I.
FIRST REPUBLIC IN ASIA a.
THE FIRST REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES i.
THE MALOLOS CONGRESS
1.
1898: the Malolos Congress was inaugurated at the Barasoain Church, Malolos, Bulacan.
2.
Its first task was to draft a constitution needed for the formation of a republic. a.
Most of the delegates were rich “ilustrados” who graduated from renowned universities in Europe. b.
Congress approved the Malolos Constitution which was drafted by Felipe Calderon. ii.
THE TREATY OF PARIS
1.
1898: Treaty of Paris was signed
2.
Aguinaldo sent Felipe Agoncillo as Philippine emissary, and was tasked to insist that Philippine independence be recognized by the circle of nations, most importantly, by Spain and the United States. a.
However, the presence of Agoncillo was not even recognized and was never given even a chance to speak. i.
He was merely allowed as an audience. ii.
Much worse, he was not even present during the final talks.
3.
In the treaty: a.
Spain transferred her possession of the Philippines to the United States via cession together with Puerto Rico and
Guam for a compensation of $20 million. b.
After which, the issue was debated for in the US Congress was as to whether or not the Unites States should take and occupy the Philippines. i.
Agoncillo was there to prevent the Senators from approving ii.
A lot of convincing was done, nevertheless, the Congress acted favorably. iii.
THE PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CONFLICT
1.
After the defeat of Spain in the Spanish-American War: a.
Gen. de los Rios went to Spain and reported to the Madrid government the Philippine situation in September 1898. i.
All necessary measures to end the Spanish rule in the Philippines were taken care of by de los Rios. b.
Gen. Francisco Rizzo became acting governor general.
2.
1899: c.
7500 Spaniards were repatriated. a.
Gen. Henry Lawton became the Supreme Commander of the US Armed Forces in the Philippines replacing Otis. b.
Otis made public the President Mckinley Proclamation (on the US occupation of the Philippines)
3.
Aguinaldo and the revolutionary government in Malolos refuted the US proclamation by also publishing copies of protest. The
Philippines never favored the US proclamation on reasons that: a.
The Spanish defeat in the Philippines was not a sole effort of the Americans. i.
It was the Philippine Revolutionary forces who redeemed the entire archipelago from the Spaniards. ii.
American presence during the war was only in Manila, Cavite area and some other nearby areas. b.
There was already a declaration that Gen. Meritt made even before the fall of Manila stating that the only objective of the Americans was to liberate the Filipinos from the rule of Spain and to recognize their aspired independence. c.
Filipinos are Catholics in general and the Americans are apparently introducing another form of Christianity.
4.
During these times: a.
Juan Luna and Emiliano Riego de Dios went to the US to persuade American politicians to veto the Mckinley intention of occupying the Philippines. b.
They met Felipe Agoncillo who was already there right after the Treaty of Paris was signed. iv.
THE FIRST REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
1.
In accordance with the provisions of the Malolos Constitution, the Philippine Republic was formed. a.
With its central government in Malolos, it was otherwise called as the Malolos Republic. b.
The Republic was first in Asia. c.
The inauguration was attended by leaders coming from al provinces in the Philippines. i.
This means that the republic already represented the entire archipelago and had the full recognition of the entire citizenry.
2.
The Republic had three branches of government: a.
Legislative i.
This is vested in the unicameral body of the Malolos Congress which has the power to elect the President and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. ii.
Chief Secretaries of the Cabinet of the President are selected by the President himself from among the
Congress members. iii.
All members of the Congress were elected by the people
1.
The first members, due to the difficulty in holding a national election, were only elected and selected from among the members of the revolutionary government. b.
Executive i.
The executive power was vested in the President of the Philippines ii.
He was the head of state and was duly elected by the legislative body. iii.
Assisting him was a Cabinet whose members are appointed by him coming from the Congress. c.
Judiciary i.
The judicial power was vested in the Supreme Court and all other lower courts provided by law. ii.
Its highest authority was in the person of the Chief Justice who was elected by the legislature.
3.
The existence of the republic was made known to all Filipinos through the help of publications like “El Heraldo dela Revolucion” a.
This is the official newspaper of the government later to be called as “Gaceta Filipina” i.
Its concern was to publish the activities of government.
4.
Another circulation was the privately owned “La Independencia” which was edited and partly owned by Antonio Luna.
5.
Initial accomplishments of the Republic were: a.
A national taxation system that included the cedula and gambling taxation b.
New sources of revenues such as tax, national loans, voluntary contributions and donations
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c.
Creation of National Budget: 1899 budget was P7.17 million d.
A system of free and compulsory elementary education. i.
A secondary school for boys was established, the Burgos Institute e.
A Military Academy of Malolos was established which produced an approximately 50, 000 strong Philippine Army b.
THE PHILIPPINE - AMERICAN WAR i.
INTRODUCTION:
1.
January 1899: continuous talks between the Filipino and the American panels resulted to no agreement a.
Aguinaldo was in tremendous pressure realizing the fact of the Americans’ desire to stay.
2.
February 1899: a.
