And Finally... Sing the national anthem properly or go to jail

By Tony White on Oct 6, 10 05:21 PM in News

The House of Representatives of the Philippines has passed a Bill declaring that anyone not singing the country's national anthem properly could face up to two years in jail.

The legislation, which is due to go before the Senate for ratification, initially stipulates a fine of more than $2,000 (£1,264) rising to the custodial tarriff.

The government is unhappy that too many artists seem to be, to paraphrase Simon Cowell, 'making the song their own', adding personal touches and embellishments to the piece.

The Bill is very precise on the exact nature of how the song, called Lupang Hinirang (or Beloved Country) should be sung. Apparently it should be played at a marching tempo of 100 and 120 beats per minute. Whenever it is heard in a public place all citizens are required to stand to attention and sing along with fervour.

A version by Charice Pempengco, one of the Philippines' biggest pop stars, is considered to be appropriate, according to the National Historical Institute.

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