Constitution 1935 Constitution

Amended 1935 Constitution

Successor Sergio Osmeña
November 15, 1935, Legislative Building, Manila
(aged 57)
Inauguration December 30, 1941, Malinta Tunnel, Corregidor
(aged 63)
November 15, 1943, Washington, D.C. (aged 65)
Manila, Philippines (1935-1942)
Capital Shoreham Hotel, Washington, D.C., U.S.A. (1942-
1944)
Sergio Osmeña (November 15, 1935-December 30,
Vice-President
1941; December 30, 1941-August 1, 1944)
Ramon Avanceña (April 1, 1925-December 24, 1941)
Chief Justice
Jose Abad Santos (December 24, 1941-May 2, 1942)
Manuel L. Quezon
First term: November 15, 1935-December 30, 1941
Speaker of the Gil Montilla (November 25, 1935-December 30,
Second term: December 30, 1941-August 1, 1944 National 1938)
(term extended on November 15, 1943) Assembly Jose Yulo (January 24, 1939-December 30, 1941)

Manuel Quezon was governor of Tayabas province before being elected a representative in
1907 to the newly established Philippine Assembly. In 1909 Quezon was appointed resident
commissioner for the Philippines, entitled to speak, but not vote, in the U.S. House of Representatives;
during his years in Washington, he fought for a speedy grant of independence by the U.S., which
happened in 1935.

I. Politics (Administration)

Manuel Quezons’ Commonwealth administration is a presidential system of government with

unicameral legislature. Filipinos reelected Quezon, Osmeña, and legislators to fill seats in the newly
created bicameral congress on November 11, 1941. During his term, from the seven departments
existing before his administration he added two more; the National Defense and Public Welfare.

II. Economics

Manuel L. Quezon made several institutions and programs to attend to the needs of the
economy on his term. Healthy economy is hard to establish back then because we became independent
on U.S. His effort to fix the economy was see on the Commonwealth Act No. 2 which established the
National Economic Council, this act helps solve social imbalance, land maldistribution, provide land to
the landless and farmers, provide housing and create an employment to the unemployed.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Commonwealth Act No. 1, President Manuel L. Quezon asks for General McArthur service to
devise an effective yet affordable National Defense Plan for the Philippines. This defense plan was later
abolished because 16 Million is not sufficient enough to fund the act. A compulsory military training for
men age 20 in a period of 5 ½ months and pre-military training in high school was enforced. Quezon also
push the standardization of ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) programs in colleges and
universities.

In response to social imbalance and land maldistribution; National Economic Council as an

adviser and Social Justice Program that bought lands and distribute it to farmers and landless Filipinos.
Law also requires a written agreement between farmers, tenants and landlords to protect citizens from
an unfair rent increase. Court of Industrial Relations was established for the creation of Agricultural and
Industrial Bank, National Land Settlement Administration and National Housing Commission to provide
housing, National Relief Administration for calamities and for finding employment to the unemployed.

Institute of National Language was established for studying the issue of choosing the country’s
mother tongue; National Council of Education to guide the education policies, adult education program,
for vocational schools, also in charge of the Education Act of 1940. He also makes Pilipino the national
language.
IV. National Issues

Regaining independence is tough battle Filipino face and with Quezon it became possible. He
fought for Philippines to be self-governed, prepared us to be independent from America and later on
lead our country to its full independent government. He tried to solve problems inherited from Spanish
and Americans Administrations, fought graft and corruption in the country, build up the national
defense and strengthen economy that is dependent on the U.S.

Filipino pays attention on choosing the mother tongue and because of this the Institute of Nat’l
Language was created, he was known as “Ama ng Wikang Pambansa”.

V. Transnational Issues

Upon the Commonwealth Act No.1 America seems threaten because they held back weapons
and showed lack of support for the defense plan. Still, Quezon aims for amity and friendship, fairness
and square deals in the country’s relations with other nations, their citizens and subjects.
 Era Third President of the Philippines
President of the Second Republic
Constitution 1943 Constitution
Predecessor Position established
Successor Position abolished
Inauguration October 14, 1943, Legislative Building, Manila
(aged 51)
Capital Manila
Vice President None
Chief Justice Jose Yulo (February 5, 1942-August 1945)
Speaker of the Benigno S. Aquino Sr. (October 17, 1943-
Jose P. Laurel National February 2, 1944)
October 14, 1943-August 17, 1945 Assembly

Jose P. Laurel born on March 9, 1891 in the small town of Tanuan in Batangas, his parents
were Sotero Laurel, Sr. and Jacoba García. He studied and received his law degree at the University of
the Philippines in 1915 and at Yale University in 1920. In 1957, he retired from the political arena and
led a normal life with his former wife, Paciencia Hidalgo concentrating on the development of the
Lyceum of the Philippines established by his family. Jose Laurel died on November 5, 1959.

I. Politics (Administration)

Jose P. Laurel’s administration is also known as the “Puppet Republic”. Laurel was among the
Commonwealth officials instructed by the Japanese Imperial Army to form a fake government when
they invaded and occupied the country. He willingly served under the Japanese Military Administration.

II. Economics

During Laurel's term as President, hunger was the main problem. Prices of essential supplies
rose. The government exerted every effort to increase production and bring consumers' goods under
control. However, the greediness of the Japanese prevails.
III. Programs (Reforms)

He formulated the 1943 constitution; a temporary constitution expected to last until the end of
war, this established a republican government with a strong executive that states the duties and
obligations of the people rather than their rights and privileges.