A Filipino soldier who was walking with his compatriots along the Filipino side of the San Juan bridge (the other side was the American limit) suddenly decided to cross the other end thinking that the Americans do not have any authority to forbid the Filipinos from crossing. i.
As he walked on through, an American soldier, who was guarding the limits, shouted, “Halt! Halt!” ii.
The Filipino, not understanding the message proceeded further to approach the American soldier. iii.
The American soldier felt he was ignored and aimed his rifle to the Filipino. iv.
Alarmed, the Filipino attempted to prepare his rifle also. v.
With panic, the American soldier shot down the Filipino. vi.
The Filipino on the other side returned fire. vii.
Soon, there were complementing shots from both parties. b.
Aguinaldo was later notified of the incident. c.
Gen. Elwell Otis immediately made declaration of war. d.
Aguinaldo called upon Gen. Otis for resettlement in order to cease hostilities i.
Otis made no response ii.
Upon learning later that the US senate ratified the bill pursuing the occupation of the Philippines in the earliest possible time, and that the reason for this is due to the hostile situation that had already transpired:
1.
Aguinaldo made the final decision to officially declare war likewise. e.
The brigade of Gen. Gregorio del Pilar was summoned with the Pampanga troops to defend the Filipino line in
Caloocan. i.
The American advance was formidable
1.
American ships started their operations in Manila Bay. ii.
With the Filipinos practically occupying the exterior lines of Manila, the Americans soon destroyed the defenses in Caloocan and Paco areas. iii.
American death toll had already equaled that which they had during the Spanish-American War. iv.
Later confrontation showed great loses on the part of the Filipinos.
1.
San Juan, Pandacan, Marikina, Pateros, Guadalupe, and Pasig were taken by the Americans.
3.
Late of February 1899: a.
Gen. Arthur Mc Arthur attacked and took Malinta, Polo and Meycauayan. i.
Malolos fell under his command ii.
Aguinaldo retreated and established himself with 25, 000 well-armed troops in Marilao. b.
The Americans, with their greater number and superior weapons, continued their advance i.
Aguinaldo, without choice, transferred the government to San Fernando, Pampanga. c.
In the US, the New York Times, an American Journal, commented that the Philippine War situation had unexpectedly become painful to the Americans.
4.
March 1899: a.
Apolinario Mabini, Cabinet President of Aguinaldo was sent later in order to deal with Otis regarding a possible ceasefire. i.
Otis replied that the only possible ceasefire was if the Filipinos would surrender, and with that they shall be willing to offer autonomy for the Philippine government. ii.
Mabini indirectly rejected the offer.
5.
War continued and Laguna was captured by Gen. Henry Lawton. a.
The Republic was now in Cabanatuan b.
Aiming to take back Bulacan, Gen. Del PIlar staged an attack once more. i.
This failed c.
Mabini lost the support of the Congress due to his failure in the peace initiatives. d.
He then resigned as Cabinet President and was replaced by Pedro Paterno ii.
THE DEATH OF ANTONIO LUNA
1.
During the course of war, he started to become different. a.
He became tactless and impulsive in his dealings with other high ranking officials, including the President himself. i.
He created a number of enemies within his circle. ii.
His inability to cooperate, bad decision-making and a great deal of insubordination to the President made him more of a problem and a danger not only to his colleagues but to the revolution itself. iii.
There were also rumors that Luna was attempting a plot against the President. b.
In response to the problem, Aguinaldo ordered Gen. del Pilar the capture of Luna dead or alive c.
Luna received a telegram from Aguinaldo calling for a conference. i.
Luna thought that the conference was about him being assigned to replace Paterno as Cabinet President. ii.
He went to Cabanatuan to meet the President
1.
The President was away and this enraged Luna
2.
He then started criticizing accosting and insulting the President in the presence of the
Presidential guards.
3.
After which, Luna disarmed a soldier of his revolver and started shooting everywhere. a.
As a result, the Kawit company officers were bitter by the general’s attitude. b.
As Luna left and went downstairs, the soldiers near the stairs ambushed him by stabbing him repeatedly.
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iii.
END OF REVOLUTION
1.
In Baler, there were still some Spaniards who, because of the Spanish-American War and Filipino attacks, hid in a Church. a.
These would be the last remaining Spanish soldiers in the Philippines. b.
The Filipinos were the first ones to discover their presence. c.
The Americans tried to intervene in order to rescue them. i.
However, the Filipinos refused to permit American involvement. ii.
The Americans sent for a Spanish officer to have them come out
1.
The Spanish Officer slipped a newspaper inside the Church to inform them that the Spanish-
American war is over and that the current enemy of the Filipinos are the Americans
2.
The Spanish soldiers were convinced and came out of their hiding d.
Aguinaldo ordered the Filipino soldiers to treat them with utmost tolerance for they are not the enemies anymore. i.
They were released later. iv.
THE WAR CONTINUED
1.
The Congress of the Republic was transferred to Tarlac.
2.
1899: a.
Mabini, this time was assigned as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. a.
Gen. John Bates concluded a treaty with Sultan Jamalul Kiram of Sulu b.
The treaty called as the “Bates Agreement” dealt on the settlement of Sulu as the protectorate of the United States.
3.
Enemy troops captured Nueva Ecija driving Aguinaldo to transfer to Tarlac.
