NHCP Calls Out Dia Mate’s Promotional Material for Misusing the Philippine Flag
DIA MATE – The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has called out promotional material featuring the Reina Hispanoamericana 2025 for violating Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.
Dia Mate made history after being crowned Reina Hispanoamericana 2025 in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Competing against 24 other contestants, she emerged victorious, securing the prestigious title for the Philippines. She succeeds Maricielo Gamarra of Peru, last year’s titleholder, and becomes the second Filipina to win, following Winwyn Marquez in 2017.
During the Q&A segment, Dia was asked about the most important value in society. She emphasized kindness, sharing how warmly Latinas welcomed her despite racial differences. She highlighted that love, shared culture, and faith transcend language barriers, proving that kindness can create a more united and compassionate world.
Dia’s journey to the crown was not without challenges. She first joined Miss Universe Philippines 2024 but did not place. Undeterred, she later competed in Miss World Philippines 2024, which ultimately led to her international success.
Reina Hispanoamericana, originally established in 1991 as Reina Sudamerica, was initially exclusive to South American countries. It expanded in 2004 to include Central America and was rebranded in 2007. In 2017, the Philippines was officially allowed to join, giving Filipina beauty queens a platform to shine on the global stage.
Meanwhile, the NHCP has called out promotional material featuring Dia Mate for violating Republic Act No. 8491. The law prohibits the use of the Philippine national flag in posters and printed materials. Additionally, the flag in the pubmat was incorrectly displayed, showing an inverted orientation.
Despite this issue, the NHCP extended its congratulations to Dia Mate for being crowned Reina Hispanoamericana 2025, recognizing her as a true #LatinaSlayer. They also reminded Filipinos to always uphold respect for the national flag with the hashtag #TapatSaWatawat.