Laurel issued an executive order organizing the Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong

Pilipinas (KALIBAPI) as the sole political organization to back the government.

IV. National Issues

Filipino people were torn in half whether he’s a hero or a traitor; others think that he was ready
to obey the orders of the Japanese Army for the “maintenance of peace and order and the promotion of
well-being of our people” on the contrast the idea that he did not make any negative actions against the
Japanese Government when they occupied the Philippines.

Food Shortage; during his presidency, the Philippines faced a crippling food shortage which
demanded much of Laurel's attention.

V. Transnational Issues

Mickey Mouse money enforced by the Japanese Army it has very low value caused by severe
inflation. Inflation plagued the country with the devaluation of the Japanese money, evidenced by a
60% inflation experienced in January 1944.
 Fourth President of the Philippines
Era Second President of the Commonwealth of the
Philippines
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Manuel L. Quezon
Successor Manuel Roxas
Inauguration August 1, 1944, Washington, D.C. (aged 67)
Capital Manila
Vice-President None
Chief Justice Manuel V. Moran (July 9, 1945-March 20, 1951)
Sergio Osmeña Senate President Manuel Roxas (July 9, 1945-May 25, 1946)
(succeeded)
August 1, 1944-May 28, 1946 Speaker of the House Jose C. Zulueta (June 9-December 20, 1945)

Sergio Osmeña was born in the island of Cebu on Sept. 9, 1878. He entered the San Carlos
Seminary in Cebu in 1889 and then earned his bachelor's degree from San Juan de Letran College. His
schooling was interrupted by the 1896 revolution and the Filipino-American War. After the revolutionary
struggles he continued his studies until he passed the bar examination on Feb. 20, 1903.

On March 5, 1906, Osmeña was elected provincial governor of Cebu at the age of 28. Osmeña
assumed the presidency in 1944 after the death of Quezon on August 1, 1944 and sat until May 28,
1946.

I. Politics (Administration)

After the war, Osmeña restored the Commonwealth government and the various executive
departments. On 8 August 1944, President Osmeña issued Executive Order 15-W reorganizing and
uniting the Executive Departments of the Commonwealth government.

II. Economics

During his time when the country is still recovering from the damage of the war; the Philippine
National Bank has been rehabilitated and the country joined the International Monetary Fund. To help
the economy be somewhat stabilized.
III. Programs (Reforms)

The First Commonwealth Congress earnestly took up the various pending assignments to solve
the pressing matters affecting the Philippines, especially in regard to relief, rehabilitation, and
reconstruction. The first bill enacted was Commonwealth Act No. 672 – rehabilitating the Philippine
National Bank.

To prepare for the forthcoming independent status of the Philippine, President Osmeña created
the Office of Foreign Relations. President Osmeña entered into an agreement with the United States
Government to send five Filipino trainees to the U.S. State Department to prepare themselves for
diplomatic service.

IV. National Issues

Death of former president Manuel L. Quezon; Osmeña praise him and his doings in one of his
inauguration speech.

V. Transnational Issues

The Bell Trade Act is very controversial that it took two terms before the issue settled down.
This is where the public hears the Act, spreads it, until eventually the issue is in every corner of the
country.
 Fifth President of the Philippines
Era Third and last President of the Commonwealth
First President of the Third Republic
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Sergio Osmeña
Successor Elpidio Quirino
May 28, 1946, Legislative Building, Manila
(aged 54)
Inauguration
July 4, 1946, Independence Grandstand,
Manila (aged 54)
Capital Manila
Vice-President Elpidio Quirino (May 28, 1946-April 17, 1948)
Manuel V. Moran (July 9, 1945-March 20,
Chief Justice
Manuel Roxas 1951)
First term: May 28, 1946 – July 4, 1946 Jose Avelino (May 25, 1946-July 4, 1946; July 5,
Senate President
Second term: July 4, 1946 – April 15, 1948 1946-February 21, 1949)
Eugenio Perez (May 25, 1946-July 4, 1946;
Speaker of the House
July 5, 1946-December 30, 1949)

Manuel Acuña Roxas (January 1, 1892 – April 15, 1948) was the fifth President of the Philippines,
the last of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the first of the sovereign Third Philippine Republic.
He ruled as President from the Philippines' independence from the United States of America on 4 July
1946 until his abrupt death in 1948.

I. Politics (Administration)

Prior to the Philippine national elections of 1946, at the height of the last Commonwealth
elections, Roxas became Liberal Party’s candidate for President. The Nacionalistas, on the other hand,
had Osmeña for President. Osmeña refused to campaign, saying that the Filipino people knew his
reputation. On the April 23, 1946, Roxas won 54 percent of the vote, and the Liberal Party won a
majority in the legislature.
II. Economics

Since the country was severely damaged by the war, the economy was struggling because of low
output growth and high unemployment rates. Production became low because farms and factories were
ruined. Unemployment rates were rising at a fast pace; because businesses were closing, there were no
more jobs available for people. The reconstruction cost of these buildings reached 126 million pesos.
Also, there was an annual lack of budget of about 200 million pesos.

III. Programs (Reforms)

The approval of the Bell Trade Act (The Philippine Rehabilitation Act and the Philippine Trade
Act); the US congress offered 800 million dollars as rehabilitation money in exchange of this. The act
states that U.S. citizens and corporations were granted equal access to the natural resources of the
country. Treaty of General Relations recognizing Philippine independence as of July 4, 1946 includes
establishment of US bases and hand over American sovereignty over the Philippines.

Laurel granted a General Amnesty to the guerrillas imprisoned during World War II and to those
arrested for conspiring with Japan.