4.
The Filipino troops evacuated Concepcion and went to Tirad Pass v.
THE HEROISM AT TIRAD PASS
1.
In the midst of desperation, Maj. Peyton March was able to get assistance from a Filipino spy for the Americans, Januario Galut.
2.
Through Galut: a.
The Americans discovered a new passage that would lead to cut across the Filipino troops without notice. b.
With this strategy, the Americans launched as offensive attack simultaneously from the front and back sides of Tirad
Pass making the Filipino Troops trapped in between. c.
A massacre followed with all 60 men of Gen. Gregorio del Pilar perished together with him in an outstanding display of courage and patriotism. vi.
A WAY OF REVENGE
1.
The defense of Gen. Del PIlar at Tirad Pass delayed the Americans from following Aguinaldo.
2.
As a response to the Tirad Pass incident, Gen. Licerio Geronimo caused the Americans heavy casualties. a.
As a revenge for the death of the Filipino supreme commander (del Pilar), the Supreme Commander of the US Forces,
Henry Lawton, was killed in the battle against Geronimo.
3.
To avenge the defeat suffered by the Americans, many soldiers and even officials took the war against the civilians. a.
The war became so brutal that for the first time, the Americans, in their desire to bring more damage, resorted to the random violation on the human rights of the innocent ones. vii.
THE CAPTURE OF AGUINALDO
1.
American Gen. Frederic Funston in Nueva Ecija learned of the whereabouts of Aguinaldo early in 1901.
2.
Through correspondence, Gen. Funston learned that Aguinaldo was asking for reinforcement from Gen. Geronimo. a.
With this information, Aguinaldo’s location was detected. b.
Gen. Arthur MacArthur, who was just lately assigned as the new military governor replacing Otis, ordered for the capture of Aguinaldo.
3.
Gen. Funston with four other Americans and 81 Macabebe Scouts entered the Aguinaldo Camp pretending to be the reinforcement asked for. a.
Together with them were four Tagalogs that included the traitor Hilario Tal Placido (a trusted revolutionist) and Lazaro
Segovia (a Spanish language interpreter, who informed the guards that the Americans were prisoners). b.
Tal Placido and Segovia entered Aguinaldo’s quarter. i.
Gunshots from outside were heard. ii.
As Aguinaldo reached for his caliber, Tal Placido grabbed him from behind and disarmed him. iii.
Funston then arrived and arrested Aguinaldo. viii.
THE END OF WAR
1.
1902: a.
Gen. Miguel Malvar rallied his people from Batangas to a war for independence.
2.
Gen. Vicente Lukban gave the Americans a most humiliating defeat when he and his troops attacked Balanginga, Samar.
3.
The Philippine-American War ended finally on 11 September 1902. a.
The war lasted for 3 years and 7 months. b.
It was a war America never expected since it was far more serious than what they had against the Spaniards. c.
In order to secure an effective rule, the US government spent around P600 million for the war. c.
U.S. OCCUPATION & INDEPENDENCE EFFORTS i.
THE U.S. CIVIL GOVERNMENT
1.
War days are over that it was already time to change government, from a military shifting to a civilian rule.
2.
On July 4, 1901, right after Aguinaldo’s capture, the US Civil Government was inaugurated with William Howard Taft as Civil
Governor. a.
The Military rule, due to the continuing resistance, still prevailed over Southern Luzon until 1902, Northern and Central
Luzon until 1905 (after the execution of Macario Sakay), and Southern Mindanao until 1914 (due to Muslim resistance). ii.
THE PHILIPPINE COMMISSION (Upper House)
1.
Its creation was intended to function as the body that would study the Philippine situation and recommend to the US Congress necessary measures to make the US administration in the Philippines more effective.
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2.
With the first one which is the Schurman Commission, the following were recommended to the American Government: a.
The establishment of a territorial form of government which will create a bicameral legislature that are elected and appointed, provided that insurgency (rebellion) soon comes to an end. b.
That once there is already the cessation of hostilities, military rule would be withdrawn, and a civil government must be established. c.
Conservation of natural resources d.
Organization of autonomous and local governments e.
Provision of free primary schools f.
Appointment of capable Filipinos to Government Offices
3.
June 1900: a.
The right to exercise legislative functions in the Philippines was transferred to the Second Philippine Commission
called as the Taft Commission, as it was presided over by William Howard Taft. i.
During the Commission, 499 laws for the Philippines were proposed to the US Congress and have become applicable immediately. b.
Gen. Arthur MacArthur, in the last days of his military administration, offered amnesty (general pardon) i.
The opportunity was grabbed by notable persons like Pardo de Tavera, Felipe Buencamino, and Pedro
Paterno, who later created the Pro-American Federal Party. ii.
Those who were captured or surrendered but remained unyielding were exiled to Guam and other destinations. c.
The man responsible for the ending of the Military Administration in the Philippines was Sen. John Spooner who passed to the “Army Appropriations Act” the provision that would create a Civil Government in the Philippines. i.
This amendment is now called the “Spooner Amendment.” iii.
THE TAFT ADMINISTRATION’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
1.
