SHS
Philippine Politics and
Governance
Quarter 1 – Module 7-8
Lesson
1:
Evolution of Philippine Politics and
Governance from the Pre-colonial to the
Colonial Period
Lesson
2:
Evolution of Philippine Politics and
Governance from the American Period to
the Post Independence Administrations
1
Philippine Politics and Governance – Senior High School
Quarter 1– Module 7-8, Lesson 1: Evolution of Philippine Politics and Governance from
the Pre-colonial to the Colonial Period
Lesson 2: Evolution of Philippine Politics and Governance from
the American Period to the Post Independence
Administration
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over them.
Regional Director: Gilbert T. Sadsad
Assistant Regional Director: Jessie L. Amin
Development Team of the Module
Writers: Ma. Elinor E. Ignacio and Erro G. Casar
Editors: Joel A. Agripa, Salve G. Olazo, Ross G. Gime, Noli C. Huet, Nicky H. Villa, Gladys
L. Canon, Jevilyn R. Jardin, Cristy L. Peňa, Joselito G. Gidoc, Jesus E. Escandor,
Eleonora F. Polo, Owen N. Castillo
Reviewer: Owen N. Castillo
Layout Artist: Niño Sadang Sepagan
2
LESSON 1
Evolution of Philippine Politics and Governance from the Pre-colonial to the
Colonial Period
This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is here to help you analyze
the evolution of Philippine politics and governance from the pre-colonial to the colonial period.
In each lesson are learning activities, concept development and assessments. Productive and
constructive teaching methodologies are presented and hopefully are utilized to build the
student’s competencies through the different activities.
Objectives
After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. Describe Philippine politics and governance from the pre-colonial period to the
colonial period.
2. Identify similarities and differences between colonial and pre-colonial politics
and governance; and
3. Discuss the effects of Spanish colonial experience of the country in its present
politics and governance.
Vocabulary List
For you to have a better understanding of the lesson presented in this module, you
should be familiar with the following terms:
❑ COLONIAL PERIOD - a period in Philippine history where it was under the Spanish
rule for more than 300 years.
❑ EVOLUTION - refers to the gradual development of something, especially from a
simple to a more complex form.
❑ GOVERNANCE- refers to the various ways in which a certain political system
establishes and monitors its mechanism and policies
❑ POLITICS – may be defined as the science and art of government, public affairs and
❑
❑
❑
❑
power.
PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD – the era of unhispanized or pre-Spanish Philippine
society.
REDUCCION – refers to the relocation of local inhabitants into towns or pueblos.
SULTANATE – aa territory or state governed by a sultan
SHARIAH- is an Islamic religious law that governs not only religious rituals but also
aspects of day-to-day life in Islam.
1
Are you ready to answer the activities prepared for you? Let us try to test your
knowledge about the evolution of Philippine politics and governance from the precolonial period to the colonial period by answering the crossword puzzle.
Pre-Test
Directions: Fill in the puzzle containing words associated with pre-colonial and
colonial period. You are guided with the first letter of the correct answer. Have fun!
Learning Activities
In the previous lesson, you studied the concept, components and origin of the
nations. You also learned about the meaning and impact of globalization on nations.
Now, let us try to go back to the lesson and check what you have learned.
Activity 1- WHAT’S IN
Directions: Answer the following:
1. If you were to describe “nation” in three words, what would those words
be?
a._________________________________________________________
b._________________________________________________________
c. ________________________________________________________
2
2. Cite two positive impacts of globalization on nation-state.
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
3. Cite two negative impacts of globalization on nation-state.
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Activity 2: WHAT IS IT
Directions: Read, analyze and try to understand the brief discussion exclusively organized
for you.
Philippine Politics and Governance during the Pre-Colonial Period
Barangay Systems
The barangay was the basic political unit that existed throughout the Philippine
islands prior to the 1400s.Each barangay was an independent polity (political identity)
which exercised authority over several communities within defined territory. Barangays
also interacted with other communities and there is evidence of the establishment of
political-military alliances between barangays for mutual protection and support.
The barangay was led by a datu, who rose to the position either birth or by valor
and feats achieved in war, In Luzon, the word datu refers to the chieftain. The datu, in
most cases, belonged to the nobility and afforded great respect by the community.
Meanwhile other terms were also used to refer to rulers during precolonial times such
as lakan and rajah. The datu implemented customary laws of the community and
served as commander -in-chief during times of war. The datu was also responsible for
the livelihood of the people and the barangay’s collective wealth.
The Sultanates
From the 1400s onwards, the various communities in Sulu and Maguindanao
were organizing themselves into sultanates. The Sultanates of Sulu and Maguindanao
represented a significant political advancement in precolonial Philippines, as the
Muslim communities of Mindanao achieved a level of political unity and stability that
enabled them to establish strong diplomatic relations with other Asian communities
and successfully resist Spanish conquest.
3
Political legitimacy in these sultanates was based on blood and religious ties.
The members of the sultanate considered themselves part of a vast political
community bound by faith, thus governance in the sultanate was defined by religious
tradition and Sharia or Shariah Law. The sultans also traced their lineage not only from
native rulers of the ancient barangays in Mindanao, but also from the bloodline of the
earliest Arab missionaries who came to spread Islam throughout the islands.
Philippine Politics and Governance during the Colonial Period
The Spanish Colonial Government in the Philippines
The arrival of the Spaniards in the Philippines in 1521 brought about the
establishment of a colonial government in the islands. The communities of the
Philippines were reorganized and brought under the colonial government under the
authority of Spain. This phase of early colonization was then followed by a period of
reduccion, or the relocation of local inhabitants into towns or pueblos. Large barangays
were converted into pueblos, while smaller barangays were brought together to form
a single town, and the arrangement of buildings and landmarks emphasized. At the
center of the pueblo was the plaza, and situated around it were the local church, the
municipal hall and the houses of the principals. Thus, Spanish colonialism began the
process of integration of the Filipino people by bringing together the separate and
independent barangays into cohesive communities under Spanish rule.
In the first few decades of Spanish colonial administration, the Spaniards
adopted a European- style feudal system of government in the islands. The conquered
territories were divided into districts called encomiendas and were distributed among
Spaniards who acted as feudal lords, or encomenderos. The encomendero was tasked
to establish political authority, administer and improve local economy, promote
education and convert the people to Catholicism. The encomienda system was
eventually put to an end as the local towns were organized into provinces or alcaldias.
The provincial government was organized under the alcaldia, for peaceful
districts, while areas that have yet to be fully pacified were organized as
corregimientos. The alcaldias were administered by a provincial governor, the alcalde
mayor, while the corregimientos were headed by a corregidor or military governor. The
alcalde mayor directed the executive, judicial and legislative aspects of governance in
the province. He was also in-charge of collecting taxes and disciplining ineffective
4
public officials. The alcalde mayor also has authority over the gobernadorcillo who
ruled the town in his province.
