Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 1059)
Republic Act No. 1059 prohibits the naming of sitios, barrios, municipalities, cities, provinces, streets, highways, avenues, bridges, and other public places or institutions after living persons.
The law covers sitios, barrios, municipalities, cities, provinces, streets, highways, avenues, bridges, public thoroughfares, parks, plazas, public schools, public buildings, piers, government aircrafts and vessels, and other public institutions.
Yes, an exception is made if the naming is a condition in a donation in favor of the government.
Any ordinance or resolution adopted in violation of the law shall be null and void.
Such namings, unless made pursuant to existing Acts of Congress still in effect at the time of approval, are declared null and void and the proper authorities are directed to make the corresponding changes within six months after the law's approval.
The Act took effect upon its approval on June 12, 1954.
Yes, such namings made pursuant to existing Acts of Congress still in effect at the date of approval are exempted from the prohibition.
The proper government authorities are directed to make the necessary changes.
No, naming government aircrafts and vessels after living persons is prohibited under the law except in cases of donation conditions or existing laws.
The law aims to avoid the undue honor of naming public places after living persons, preventing favoritism or political patronage, and ensuring that such honors are reserved for those who have passed away or under specific conditions.