IV. National Issues

Although Roxas was successful in obtaining rehabilitation funds from America to repair what has
been destroyed in the Philippines, he was still criticized for his approval to the Bell Trade Act. Graft and
corruption did not stop in the government. Scandals such as the surplus war property scandal, school
supplies scandal and Chinese immigration scandals appeared during his time.

People were infuriated at Roxas to the point that there were plans of assassinating him.
Fortunately for the former president, he escaped an attempted murder by a Tondo barber, Julio Guillen,
who threw a grenade on the platform at Plaza Miranda after the President addressed the rally of
citizens.
 V. Transnational Issues

World War II paralyzed the whole country; its effect is excessive that $ 800 million is needed for
the recovery of the Philippines. However, the president managed to find a resource for this amount.

One criticism in Roxas’ administration is his friendship with the Americans. He was too close to
them to the point that he allowed US military bases in the country, permitted trade restrictions for
Filipinos, and gave special privileges for US property owners and investors.

Sixth President of the Philippines

Era
Second President of the Third Republic
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Manuel Roxas
Successor Ramon Magsaysay
April 17, 1948, Malacañan Palace, Manila (aged 57)
Inauguration December 30, 1949, Independence Grandstand, Manila
(aged 58)
Capital Manila; Quezon City
Fernando Lopez (December 30, 1949-December 30,
Vice-President:
1953)
Ricardo M. Paras (April 2, 1951-February 17, 1961)
Chief Justice
Manuel V. Moran (July 9, 1945-March 20, 1951)
Mariano Jesús Cuenco (February 21, 1949-December
30, 1951)
Quintin Paredes (March 5, 1952-April 17, 1952)
Elpidio Quirino Camilo Osías (April 17, 1952-April 30, 1952; April 17,
Senate President
First term: April 17, 1948-December 30, 1953-April 30, 1953)
1949 (succeeded) Eulogio Rodriguez (April 30, 1952-April 17, 1953;
Second term: December 30,1949- November 30, 1953-December 30, 1953)
December 30, 1953 (elected) Jose Zulueta (April 30, 1953-November 30, 1953)
Speaker of the
Eugenio Perez (July 5, 1946-December 30, 1953)
House

Elpidio Rivera Quirino (November 16, 1890 – February 29, 1956) was a Filipino politician, and the
sixth President of the Philippines. A lawyer by profession, Quirino entered politics when he became a
representative of Ilocos Sur from 1919 to 1925. After the war, Quirino was elected vice-president
in 1946 election, after the death of the incumbent president Manuel Roxas in 1948, he succeeded the
presidency. 1949 presidential election, he won the president's office under Liberal Party. After his term,
he retired to his new country home in Novaliches, Quezon City, where he died of a heart attack on
February 29, 1956.

I. Politics (Administration)

Elpidio Quirino's six years as president were marked by notable postwar reconstruction, general
economic gains, and increased economic aid from the United States. Basic social problems, however,
particularly in the rural areas, remained unsolved, and his administration was tainted by widespread
graft and corruption.

II. Economics

The Philippines in Quirino’s term is still undergoing reconstruction of the damages from the war.
Economy is not in great shape. Unemployment from the previous government is one of the main
problem his administration faces. The country is struggling a high inflation rate and Quirino’s solution to
this is to increase the wages of the people so that purchasing and producing will be balanced.

III. Programs (Reforms)

He establish PACSA (President’s Action Committee on Social Amelioration), ACCFA (Agricultural

Credit Cooperatives Financing Administration), Labor Management Advisory Board, and the Rural Banks
of the Philippines to fix the economy of his administration. He also set up the Central Bank and Rural
banking.

His second objective was to restore the faith and confidence of the people in the government
body of the Philippines. To do this, he revived former president Quezon’s “fireside chats” which updated
the people about the government via live radio broadcast from the Malacanang palace.

He also concluded peace with Japan and granted amnesty to HUKBALAHAP members on June
21, 1948. In his efforts he achieved many of his goals including; industrial ventures heightened, irrigation
improved, and the road system developed.
IV. National Issues

Quirino’s administration was bombarded with controversies. The major controversy surrounding
his governance was his bid for a second term in office in 1949. The elections wherein Quirino won was
believed to be the most corrupt. He was also the first president to undergo an impeachment trial
because he allegedly purchased a very expensive Golden Orinola using government money. Issues
within the government make people despise Quirino.

V. Transnational Issues

Philippines is not ideal for business in this time, it is evident that Americans were gradually
decreasing their business. This causes unemployment rates to go higher together with other national
problems the country’s economy is weakened.
 Seventh President of the Philippines
Era
Third President of the Third Republic
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Elpidio Quirino
Successor Carlos P. Garcia
December 30, 1953, Independence
Inauguration
Grandstand, Manila (aged 46)
Capital Quezon City
Carlos P. Garcia (December 30, 1953-March
Vice-President
17, 1957)
Ricardo M. Paras (April 2, 1951-February 17,
Chief Justice
1961)
Ramon Magsaysay Eulogio Rodriguez (January 25, 1954-
Senate President
December 30, 1953-March 17, 1957 December 30, 1957)
Jose B. Laurel Jr. (January 25, 1954-December
Speaker of the House
30, 1957)

Ramón del Fierro Magsaysay (August 31, 1907 – March 17, 1957) was the seventh President of
the Republic of the Philippines, serving from December 30, 1953 until his death in a 1957 aircraft
disaster.

