shall
not be lowered for the whole day.

N ationalAnthem
The National Flag may be displayed
Inside and/or outside a building, on stationary or movable
flagpole. If the National Flag is displayed indoors on a flagpole, it
shall be placed at the left of the observer as one enters the room;
From the top of a flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or
a commanding position in relation to the surrounding buildings;
From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, roof, canopy,
balcony or facade of a building;
In a suspended position from a rope extending from a building to
a pole erected away from the building;

N ationalAnthem
Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and
stars on top;
Hanging vertically in the middle of the two-way

traffic road, the blue field should be pointing
east, if the road is heading south or north and if
the road is heading east or west the blue field
should be pointing north; and
Hanging vertically at the sides or middle of the
one-way traffic road, the blue field should be at
the left of the observer.

N ationalAnthem
The National Flag shall be hoisted to the top briskly
and lowered ceremoniously.
The National Flag must be properly folded before
hanging for the start of the ceremony. It shall not be
left hanging at the base of the flagpole while waiting
for the flag ceremony.
The National Flag shall never touch anything beneath
it, such as the base of the pole, ground or other object.
After being lowered, the National Flag shall be handled
and folded solemnly as part of the ceremony.

N ationalAnthem
Conduct of Flag Raising and Lowering Ceremonies
All government offices, including national or local government units
and institutions, shall henceforth observe the flag raising ceremony
every Monday morning and the flag lowering ceremony every Friday
afternoon.
These include private establishments who fly the National Flag on the
flagpole in their compound.
Primary and secondary schools and other institutions of learning shall
observe the flag ceremony as ordered by the Department of
Education, Culture and Sports and/or the Commission on Higher
Education.
The observance of the flag ceremony shall be simple and dignified

N ationalAnthem
During the flag raising ceremony, the assembly shall
stand in formation facing the National Flag. At the
moment the first note of the National Anthem is heard,
everyone in the premises shall come to attention;
moving vehicles shall stop. All persons present shall
place their palms over their chest, those with hats shall
uncover, while those in military, scouting, security
guard, and citizens military training uniforms shall give
the salute prescribed by their regulations, which salute
shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem
The same procedure shall be observed when the
National Flag is passing in review or in parade.

N ationalAnthem
During the flag lowering, the National Flag shall be
lowered solemnly and slowly so that the flag shall be
down the mast at the sound of the last note of the
National Anthem. Those in the assembly shall observe
the same deportment or shall observe the same
behavior as for the flag raising ceremony.

N ationalAnthem
Half-Mast
The National Flag shall be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning on all
the buildings and places where it is displayed, as provided, on the day of
the official announcement of the death of any of the following officials:
a. The President or a former President, for ten (10) days;

b. The Vice-President, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the
President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of
Representatives, for seven (7) days;
c. Cabinet Secretaries, Associate Justices of the Supreme Court,
Members of the Senate and House of Representatives, the Chief of Staff
of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Director-General of the
Philippine National Police, for five (5) days;

N ationalAnthem
d. Heads of National Government Agencies, including Government
Owned and Control Corporations and Government Financial
Institutions, for three (3) days;
e. The Commanding Generals of the Philippine Air Force and the
Philippine Army and the Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine
Navy, for three (3) days;
f. Governors, Vice-Governors, city and municipal Mayors, city and
municipal Vice-Mayors, for three (3) days;
g.
Members
of
theSangguniang
Panlalawigan,
Sangguniang
Panlungsod and Sangguniang Bayan, on the day of interment;
h. Barangay Chairmen and the Barangay Councilmen on the day of
interment;

N ationalAnthem
i. Former National or Local Government Officials, appointive or
elective, other than those specified above, on the day of
interment, within their former respective territorial jurisdictions
and by resolution of their respective Sanggunians;
j. Regional Directors, Superintendents, Supervisors, Principals,
Teachers and other school officials, on the day of interment and
by order of the proper school authorities concerned;
k. Recipients of national orders and decorations, on the day of
interment and by order of the President or the Congress; and
l. Other persons to be determined by the Institute, for a period of
less than seven (7) days.

