Evolution of Philippine Constitutions

Evolution of the Philippine
Constitution
Introduction
The second most important book after the Bible is the Constitution. The constitution
provides the rights of the people, the structure of government, the principle and policies of state,
who are the citizens and who may exercise suffrage, the obligation of the government and many
other important provisions. The constitution serves as the protector against any violation of
individual rights committed by the government and other entities and medium to assert faithful
compliance of the government on its obligation to the citizenry.
The Philippine Constitution has undergone several revision and amendments according to
the situations and needs of the people from 1899 Constitution to the 1987 Constitution. Should it be
revised or amended again, it is hoped that it will be changed to improve the lives of the people and
promote their welfare.
1898 CONSTITUTION (MALOLOS CONSTITUTION)
After the declaration of independence on June 12, 1898, President Aguinaldo establish a
revolutionary government and called on foreign government to recognize the independence of the
Philippines. He also started recognizing the local government and judiciary that upon the advise of
Apolinario Mabini, election of the delegates to revolutionary congress shall take place. On
September 15, 1898, the first session of the revolutionary congres was held in Malolos where they
elected their set of officers. It was also in the course of the session that it was decided to draft the
constitution. The constitution was eventually approved and promulgated on January 21, 1899.
The 1899 constitution or the Malolos Constitution is the first constitution is the first
constitution drafted by Filipino lawmaker. It established the Republic of the Philippines with a
government that was “popular, representative, and responsible”. It made the Philippines the first in
Asia to establish a republican system of government. One of the most controversial provision that
was included in the Constitution is the principle of separation of church and state.
Salient features of the 1899 Constitution

1. The Government was compose of three branches; executive, legislative, and judiciary. The
executive power was vested to the president who was elected by the Assembly of
Representatives (Legislature). Legislative power was vested in the Assembly of
Representatives who were elected by the people. It was the unicameral legislature. Judicial
power was vested to the Supreme Court and such other courts as may be created by law.
2. The legislature was more powerful than the executive department. It elected the President
and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
3. The Assembly of Representatives, when not in session, legislative power is exercised by a
Permanent Commission composed of seven assemblymen.
4. The cabinet secretaries were responsible to the legislature and not to the President.
Preamble
"We, the Representatives of the Filipino people, lawfully convened, in order to establish Justice,
proved for common defense, promote the general welfare, and insure the benefits of liberty,
imploring the aid of the Sovereign Legislator of the Universe for the attainment of these ends, have
voted, decreed, and sanctioned the following:”
The Preamble provides the "Representatives of the Filipino People seeks to provide
common defense, promote general welfare and insure the benefits of liberty. It also asks for the aid
of "Sovereign Legislator of the Universe which is unique rom the wordings of the Preamble of the
1973 Constitution which uses "Divine Providence and the 1987 Constitution which is "Almighty
God".
Philippine Republic
Section 1 provides that the official name of the country is "Philippine Republic”.
Sovereignty Resides on the People
Although the Preamble provides that the system of the government is representative, the
sovereign power resides on the people
Government
Section 4 provides that the government is popular, representative, alternative, and