The local leaders in the pueblos and barangays, meanwhile were elected by
members of the principalia. The principales were convened and they choose among
themselves the cabezas de barangay. The cabezas, in turn, elected among
themselves the gobernadorcillo or town leader. This system of appointment ensured
that leadership was concentrated in the hands of the local elite. This also meant that
given the smaller number of Spanish officials and friars in the Philippines, the colonial
government ruled the islands through the native elite. A large majority of Spanish
officials were located in Manila, which was the colonial capital and recognized as
special administrative city or ayuntamiento.
The colonial government adopted some aspects of precolonial governance in
an attempt to establish more effective control over the natives. Many of the old ruling
elites were incorporated into the new colonial state as local administrators. The old
datus became village heads or cabeza de was treated with great respect by the locals.
Furthermore, cabezas were oftentimes given an opportunity to become town mayor or
gobernadorcillo. Thus the precolonial elites who ruled the ancient barangays became
the colonial elites who administered their pueblos or communities under the Spanish
rule. Together with the Spanish rulers, the ruling elite was referred to as principals or
the principalia class.
The Roman Catholic Church, through the Spanish friars, played a vital role in
the colonial politics, specifically in local government. Some of their important tasks
included the conduct of census, health monitoring and school inspection and
censorship of some books and writings. The significant influence of the Catholic
Church in government affairs often brought into conflict with the government.
The Governor –General and Colonial Governance in the Philippines
The governor-general was the highest and most powerful official of the Spanish
colonial government in the Philippines. Apart from his administrative role, the
governor-general also had a military role and was considered the commander-in –
5
chief of the military forces. It is for this reason that the full title of the governor-general
was “Governor and Captain-general of the Philippines.
The governor-general was appointed by the King of Spain and acted as his
representative in the country. The leadership of the governor general encompassed
the executive and the judicial branches. He had the power to assign officials to various
government positions. He was also in charge of the Royal Audiencia, the judiciary
body in the Philippines at that time. In addition, the governor-general was the vice real
patron and had the power to appoint priests to parishes throughout the Philippines.
The colonial government lacked a formal legislative body to create and
promulgate laws for the islands. Instead, many of the laws in the country were made
by the King of Spain and the governor-general was tasked to implement them in the
colony. One significant basis of laws and governance for the colony was the
Recopilacion de las Leyes de los Reynos de las Indias, a compilation of laws
applicable to various Spanish colonies throughout the world. The governor-general
however, had the power of cumplase, wherein he could suspend or ignore laws
imposed by the crown if he considered them inapplicable to the Philippines.
The leadership of the governor-general was subject to a number of limitations.
For instance, he only served a short term which was determined by the Viceroy in
Mexico or by the central government in Madrid. Furthermore, his administrative
conduct was also constantly checked. This was done through the visita, an
unannounced inspection from the Spanish government, and by the residencia, which
was review of his actions in government at the end of his term as the governor –
general. The reputation, wealth and pension of the governor-general depended on the
findings of this post – term investigative body. He could be stripped of aristocratic,
titles, fined, deprived of pension or even imprisoned if found to have committed crimes
and misdemeanors or if he was determined to have failed in his administrative duties.
Before we proceed, let us first check how well you have understood the discussion.
Be sure to answer the next activity.
Activity 2a- CONCEPT DESCRIPTION
Directions: Describe the following concepts on politics and governance during the precolonial and Spanish periods guided by the table below. Use your notebook for this activity.
6
Concepts/Terms
Description
Pre-colonial Period
Society and Social
Classes
Barangay Government
Sultanate
Laws
Spanish Period
Society and Social
Classes
Spanish Government
Laws
Process Questions:
1. Which of the traditional societies closely resembles the present political system of the
country? Cite similarities.
2. What keeps the politicians/leaders to continuously practice certain perceptions of
leadership and system of politics in the past?
7
You did well in answering the Concept Description! You are very good in describing
the concepts on politics and governance during the pre-colonial period and the Spanish period.
Now, you can proceed to the next activity.
Activity 3- VENN DIAGRAM
Directions: Using the Venn Diagram below, compare and contrast political system and
governance of the Filipinos before and during the Spanish colonization. Write three items in
each aspect. Write the commonalities on the area between A and B. Then, write the unique
characteristics on A and B respectively. Use separate answer sheet for this activity. Please
be guided by the rubrics.
Pre-colonial Period (A)
A)
Commonalities
Colonial Period (B)
Rubrics: Venn Diagram
Criteria
Content
Organization
Description
Points
• The content was
factual
• Differences and
similarities were
clear and concise.
5 points
• Thoughts are well
organized with no
deviation from the
concept.
5 points
TOTAL
Points obtained
10 points
Process Question:
1. What aspects of both systems can be continued for today’s political system
and governance? Justify your answer.
8
Congratulations! You did a good job in achieving the first and second objectives of this
module. Accomplishing the third objective which is to discuss the effects of Spanish colonial
experience of the country in its present politics and governance will now be easier for you.
Activity 4- ESSAY WRITING
Directions: Discuss the effects of colonial rule to our present political system and
governance by writing an essay. Use your notebook for this. Please be guided by the
rubric.
Process Questions:
1. To what extent did the Spaniards affect the politics and governance of our country both
during their time and the present system? Explain your answer.
2. If you were to change one thing that affected Philippine politics during the periods
discussed in this lesson, what would that be? Why
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Activity 5- WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: Suggest ways on how you can help the Sangguniang Kabataan in your
barangay along politics and governance. Write your answer on a separate sheet.
Activity 6- WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
Directions: Accomplish the Synthesis Journal. Write your answer on a separate sheet.
Learning
My Learnings
Activities I Have
How this can be applied in
my Daily Life
Accomplished
9
Let us now assess your mastery on this essential topic on evolution of Philippine politics
and governance from the Pre-colonial period to the Spanish period.
Post Test
Direction: Identify what is being referred in each statement. Choose your answer from the
words/phrases in the box. Write your answer on a separate answer sheet.
Principalia
Sultan
Reduccion
Encomiendas
Ayuntamiento Royal Audencia Encomendero
Gobernadorcillo
Alcaldia
Corregimientos Cabeza de barangay Cumplase
Recopilacion de las Leyes de los Reynos de las Indias
Barangay
Governor-general
10
1. The basic political unit that existed throughout the Archipelago prior to
the 1400s.
2. The foremost leader of the Sultanate.
3. The relocation of local inhabitants into town or pueblos.
4. European-style feudal system of governance in the island.
5. The highest Spanish public official in the Philippines.
6. The ruling elite class during the Spanish colonial period.
7. The colonial capital and recognized as special administrative city.
8. The judiciary body during the Spanish colonial period.
9. Feudal Lords tasked to established political authority.
10. The town mayor during the Spanish colonial period.
11. Peaceful districts during the Spanish colonial period.
12. Districts that are not yet pacified and ruled by Military governor.
13. Village heads tasked with the collection of tribute from the people.
14.The power to suspend or ignore laws imposed by the Crown.