The passage of a relief fund for the Philippines which amounted to $3 million as approved by Congress.
2.
The American purchase of “Church Lands” from the Vatican. a.
The lands that were denied by the friars from the Filipinos were distributed by the Americans to the landless farmers for low costs and interest rates made payable for 25 years.
3.
The assurance from the US that the Philippines will be for the Filipinos.
4.
The passing of the Cooper Act, or what is called as the Philippine Bill of 1902, which provided for: a.
The extension of the Bill of Rights (of the US Constitution) to the Philippines and the Filipino people except, only, for the trial by jury court procedure b.
The appointment of 2 Filipino Resident Commissioners who shall function as Philippine representatives to the US
Congress c.
The creation of a Philippine Assembly which shall be composed of Filipinos elected by the people i.
This shall serve as the lower house of the bicameral legislature d.
The retention of the Philippine Commission (duly appointed by the Governor) which would serve as the Upper House
Legislature e.
Conservation of Natural Resources iv.
THE PHILIPPINE BILL OF 1902
1.
The first stage in the development of the Civil Government was done through the passage of the Philippine Organic Act of 1902 which was officially called as the Philippine Bill of 1902.
2.
It provided that a Philippine Assembly would be created.
3.
It provided also for two resident Commissioners and the extension of the Bill of Rights of the US Constitution (except for the right of trial by jury) for the Filipino people. v.
THE AMERICAN GOVERNOR GENERAL
1.
1904: Luke Wright was made Civil Governor replacing Taft. a.
In the same year, new nationalist political parties emerged like that of Pedro Paterno’s Independence party and
Pascual Poblete’s National Party. b.
Wright assumed the position of the Governor General as resistance to American rule was finally over.
2.
1906: He was succeeded by Henry Ide a.
The significant contribution of Ide was the lifting of the ban on independence parties that was instituted by Wright during his term.
3.
1906: He was succeeded by James Smith a.
The most significant events that took place during his term were the election for the members of the Philippine
Assembly and the inauguration of the legislative body. vi.
THE PHILIPPINE ASSEMBLY
1.
As the executive power was vested in the Governor General, who also was the Chairman of the Philippine Commission: a.
the legislative power was partly vested in the Philippine Assembly, being the lower house of the bicameral legislature i.
the Assembly was composed of Filipinos elected by the people ii.
from it would come the 2 Resident Commissioners who would represent the Philippines in the US Congress. iii.
These representatives were given the same privileges as members of the US House of Representatives, except for voting privilege. b.
the Philippine Commission served us the Upper House.
2.
The first law that passed the Philippine Assembly was called as the Gabaldon Law. a.
The law created a budget for primary education in the barrios.
3.
The first leaders of the Philippine Assembly were Sergio Osmeña, who served as House Speaker, and Manuel Quezon who served as Majority Floor Leader. a.
Because of the outstanding performance of Quezon, who was pushing for an independence measure, he was sent as
Resident Commissioner. b.
In the US, Quezon made impressive remarks regarding the necessity for a Philippine independence law.
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c.
Both Filipinos and Americans were impressed with Quezon. vii.
THE PRO-FILIPINO DEMOCRATS
1.
REPUBLICANS VS. DEMOCRATS
PHILOSOPHY:
CORE BELIEFS
Economic Ideas:
DEMOCRAT
Liberal
- it is the responsibility of government to care for all individuals, even if it means giving up some individual rights and/or subordinating enterprise and initiative.
Favor minimum wages and progressive taxation i.e. higher tax rates for higher income brackets.
-economy is too complicated for individuals to navigate alone. They believe that business decisions should be guided by government officials and in the best interest of labor unions.
Decreased spending
REPUBLICAN
Conservative
-Each person is responsible for his or her own place in society.
Government should enable each person the ability to secure the benefits of society for themselves, their families and for those who are unable to care for themselves.
- limiting the intervention of government as a catalyst of individual prosperity. Government should only intervene in specific cases where society cannot effectively act at the individual level. With the core belief that individual destiny should be in the individual’s hands, governmental power and resources should be kept close to the people, through their state and community leaders, and not centralized in distant federal government agencies.
Believe taxes shouldn't be increased for anyone (including the wealthy) and that wages should be set by the free market.
-free enterprise has brought economic growth and innovations that have made this country great. Government should help stimulate a business environment where people are free to use their talents.
Increased spending Stand on Military
issues:
Social and human
ideas:
Based on community and social responsibility Based on individual rights and justice
2.
From the beginning of the American civil rule up to the time of Governor William Forbes, the Americans have continued to deny the reality that the Philippines already needed a road for independence. a.
The Republicans, members of US political party, never favored this idea.
3.
Events turned out differently and the Democrats finally took office when Woodrow Wilson defeated Taft. a.
A new Governor in the Philippines was then named, Francis Burton Harrison, a Democrat.
4.
The following were the accomplishments of the Harrison Administration: a.
Pres. Wilson assigned 5 Filipinos out of the 9 members of the Philippine Commission, giving the Filipinos the majority of the Upper House. b.
Harrison replaced American employees with Filipinos in government service making 89% of all government offices occupied by Filipinos by 1913. i.