N ationalAnthem
In cases c to e the National Flag shall be flown at
half-mast in front of the building where the deceased
official is holding office and in cases f to h through
Sanggunian Resolution or by order of the Local Chief
Executive.
The National Flag, when flown at half-mast, shall be first
hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered to the
half-mast position. The National Flag shall again be
raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.
The National Flag shall also be flown at half-mast during
calamities/tragedies of national or international
significance as ordered by the Office of the President.

N ationalAnthem
The National Flag shall be permanently hoisted
at half-mast day and night throughout the year
at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ng
mga
Bayani,
Fort
Bonifacio,
MakatiCity;Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la
Revolucion, North Cemetery, Manila; and in all
memorial cemeteries dedicated to war veterans.
The National Flag of these declared sites shall
be properly illuminated at night.

N ationalAnthem
Casket
The National Flag may be used to cover the caskets of the
honored dead of the military, veterans of previous wars,
National Artists, and of civilians who have rendered
distinguished service to the nation, as may be determined by
the local government unit concerned. In such cases, the
National Flag shall be placed such that the white triangle shall
be at the head and the blue portion shall cover the right side of
the casket. The National Flag shall not be lowered to the grave
or allowed to touch the ground, but shall be folded solemnly
and handed over to the heirs of the deceased or next of kin.
No object must be put on top of the National Flag, except for
religious objects that symbolize God above Country.

N ationalAnthem
Pledge to the National Flag
The following shall be the Pledge of Allegiance to the National Flag:
Ako ay Pilipino
Buong katapatang nanunumpa
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag
Na may dangal, Katarungan at Kalayaan
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanan
Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at
Makabansa.
Such pledge shall be recited right after the singing of the National Anthem, the throng
standing with the right palm open, raised shoulder high. Individuals whose faith or
religious beliefs prohibit them from making such pledge must nonetheless show full
respect by standing at attention.

N ationalAnthem
National Flag Days
.The period from May 28 to June 12 of each year is
declared as National Flag Days, during which period all
offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the
government, business establishments, institutions of
learning, private buildings and homes are enjoined to
display the National Flag.
The government offices and local government units
concerned shall display the National Flag on main
thoroughfares, parks, plazas, and other public places.

N ationalAnthem
Prohibited Acts
To mutilate, deface, defile, trample on, cast contempt, or
commit any act or omission casting dishonor or ridicule
upon the National Flag or over its surface;
To dip the National Flag to any person or object by way of
compliment or salute;
To use National Flag:
As drapery, festoon, tablecloth;
As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or other objects;

N ationalAnthem
As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of
motor vehicles;
As a staff or whip;
For unveiling monuments or statues; and
As trademarks, or for industrial, commercial or
agricultural labels or designs.

N ationalAnthem
To display the National Flag (Prohibited Acts):
Under any painting or picture;
Horizontally. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be
allowed to fall freely;
Below any platform; or
In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs,
casinos, gambling joints and places of vice or where
frivolity prevails.

N ationalAnthem
(Prohibited Acts):
To wear the National Flag in whole or in part as a

costume or uniform;
To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design,

drawings, advertisement, or imprint of any nature on
the National Flag;
To print, paint or attach representation of the National
Flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and articles of
merchandise;

N ationalAnthem
(Prohibited Acts):
To display in public any foreign flag, except in
embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and in
offices of international organizations;
To use or display or be part of any advertisement or
infomercial; and
To display the National Flag in front of buildings or
offices occupied by aliens.

N ationalAnthem
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
The National Anthem is entitledLupang Hinirang.
The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language within or
outside the country. The following shall be the lyrics of the National Anthem:
Bayang Magiliw
Perlas ng Silanganan,
Alab ng puso
Sa Dibdib moy buhay.
Lupang Hinirang
Duyan ka ng magiting,
Sa manlulupig.
Di ka pasisiil.
Sa dagat at bundok,
Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw,
May dilag ang tula
At awit sa paglayang minamahal.
Ang kislap ng watawat moy
Tagumpay na nagniningning
Ang bituin at araw niya,
Kailan pa may di magdidilim.
Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhatit pagsinta,

N ationalAnthem
The rendition of the National Anthem, whether
played or sung, shall be in accordance with the
musical arrangement and composition of Julian
Felipe and in accordance with its original Filipino
lyrics and march tempo that was adopted under
Department Order No. 5 dated May 26, 1956
covered by Circular No. 21 dated June 22, 1956
and Executive Order No. 60 dated December 19,
1963.