15. Compilation of laws applicable to various Spanish colonies.
To further strengthen your learnings in this module, the next activity is especially
prepared for you.
Additional Activities
Activity 7- COLLAGE MAKING
Directions: Cut pictures from magazines or newspapers or download and print from the
internet, and make a collage that represents the pre-colonial political system. Use a separate
answer sheet for this activity. Use the rubric as your guide.
Rubric: Collage Making
Criteria
Content-relatedness
Organization
Creativity
Neatness
Total
Percentage
30 %
25 %
25 %
20 %
100 %
Congratulations! You successfully finished this module. Use all the learning you
have gained in this module to become a good and active citizen of the country. You are
now prepared for the next module.
11
◼
◼
◼
◼
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❑
❑
❑
❑
❑
❑
Pre-Test:
Crossword Puzzle
Across
2. pre-colonial
7. sultan
8. visita
9. gobernadorcillo
11. principalias
12. datu
12
Down
1. barangay
3. reduccion
4. ayuntamiento
5. pueblos
6. residencia
10.alcaldia
Activity 1- What’s In
Possible answers:
1.
• people
• culture-bounded
• identity-based
• community-based
• common history
• common race
• common history
• common culture
2. Positive Impact of globalization on nation-states
Productivity grows more quickly when countries produce goods and services in
which they have a comparative advantage. Living standards can go up faster.
Global competition and cheap imports keep a lid on prices, so inflation is less likely
to derail economic growth.
An open economy spurs innovation with fresh ideas from abroad.
Accelerated the development and innovation of technology and communication.
3. Negative Impact of globalization on nation-states
Loss of jobs due to imports or production shifts abroad. Most find new jobs that
pay less.
Millions of others fear losing their jobs, especially at those companies operating
under competitive pressure.
Workers face pay-cut demands from employers, which often threaten to export
jobs.
Service and white-collar jobs are increasingly vulnerable to operations moving
offshore.
Lose of employee’s comparative advantage when companies build advanced
factories in low-wage countries, making them as productive as those at home
Increased globalization of social and economic problems such crime, narcotics,
infectious diseases and the migration of labour
Increasing marginalization of certain population groups. Those who do not have
access to the technological/information revolution are in danger of becoming part
of a structural underclass.
Answer Key
•
•
•
•
•
13
Activity 2a- Concept Description
Pre-Colonial Period
Society & Social ClassesThe society in the Pre-colonial period was divided into three social classes: (1)
nobles, (2) freemen and (3) slaves or dependents.
The nobles constituted the barangay aristocracy. This class composed of the
datu, his family and relatives who wielded tremendous influence in the barangay
and enjoyed rights that were not usually enjoyed by the other members of society.
The freemen were composed of free men and likewise of dependents who had
earned their freedom.
The lowest class in the pre-colonial society were the slaves or dependent. A
dependent acquired his low status in society by inheritance, by captivity in war, by
failing to pay his debts, by purchase or by committing a crime for which he was
duly sentenced.
Any member of the social classes could go up or down the social ladder
depending upon the attendant circumstances.
Barangay Government
• The barangay was the basic political unit that existed throughout the
Philippine islands prior to the 1400s.
•
Each barangay was an independent polity (political identity) which exercised
authority over several communities within defined territory.
•
Barangays also interacted with other communities and there is evidence of
the establishment of political-military alliances between barangays for
mutual protection and support.
•
The barangay was led by a datu, who rose to the position either birth or by
valor and feats achieved in war, In Luzon, the word datu refers to the
chieftain.
•
The datu, in most cases, belonged to the nobility and afforded great respect
by the community.
•
Meanwhile other terms were also used to refer to rulers during pre-colonial
times such as lakan and rajah.
•
The datu implemented customary laws of the community and served as
commander –in-chief during times of war. The datu was also responsible for
the livelihood of the people and the barangay’s collective wealth.
Sultanates
•
•
•
From the 1400s onwards, the various communities in Sulu and
Maguindanao were organizing themselves into sultanates.
The Sultanates of Sulu and Maguindanao represented a significant political
advancement in pre-colonial Philippines
Muslim communities of Mindanao achieved a level of political unity and
stability that enabled them to establish strong diplomatic relations with
other Asian communities and successfully resist Spanish conquest.
14
Activity 2a- Concept Description
Sultanate
• Political legitimacy in these sultanates was based on blood and religious
ties.
• The members of the sultanate considered themselves part of a vast
political community bound by faith.
• Governance in the sultanate was defined by religious tradition and Sharia
or Shariah Law.
• The sultans also traced their lineage not only from native rulers of the
ancient barangays in Mindanao, but also from the bloodline of the earliest
Arab missionaries who came to spread Islam throughout the islands.
Laws
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The early Filipinos had both customary and written laws.
The laws, customary and written, dealt with various subjects such as
inheritance, divorce, usury, partnership, crime and punishment, property
rights, family relations, adoption, and loans.
Criminal laws dealt with felonies, or major crimes and minor crime. Major
crimes were rape, incest, murder, witchcraft, insult, trespassing,
sacrilegious acts and larceny.
A man guilty of major crimes was punished by death or by a heavy fine
Minor crimes consisted of adultery, cheating, petty theft, perjury,
disturbance of the peace of the night by singing, and destroying
documents owned by a chief.
Minor crimes were punished by exposure to the ants, by a small fine, by
flogging, by cutting the fingers of one hand or by swimming for a certain
number of hours
The written laws were promulgated by datus with the help of the elders and
announced to the people by a barangay crier known as umalohokan
Because of the destruction of ancient Filipino writings by Spanish
colonizers and by ravages of time, we do not have an authentic example of
early Filipino laws.
Spanish Period
Social Classes• The advent of material prosperity after the opening of the Philippines to
world trade give birth to a middle class who became the backbone of the
nation.
• Those belonging to this class were well-to-do landlords, farmers, lawyers,
physicians, teachers, and government employees.
• Out of this new middle class sprang the leaders of the Propaganda
Movement. They were Rizal, del Pilar, Lopez Jaena, Panganiban, Ponce
and many others.
Spanish Government
• The communities of the Philippines were reorganized and brought under
the colonial government under the authority of Spain.
• This phase of early colonization was then followed by a period of
reduccion, or the relocation of local inhabitants into towns or pueblos.
• Large barangays were converted into pueblos, while smaller barangays
were brought together to form a single town, and the arrangement of
buildings and landmarks emphasized.
15
Spanish Government
•
At the center of the pueblo was the plaza, and situated around it were the local
church, the municipal hall and the houses of the principals.
•
Spanish colonialism began the process of integration of the Filipino people by
bringing together the separate and independent barangays into cohesive
communities under Spanish rule.
•
In the first few decades of Spanish colonial administration, the Spaniards
adopted a European- style feudal system of government in the islands.