This made Wilson and Harrison very popular among Filipinos but hated by many Americans since many lost their jobs due to the “Pro-Filipino” policies. c.
The Jones Bill of 1912: i.
The bill that provided for a complete independence in 8 years viii.
JONES LAW OF 1916
1.
This is an American Law which was officially called as the Philippine Autonomy Law. It contained the following: a.
A separate Bill of Rights intended for Philippines b.
Definition of Filipino Citizenship c.
Continuation of representation through the resident commissioners d.
Provision for a budgetary system and powers granted to the new government e.
The creation of a bicameral (Congress) legislature, abolishing the Philippine Commission and Assembly ix.
THE WOOD-FORBES MISSION
1.
1921: Pres. Warren Harding assumed the presidency a.
He formed a special American mission to the Philippines which was tasked to report on the state of affairs of the
Philippines b.
This mission was headed by former governor Forbes, and the incoming Governor Leonard Wood c.
After spending 4 months in the Philippines they went back to the US and submitted a report with the conclusion that the Filipinos were not yet prepared to assume the responsibilities of independence x.
CONTINUED MISSIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE
1.
1922: to counter the claims of the Wood-Forbes Mission, the Philippine Congress sent a Second Independence Mission to the US.
2.
It was jointly headed by Senate President Manuel Quezon and House Speaker Sergio Osmeña
3.
President Harding declined their appeal xi.
THE OS-ROX MISSION
1.
The Os-Rox Mission, which was also called the Ninth Independence Mission of 1931, was headed by Senate President Pro-
Tempore Sergio Osmeña and House Speaker Manuel Roxas. a.
By this time, many American Senators and Congressmen have already favored creating a law for Philippine
Independence xii.
THE 10 TH INDEPENDENCE MISSION
1.
Desperate enough to get the credit for achieving the law which would give the Filipino people their independence, Senate
President Quezon sent another (10 th ) independence mission. a.
He commissioned Benigno Aquino to find him another law from other American legislators.
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II.
III.
xiii.
THE TYDINGS-MC DUFFIE LAW
1.
1934: a new independence measure called the Tydings-Mc Duffie Law was passed in the Congress and signed into law by US
President Franklin Roosevelt. a.
The authors of this law were Senator Millard E. Tydings and Congressman John McDuffie
2.
Under this law, the US shall: a.
Provide a 10 year transition period, during which time shall be established the Commonwealth of the Philippines b.
Draft a constitution that is Republican by Nature which includes a Bill of Rights c.
Retain the Philippines as an American territory during the transition period d.
Make all the Filipinos owe allegiance to the US e.
Ensure equal protection of civil and political rights and economic privileges among Filipinos and Americans alike f.
Have the power, through approval of US President, over commonwealth laws pertaining to currency, coinage, foreign trade immigration g.
Create the US High Commission representing the US President authorize Philippine Representation to the US through a resident commissioner h.
Supervise and control Philippine foreign affairs i.
Empower the US Supreme Court to review important cases passed to the Commonwealth Supreme Court, which includes cases pertaining to the Constitution j.
Restrict Filipino immigration in the US while not having any limit on the number of Americans who would migrate to the Philippines
COMMONWEALTH PERIOD a.
THE 1935 CONSTITUTION i.
1934: the Philippine Legislature elected the representative to the Constitutional Convention (Con-Con), the delegates’ task was to draft the
Constitution of the Philippines ii.
1935: the Convention formally approved a draft with 177-1 ratio in favor of approval.
1.
It was approved by US President Franklin Roosevelt
2.
It was through a plebiscite, ratified (approved) by the Filipino people
3.
The Constitution consisted 17 articles which included the Philippine Territory, the Bill of Rights, Citizenship, and the three
Branches of Government a.
The Executive (vested in the President of the Commonwealth as provided by law) b.
The Legislative (Unicameral National Assembly) c.
Judiciary (vested in the Supreme Court) b.
THE FIRST COMMONWEALTH ELECTIONS i.
1935: the first national election for the President and the members of the National assembly was held ii.
In the Presidential election 3 parties contested on a block voting system. These were:
1.
Coalition Party with Quezon for President and Osmeña for Vice President
2.
The Nacionalista Social Party with Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo for President
3.
The Republican Party with Bishop Gregorio Aglipay for President iii.
The Coalition Party won the elections with Manuel Quezon as President c.
NATIONAL DEFENSE MEASURES i.
The Commonwealth took the first steps to national security:
1.
Gen. Douglas Mac Arthur, with the permission from the US war department, was appointed as Field marshal of the newly created
Philippine Army
2.
The Philippine Army drafted able-bodied 20 yr. old men to be enlisted men and officers of the armed forces. Army strength was more than 40, 000
3.
Reserved Officers Training Corps or ROTC courses were introduced in Colleges and Universities
4.
The National Assembly enacted the first law of the Commonwealth, the National Defense Act d.
WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE i.
When the democratic exercise of voting began in the Philippines, it initially did not include the women as part of the voting population. ii.
To extend the stretch of democracy and recognize the equal right of women in the building of the nation, the government ordered a plebiscite to be held for the purpose of asking the society on whether or not the women should be given the right to vote. iii.
1937: the result was affirmative e.