N ationalAnthem
Conduct in Relation to the National Anthem
When the National. Anthem is played at a public gathering, whether by a
band or by singing or both, or reproduced by any means, the attending
public shall sing the anthem. The singing must be done with fervor.
As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention and face the
National Flag, if there is one displayed, and if there is none, they shall
face the band or the conductor. At the first note, all persons shall
execute a salute by placing their right palms over their chests. Those in
military, scouting, citizens military training and security guard uniforms
shall give the salute prescribed by their regulations. The salute shall be
completed upon the last note of the National Anthem.
When the National Anthem is to be played or sung with the Anthem of
any other country, the National Anthem shall be sung first.

N ationalAnthem
The National Anthem shall not be played or sung for mere recreation,
amusement or entertainment purposes except on the following occasions:
a. International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a
representative;
b. National or local competitions;
c. During the signing of and signing on of radio broadcasting and
television stations;
d. Before the initial and last screening of films or before the opening of
theater performances;
e. Civic activities, cultural shows or presentations; and
f. Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute (NHI).

N ationalAnthem
All officials and employees of the national and local
governments, and any agencies or instrumentalities thereof,
including government-owned or controlled corporations,
institutions of learning, and privately-owned entities or
offices displaying the National Flag are hereby directed to
comply strictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of
the National Anthem.
References:
1. Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic
Act No. 8491
2. Bureau of Fire Protection Fire Fighters
Institutional Regulations and Ethical standards
(BFP FIRES) CY 2001
3. PNP MANUAL DRILLS AND CEREMONIES AND
PROTOCOL AND SOCIAL USAGE
4. PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE MANUAL DHRDD
ETHICAL DOCTRINE MANUAL PNPM 0-08-95

Protocol and Social Amenities Lecture

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Protocol and Social Amenities Lecture

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Protocoland Social

BFP Custom s and Traditions

General Statement The Firefighters

BFP Custom s on Courtesy

Address/Title Junior in rank address senior members who are

W hen and W here to Salute?

Asaluteis also rendered:

National Anthem, "To the Color or foreign national anthems are

W hen Salute is not required

M anner of saluting w hile in

BFP Custom s on Courtesy

Courtesy Call of Newly Assigned/Appointed

BFP Custom s on Courtesy

BFP Custom s on Courtesy

Custom s on Cerem onies

Wedding Ceremony - During marriage of BFP members, a

Honor Ceremony Arrival and departure honor ceremonies are

Custom s on Cerem onies

Custom s on Cerem onies

Custom s on Cerem onies

Attendance to Required Activities

Tradition and Practices in SocialD ecorum

Proper Attire BFP members always wear appropriate

Tradition and Practices in SocialD ecorum

O ther BFP Practices

O ther BFP Practices

Firefighters shall gather together at

Foreign Envoys Extraordinary & M inisters

Members of the Council of State (not cabinet members)

Envoys Extraordinary and M inisters

The Provincial Governors

Presidents, Chairman & Managers of Government

The precedence which includes civil and military and

Again, in a function wherein the host is a foreigner, Filipino

The G uest of H onor

Precedence am ong W ives

BFP Ranks and G rade

Ranks and G rades

Based on regulations and traditions of tile service, the

CDS follows the DCO.

Directorial Staff Follows the CDS.

Directorial Staff by rank promotion seniority and other assignment of

Other officers not mentioned above shall observe rank seniority

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

A Firefighter is expected to behave and conduct

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

A Firefighter stands when introduced to a woman, a

It is not polite to compliment a person in a company

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

Introduction is the act of formally making

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

At formal dinners, every gentleman is introduced to

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

When taking a house guest not known in your

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

The younger person is always introduced to the older.

A Firefighter is always introduced to a lady regardless

A woman is never presented to any Firefighter

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity

"Director Baruelo, may I present (introduce) Insp Rapanot.

"Mr. President, I have the honor to present Mrs. Cruz. "

G eneralCourtesy and Sim ple Am enity