I. Politics (Administration)

Ramon Magsaysay was dubbed as “the guy” because many considered him as the president who
really connected and represented the common man being a president with a sympathetic heart to the
masses. He even opened Malacañang to the public.

II. Economics

Rehabilitation of establishments ruined because of World War is still ongoing but there is a lack
on fund to support this.
III. Programs (Reforms)

Started to resolve problems on land distribution through Land Reform Act of 1955 which gave
emphasis on the welfare of the poor farmers who desired to own agricultural land. He also establish the
National Resettlement and Rehabilitation Act (NARRA) to give land to some famers and the FACOMA
(Farmers’ Cooperative and Marketing Association) to organize the farmers.

IV. National Issues

Corruption among cabinet members and the endless attempts to bribe the president were the
most common issues of that time where corruptions was very rampant among government officials and
President Magsaysay was among the very few who resisted and had zero tolerance against corruption.

V. Transnational Issues

The administration of President Magsaysay was active in the fight against the expansion of
communism in the Asian region. He made the Philippines a member of the Southeast Asia Treaty
Organization (SEATO), which was established in Manila on Sept. 8. Members of SEATO were alarmed at
the possible victory of North Vietnam over South Vietnam, which could spread communist ideology to
other countries in the region.
 Eighth President of the Philippines
Era
Fourth President of the Third Republic
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Ramon Magsaysay
Successor Diosdado Macapagal
March 1, 1957, Malacañan Palace, Manila
(aged 61)
Inauguration
December 30, 1957, Independence
Grandstand, Manila (aged 62)
Capital Quezon City
Diosdado Macapagal (December 30, 1957-
Vice-President
December 30, 1961)
Carlos P. Garcia Ricardo M. Paras (April 2, 1951-February 17,
Chief Justice
First term: March 18, 1957-December 1961)
30, 1957 (succeeded) Eulogio Rodriguez (January 22, 1957-April 5,
Senate President
Second term: December 30, 1957- 1963)
December 30, 1961 (elected) Daniel Z. Romualdez (January 27, 1958-
Speaker of the House
December 30, 1961)

García was born in Talibon, Bohol, to Policronio García and Ambrosia Polístico, who were both
natives of Bangued, Abra. García grew up with politics, with his father serving as a municipal mayor for
four terms. He pursued his college education at Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental,
and later studied at the Philippine Law School where he earned his law degree in 1923. He was among
the top ten in the bar examination.

On 24 May 1933, he married Leonila Dimataga, and they had a daughter, Linda García-Campos. After his
failed re–election bid, García retired to Tagbilaran to resume as a private citizen. On 14 June 1971,
García died from a fatal heart attack.

I. Politics (Administration)

At the time of President Magsaysay's sudden death on 17 March 1957, Vice President García
enplaned back for Manila. Upon his arrival he directly repaired to Malacañang Palace to assume the
duties of President. President García's first actions dealt with the declaration of a period of mourning for
the whole nation and the burial ceremonies for the late President Magsaysay.
II. Economics

Recovering from the World War II is almost finished yet the country is experiencing several
economic challenges. The flow of imports had greatly increased making the Philippines heavily
dependent of imported products. Imports coming from the United States were also allowed to enter the
country without tariffs, the Philippines also promised not to change its exchange rate from $1 is to Php2.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Filipino First Policy, law that was passed by the Garcia administration, to give local businessmen
more priority over foreign investors. Products of Filipino businessmen were also preferred over foreign
products. The Austerity Program was implemented by Garcia in order to curt the rampant graft and
corruption within the country. The program centered on wise spending, industry, thrift, trustworthiness,
integrity and honesty.

The Garcia administration also put emphasis on cultural revival, due to the colonization of many
countries he felt that the revival of the Filipino culture was needed. The award was given to Filipino
artists, scientist, historians and writers. Bohlen-Serrano Agreement passed during his term, was a law
that shortened the original 99 year lease of US bases here in the Philippines to 25 years; the agreement
was renewable for periods only up to 5 years.

IV. National Issues

Corruption was also widespread in the country since he had just inherited the Magsaysay
administration. Several cases of corruption were found within the government offices during his
administration.

V. Transnational Issues

The focus of the Garcia administration is on the economic independence from foreign interest.
Garcia was criticized by foreign countries, especially the United States for his anti-foreign policies.
 Ninth President of the Philippines
Era
Fifth President of the Third Republic
Constitution Amended 1935 Constitution
Predecessor Carlos P. Garcia
Successor Ferdinand E. Marcos
December 30, 1961, Quirino Grandstand,
Inauguration
Manila (aged 51)
Capital Quezon City
Vice-President Emmanuel Pelaez (1961-1965)
Chief Justice Cesar Bengzon (April 28, 1961-May 29, 1966)
Eulogio Rodriguez (January 22, 1957-April 5,
1963)
Senate President
Ferdinand E. Marcos (April 5, 1963-December
30, 1965)
Diosdado Macapagal Daniel Z. Romualdez (January 22, 1962-March
December 30, 1961 – December 30, 9, 1962)
Speaker of the House
1965 Cornelio T. Villareal (March 9, 1962-
December 30, 1965)

Diosdado Pangan Macapagal (September 28, 1910 – April 21, 1997) was the ninth President of
the Philippines, serving from 1961 to 1965. A native of Lubao, Pampanga, Macapagal graduated from
the University of the Philippines and University of Santo Tomas, after which he worked as a lawyer for
the government. He died of heart failure, pneumonia, and renal complications, in 1997, at the age of 86.