responsible. It enumerates the three branches of the Government namely: legislative, executive and
judiciary with three distinct power. The section sentence states any two or more of these three
powers shall never be united in one person or cooperation, or the legislative power vested in one
single individual provides a safeguard against dictatorship.
Religious Freedom
It guarantees freedom of religion and laid down one of the oldest principles embodied in
every constitution that is “separation of church and state." The provision about separation of
church and state and religious freedom is the most controversial and much debated section of the
1899 Constitution.
Who are Filipinos?
Article 6 of the 1899 Constitution enumerates "who are Filipinos and the section did not use
the word "citizens of the Philippines". The Filipinos are; (1) all persons born in the Philippine
territory. A vessel of Philippine registry is considered, for this purpose, as part of Philippine
territory; (2) children of a Filipino father or mother, although born outside of the Philippines; (3)
foreigners who have obtained certification of naturalization; and (4) those who, without such
certificate, have acquired a domicile in any town within Philippine territory.
It is understood that domicile is acquired by uninterrupted residence for two years in any
locality within Philippine territory, with an open abode and known occupation, and contributing to
all the taxes imposed by the Nation. The condition of being a Filipino is lost in accordance with law.
Rights Guaranteed by the 1899 Constitution
1. No Filipino or foreigner shall be detained nor imprisoned except for the commission of a crime (Title IV,
Article 7).
2. All persons detained shall be discharged or delivered to the judicial authority within 24 hours following
the act of detention (Title IV, Article 8).
3. No Filipino shall be imprisoned except by virtue of an order by a competent court (Title IV, Article 9)
4. No one shall enter the dwelling house of any Filipino or a foreigner residing in the Philippines without
his consent (Title IV, Article 10).
5. No Filipino shall be compelled to change his residence or domicile except by virtue of a final judgment
(Title IV, Article11).
6. No correspondence confided to the post office be detained or opened by government authorities, nor
any telegraphic or telephonic messages (TTtle IV, Article 12).
7. All orders of imprisonment, of search of a dwelling house, or detention of written correspondence,

telegraph or telephone, must be justified (Title IV, Article 13).
8. No Filipino shall be prosecuted or sentenced, except by a Judge or court of proper jurisdiction (Title IV,
Article 14).
9. All persons detained or imprisoned not in accordance with legal formalities shall be released upon his
own petition or upon petition of another person (Title IV, Article 15).
10. No one shall be deprived of his property by expropriation except on grounds of public necessity and
benefit (Title IV, Article 17).
11. No one shall be obliged to pay any public tax which had not been approved by the National Assembly
or by local popular governments (Title IV, Article 18).
12. No Filipino shall be deprived of his/her right to freely express his/her ideas or opinions, orally or in
writing, through the use of the press or other similar means (Title IV, Article 20).
13. No Filipino shall be deprived of his/her right of association for purposes of human life and which are
not contrary to public morals (Title IV, Article 20).
14. No Filipino shall be deprived of his/her right to send petitions to the authorities, individually or
collectively (Title IV, Article 20).
15. Any Filipino may establish and maintain institutions of learning, in accordance with the laws
authorizing them. Public education shall be free and obligatory in all schools of the nation (Title IV, Article
23).
16. Foreigners may freely reside in Philippine territory, subject to legal dispositions regulating the matter;
may engage in any occupation or profession for the exercise of which no special license is required by law
to be issued by the national authorities (Title IV, Article 24).
17. No Filipino shall be impeded in his right to travel freely abroad or in his right to transfer his residence
or possessions to another country (Title IV, Article 25).
Power of the Three Branches of the Government under 1899 Constitution
Legislative Executive/President Judiciary
Legislative Power Executive Power Judicial Power
Elect the president of the Initiate the introduction of bills
republic
Act as Tribunal of justice to Promulgate and execute laws
hear and determine the crimes
committed against the security
of the state by the president of
the republic and member of the
council of Government, by the
Chief justice of the supreme
court, and by the Solicitor
General of the Nation.
Promulgates its own Rules Convoke the National Assembly
Examine the legality of the Veto Power
elections and the legal
qualifications of its elected
members
Override the veto of the Declare war and make and
President ratify treaties with the prior
consent of the National
Assembly
Supervise civil and military
employee in accordance with
the laws.
Appoints the Secretaries of the
Government
Direct the diplomatic and
commercial relations with
foreign powers.
Grand Pardon
Presides over all functions and
receive ambassadors and
accredited representatives of
foreign powers.
The President may be
authorized by special law; (1)
to alienate, transfer or
exchange any portion of the
Philippine Territory; (2) to
incorporate any other territory
to the Philippine territory; (3)
to admit the stationing of the
foreign troops on the
Philippine Territory; (4) to
ratify of alliance, defensive as
well as offensive, special
treaties of commerce, those
which stipulate to grand
subsidies to a foreign power,
and those which may compel
Filipinos to render personal
service; (5) to grant general
amnesties and pardon; and (6)
to coin money
With the prior approval by
majority vote of its members,
the president may dissolve the
National Assembly.
Amendments to the Constitution
Article 89 provides "The Assembly, on its own initiative or that of the President of the
Republic, may propose amendments to the o indicating what article or articles are to be amended."
The provision authorizes the legislature and the President to propose amendments to the
constitution.
Unique provisions in the 1899 Constitution
1. Official name of the country is specified. Title I Article I of the Constitution provides that the
state shall be known as Philippine Republic.
2. Freedom of religion is guaranteed including separation of church and state. This is the first
Philippine Constitution that guaranteed religious freedom. It also prohibits establishment of state
religion.
3. Jus soli ns the principle used in the acquisition of Philippine citizenship. Title IV Section 6
Paragraph 1 provides that "all persons born in the Philippine territory including vessel of
Philippine registry is Included
4. Basic civil and political rights are not arranged according to their value and importance. The
enumeration of rights and the provisions on citizenship are merged in one Title.
5. In the absence of the President, his functions shall be exercised by the Chief Justice of the
Supreme Court. There is no Vice President of the Republic.
6. Permanent Commission is created during the adjournment of the Assembly. The Commission
shall be composed of seven members which is to act upon pending matters which require proper
action.
7. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Solicitor-General is chosen by the National
Assembly with the concurrence of the President and the Secretaries of the Government. The
constitution provides that the highest official of the Supreme Court including the Solicitor-General
is both chosen by the members of the Legislative.
8. The President can dissolve the Assembly. With the approval of the majority, the
Representatives have the power to dissolve the legislative branch call for another election.
Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Year & Section:_________________________________________ Score:______________
Task sheet No. 10
Activity 1
Narrate the History of the enactment of the 1899 Constitution.
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Activity 2
Discuss the salient features of the 1899 Constitution
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Activity 3
Explain the unique provision of the 1899 Constitution.
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1935 CONSTITUTION
Introduction
The 1935 Constitution was the constitution not only for the Philippine Commonwealth but
also for the future of the Republic of the Philippines. The provision of the constitution is similar to
the constitution of the United States of America. The constitution was amended twice; first, it was
on October 24, 1939, when the Filipino people ratified an amendment to the Ordinance appended
to the constitution. The amendment was made because of the changes in the economic provisions of
the Tydings-Mcduffie Act made by the Philippine Economic Readjustment Act that was enacted by
the United States Congress on August 7, 1939; second, It was in 1940 when three amendments
were ratified by the people in the plebiscite held on June 18, 1940. The amendments are the
following: (1) change in the term of office of the President and Vice President, (2) the establishment
of bicameral legislature namely, Senate and House of Representatives, and (3) the creation of
Commission on Elections, General Auditing Office, and Civil Service.
Salient Features of the 1935 Constitution

