Manila, June 12 -- For 13-year-old Alyssa Ramiro, the Philippine flag is more than just a fabric -- it is a living symbol of her heritage and dreams. As a junior high school student at a private school in Quezon City, Alyssa stands tall every Monday during the flag ceremony with her right hand on her heart, eyes on the blue, red, white, and yellow that dances in the wind.

"When I look at the flag, I feel connected to something bigger than myself," she told the Philippine News Agency.

"Parang naiisip ko 'yung responsibilidad na magbigay pugay po sa mga ninuno natin (It reminds me that I have a responsibility to honor those who came before me)."

The flag's design holds deep meaning for Alyssa, who has memorized its symbols not just for a...