THE NATIONAL LANGUAGE i.
1936: Quezon created the Institute of National Language.
1.
He recommended that the Tagalog language be the basis of the National Language. ii.
Quezon made the proclamation declaring Filipino, based on Tagalog, as the National Language of the Philippines. f.
NEW CHARTED CITIES i.
Before the Commonwealth, there were only the cities of Manila and Baguio ii.
1941: nine cities were added – Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, Zamboanga, Bacolod, Quezon City, Tagaytay, Kawit, and San Pablo. g.
COMMONWEALTH PLEBISCITE i.
The plebiscite was in regard to the restoration of the bicameral legislature:
1.
The Senate and House of Representatives, and the Presidential Term was proposed to be 4 years with one re-election instead of 6 years with no re-election.
WORLD WAR II IN THE PACIFIC a.
INITIAL CONFLICTS i.
December 1941: Japan was planning a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor.
1.
The attack was intended as a preventive action in order to keep the U.S. Pacific Fleet from interfering with military actions the
Empire of Japan was planning in Southeast Asia against overseas territories of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the
United States. It coincided with a Japanese attack on the British Empire in Malaya, Singapore, and Hong Kong, all of which were captured by mid-February.
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ii.
US began its military preparations, particularly in the Philippines.
1.
New aircraft were made for the Air Force.
2.
The Philippine Scouts have doubled in strength and military training was intensified. iii.
Gen. Douglas Mc Arthur was appointed as Commander of the US Armed Forces in the Far East. b.
THE PACIFIC WAR BEGINS i.
More than 300 Japanese planes attacked Oahu Island of Hawaii in Pearl Harbor. ii.
The attack was launched in the absence of a declaration of war. c.
WAR IN THE PHILIPPINES i.
The Japanese made its operations outside Palau Island for the first time with minor sea assaults in Davao Bay. ii.
The Japanese raided Baguio. iii.
50 Japanese Bombers appeared over Manila, bombed the Nichols Field and the Cavite Naval Base. d.
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS SUSPENDED i.
Quezon and Family left for Corregidor ii.
Jose Laurel was left behind as Quezon found him being an able man to protect his country
1.
Laurel preferred to stay believing he could help this way because he knew a lot about the Japanese people and their culture
2.
He had stayed in Japan for some time and earned his degree from the Tokyo Imperial University. e.
MANILA IS OPEN CITY i.
Mac Arthur issued a proclamation declaring Manila as an Open City.
1.
Immediately, all military installations were removed from Manila. ii.
Japan expressed that they would not respect any proclamation unless Filipinos would collaborate with Japan against the US for the formation of Greater East Asia. iii.
The destruction of Manila continued, bombing Intramuros. f.
QUEZON’S SECOND TERM i.
Quezon and Osmeña reassumed their respective positions g.
MANILA OCCUPATION i.
The Japanese High Command proclaimed the founding of the Japanese Military Administration
1.
This administration announced the need for the collaboration of Filipinos with the Imperial Forces and the severing of ties with the US. ii.
Because the fight was still going on in Bataan and Corregidor, the Japanese proclaimed Martial Law, imposed curfew and blackouts.
1.
Schools, banks, and media were closed and all national symbols were banned. h.
PHILIPPINE COLLABORATION i.
34 Commonwealth Officials were addressed to form a government that would collaborate with the Japanese.
1.
As an answer, these officials signed a “Letter of Response.”
2.
Only 2 did not sign. One of them was Jose Fabella, former Sec. of Health and Public Welfare i.
DEPARTURE OF QUEZON i.
1942: upon the advice of Pres. Roosevelt, Quezon, his family and the Cabinet left Corregidor aboard an American submarine. ii.
Gen. Douglas Mc Arthur also left Corregidor j.
THE FALL OF BATAAN i.
Bataan was a formidable bastion of resistance.
1.
The Japanese called for more reinforcements
2.
Day and night, enemy artillery and infantry fired with air bombers. ii.
Around Asia: Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Burma and Indonesia have all surrendered already. iii.
April 9, 1942: (Araw ng Kagitingan)
1.
The Bataan garrison under Gen. Edward King surrendered and accepted the terms of the enemy.
2.
Those who escaped resumed resistance in the Philippine “guerilla” fashion. iv.
As the Japanese entered Bataan, Brig. Gen. Carlos Romulo, liaison officer of MacArthur’s staff, made his way through the fleeing soldiers to reach a secret airstrip where he was able to board a plane.
1.
Romulo created the “voice of freedom” a.
This is a radio broadcast station in Corregidor which could reach Australia(where Quezon and McArthur were headed) b.
Through this, he was able to give an official eyewitness account of Bataan events k.
THE DEATH MARCH i.
The defense in Bataan and Corregidor were remarkable episodes in the greatest war in history which will truly be immortal.
1.
It was where the Filipinos, side by side with the Americans, displayed true valor in defense of freedom amidst desperation, sufferings and death.
2.
After months of fighting, Bataan fell only after the deaths of six Filipino and four American generals, and some 36,000 Filipino and
American soldiers. ii.
More than 200,000 Japanese soldiers were used for both Bataan and Corregidor. iii.