The 1935 Constitution has a Preamble that is almost totally different from the 1899
Constitution and contains a new article about national territory. It has more enumeration of rights
in its Bill of Rights.
The government was divided into three co-equal branches legislative, executive, and
judiciary. Executive power was vested in the President of the Philippines elected through popular
suffrage that will serve for a term of four years. Legislative power was vested in a bicameral
legislature called Senate and House of Representatives who were directly elected by the people
while judicial power resides in the Supreme Court and other lower courts. It has a clear
enumeration of rights of citizens. On the other hand, suffrage can only be exercised by males,
females are not allowed.
Preamble
“The Filipino people, imploring the aid of Divine Providence, in order to establish a government that
shall embody their deals, conserve and develop the patrimony of the natio1, promote the general
welfare, and secure to themselves and their posterity the blessings of independence under a regime of
justice, liberty, and democracy, do ordain and promulgate this Constitution”.
National Territory
“The Philippines comprises all the territory ceded to the United States by the treaty of Paris concluded
between the United States and Spain on the tenth day of December, eighteen hundred and ninety-
eight, the limits of which are set forth of Article III of said treaty, together with all the islands
embraced in the treaty concluded at Washington, between the United States and Spain on the seventh
day of November, nineteen hundred, and in the treaty concluded between the United States and Great
Britain on the second day of January, nineteen hundred and thirty, and all territory over which the
present Government of the Philippine Islands exercises jurisdiction.”
State Principles
The 1935 Constitution has the following state principles

