TV-host actress Anne Curtis finds nothing wrong with Madonna using the Philippine flag during a performance in the Asian leg of her Rebel Heart concert in Manila.
“I think in a way, it should be shown na parang the love that she has for our country. I think kasi ngayon lang siya nakarating sa Philippines so ganon talaga,” Anne told reporters during an ambush interview on Friday.
(I think, in a way, it should be shown as [a symbol of the] love she has for our country. I think since it’s her first time to visit the Philippines, that’s what it was.)
Madonna is facing controversies after she used the Philippine flag in one of her performances during her concert at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
The Queen of Pop was also seen draped in the Philippine flag during one of her production numbers.
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In an interview with radio DZBB, an official of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), said Madonna violated Philippine laws.
“Ginawa pong katawa-tawa ang ating watawat. Ginawang tapis. Ginawang balabal ni Ms. Madonna,” Teodoro Atienza, chief of the Heraldry Section of NHCP, said during the interview.
(Our flag was mocked. Used to cover one’s body. It was used by Ms. Madonna like a shawl.)
Atienza said the flag touched the floor, which is prohibited under Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.
RA 8491 “is the act prescribing the code of the national flag, anthem, motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices of the Philippines, also prohibits wearing “the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform.”
Atienza said that even if Madonna and her producers were unaware of the said law, they would still be held liable.
He added that Madonna could be deported for her actions.
But Anne defended the Pop Diva.
“Everyone will always have their own opinion, which is their right. As an artist, you’ll never be able to please everyone,” she said. NC/CDG
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