•
The conquered territories were divided into districts called encomiendas and
were distributed among Spaniards who acted as feudal lords, or
encomenderos.
•
The encomendero was tasked to establish political authority, administer and
improve local economy, promote education and convert the people to
Catholicism.
•
The encomienda system was eventually put to an end as the local towns were
organized into provinces or alcaldias.
•
The provincial government was organized under the alcaldia, for peaceful
districts,
The alcaldias were administered by a provincial governor, the alcalde mayor.
•
while areas that have yet to be fully pacified were organized as corregimientos.
•
The alcalde mayor directed the executive, judicial and legislative aspects of
governance in the province. He was also in-charge of collecting taxes and
disciplining ineffective
public officials. The alcalde mayor also has authority over the gobernadorcillo
who ruled the town in his province.
The local leaders in the pueblos and barangays, meanwhile were elected by
•
while the corregimientos were headed by a corregidor or military governor.
•
members of the principalia. The principales were convened and they choose
among themselves the cabezas de barangay. The cabezas, in turn, elected
among themselves the gobernadorcillo or town leader. This system of
appointment ensured that leadership was concentrated in the hands of the
local elite. This also meant that given the smaller number of Spanish officials
and friars in the Philippines, the colonial government ruled the islands through
the native elite. A large majority of Spanish officials were located in Manila,
which was the colonial capital and recognized as special administrative city or
ayuntamiento.
•
The governor-general was the highest and most powerful official of the Spanish
colonial government in the Philippines.
•
Apart from his administrative role, the governor-general also had a military role
and was considered the commander-in –chief of the military forces. It is for this
reason that the full title of the governor-general was “Governor and Captain-
general of the Philippines.
16
Spanish Laws
• The numerous laws governing the colonies of Spain were compiled and published
into a convenient colonial code entitled Recopilacion de Leyes de las Indias popularly
known as simply Laws of the Indies.
• The colonial government lacked a formal legislative body to create and promulgate
laws for the islands.
• Many of the laws in the country were made by the King of Spain and the governorgeneral was tasked to implement them in the colony.
• The governor-general however, had the power of cumplase, wherein he could
suspend or ignore laws imposed by the crown if he considered them inapplicable to
the Philippines.
Activity 3- Venn Diagram/Activity 4- Essay Writing/ Activity 5-What I Can Do/ Activity 6What I Have Learned/ Activity 7- Collage Making
• The answer depends on the student’s ability/skill/learning
Post Test
1. Barangay
2. Sultan
3. Reduccion
4. Encomiendas
5. Governor-general
6. Principalia
7. Ayuntamiento
8. Royal Audencia
9. Encomendero
10. Gobernadorcillo
11. Alcaldia
12. Corregimientos
13. Cabeza de barangay
14. Cumplase
15. Recopilacion de los Leyes reynos de las Indias
References
A. Daily Lesson Plan:
Daily Lesson Plan in Philippine Politics and Governance for Grade 12, 1 st Quarter, Week 6
(Day 1-4)
B. Books:
R. A. Pawilen and Reidan M. Pawilen, Philippine Politics and Governance,
Governance, Lesson 6 – Politics in the Pre-Spanish Period, pp. 36-42,
www.rexpublishing.com.ph, Manila, Philippines C.
Arnel E. Joven, PH. D., Philippine Politics- and Governance for senior High
School,Lesson 5- Early Political Systems From Pre Colonial Times Until The Philippine
Revolution, pp.66-87,C & E Publishing, Inc. 839 EDSA, South Triangle, Quezon City
C. Websites
Portal Clip Art - Accessed July 4, 2020
https://grid.gograph.com/journey-through-time-eps-vector_gg72402119.jpg
17
LESSON 2
Evolution of Philippine Politics and Governance from the American Period to
the Post Independence Administrations
This lesson is a continuation of the previous module, how the Philippines, as nation,
has passed through several stages and has been under the colonial rule of the Spanish
government in the course of its history. Influenced by colonialism, the development of
government among Filipinos was a gradual transition to nationhood.
In this module, the topic will help you to continue analyze the evolution of Philippines
Politics and Governance from the American Period to Post-Independence Administrations.
Objectives
After going through this module, you are expected to:
1. Describe Philippine politics and governance from the American Period to the PostIndependence administrations.
2. Identify commonalities and differences between today’s politics and the experiences
and processes of politics and governance in the past.
3. Appreciate the contributions of Filipinos in the development of Philippine politics and
governance during Post-Independence administrations; and
4. Assess one’s community or country that enabled Filipinos to have greater
participation in politics and governance
Vocabulary List
r For you to have a better understanding of the lesson presented in this module, you
should be familiar with the following terms:
❑ GOVERNANCE- refers to the various ways in which a certain political system
establishes and monitors its mechanism and policies
❑ POLITICS – may be defined as the science and art of government, public affairs and
P
popower
❑ AMERICAN PERIOD – colonial rule of the United States over the Philippines from
1898 to 1946
❑ POST-INDEPENDENCE ADMINISTRATION – covers the different administrations
that directed Philippine government from 1946 up to the
present
18
or characteristics associated with this
Are you ready to answer the activities prepared for you? Let us try to test your
knowledge about our topic
Pre-Test
Directions: Identify what is being referred in each statement. Choose your answer
from the words/phrases in the box.
Co-Prosperity Sphere
The Philippine Republic
Philippine Executive Commission
Neocolonialism
Tydings-McDuffie Act
Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong Pilipinas
Ferdinand Marcos
Jones Law
Jose P. Laurel
Governor-General
1. This concept refers to a propaganda used by the Japanese to invite cooperation among
Asians who were colonies of Western Powers.
2. This is the practice of a powerful state using economic, political, and cultural influence
to control a country.
3. An act approved for the creation of a constitution that would cover the duration from the
planned ten-year preparatory period to post-independence.
4. This organization attempted to recruit Filipinos into the Japanese
government.
5. His administration implemented a parliamentary ruling with a strong executive.
6. The law providing for changes in the civil government in anticipation of eventual
independence during the American period
7. The President of the United States delegated his authority to the person who exercised
all powers of government after the transferred of sovereignty over the Philippines from
the Spaniards to the Americans.
8. He was the President of the Japanese-sponsored Philippine Republic.
9. It is the only government office allowed to ratify executive orders and promulgated
pre-existing laws during the Japanese Military Administration.
10. Its main task was to ensure a smooth transition from the Commonwealth to a fully
independent and sovereign Philippine country.
Learning Activities
In the previous lesson, you studied the evolution of Philippine politics and governance
from the pre-colonial period to the colonial period. The effects of Spanish colonial
experience of the country to its present politics and governance were also discussed.
Now, let us review the lesson and check what you have learned.
Activity 1- WHAT’S IN
Directions: There are two main concepts or processes that the Spaniards used in
conquering and ruling the natives of this archipelago: divide et impera and reduccion.
Explain each concept.