1. The Philippines as republican state
2. Defense of the state as prime duty of the government
3. Renunciation of war
4. Natural right and duty of parents in rearing of the youth
5. Promotion of social justice
Who are citizens of the Philippines?
Article IV of the 1935 Constitution provides that the following are citizens, of the
Philippines: (1) those who are citizens of the Philippine Islands at the time of the adoption of this
Constitution; (2) those born in the Philippine Islands of foreign parents wh0, before the adoption of
this Constitution, had been elected to public office in the Philippine islands; (3) those whose fathers
are citizens of the Philippines; (4) those whose mothers are citizens of the Philippines and, upon
reaching the age of majority elect Philippine citizenship; and (5) those who are naturalized in
accordance with law.
1. Right to life, liberty, and property

2. Right to due process of law
3. Right to equal protection of the laws
4. Right against unreasonable searches and seizures
5. Liberty of abode
6. Privacy of communication and correspondence
7. Right to form association or societies
8. Freedom of religion
9. Freedom of speech
10. Freedom of the press
11. Right to assembly and petition
12. Non-impairment of obligation of contracts
13. Non-imprisonment for debt or nonpayment of poll tax
14. Right against involuntary servitude
15. Privilege of the writ of habeas corpus
16. Right to bail
17. Right of a person under criminal prosecution
a. Right to presumption of innocence
b. Right to be heard by himself/herself and counsel
c. Right to be informed of the nature and cause of accusation against him/her
d. Right to speedy and public trial
e. Right to meet the witnesses face to face
f. Right to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of witnesses in
his/her behalf
18. Right against self-incrimination
19. Right against excessive fines
20. Right against cruel and unusual punishment
21. Right against double jeopardy
22. Free access to courts
Suffrage
"Suffrage may be exercised by ale citize1S of the Philippines not otherwise disqualified by law,
who are twenty-one years of age or over and are able to read and write, and who shall have resided in
the Philippines for one year and in the municipality wherein they propose to vote for at least six
months preceding the election. The National Assembly shall extend the right of suffrage to women, if in
a plebiscite which shall be held for that purpose within two years after the adoption of this
Constitution, not less than three hundred thousand women possessing the necessary qualifications
shall vote affirmatively on the question."
Legislative Power Executive Power Judicial Power
Power of taxation Control power Power to apply the laws
Power to declare war Military power Original jurisdiction over cases
a. Commander-in-chief ofaffecting ambassadors, other
the AFP public ministers, and consuls,
b. Declare Martial law nor of its jurisdiction to review,
c. Suspend the privilegerevise, reverse, modify, or
of Habeas corpus affirm on appeal, certiorari, or
d. Call armed force to writ of error, as the law or the
prevent or suppress rules of court may provide,
lawless violence,
final judgments and decree of
invasion, insurrection,
inferior courts in
or rebellion, or
(1) All cases in which the
imminent danger constitutionality or validity of
any treaty; law, ordinance, or
executive order or regulation is
in question.
(2) All cases involving the
legality of any tax, impost,
assessments, or toll, or any
penalty imposed in relation
thereto.
(3) All cases in which the
jurisdiction of any trial court is
in issue.
(4) All criminal cases in which
the penalty impose is death or
life imprisonment.
(5) All cases in which an error
or question of law in involved.
Confirmation power Power of appointment Power to determine the
constitutionality of the treaty
or law
Power to override the veto of Veto Power Power to promulgate rules
the President concerning pleading, practice,
and procedure in all courts, and
the admission to the practice of
law.
Power to define, prescribe, and Pardoning power Power to appoint judge of a
apportion the jurisdiction of a. Grant reprieves particular district or designate
the various court b. Grant commutation of or transfer a judge to another
sentence district
c. Grant pardon
d. Remit fines and
forfeiture
Power to repeal, alter, or Diplomatic power/ treaty
supplement the rules making power
concerning pleading, practice,
and procedure, and the
admission to the practice of
law in the Philippines.
Qualification of Elected and Appointed Official of the Branched of the Government
Qualifications Legislative Executive Judiciary