I. Politics (Administration)

In the 1961 presidential election, Macapagal ran against Garcia's re-election bid, promising an
end to corruption and appealing to the electorate as a common man from humble beginnings. He
defeated the incumbent president with a 55% to 45% margin. His inauguration as the president of the
Philippines took place on December 30, 1961.

II. Economics

Exchange controls were lifted and the Philippine peso was allowed to float on the free currency
exchange market. The peso devalued from P2.64 to the U.S. dollar, and stabilized at P3.80 to the dollar,
supported by a $300 million stabilization fund from the International Monetary Fund.
III. Programs (Reforms)

The following programs were created during his administration; opened Malacanang to the
Public however it didn’t last long because people started to only loft around, dismissed corruption in the
government when the official couldn’t justify his sudden acquisition of wealth, changed the date of the
Philippine Independence from June 12 to July 4, Agricultural Land Reform Code of 1963 which abolished
share tendency on rice and corn farmlands and establishment of a leasehold system where farmers
would pay rentals to landlords instead of harvests.

IV. National Issues

The Stonehill Scandal involving numerous congressmen and businessmen accused for graft and
corruption within the government though several programs passed.

V. Transnational Issues

On September 12, 1962, during President Diosdado Macapagal's administration, the territory of
eastern North Borneo (now Sabah), and the full sovereignty, title and dominion over the territory were
ceded by the then reigning Sultan of Sulu, HM Sultan Muhammad Esmail E. Kiram I, to the Republic of
the Philippines. The cession effectively gave the Philippine government the full authority to pursue their
claim in international courts.
 Tenth President of the Philippines
Era Sixth and Last President of the Third Republic
First President of the Fourth Republic
Amended 1935 Constitution
Constitution 1973 Constitution
Amended 1973 Constitution
Predecessor Diosdado Macapagal
Successor Corazon C. Aquino
December 30, 1965, Quirino Grandstand, Manila (aged 48)
December 30, 1969, Quirino Grandstand, Manila (aged 52)
Inauguration
June 30, 1981, Quirino Grandstand, Manila (aged 64)
February 25, 1986, Malacañan Palace, Manila (aged 69)
Quezon City (1965-1978)
Capital
City of Manila (1978-1986)
Fernando Lopez
Vice-President
(December 30, 1965-December 30, 1969-1972)
Ferdinand E. Marcos (concurrent capacity as President)
(June 12, 1978-June 30, 1981)
Prime Minister
Ferdinand E. Marcos Cesar E.A. Virata
December 30, 1965 – February 25, (June 30, 1981-February 25, 1986)
1986 Ramon C. Aquino (November 20, 1985-March 6, 1986)
Felix V. Makasiar (July 25, 1985-November 19, 1985)
Chief Justice Enrique M. Fernando (July 2, 1979-July 24, 1985)
Querube C. Makalintal (October 1973-December 1975);
Cesar Bengzon (April 28, 1961-May 29, 1966)
Gil Puyat (January 26, 1967-September 23, 1972)
Senate President
Arturo M. Tolentino (January 17, 1966-January 26, 1967)
Speaker of the National Nicanor E. Yñiguez (July 23, 1984-March 25, 1986)
Assembly Querube C. Makalintal (June 12, 1978-June 30, 1984)
Cornelio T. Villareal (April 1, 1971-September 23, 1972)
Speaker of the House Jose B. Laurel Jr. (February 2, 1967-April 1, 1971)
Cornelio T. Villareal (January 17, 1966-February 2, 1967)

Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralin Marcos, Sr. (September 11, 1917 – September 28, 1989) was
a Filipino lawyer and politician who served as President of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986. He ruled
under martial law in 1972 to control the threat of the New People's Army until 1981. In 1983, his
government was accused by some of being involved in the assassination of Ninoy Aquino. Public outrage
led to the snap elections of 1986 and to the making of so called People Power Revolution in February
1986.
I. Politics (Administration)

In his earlier term, good governance was present. However, upon entry of his wife, Imelda,
corruption started to surface. He declared martial law which started a disordered nation under his
dictatorship and tyranny.

II. Economics

To help finance a number of economic development projects, the Marcos government

borrowed large amounts of money from international lenders. The Philippines' external debt rose from
$360 million (US) in 1962 to $28.3 billion in 1986, making the Philippines one of the most indebted
countries in Asia.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Martial Law was declared by Marcos to suppress the increasing civil discord and the threats of
communist conquest. The declaration was initially granted by some however this violates the people
and the masses human rights because of the abuses by the military.

In his administration, the Philippines became a member of the ASEAN. It was in his term when
the Decentralization Act; an act that permits the local government heads to appoint office heads is
passed. He also had programs for diplomatic relations with communists and socialist states.

Stabilization of government finance by means of more effective collection of taxes, imposing

new tax laws, and getting loans from foreign banks and governments.

IV. National Issues

Marcos Ill-gotten wealth; a sizable amount of government money went to Marcos family and
friends in the form of loans. Widespread corruption in the government and abuse of authority and
power primarily seen on the declaration of Martial Law cause a decrease in freedom and democracy
during the second term of Ferdinand Marcos administration. Peace and order had become the primary
 problem with the founding of NPA and the MNLF, Plus the outrage of people because of the
assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.

Unemployment is also a great problem due to the country’s weakened economy.

V. Transnational Issues

The Marcoses established good relations with world leaders, therefore bringing the Philippines’
image to higher grounds. Foreign relations brought foreign investments in and made the economy
boom. Because of the developments (economically, industrially, and infrastructures) Marcos
accomplished; there was a massive increase in tourism rates. During this time, the ratio of the peso to a
dollar is 1:1. However, the economy declined during his second term and the prices of the market
increased.