19
1. Divide et impera
2. Reduccion
You did a great job in answering the pre-test and the previous lesson! We will now
begin to achieve the objectives of this module. To successfully attain the objectives, you need
to read, answer and finish the activities especially prepared for you.
Activity 2: WHAT IS IT
Directions: Read, analyze and try to understand the brief discussion organized for you.
American Period
The Americans started the military rule in the Philippines on August 14,1898 (Tabajen
& Pulma, 2016, p. 47). While the Philippines was under its administration, Filipinos were
gradually provided opportunities to partake in governance. The existence of war gave the
President of the United States the power to establish a Military government. His power was
given to the military governor who exercised all powers of the national government, as long
as the war continued. From the military regime, it was changed to civil government headed
by a Civil Governor. In 1905, the title was changed to Governor General, who exercised
legislative power (Joven, 2017, p. 95).
He remained as the President of the Philippine Commission, the sole lawmaking body
of the government from 1901 to 1916 through Philippine Act of 1902. The Philippines was
placed under the administration of the Bureau of Insular Affairs, which in turn was under the
War Department of the United States. The Philippine Commission, which was mostly
composed of American officials, was the upper house of the legislative branch; and the
Philippine Assembly served as the lower house (Joven, 2017, p. 96). Sergio Osmeña was
elected the first Speaker of the House. All laws passed by the Philippine Assembly required
the approval of the Philippine Commission before they could be enacted and implemented.
With the passage of Jones Law in 1916, these two bodies gave way to the Philippine
legislature. The Philippines was represented in the US by two elected Resident
Commissioners who were elected by the Philippine legislature.
In 1901, the Commission passed Act. No.82 which reorganized provincial
governments, and Act. No.83 which reorganized the municipal governments (Joven, 2017,
p. 96). Many leaders of the first Philippine Republic were, after being granted pardon, became
the first Filipino provincial governors in their home provinces. Other former officials under
Spanish rule, were incorporated into the local governments as town mayors or municipal
presidents. For areas in Muslim Mindanao and the Mountain Provinces, the government sent
civil-military commissions in order to integrate the citizens of these areas into the new
American colonial state. The immergence of political parties contributed to the rise of Filipino
participation in politics during this period. Any discussion on independence or propaganda
advocating it was restricted during its early years of administration. The only political party
formally recognized by the government, the Partido Federal, pursued to have the Philippines
absorbed as a regular state of the United States. When the Nationalista Party was established,
Sergio Osmeña Sr. and Manuel L. Quezon led the group for independence through legal
20
actions (Joven, 2017, p. 97) . The campaign in training the Filipinos for governance taught by
the American Democratic party resulted to the rise of Filipino politicians who became influential
leaders of our country.
The Jones Law of 1916 which became the fundamental law for the Philippines vested
the legislative power in an all-Filipino lawmaking body composed of the Philippine Senate and
the House of Representatives (Tabajen & Pulma, 2016, p. 48). It terminated the Philippine
Commission established during the early years of the American occupation in the civil
government. The Philippine legislature was reorganized with the creation of a bicameral
Philippine legislature. The Senate became the upper house, composed of senators
representing major regions in the Philippines. The lower house was composed of the House
of Representatives, with congressmen representing electoral districts all over the Philippines.
Hence, the executive power was still exercised by an American governor-general, he was
assisted by a cabinet composed mostly of Filipino officials (Joven, 2017, p. 97).
Since the approval of Jones law, Filipinos had sent independence missions to
campaign independence from the United States. This resulted in securing the Philippine
Independence Act of 1933, or the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Act by the US Congress. It refers to a
ten-year preparatory period for independence. During this period, a transition government or
Commonwealth would be established and led by Filipino. Manuel Quezon, however, opposed
the law and the provision which allowed the retention of US military bases in the country even
after the Philippine became administratively independent. Instead, he secured another act
known as the Tydings-McDuffie Act. The new government of the Philippines was finally
inaugurated in 1935, following the first national election under 1935 constitution. Manuel L.
Quezon was the President, and his Vice-President was Sergio Osmeña. The law was not
totally different from the previous one , except for the provision on American bases in the
Philippines which changed from “military” to “naval” bases (Joven, 2017, p. 98).
Commonwealth Government
The Philippine Commonwealth was structured as a presidential system with the
unicameral legislature. The legislative power was vested in a unicameral Congress composed
of the Senate and the House of the Representatives. The Supreme Courts and lower courts
function as the Judicial power. In spite of the Philippine authority over political affairs, the
United States continued to control over matters involving foreign affairs. The decisions of the
Supreme Court of the Philippines were also subject to review by the US Supreme Court
(Joven, 2017, p. 99).
The Philippine Commonwealth under the leadership of Quezon enacted reforms like
the concept of national language identity for the Filipinos, the Commonwealth Act No.1 or the
National Defense Act, for the protection of the country in times of war, and the establishment
of a new city where all government offices would be placed. Despite his political ambition, his
administration still faced some significant challenges. One of the irresistible concerns was the
issue of free trade with the US. Filipino local products were able to enter US markets with
reduced tariffs. This opportunity, however, was cancelled upon the establishment of the
Commonwealth, and the Philippines was considered as a separate economy and market
21
(Joven, 2017, p. 100). The economic dependence of the Philippines on US markets resulted
to a decline in revenue.
Japanese Occupation
The growing power of Japan’s military conquest into the East Asia alarmed the United
States because of its military aggression and economic influence throughout Asia. During
World War II, the Commonwealth government functioned in exile in the United States. The fall
of Manila in 1942 indicated the Japanese Military government (Tabajen & Pulma, 2016, p. 49)
. The Japanese High Command immediately ended the sovereignty of the United States over
the Philippines. A civil government which was called the Philippine Executive Commission
(PEC) was established with Jose B. Vargas as Chairman (Joven, 2017, p. 102). The
Commission exercised both the executive and the legislative powers. However, laws enacted
needed approval of the Commander-in-Chief of the Japanese forces.
This period was hard for Filipinos as ordinary citizens were in danger of being arrested
by the Japanese military police. They gained a power for unkindness actions and human rights
violations. The national government was renamed as the Central Administrative Organization.
The government, despite being composed of Filipinos, had several limitations. It had limited
legislative and judicial power- while the judiciary had no jurisdiction over cases which involved
Japanese personnel. The Japanese Administration tried to foster better relationship with
Filipinos all over the country. As a result, the Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong Pilipinas
(KALIBAPI) was built to recruit Filipinos into government service and ensure the cooperation
with the Japanese administration. Hence, the sentiments of Filipinos were still extremely antiJapanese and the guerilla battle continued (Joven, 2017, p. 103).
Jose P. Laurel was the President of the so-called Japanese-sponsored Republic in the
Philippines, also known as the Second Philippine Republic. As the head of the country, his
function was limited as there were various laws and executive orders promulgated and
controlled by the Japanese. In 1945, a massive joint naval force defeated the Japanese
Imperial Navy off the coast of Leyte. This was led by Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Supreme
Commander of the Allied forces in the Pacific, and Filipino officials led by Sergio Osmeña who
succeeded Quezon as the President of the Philippine Commonwealth after he died in 1944.