Citizenship Citizen of the Natural born citizens Citizen of the
requirement Philippines for five Philippine for five
years years
Age requirement At least 30 years of age At least 40 years of age At least 40 years of age
or over
Voter registration Qualifies elector Qualified voter None
requirement
Residency Resident of the Resident of the None
requirement province for not less Philippines for at least
than 1 year 10 years
Other requirement None None Ten years or more
been a judge of a court
or engaged in the
practice of law in the
Philippines
Article XV provide “the congress in joint session assembled, by a vote of three-fourths of all
the members of the senate and house of representative” voting separately”, may propose
amendments to the constitution or call a convention for the purpose. Such amendments shall be
valid as part of the constitution when approved by a majority of the voters cast at an election at
which the amendments are submitted to the people for their ratification.
Some Observations to the 1935 Constitution
1. The Preamble is very short. Words like equality, peace, and love are not included. These are
hopes and aspirations of every people regardless of race.
2. No state policies. These state policies are important in the aspect of lawmaking and policy-
making processes.
3. Impartial trial. The right of the accused to impartial trial is not mentioned although the
constitution guarantees speedy and public trial.
4. Congress has the power to declare war. The constitution empowered the congress to declare war
which is somewhat contrary to the state policy of "renunciation of war
5. President can serve for eight consecutive years. The term of office may be short for a competent
President but too long for an incompetent one.
6. No specified number of days in the declaration of martial law. The constitution empowered the
President to declare martial law for "unlimited" number of days.
Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 11
Activity 1
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Activity 2

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Activity 3
Cite similarities and differences on the power of the three branches of the government under the
1935 Constitution with the 1899 constitution
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1973 CONSTITUTION
Introduction
It was during the second term of President Marcos that the constitutional convention was
called to draft the new constitution. It took more than two years before the delegates finally signed
the draft of the constitution, this is because martial law was declared in the country. By January 17,
1973, he issued Proclamation No. 1102 declaring the constitution in full force and effect. It was
ratified by the people in a referendum on January 10-15, 1973.
The 1973 Constitution was a constitution designed for Marcos dictatorship. In the drafted
constitution, it gave him (President Marcos) all the powers of the President under the 1935
Constitution including the powers of the Prime Minister and the President under the 1973
Constitution. The constitution was not ratified in the manner prescribed by law but through secret
balloting.

1. The preamble maintained some of the words of the 1899 and 1935 Constitution but new
words were added such as "sovereign'" Filipino people, "peace and "equality".
2. It has broader and clearer provisions of national territory.
3. The state policies include: strengthening of family as a basic social institution; role of youth
in nation-building; provisions on social services in the field of education, health, housing,
employment, welfare and social security; protection to labor; and autonomy of local
government units.
4. It deleted the paragraph (2) and paragraph (3) of the 1935 Constitution on Citizenship. In
the aspect of suffrage, "all citizens who are at least 18 years of age are now qualified to
exercise such right.
5. There are provisions on the duties and obligations of citizens especially in giving military
services and joining the military.
6. It adopted a parliamentary system of government wherein the President is the head of state
and chief executive while the Prime Minister 1s the head of the government and the
commander-in-chief of all armed forces. The Prime Minister and the President are both
elected by the legislature. Executive power of appointment, pardoning power, and
borrowing power belong to the Prime Minister.
7. The creation of special court known as Sandiganbayan, which shall have jurisdiction over
criminal and civil cases involving graft and corrupt practices and other offenses committed
by public officers and employees. It also created the office of the Ombudsman, to be known
as Tanodbayan.
Preamble
“We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid of Divine Providence, in order to
establish a Government that shall embody our deals, promote the general welfare, conserve
and develop the patrimony of our Nation, and secure to ourselves and our posterity the
blessings of democracy under a regime of justice, pence, liberty, and equality, do ordain and
promulgate this Constitution.”
National Territory
"The national territory comprises the Philippine archipelago, with all the islands
and waters embraced therein, and all the other territories belonging, to the Philippines by
historic right or legal title, including the territorial sea, the air space, the subsoil, the sea-
bed, the insular shelves, and other submarine areas over which the Philippines has
sovereignty or jurisdiction. The waters around, between, and connecting the islands of the
archipelago, irrespective of their breadth and dimensions, form part of the internal waters
of the Philippines."
State Principles
The 1973 Constitution has the following state principles and policies:
1. The Philippines as a republican state.
2. Defense of the state as prime duty of the government
4. Strengthening the family as a basic social institution
5. Role of youth in the nation-building
7. Establishment and maintenance of adequate social services
8. Supremacy of civilian over the military
9. Protection to labor and promotion of full employment
10. Autonomy of local government units
Who are citizens of the Philippines?
Article IV of the 1973 Constitution provides that the following are citizens of the
Philippines: (1) those who are citizens of the Philippines at the time of the adoption of this
Constitution; (2) those whose fathers or mothers are citizens of the Philippines; (3) those who elect
Philippine citizenship pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of nineteen hundred and
thirty-five; and (4) those who are naturalized in accordance with law.