Eleventh President of the Philippines

Era Second and Last President of the Fourth Republic
First President of the Fifth Republic
Amended 1973 Constitution
Constitution 1986 Freedom Constitution
1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines
Predecessor Ferdinand E. Marcos
Successor Fidel V. Ramos
Inauguration February 25, 1986, Club Filipino, San Juan (aged 53)
Seat of Government City of Manila
Vice-President Salvador H. Laurel (1986-1992)
Marcelo B. Fernan (July 1, 1988-December 6, 1991)
Pedro L. Yap (April 18, 1988-July 1, 1988)
Chief Justice
Claudio Teehankee (April 2, 1986-April 18, 1988)
Corazon C. Aquino Ramon C. Aquino (November 20, 1985-March 6, 1986)
February 25, 1986-June 30, 1992 Jovito Salonga (July 27, 1987-January 1, 1992)
Senate President
Neptali Gonzales (January 1, 1992-June 30, 1992)
Speaker of the House Ramon V. Mitra Jr. (July 27, 1987-June 30, 1992)

María Corazón "Cory" Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino (January 25, 1933 – August 1, 2009) was a
Philippine politician, who served as the 11th President of the Philippines, the first woman to hold that
office, and the first female president in Asia.
I. Politics (Administration)

Corazon Aquino’s administration from the people power revolves on giving people democracy
and freedom that they sought for during the 2nd term of Marcos.

II. Economics

There is a $26 billion foreign debt incurred by her predecessor, which has badly stained the
international credit standing and economic reputation of the country.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Cory Aquino pushed for the restoration of democracy through abolishing the legislature,
declaring a revolutionary government and writing a new constitution (1987 Constitution). Proclamation
no. 1, a call to all appointive public officials to submit their courtesy resignations and appointing Cabinet
ministers and task forces to help her run the government. Proclamation No. 3 proclaims her government
a “revolutionary government.” and circulates a provisional “Freedom Constitution,” which gives
legislative more power than her.

United States trading in the First Philippine Fund Incorporated where she urged American
business to increase its investments in the Philippines.

Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law an act which aims to promote social justice and
industrialization. A fund provided for CARP; a special fund known as the Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF),
with an initial amount of Php50 billion to cover the estimated cost of the program from 1987-1992.

IV. National Issues

Aquino was not safe from the controversies that eventually centered on Hacienda Luisita, a
6,453-hectare estate located in the Province of Tarlac, which she inherited from her family. She was
recorded for allowing Hacienda Luisita, which was now owned by the Tarlac Development Corporation,
to opt for stock distribution, instead of land redistribution. She also has an issue concerning the farmers
of Mendiola being massacred.

A series of natural disasters hit the country such as the 1990 earthquake, the eruption of Mt.
Pinatubo, and a series of Typhoons. Power Shortage is very evident in her term; brownouts were very
frequent and would last for about 12 hours.

V. Transnational Issues

Foreign investors build up during Marcos regime started to pull their investments from the
country because of coup d’etats and various groups.

Twelfth President of the Philippines

Era
Second President of the Fifth Republic
1987 Constitution of the Republic of the
Constitution
Philippines
Predecessor Corazon C. Aquino
Successor Joseph Ejercito Estrada
June 30, 1992, Quirino Grandstand, Manila
Inauguration
(aged 64)
Capital Manila
Joseph Ejercito Estrada (June 30, 1992-June
Vice-President
30, 1998)
Andres R. Narvasa (December 8, 1991-
Chief Justice
November 30, 1998)
Neptali Gonzales (January 26, 1998-June 30,
1998; August 29, 1995-October 10, 1996;
January 1, 1992-January 18, 1993)
Fidel V. Ramos
Senate President Ernesto Maceda (October 10, 1996-January
26, 1998)
June 30, 1992 – June 30, 1998
Eduardo J. Angara (January 18, 1993-August
29, 1995)
Jose de Venecia (July 27, 1992-June 30,
Speaker of the House
1998)

Ramos was born in Lingayen, Pangasinan and his parents were Narciso Ramos, a lawyer,
journalist, member of the House of Representatives, and secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs;
and Angela Valdez-Ramos, an educator and advocate of women's suffrage.
 Ramos completed his education at Centro Escolar University Integrated School. Ramos is
married to the former Amelita Martinez, more popularly known as Ming Ramos. The two have five
children: Angelina Jones, Josephine Samartino, Carolina Sembrano, Christine Jalasco, and Gloria Ramos.

I. Politics (Administration)

During the Ramos administration, civil liberty and government stability was restored. Prior to
the Ramos Presidency, there were many coup d’état attempts and uprisings during the Aquino
administration. This lead to a damaged government; Politics were shaken and people started to lose
their trust in the government.

II. Economics

The Philippines was recovering from economical difficulties that arose from the lack of foreign
investors during the Aquino administration. During the Ramos administration however, the Philippines
experience economic growth and stability. Though the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997 struck, the
Philippines wasn’t as badly affected as other Asian Nations. But it was during this crisis when the
Philippine Peso devaluated and dropped because of a financial shortage.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Fidel’s responses to the power shortage are the Republic Act 7638 (Charter of the Department
of Energy) an act that made possible the creation of the department of energy, Republic Act 7648
(Electric Power Crisis) an act that prescribes the measures that are necessary and proper to effectively
address the electric power crisis in our country, Republic Act 7832 (Anti-electricity and
Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act) this act penalizes theft and pilferage of electric lines
and materials.