Laurel’s government, meanwhile, were forced to continue and function as a government-inexile in Japan. The Second Republic of the Philippines came to an end with the surrender of
the Japanese in September 2, 1945 and the reestablishment of the Philippine Commonwealth
in the Philippines (Joven, 2017, p. 103). It was reestablished when Gen. Douglas Mc Arthur
turned over to President Osmeña the full powers of the Commonwealth under the 1935
Constitution.
Third Republic of the Philippines
The Third Republic of the Philippines was recognized with Manuel Roxas as President.
His administration rehabilitated the country from the damages caused by war and economic
development. Despite having a self-governing Philippine republic, the reality was that full
independence for the Philippines came with a number of restrictions. The political relationship
between the Philippines and the US was influenced by neocolonialism. This refers to a political
22
control applied by a powerful state using economic, political, and cultural influences to a
developing country like the Philippines.
The US Congress enacted law called Bell Trade Act which provided for the
continuation of free trade. The administration of Manuel Roxas also enacted a military
assistance agreement in 1947 granting the United States a 99-year lease on designated
military bases in the country. This resulted socialism movement and the growing number of
socialist and communist groups that supported the cause of workers and farmers. Other
presidents of the Third Republic like Elpidio R. Quirino, the Second President of the Third
Republic, who succeeded Manuel Roxas, had initiated a campaign to address government
concerns and restored public trust. Ramon Magsaysay’s administration, meanwhile, focused
on solving the country’s social problems and the ongoing rebellion led by communist groups.
Carlos P. Garcia, the fourth President of the Third Republic, was known for his “Filipino First
Policy” (Tabajen & Pulma, 2016, p. 51). Diosdado Macapagal, who succeeded Garcia, was
known for his socio-economic programs and the Land Reform Code signed into law which
abolished the tenancy system.
Fourth & Fifth Republic of the Philippines
The Fourth Republic of the Philippines under Ferdinand Marcos government led in
significant changes. A dictatorial government was established, and the government was
reorganized to accommodate a dictatorship. With the abolishment of the constitutionally
elected bodies, the 1973 Constitution introduced a parliamentary government with a strong
executive. His administration advocated social reforms but dominated by rampant corruption
and human rights violations. In 1986, a popular revolution ended Marcos dictatorship. The
restoration of Philippine democracy was made official with the passing of the 1987 Philippine
Constitution and the establishment of the Fifth Republic of the Philippines until today (Joven,
2017, p. 112). Furthermore, our nation has become the representation of lived experiences
and practices taken within unequal relations that our colonizers established at a particular
point in historical time.
Did you read intently the discussions above on the evolution of Philippine politics and
governance from the American Period to the Post-Independence administrations? I hope you
deeply understood the concepts and its explanations or elaborations. I have prepared more
activities for you. Goodluck!.
Activity 2a – KNOW THY SYSTEM!
Directions: Given the following photos or images, encircle AGREE if the image speaks about
governance system or DISAGREE if the image does not and explain your answer. Write your
answer in your notebook. Use the rubric below as your guide.
23
1.
Agree or Disagree
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
Source: (Scribd.com, n.d.)
2.
Agree or Disagree
___________________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
Source: (I.Pining.com , n.d.)
3.
Agree or Disagree
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
Source: (Laygo, n.d.)
4.
Agree or Disagree
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
Source: (Wordpress.com, 2017)
24
5.
Agree or Disagree
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Source: (Philstar.com, 2014)
Rubric:
Criteria
Points
➢ Content Develops the
topic with relevant
facts, specific details to
support stand, and
data
presented
is
appropriate to make
the answer reliable
Points Obtained
5 points
➢ Explanation
Ideas and opinions are
explained
carefully,
critical analysis on the
ideas is evident, and
demonstrates a clear
understanding of the
purpose
5 points
Total
10 points
Activity 2b- EVENT DESCRIPTION
Directions: Arrange the following events in chronological order as they are introduced and
implemented in the Philippine politics and governance from American Period to the PostIndependence administrations. Give brief description for each item. Use the table below as
template for your answer. Please use your notebook for this activity.
25
Fourth & Fifth Republic of the Philippines
Jones Law of 1916
Schurman Commission
Second Republic
Commonwealth Government
Philippine Organic Act of 1902
Japanese Occupation
Taft Commission
Third Republic
EVENT
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Congratulations! You did well in answering the Event Description! Now, you can
proceed to the next activity.
Activity 3- 3 Venn Diagram.
Directions: Using the Venn Diagram, identify the commonalities and differences during each
period in Philippine politics and governance. Write the commonalities on the area between A,
B & C. Then, write the unique characteristics on A, B & C respectively. Please use your
notebook for your answers.
Commonwealth Period (B)
Commonalities
American Period (A)
Fifth Republic of the Phil.
(C)
You did great!!! The next tasks will now be easier for you.
26
Activity 4 - PEN POINT
Directions: Think about the contributions of the Filipinos in the development of politics and
governance in the Philippines. From among the prominent ones, choose one whom you
appreciate the most. Compose a letter showing your appreciation to him/her. Utilize the
rubric below as your guide. Use a separate answer sheet.
Rubric: Appreciation Letter
4
3
2
Parts of a
Letter
Heading,
salutation,
body and
closing are
present and
written
correctly
(commas,
capital letters,
placement).
All of the
parts of a
friendly letter
are present
and most are
written
correctly.
All of the
parts are
present but
only some
are written
correctly.
Only some of
the parts of a
friendly letter
are present.
Grammar,
Punctuation &
Spelling
Rules of
grammar,
usage, and
punctuation
are followed;
spelling is
correct.
Language is
clear and
precise;
sentences
display
consistently
strong, varied
structure.
Rules of
grammar,
usage, and
punctuation
are followed
with minor
errors that do
not detract
from the
readability of
the work.
Spelling is
correct.
Paper
contains a
few
grammatical,
punctuation
and spelling
errors.
Paper
contains
numerous
grammatical,
punctuation,
and spelling
errors.
Content
Student
understands
assignment
and writes
meaningful
thank you
letter using
strong details
to make the
narrative
come alive,
touching on
all four
required
points.
Student
understands
assignment
and works to
write a
meaningful
thank you
letter.
Although
writing may
wander off
topic and/or
need more
details, all
four required
Student's
writing
reflects a
basic
understandin
g of the
assignment
and/or
minimal effort
in completing
the task,
using limited
ideas or
repetition of
ideas and
details.
Student does
not display
any
understandin
g of the
meaning
behind the
writing
assignment.
Few details
are used. Not
much
happens.
27
1
Score
Appearance
Very neatly
written with
no errors or
visible
corrections.
Design is
vibrant,
detailed,
enhancing
the letter.
points are
touched on.