6. Liberty of abode and travel
7. The right of the people to information on matters of public concern
8. The right to form associations or societies
11. Freedom of the press
12. Right to peaceably assemble and petition the government
13. Non impairment of obligation of contracts
14. Non imprisonment tor debt or nonpayment of poll tax
16. Privilege of the writ ot habeas corpus
17. Right to speedy disposition of cases
18. Right to bail
c. Right to be informed of the nature and cause of accusation against him/her
d. Right to speedy, impartial, and public trial
f. Right to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of witnesses and the production
of evidence in his/her behalf
22. Right against excessive fines and cruel or unusual punishment
23. Free access to the courts
Duties and Obligations of Citizens
The following are the duties and obligations of citizens.
1. It shall be the duty of the citizen to be loyal to the Republic.

2. It shall be the duty of the citizen to honor the Philippine flag
3. It shall be the duty of the citizen to defend the State and contribute to its development and
welfare.
4. It shall be the duty of the citizen to uphold the Constitution and obey the laws.
5. It shall be the duty of the citizen to cooperate with the duly constituted authorities in the
attainment and preservation of a just and orderly society.
6. It shall be the duty of the citizen to exercise responsibly the rights impose
7. Upon/her with due regard for the rights of others.
8. It shall be the duty of every citizen to engage in gainful work to assure himself/herself and
his/her family a life worthy of human dignity.
9. It shall be the obligation of every citizen qualified to vote to register and cast his vote.
Suffrage
"Suffrage shall be exercised by citizens of the Philippines not otherwise disqualified by law, who are
eighteen years of age or our, and who shall have resided in the Philippines for at least one year and
in the place wherein they propose to vote for at least six months preceding the election. No literacy,
property, or other substantive requirement shall be imposed on the exercise of suffrage. The
Batasang Pambansa shall provide a system for the purpose of securing the secrecy and sanctity of
the vote."

