Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 939)
The title is "Declaring the City of Bacoor, Cavite, as the 'Marching Band Capital of the Philippines.'"
Article XIV, Section 14 of the Philippine Constitution is cited, which mandates the State to foster the preservation, enrichment, and dynamic evolution of Filipino national culture based on unity and diversity with free artistic and intellectual expression.
Marching bands are integral to Philippine culture and heritage, playing roles in Filipino traditions, fiestas, secular practices, inaugurations, and historic events including the Philippine Revolution and the playing of the national anthem during Independence Day.
The City of Bacoor is recognized as the birthplace of the oldest living marching bands in the Philippines and continues to be the home of community marching bands and school-based drum and lyre corps.
The Marcha Nacional Filipina (Philippine National Anthem) was publicly played during the declaration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898, accompanied by marching bands, highlighting their historic importance.
The proclamation commits the City of Bacoor to sustain and preserve the tradition and operations of marching bands throughout the Philippines, in collaboration with local governments, government instrumentalities, and the private sector.
No penalties or sanctions are provided within Proclamation No. 939; it is a recognition and declaration proclamation.
The proclamation was signed in the City of Manila on April 6, 2020.
Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea signed the proclamation alongside President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.