All four points
are not
touched on.
Neatly written
with good
handwriting.
Design is
aesthetically
pleasing.
Handwriting
may be
somewhat
difficult to
read.
Design
shows
modest effort.
Messy,
corrections
on the paper.
Design
sloppy or
non-existent.
TOTAL
Excellent! You did well in appreciating the contributions of Filipinos in the development
of Philippine politics and governance during Post-Independence administrations. The next
activity will help you assess one’s community or country that enabled Filipinos to have
greater participation in politics and governance.
Activity 5- ESSAY WRITING
Directions: Write an essay reflecting how you’ve been shaped or influenced as a member
of the community. Explain how these affected the way you exercise responsible citizenship
in your place. Please be guided by the rubric below. Use a separate answer sheet.
Rubric: Essay
Activity 6- WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: Cut pictures from magazines or newspapers and make a collage to suggest
ways on how to improve the present Philippine politics and governance. Use a separate
answer sheet for this activity. Utilize the rubric below as your guide.
28
Rubric: Collage Making
Criteria
Content-relatedness
Organization
Creativity
Neatness
Total
Percentage
30 %
25 %
25 %
20 %
100 %
Activity 7- WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
Directions: Write your learnings on the 3- 2- 1 Box. You may use separate answer sheet.
3
Concepts/Knowledge that I have Learned
1. ______________________________________
2. ______________________________________
3. ______________________________________
2
Description, Similarities & Differences of the topic that I
have Learned
1. _______________________________________________
2. ________________________________________
_______________________________________________
1
Essential Question: How can these concepts helps you in
your daily life?
1.______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
____________________________________________
Let us now assess your mastery on this essential topic, the evolution of Philippine
politics and governance from the American period to the Post-Independence administrations.
POST TEST
Directions: Identify what is referred to in each statement. Choose your answer from the terms
in the box. Write your answer in your notebook.
KALIBAPI
Schurman Commission
The Philippine Organic Act
Philippine Assembly
Adoption of the national language based on Tagalog
Taft Commission
Martial Law
revival of Filipino culture
Francis Burton Harrison
Corazon C. Aquino
29
1. The commission intended for establishing the civil government in pacified areas, as well
as training and assigning Filipinos in various government positions, among others.
2. The commission created in 1900 to hastened the transition of the government from a
revolutionary to a civil and democratic one.
3. The act of 1902 which created the Philippine Commission.
4. Acted as the lower house to the Philippine Commission
5. The chief organ of Japanese propaganda
6. Achievement of the Commonwealth Government
7. The champion of Filipino rights and liberties. He adopted the policy of wider Filipinization
of the government service.
8. A special government power that is granted to the president whenever rebellion or
invasion threatens the state, or for public safety.
9. Achievement of Garcia administration.
10. First Lady President of the Philippines
To further strengthen your learning in this module, the next activity is especially
arranged for you.
Additional Activities
Activity 8- ON RESEARCH
Directions: Using the table, compare the provisions of the 1973 Philippine Constitution on
Martial Law with those in the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Discuss them briefly and reflect
on the importance of both Constitutions. You may utilize the internet or reference books to
get information on the provisions of the said Constitutions. Use the rubric below.
1973 Philippine Constitution
1987 Philippine Constitution
Similarities:
Differences:
Reflection:
30
Rubric: Research
Criteria
Content
Organiz
ation
Grammar,
Spelling,
Writing
Mechanics
(punctuation, italics,
capitalization,etc.
4
Balanced
presentation
of relevant
and legitimate
information
that clearly
supports a
central
purpose or
argument and
shows a
thoughtful, indepth analysis
of a significant
topic. Reader
gains
important
insights.
The ideas are
arranged
logically to
support the
purpose or
argument.
They flow
smoothly from
one to another
and are clearly
linked to each
other.
The reader
can follow
the line of
reasoning.
The writing is
free or almost
free of errors.
3
2
1
Information
provides
reasonable
support for a
central
purpose or
argument and
displays
evidence of a
basic analysis
of a significant
topic. Reader
gains some
insights.
Information
supports a
central
purpose or
argument at
times.
Analysis is
basic or
general.
Reader
gains few
insights.
Central
purpose or
argument is not
clearly
identified.
Analysis is
vague or not
evident.
Reader is
confused or
may be
misinformed.
The ideas are
arranged
logically to
support the
central
purpose or
argument.
They are
usually clearly
linked to each
other. For the
most part, the
reader can
follow the line
of reasoning.
In general,
the writing is
arranged
logically,
although
occasionally
ideas fail to
make sense
together.
The reader
is fairly clear
about what
writer
intends.
The writing is
not logically
organized.
Frequently,
ideas fail to
make sense
together. The
reader cannot
identify a line
of reasoning
and loses
interest.
There are
occasional
errors, but
they don't
represent a
major
distraction
or obscure
meaning.
The writing
has many
errors, and
the reader is
distracted by
them.
There are so
many errors
that meaning
is obscured.
The reader is
confused and
stops reading.
TOTAL
31
Score
Congratulations! You successfully finished this module. Use all the learning you have
gained in this module to become a good and active citizen of the country.
You are now set for the next module.
32
Activity 1- What’s In:
33
Divide and Conquer. In the first few decades of Spanish colonial
administration, the Spaniards adopted a European- style feudal system of
government in the islands. The conquered territories were divided into districts
called encomiendas and were distributed among Spaniards who acted as feudal
lords, or encomenderos. The encomienda system was eventually put to an end as
the local towns were organized into provinces or alcaldias.
The provincial government was organized under the alcaldia, for peaceful
districts, while areas that have yet to be fully pacified were organized as
corregimientos. The alcaldias were administered by a provincial governor, the
alcalde mayor, while the corregimientos were headed by a corregidor or military
governor.
The local leaders in the pueblos and barangays, meanwhile were elected by
members of the principalia. The principales were convened and they choose among
themselves the cabezas de barangay. The cabezas, in turn, elected among
themselves the gobernadorcillo or town leader. This system of appointment
ensured that leadership was concentrated in the hands of the local elite. This also
meant that given the smaller number of Spanish officials and friars in the
Philippines, the colonial government ruled the islands through the native elite. A
large majority of Spanish officials were located in Manila, which was the colonial
capital and recognized as special administrative city or ayuntamiento.
The colonial government adopted some aspects of precolonial governance
in an attempt to establish more effective control over the natives.
Pre Test:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Co-Prosperity Sphere
9. Philippine Exclusive Commission
Neo-colonialism
10. The Philippine Republic
Tydings- Mc Duffie Act
Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong Pilipinas
Ferdinand Marcos
Jones Law
Governor-General
Jose P. Laurel
Philippine Exclusive
Answer Key
34
Activity 2a- Know Thy Game:
5. Disagree
2. Agree
4. Agree
1. Agree
3. Agree
Activity 2b- Event Description
Event
Description
The commission is headed by Dr.
