SB19 fan draws criticism after bringing altered Philippine flag to Lollapalooza performance

Modified Philippine flag with SB19 faces draws criticism, raises questions on flag code violations.

A section of A’TIN is facing criticism online after photos and videos surfaced showing a fan carrying a Philippine flag printed with the faces of SB19 members during the group’s historic Lollapalooza performance in Chicago on July 31.

The fan, who was reportedly positioned near the barricades during the performance, drew attention from netizens who pointed out that altering the Philippine flag may violate Republic Act No. 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, which prohibits defacing, mutilating, or adding any mark, design, image, or inscription on the national flag.

The incident sparked debate on social media, with some questioning why the altered flag was allowed inside the venue and whether anyone had called out the act.

“Wala man lang sumita? ’Di man lang napansin ng idols niyo?” one netizen wrote.

Others also called on the Department of Tourism, which recently named SB19 as Philippine Tourism Ambassadors, to address the issue fairly.

“Sana lang talaga walang bias ang Department of Tourism. Huwag sana kayong matakot na i-call out ang fans ng ambassadors niyo,” another user commented.

Some, however, argued that the incident may have stemmed from a lack of awareness, particularly since the event was held overseas.

“If Americans likely unaware talaga na bawal ’yan, madami ring Fil-Am ang nakagawa niyan sa K-pop idols,” another netizen noted.

As of writing, SB19 has not issued a statement regarding the circulating photos and the online discussion.

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