After the fall, torture began.
1.
The surrendering Filipino-American troops, hungry and sick were compelled to march from Mariveles, Bataan to San Fernando
Pampanga without rest or aid.
2.
The Japanese bayoneted those who could not continue to march and shot on sight anyone who tried to escape.
3.
Those who survived and reached San Fernando were transferred to Capas, Tarlac through trucks. a.
Capas was converted to concentration camp.
4.
There were about 45,000 casualties after the march aside from the 25,000 who died during the march.
5.
There were also a number of successful incidents of escapes that were recorded from this tragic event.
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l.
MARTYRDOM OF THE CHIEF JUSTICE JOSE ABAD SANTOS i.
After Quezon left, Jose Abad Santos remained in the Visayas.
1.
There he was taken as a prisoner of the Japanese in Cebu, accused of ordering the destruction of the city to avoid the enemy’s use of its facilities. ii.
The Japanese compromised that he would be free if only he would urge Col. Manuel Roxas to surrender, and once he agrees to collaborate with them.
1.
Abad Santos repeatedly refused the offer and was transferred to Malabong, Mindanao.
2.
Later, he was given death sentence via firing squad. m.
THE GUERILLA RESISTANCE i.
Manuel Roxas was the over-all head of the guerilla movement. ii.
Roxas was later forced to surrender to the Japanese in Mindanao, and was transferred to Manila. n.
OCCUPIED PHILIPPINES i.
The Japanese policies were strict and cruel.
1.
Streets were closely monitored and raids on private homes were frequent. ii.
The Japanese forced many Filipino women to sex slavery. iii.
The paper currency that they introduced provoked inflation.
1.
Cost of living was highest and food shortage was everywhere. iv.
Religion was banned. v.
Nipongo language was made compulsory. vi.
Any display of any national symbol was prohibited.
1.
The children were made to respect the Japanese flag. o.
THE KALIBAPI i.
Following the Japanese instructions, Philippine Executive Commission Chairman Jorge Vargas announced the establishment of the
Katipunan ng mga Lingkod ng Bayang Pilipino or KALIBAPI.
1.
This would be the single political party that would replace the pre-war parties.
2.
Benign Aquino was appointed as the first director general after resigning as Commissioner of Interior. ii.
KALIBAPI was launched in December 1942. p.
THE “PHILIPPINES” i.
Quezon and the government in exile founded on March 1943 a monthly magazine called “Philippines” ii.
It served to publish the activities of the Filipinos during the war and while under Japanese occupation
1.
Information came through radio or via submarines which were supervised by Commodore Chick Parsons whose vessels were located in the distance between the Visayas and Australia. q.
A PLAN FOR INDEPENDENCE i.
January 1943:
1.
Gen. Hideki Tojo, prime minister of Japan, announced the Diet (lawmaking body) that Japan would grant independence to Burma, and the same with Philippines, if only people would collaborate with them. ii.
May 1943:
1.
Hideki Tojo paid a visit to the Philippines. a.
He publicly promised independence to the Filipino people. b.
As a result, the Philippine Preparatory Commission was organized to draft a Constitution for the future Second
Republic of the Philippines i.
Jose Laurel was made Chairman of the Commission. ii.
Right after the formation of the Commission, Jose Laurel was shot while playing golf at Wack-Wack Golf and
Country Club. r.
THE JAPANESE-SPONSORED REPUBLIC i.
June 1943: iii.
Laurel survived the assassination attempt.
1.
Hideki Tojo announced that the Philippine Independence will be granted in July of that year. ii.
September 1943:
1.
The Philippine Constitution was finished and was ratified by the Constitutional Assembly (whose members were elected by the
KALIBAPI)
2.
The election of the delegates to the National Assembly was held
3.
The Assembly elected the Speaker and the President of the future Republic. a.
Benigno Aquino was elected as Speaker while Jose Laurel was made President iii.
October 1943:
1.
The Japanese-sponsored Republic of the Philippines was inaugurated s.
PHILIPPINE-JAPAN ALLIACE i.
October 1943:
1.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Claro M. Recto represented the Philippines in signing of the Philippine-Japanese Treaty of Alliance. t.
QUEZON-OSMEÑA CONFLICT i.
November 1943:
1.
Osmeña informed Quezon that the term of his Presidency, according to the Constitution, has already expired. a.
And that according to law, once there is a failure to hold elections, the vice-president shall succeed the presidency once the incumbent’s term has expired. b.
The maximum number of years for a President is 8 years according to the amendment.
2.
US Atty. Gen. Homer Cummings upheld Osmeña’s stand
3.
Pres. Quezon accepted the decision and announced his plan to retire in California. a.
Nevertheless, Osmeña approached Quezon after the meeting and told him his plans to ask the US Congress to suspend the Constitutional provision regarding the succession until after the Philippines should have been liberated.
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b.
Because of this, the Resolution was approved unanimously by the Congress and was accepted by Roosevelt. c.
Quezon was still the President due to the unselfish act of Osmeña. u.
THE PHILIPPINE LIBERATION i.
August 1944:
1.
Quezon died while in exile in the US.
2.
Osmeña was sworn to office in Washington as the President of the Commonwealth ii.