Jacob Schurman with the basic
objectives of establishing the civil
government in pacified areas as well
as training and assigning Filipinos in
various government positions, among
others.
1. Schurman Commission
The commission under Judge William
Howard Taft hastened the transition of
the government from a revolutionary to
a civil and democratic one
2. Taft Commission
3. Philippine Organic Act of 1902
The Act created the Philippine
Commission. The offices of the Civil
Governor and Vice Governor were
created to exercise powers of the
government. Other government offices
were created to manage the country.
Electoral representation in the
Philippines began with the creation of
the Philippine Assembly.Philippine
Assembly acted as the lower house to
the Philippine Commission and held
its first election in 1907.
Activity 1- WHAT’S IN
Reduccion.This phase of early colonization was then followed by a period
of reduccion, or the relocation of local inhabitants into towns or pueblos. Large
barangays were converted into pueblos, while smaller barangays were brought
together to form a single town, and the arrangement of buildings and landmarks
emphasized. At the center of the pueblo was the plaza, and situated around it were
the local church, the municipal hall and the houses of the principals. Thus, Spanish
colonialism began the process of integration of the Filipino people by bringing
together the separate and independent barangays into cohesive communities
under Spanish rule.
35
Continuation of Activity 2bEvent
Description
The Jones Law of 1916 which became
the fundamental law for the Philippines
vested the legislative power in an allFilipino lawmaking body composed of
the Philippine Senate and the House of
Representatives (Tabajen & Pulma,
2016, p. 48). It terminated the Philippine
Commission established during the early
years of the American occupation in the
civil
government.
The Philippine
legislature was reorganized with the
creation of a bicameral Philippine
legislature. The Senate became the
upper house, composed of senators
representing major regions in the
Philippines. The lower house was
composed
of
the
House
of
Representatives, with congressmen
representing electoral districts all over
the Philippines. Hence, the executive
power was still exercised by an
American governor-general, he was
assisted by a cabinet composed mostly
of Filipino officials (Joven, 2017, p. 97).
Jones Law of 1916
The Philippine Commonwealth was
structured as a presidential system with
the
The
unicameral
legislature.
legislative power was vested in a
unicameral Congress composed of the
Senate and the House of the
Representatives. The Supreme Courts
and lower courts function as the Judicial
power. In spite of the Philippine authority
over political affairs, the United States
continued to control over matters
involving foreign affairs. The decisions of
the Supreme Court of the Philippines
were also subject to review by the US
Supreme Court (Joven, 2017, p. 99).
Commonwealth Government
36
Continuation of Activity 2b- Event Description
Event
Description
The Philippine Commonwealth under the
leadership of Quezon enacted reforms
like the concept of national language
identity
for
the
Filipinos,
the
Commonwealth Act No.1 or the National
Defense Act, for the protection of the
country in times of war, and the
establishment of a new city where all
government offices would be placed.
Despite his political ambition, his
administration still faced some significant
challenges. One of the irresistible
concerns was the issue of free trade with
the US. Filipino local products were able
to enter US markets with reduced tariffs.
This
opportunity,
however,
was
cancelled upon the establishment of the
Commonwealth, and the Philippines was
considered as a separate economy and
market (Joven, 2017, p. 100). The
economic dependence of the Philippines
on US markets resulted to a decline in
revenue.
Commonwealth Government
The growing power of Japan’s military
conquest into the East Asia alarmed the
United States because of its military
aggression and economic influence
throughout Asia. During World War II,
the
Commonwealth
government
functioned in exile in the United States.
The fall of Manila in 1942 indicated the
Japanese Military government (Tabajen
& Pulma, 2016, p. 49) . The Japanese
High Command immediately ended the
sovereignty of the United States over the
Philippines. A civil government which
was called the Philippine Executive
Commission (PEC) was established with
Jose B. Vargas as Chairman (Joven,
2017, p. 102). The Commission
exercised both the executive and the
legislative powers. However, laws
enacted needed approval of the
Commander-in-Chief of the Japanese
forces.
Japanese Occupation
37
Continuation of Activity 2b- Event Description
Event
Description
Jose P. Laurel was the President of the
so-called Japanese-sponsored Republic
in the Philippines, also known as the
Second Philippine Republic. As the head
of the country, his function was limited as
there were various laws and executive
orders promulgated and controlled by
the Japanese. The Second Republic of
the Philippines came to an end with the
surrender of the Japanese in September
2, 1945 and the reestablishment of the
Philippine Commonwealth in the
Philippines (Joven, 2017, p. 103)
Second Republic of the Philippines
The Third Republic of the Philippines
was recognized with Manuel Roxas as
President.
His
administration
rehabilitated the country from the
damages caused by war and economic
development. Despite having a selfgoverning Philippine republic, the reality
was that full independence for the
Philippines came with a number of
restrictions. The political relationship
between the Philippines and the US was
influenced by neocolonialism. This refers
to a political control applied by a powerful
state using economic, political, and
cultural influences to a developing
country like the Philippines
Other presidents of the Third Republic
like Elpidio R. Quirino, the Second
President of the Third Republic, who
succeeded Manuel Roxas, had initiated
a campaign to address government
concerns and restored public trust.
Ramon Magsaysay’s administration,
meanwhile, focused on solving the
country’s social problems and the
ongoing rebellion led by communist
groups. Carlos P. Garcia, the fourth
President of the Third Republic, was
known for his “Filipino First Policy”
(Tabajen & Pulma, 2016, p. 51).
Diosdado Macapagal, who succeeded
Garcia, was known for his socioeconomic programs and the Land
Reform Code signed into law which
abolished the tenancy system.
Third Republic of the Philippines
38
Continuation of Activity 2b- Event Description
Event
Description
The Fourth Republic of the Philippines
under Ferdinand Marcos government led
in significant changes. A dictatorial
government was established, and the
government
was
reorganized
to
accommodate a dictatorship. With the
abolishment of the constitutionally
elected bodies, the 1973 Constitution
introduced a parliamentary government
with
a
strong
executive.
His
administration advocated social reforms
but dominated by rampant corruption
and human rights violations. In 1986, a
popular revolution ended Marcos
dictatorship. The restoration of Philippine
democracy was made official with the
passing of the 1987 Philippine
Constitution and the establishment of the
Fifth Republic of the Philippines until
today (Joven, 2017, p. 112)
Fourth & Fifth Republic
Activity 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7
•
The answer will depend on the ability, skill and learning of the student
Post Test
1. Schurman Commission
2. Taft Commission
3. The Philippine Organic Act of 1902
4. Philippine Assembly
5. KALIBAPI
6. Adoption of the national language based or Tagalog
7. Francis Burton Harrison
8. Martial Law
9. Revival of Filipino culture
10. Corazon C. Aquino
References
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Tabajen, Rhene C., and Erlinda B. Pulma. "Politics and Governance." In Politics and
Governance, 47, 48, 49-52. Pasay City: JFS Publishing Services, 2016.
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