The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has reminded the public to show the utmost respect for the Philippine flag.

In a Facebook post on Monday, the Commission emphasized that displaying any word, figure, mark, picture, design, advertisement, or imprint on the national flag is prohibited.

This reminder follows an incident in Australia, where supporters of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte were seen displaying a Philippine flag featuring a green eagle and the words, "We Stand with FPRRD. Bring him home."

According to NHCP, this act violates Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the "Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines," and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), which strictly prohibit any alterations to the flag.

The 79-year-old former chief executive was arrested on 11 March, after arriving in Manila from Hong Kong, and was flown to The Hague in the Netherlands to face crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court.

He appeared before the ICC pre-trial chamber for the first time on 14 March and is currently in custody, awaiting the confirmation of charges on 23 September.