Republic Act 8179 an act that allows foreign investments. It supports Republic Act 7042, which
promotes foreign investments and prescribes the procedures and actions foreign investors have to do
when registering for a business in the Philippines.
IV. National Issues

Similar to the past government, the Philippines was experiencing widespread and frequent
brownouts because of the huge demand for electricity and the old and depreciated power plants. Power
crisis remained unsolved before a new administration enters.

V. Transnational Issues

Because of the Coup attempts, foreign investors felt it was risky for them to invest in the
Philippines, thus, economy isn’t progressing. The lack of foreign investors during the past administration
is still present up to Fidel’s term; it is still a major economic issue that needs to be solved.
 Era Thirteenth President of the Philippines
Third President of the Fifth Republic
Constitution 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines
Predecessor Fidel V. Ramos
Successor Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
Inauguration June 30, 1998, Barasoain Church, Malolos, Bulacan
(aged 61)
Capital Manila
Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (June 30, 1998-January 20,
2001)
Chief Justice: Hilario G. Davide (November 30, 1998-December 20,
2005)
Andres R. Narvasa (December 8, 1991-November 30,
1998)
Senate President Aquilino Pimentel (November 13, 2000-June 30,
2001)
Joseph Ejercito Estrada Franklin M. Drilon (July 12, 2000-November 13,
June 30, 1998-January 20, 2001 2000)
Blas Ople (June 29, 1999-July 12, 2000)
Marcelo H. Fernan (July 27, 1998-June 28, 1999)
Speaker of the House Arnulfo T. Fuentabella (November 13, 2000-January
24, 2001)
Manuel Villar (July 27, 1998-November 13, 2000)

Joseph Ejército Estrada was born on April 19, 1937 in Tondo, an urban district of Manila. His
family later moved to the wealthy suburb of San Juan. He was expelled during his primary studies at
the Ateneo de Manila University and subsequently enrolled in an engineering course at the Mapúa
Institute of Technology in an effort to please his father, but dropped out.

Estrada is married to former First Lady-turned-senator Dr. Luísa "Loi" Pimentel, whom he met
while she was working at the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) in Mandaluyong City, and has
three children with her.

I. Politics (Administration)

Estrada’s administration is popularly recognized as corrupt governance, because of issues and

for bringing too many problems to the economy and nation as well. He had the highest number of
voters in the history of Philippines; this might be cause of his non proven yet appealing to the public
advocacy “Erap para sa Mahirap.”
II. Economics

During Estrada’s administration; the economic was strong but during the latter part, the admin
failed to capitalize on the gains of the previous administration. When Estrada was accused of influencing
an investigation in the stock market manipulation, foreign investments declined.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Estrada’s Clean Air Act is a great act for loving our environment none the less, it focused only on
the air quality management. If Erap implemented a law that focused on the environment as a whole and
not just the air management, he could be a president who is really concerned about the status of our
natural resources.

IV. National Issues

Estrada was impeached due to his plunder and perjury case; Graft and corruption a national
issue his administration faced, The Asian Financial Crisis where peso fell from 26 per dollar to 28 pesos
to 40 pesos by the end of the crisis, serious drought of lands in the rural areas affecting employment of
the farmers and the rise of the prices of rice is due to phenomenal El Nino, graft and corruption and the
Asian Financial Crisis eventually led to Poverty hitting almost 60 percent of Filipinos nationwide.

V. Transnational Issues

President Erap managed to attract foreigners and make the country’s tourism bloom yet as the
issues of plunder and other corrupt acts of his government arise tourism seemed to be going down at a
great rate.
 Fourteenth President of the Philippines
Era
Fifth President of the Fifth Republic

Constitution 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines

Predecessor Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Successor Benigno S. Aquino III
First Inauguration January 21, 2001, EDSA Shrine (aged 54)
Second Inauguration June 30, 2004, Cebu Capitol (aged 57)
Capital Manila
Manuel de Castro (June 30, 2004-June 30, 2010)
Vice President
Teofisto Guingona (February 7, 2001-June 30, 2004)
Renato C. Corona (May 17, 2010-May 29, 2012)
Chief Justice Reynato Puno (December 8, 2006-May 17, 2010)
Artemio Panganiban (December 20, 2005-December 7, 2006)
Hilario Davide (November 30, 1998-December 20, 2005)
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Juan Ponce Enrile (November 17, 2008–June 5, 2013)
January 20, 2001 – June 30, 2010 Manuel Villar (July 24, 2006-November 17, 2008)
Senate President
Franklin M. Drilon (July 23, 2001-July 24, 2006)
Aquinlino Pimentel (November 13, 2000-June 30, 2001)
Prospero C. Nograles (February 5, 2008-June 30, 2010)
Speaker of the
House Jose C. de Venecia (July 23, 2001-February 5, 2008)
Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr. (January 24, 2001-June 30, 2001)

She was born as María Gloria Macaraeg Macapagal to politician Diosdado Macapagal and his
wife, Evangelina Macaraeg-Macapagal. Arroyo then studied for two years at Georgetown University's
Walsh School of Foreign Service in Washington, D.C. In 1968, Arroyo married lawyer and
businessman Jose Miguel Arroyo of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, whom she had met while still a
teenager.

I. Politics (Administration)

President Arroyo was named the 14th president of the Philippines during the People Power II,
January 20, 2001 in Edsa when former President Joseph Estrada was forced out of office because of
allegations of plunder and corruption. In 2004, she won the elections and was elected to a full term
presidency until 2010. Arroyo’s administration became a basin of the problems from Estrada’s term.
II. Economics

The Philippines came close to a financial meltdown in 2001 during the impeachment of Former
President Estrada. The revenues were too low, with its $54.8 billion in foreign debt. Investors doubted
to invest in the Philippines at that time due to the political crisis the country was experiencing.