Legislative/ Batasang Executive/President/Prime Judiciary
Pambansa Minister
Legislative power Executive Power Judicial Power
Power of taxation Control power Power to apply the laws
Power to declare the existence Military power Supreme Court shall have the
of the state of war e. Commander-in-chief of following powers:
the AFP (1) Exercise original
f. Declare Martial law jurisdiction over cases affecting
g. Suspend the privilege ambassadors, other public
of Habeas corpus
ministers, and consuls, and
h. Call armed force to
prevent or suppress over petitions for certiorari,
lawless prohibition, mandamus quo
violence,
warranto, and habeas corpus.
invasion, insurrection,
or rebellion (2) Review and revise, reverse,
modify, or affirm on appeal or
certiorari, as the law or the
Power to override the veto of Rules of Court may provide,
the President final judgments and decrees of
Power to elect and remove the
inferior courts in-
prime minister
Power to define, prescribe, and (a) All cases in which the
apportion the jurisdiction of constitutionality or validity of
the various courts any treaty, executive
Power to repeal, alter, or agreement, law, ordinance, or
supplement the rules executive order or regulation is
concerning pleading, practice, in question.
and procedure, and the
(b) All cases involving the
admission to the practice of
law in the Philippines. legality of any tax, impost,
Concur treaty Power of appointment assessment, or toll, or any
Conduct inquiries in aid of Veto power penalty imposed in relation
legislation thereto.
Power to prescribe the Diplomatic power (c) All cases in which the
qualifications of judges of Contact and guarantee foreign jurisdiction of any inferior
inferior courts. and domestic loans court is in issue.
Addressing power (d) All criminal cases in which
Formulate guidelines national
the penalty imposed is death or
policy
Pardoning power life imprisonment.
Grant reprieves (e) All cases in which only an
Grant commutation of sentence error or question of law is
Grant pardon involved.
Remit fines and forfeitures
Prime minister shall have the (3) Assign temporarily judges
following powers: of inferior courts to other
Head of the cabinet stations as public interest may
Chairman of the executive
require. Such temporary
committee that assets the
President in the exercise of his assignment shall not last longer
power, function, and duties. than six months without the
Supervise all ministries consent of the judge
Advise to dissolve the Batasang Concerned.
Pambansa (4) Order a change of venue or
place of trial to avoid a
miscarriage of justice.
(5) Promulgate, rules
concerning pleading, practice,
and procedure in all courts and
law
(6) Appoint its officials and
employees in
Accordance with the Civil
Service Law.
Power to determine the
constitutionality of treaty,
executive agreement or law
Power to appoint judge of a
particular district or designate
or transfer a judge to another
district
Administrative supervision
over all courts and the
personnel.
Qualification of Elected and Appointed officials of the Branches of the Government

Qualifications Legislative Executive Judiciary
Citizenship Natural-born citizen Natural- born citizen Natural-born citizen
requirement
Voter registration Registered voter Registered Voter None
requirement
Literacy requirement Able to read and write Able to read and write
Residency Resident for a period Resident of the None
requirement of Philippines for at least
not less than 1 year 10 years
Other requirements None None Ten years or more
been a judge of a court
of record or engage in
the practice of law in
the Philippines

Article XVI provides:
1. . Any amendment to, or revision of, this constitution may be proposed by the National
Assembly upon a vote of three-fourths of all its members, or by a constitutional convention.
2. The National Assembly may, by a vote of two-thirds of all its members, call a constitutional
convention, or by a majority vote of all its members, submit the question of calling such a
convention to the electorate in an election.
Some Flaws or Criticisms to the 1973 Constitution

1. Suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus and declaration of martial law have
no clear duration as to number of days. Such suspension and declaration can be made
through lawless violence, invasion, resurrection, rebellion, imminent danger, or when
public safety requires for it.
2. Dual executive with a Vice President with no clear powers, functions, and duties. With
President as head of state and Prime Minister as head of the government, the Vice President
will not be doing anything but to receive his/her salary because the Speaker of the National
Assembly succeeds as President in the absence of the President.
3. It deprived the people the authority to elect the highest officials of the land, the authority is
vested to the National Assembly. This contradicts democratic practices and
4. Opens possibility of electing a very young Prime Minister. The age of twenty-five may be too
young for someone to run the country. He/she may lack knowledge and experience to
provide solutions to the growing number or social problems.
5. No body to recon1mend and scrutinize the competencies of the justices of the Supreme
Court. There is no screening body that will assist the President and will just rely on his/her
own judgment.
6. Unicameral Legislature. Having a unicameral legislature opens possibility of hasty

legislation or hodge-podge legislation. No system of check and balances and more time to
scrutinize the legislation.
Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 12
Activity 1
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Activity 4
Discuss the flaws and criticisms to the 1973 Constitution.