With forces striking from the US mainland, Hawaii and Australia, Mac Arthur was winning in the jungle battles in the Pacific, especially in
Papua New Guinea which was under British command. iii.
US Bombers raided Japanese Military installations in Mindanao, Visayas, and Greater Manila Area.
1.
The Filipino guerillas intensified their attacks to the enemy in the mountains.
2.
Manila was heavily raided that, by the end of the war, it was considered to be most destroyed city, second to Hitler’s Berlin, due to the American air raids. iv.
The Japanese started their criminal activities through their massacre of the innocent civilians which included babies, the looting of churches and some other establishments with precious treasures. v.
After the Allies’ bombing of Manila, Laurel proclaimed Martial Law to all the land on September 21.
1.
The next day, the Japanese High Command pressured Laurel to issue a proclamation declaring war against the US.
2.
Laurel did so knowing that Filipinos, nonetheless, would not fight on the side of the Japanese.
3.
This was only to prevent the Japanese from performing more massacres and other war crimes which always come as a last recourse during desperate times. v.
MAC ARTHUR RETURNS i.
October 1944:
1.
174,000 American troops landed at Leyte with USAFFE Commander Gen. Mac Arthur who was with Pres. Sergio Osmeña, Gen.
Carlos Romulo and other American Generals.
2.
Immediately, upon landing, Mac Arthur announced to the radio, “People of the Philippines, I have returned.” w.
THE BATTLE OF THE PHILIPPINE SEA i.
October 20, 1944:
1.
A fleet of more than 700 ships and other vessels entered the Philippine sea a.
This would be the largest naval armada to be recorded in world history which also would put forward the “Second
Battle of the Philippine Sea” (Battle of Leyte Gulf) b.
The Americans met a destructive resistance by the Japanese ii.
In the desperate struggle to injure the Americans as much as possible the Japanese unleashed their most dangerous weapon on sea, the
“kamikaze” or the divine wind.
1.
With a navy and air force ready to die for the emperor, a number of kamikaze pilots committed honorable suicide by smashing their bomb loaded planes to the American battleships, carriers, and destroyers.
2.
This would be the greatest setback that the Americans have experienced in a naval battle.
3.
At the end of all destruction, the greatest advantage of the Americans over Japanese prevailed, and that would be their number and technology. iii.
October 23, 1944:
1.
The Commonwealth was restored with Tacloban as capital of Osmeña
2.
The battle lasted until the 26 th . iv.
President Laurel and his Cabinet were moved to Baguio and escaped to Japan. x.
LIBERATION OF MANILA i.
January 1945:
1.
Mac Arthur landed at full force in Lingayen Pangasinan a.
Japanese opposition in Northern and Central Luzon collapsed ii.
February 1945:
1.
American troops entered and recaptured Manila iii.
July 5, 1945:
1.
Mac Arthur finally announced the “liberation of the Philippines.” y.
END OF WORLD WAR II i.
March 1945:
1.
US Admiral Nimitz captured Iwo Jima, Japan. a.
Next to this was the fall of Berlin through which the war in Europe came to a close with the surrender of Germany and the death of Hitler. ii.
July 1945
1.
England, China, US agreed on the Potsdam Declaration
2.
The declaration was the ultimatum which required the immediate and unconditional surrender of Japan. a.
Japan ignored the declaration that, instead, they prepared the citizenry on the methods of resistance in case of
American landing. b.
The Japanese government declared that there are no non-combatants in Japan
3.
The US, at this time, has recently succeeded in their experimentation with a new powerful weapon, the atomic bomb. a.
Distinct from all conventional weapons, the atomic bomb uses uranium and plutonium to harness power which can devastate a whole city in one detonation. iii.
August 1945:
1.
The US, upon the order of President Harry Truman, dropped the first atomic bomb in Hiroshima (August 6) a.
The city was destroyed claiming tens of thousands of lives. b.
Japan was shocked but did not surrender on the assumption that US can only have one bomb of that magnitude.
2.
But they were wrong. a.
US had two, and it finally dropped in Nagasaki (August 9). b.
The death toll was too much that the emperor was distressed and feared a probable genocide.
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z.
JAPAN SURRENDERS i.
With the terrible defeat, Emperor Hirohito, in behalf of the Parliament (Diet) and the Japanese Imperial Army, his war partners, made his initiative declaring the surrender of Japan. ii.
Ashamed of the defeat, many members of the Parliament and the Army committed the honorable suicide. iii.
August 15, 1945:
1.
Emperor Hirohito, as represented by the Foreign Minister and a number of Japanese Generals, aboard the USS Missouri, signed the surrender of Japan to the Allied Powers.
2.
The event took place at Tokyo Bay. iv.
August 17, 1945:
1.
Jose Laurel, in Japan, dissolved the Second Republic of the Philippines. aa.
RESTORATION OF THE COMMONWEALTH i.
June 1945:
1.
For the first time in four years, the Congress was in session
2.
An election was held in Congress wherein Manuel Roxas was chosen as Senate President while Sen. Elpidio Quirino as Senate
President Pro-Tempore.
3.
Sergio Osmeña took over the Malacañang Palace.
10