(PNA) MANILA – Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada on Monday defended the issuance of Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 52, saying its intention is to “foster a culture of good governance and progressive leadership across all government levels.”
MC 52, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on June 4, directs all government agencies to include the the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) hymn and pledge in the conduct of their weekly flag ceremonies.
The directive covers all national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and educational institutions.
In a statement, Estrada pointed out the directive’s similarity to university or school hymns being sung by students.
“It’s important to note that MC 52 is neither illegal nor irregular,” Estrada said.
“Walang pinagkaiba ito sa pagkanta ng Senate, school at university hymns na isang paraan para ipaalala ang pagiging makabayan at pagkakaisa nating mga Pilipino (It is no different from the singing of the Senate, school and university hymns, which is a way to remind us of our patriotism and unity as Filipinos),” he said.
READ: Gov’t agencies told: Recite Bagong Pilipinas hymn in flag ceremonies
The administration launched Bagong Pilipinas as a brand of governance and leadership, characterized by a “principled, accountable and dependable government, reinforced by unified institutions of society.”
The Presidential Communications Office said Bagong Pilipinas envisions empowering Filipinos to support and participate in all government efforts in an all-inclusive plan towards deep and fundamental social and economic transformation in all sectors of society and government. (PNA)