III. Programs (Reforms)

Restoring Political Stability and Building New Politics; she established partnerships with the civil
society by involving people in governance, Building High Standards of Morality and Performance; making
a new Anti-Graft Commission which will promote integrity among the officials and presidential
appointees, Battle of the Budget; monitoring local government remittances, strengthening audit and tax
reform programs by computerization to improve tax collections.

The Anti-Poverty Strategy; land for the landless, Human Development Services, Protection from
Violence, More Livelihood Opportunities. Charter change includes a movement to overthrow the
present form of government and make it into a federal parliamentary-unicameral form of government.

IV. National Issues

Hello “Garci” Controversy (June 2005) about Arroyo’s conversations with COMELEC
Commissioner Virgilio Garcilliano. The conversation was about cheating the 2004 national elections. In
the conversation she asked if she would win by a million votes and Garci replied that she will
coincidentally or suspiciously she did win by over a million votes in the 2004 presidential elections.

NBN-ZTE Controversy (April 2007) is about a deal between the Philippines and ZTE Corporation,
a company in china. The deal was worth $329.59 Million and was aimed at improving the
communication capabilities of the Philippines. There were two other corporations willing to do the job
for the Philippines at lower prices but was turned down.

Gloria Arroyo’s Expensive Dinners; the public began noticing the expensive dinners that
President Macapagal Arroyo was having when an article from the New York Post reported that GMA and
 her entourage to the US dined in the famous Le Cirque in New York and spent $20,000 or almost 1
Million Pesos.

V. Transnational Issues

Iraq War; Philippines sent a small humanitarian contingent which included medics and
engineers. These troops were recalled in July 2004 in response to the kidnapping of Filipino truck driver
Angelo de la Cruz. With the hostage takers demands met, the hostage was released. The early pullout
drew international condemnation, with the United States protesting against the action, saying giving in
to terrorist demands should not be an option.

ASEAN Summit; Arroyo's foreign policy is anchored on building strong ties with the United
States, East Asian and Southeast Asian nations, and countries where overseas Filipino workers work and
live. In 2007, the Philippines was host to the 12th ASEAN Summit in Cebu City.

Era Fifteenth President of the Philippines

Fifth President of the Fifth Republic
Constitution 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines
Predecessor Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
Successor Incumbent
Inauguration June 30, 2010, Quirino Grandstand, Manila (aged 50)
Seat of Government Manila
Vice President Jejomar C. Binay (June 30, 2010-Present)
Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes P.A. Sereno (August 25, 2012-Present)
Renato C. Corona (May 17, 2010-May 29, 2012)
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile (July 26, 2010-June 5, 2013)
Benigno S. Aquino III Franklin M. Drilon (July 22, 2013-Present)
June 30, 2010-Present Speaker of the House Feliciano Belmonte (July 26, 2010-Present)

Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Aquino III was born on February 8, 1960 in Manila. He is the third of
the five children of Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. In 1983, after three years in exile in the United States,
Aquino's family returned to the Philippines, shortly after the assassination of his father on August 21,
1983. Aquino joined the Liberal Party in calling for the resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-
Arroyo at the height of the Hello Garci scandal.

Following the death and funeral of Aquino's mother, former President Corazon Aquino, many
people began calling on Aquino to run for President of the Philippines. This groundswell of support
became known as the "Noynoy Phenomenon".

I. Politics (Administration)

The Presidency of Benigno S. Aquino III began at noon on June 30, 2010, when he became
the fifteenth President of the Philippines, succeeding Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

II. Economics

Despite Typhoon Yolanda and a string of natural disasters throughout 2013, Philippine economic
growth accelerated to 7.2 percent in 2013. Underlying this remarkable growth are the country’s strong
macroeconomic fundamentals which continued to support domestic demand and shield the economy
from the persistent weaknesses of the global economy

III. Programs (Reforms)

No ‘wang-wang’ policy; Presidential Decree No. 96 was issued regulating the use of
sirens, bells, whistles, horns and other similar devices only to motor vehicles designated for the use of
the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, Chief Justice, Philippine National
Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Land Transportation Office,
Bureau of Fire Protection and ambulances.

Reproductive Health Bill; in January 2013, Aquino signed legislation which funds contraceptives
for poor individuals; the law has been challenged in the Philippine Supreme Court.

IV. National Issues

 US bases: Aquino’s gift to Obama. During the much-awaited visit of US President Barack Obama,
Philippine President BS Aquino will be serving nothing less than our national sovereignty and dignity on
a silver platter via the new “access agreement” negotiated in secret by the two governments.

Mistaking demand-pull inflation for cost- push inflation cause sudden inflation for prices of
certain products of which the most popular is the garlic.

V. Transnational Issues

Eight members of the Philippine Coast Guard have been charged with the murder of a
Taiwanese fisherman who was shot dead. The killing sparked angry protests in Taiwan and Taipei
responded with sanctions, but lifted them after the Philippine government issued an official apology.

The Spratly Islands dispute is a territorial dispute over the ownership of the Spratly Islands, a
group of islands located in the South China Sea. The Spratly Islands are important for a number of
reasons: the Spratly area holds potentially significant, but largely unexplored, reserves of oil and natural
gas; it is a productive area for world fishing; it is one of the busiest areas of commercial shipping traffic;
and surrounding countries would get an extended continental shelf if their claims were recognized.