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1987 CONSTITUTION
Introduction
After the 1986 EDSA Revolution, the newly-installed President Corazon Aquino issued a
proclamation No. 9 creating the Constitutional Commission of 1986 to draft a new constitution. On
May 25, 1986, she appointed the 48 members of the Constitutional Commission from a list of
persons nominated by various groups and individuals representing different sectors of the society.
After more than 110 days, the Commission finally finished its task. On October 12, 1986, the
commissioners approved the draft constitution with a vote of 45 in favor against 2 who are not in
favor. On the same day, they presented it to the President. February2 198, the draft of the new
constitution was submitted to the people for ratification in a plebiscite. Of the 25 million registered
voters, the "yes votes garnered 17,059,495 while the "no" votes had 5,058,714. On February 11,
1987, President Aquino issued Proclamation No. 58 declaring the new constitution has been ratified
by the Filipino people and is therefore effective and in full force and effect.
1. The Preamble of the 1987 Constitution retained some of the words of the previous
constitutions. However, the word "Divine Providence" in the 1935 and 1987 Constitution
was replaced by the word "Almighty God" and new words were included such as "a just and
humane society", "aspirations", "rule of law", "regime of truth", "freedom", and "love". The
term "general welfare" was replaced by the term "common good" and the word
"independence" which was found in the 1935 Constitution was used again.
2. The provision on National Territory is almost similar with the inclusion of new words like
"sovereignty or jurisdiction'", "terrestrial" and "fluvial". The word "airspace" was changed
to "aerial domains. The phrase "historic right or legal title" in the 1973 Constitution was
removed.
3. The 1987 Constitution has provided mechanisms to prevent the rise again of the new
dictator. It limits the number of days in declaring martial law or pending the privilege of the
writ of habeas corpus. The grounds tor the declaration and suspension is limited only to
invasion and rebellion. It also empowers the Congress to revoke the proclamation of martial
law or suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus. It also empowers the
Supreme Court to determine the sufficiency of the grounds or the said proclamation and
suspension by the President. It also included provisions against degrading punishment,
torture, secret detention places, and freedom from detention by reason of political belief. It
created the commission on Human Rights to prevent violations of human rights.
4. It included a provision on "initiative and referendum” wherein the people may directly
propose or enact laws.
5. It also provides a more democratic representation in the lower house (House of

Representatives) through the Party-List System.
Preamble
"We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid of Almighty God, in order to build a just and
humane society and establish a Government that shall embody our deals and aspirations, promote
the common good, conserve and develop our patrimony, and secure to ourselves and our posterity
the blessings of independence and democracy under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice,
freedom, love, equality, and peace, do ordain and promulgate this Constitution.
National Territory
"The national territory comprises the Philippine archipelago, with all the islands and waters
embraced therein, and all other territories over which the Philippines has sovereignty or
jurisdiction, consisting of its terrestrial, fluvial, and aerial domains, including its territorial sea, the
seabed, the subsoil, the insular shelves, and other submarine areas. The waters around, between,
and connecting the islands of the archipelago, regardless of their breadth and dimensions, form
part of the internal waters of the Philippines."
State Principles and Policies
The 1987 Constitution has the following state principles and policies:
1. The Philippines as a democratic and republican State
3. Supremacy or civilian over military
4. Prime duty of the government
5. Essential blessings of democracy
6. Separation of Church and State
7. Independent foreign policy
8. Freedom from nuclear weapons
9. Just and dynamic social order
11. Dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights
12. Sanctity of family life
13. Vital role of the youth in nation-building
14. Role of women in nation-building
15. Promotion of the right to health of the people
16. Balanced and healthful ecology
17. Education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports
18. Labor as a primary social economic force
19. Self-reliant and independent national economy
20. Indispensable role of the private sector
21. Promotion of comprehensive rural development and agrarian reform
22. Promotion of the rights of indigenous cultural communities
23. Encouragement on non-governmental, community-based, or sectorial organizations
24. Vital role of communication and information in nation-building
25. Autonomy of local governments
26. Equal access to opportunities for public service
27. Maintenance of honesty and integrity in the public service
28. Policy of full public disclosure of all its transactions involvin8 public interest
Who are Citizens of the Philippines?

Article IV of the 1987 Constitution provides that the following are citizens of the Philippines: (1)
Those who are citizens of the Philippines at the time of the adoption of this Constitution; (2) those
whose fathers or mothers are citizens of the Philippines; (3) those born before January 17, 1973, of
Filipino mothers, who elect Philippine citizenship upon reaching majority; and (4) those who are
naturalized in accordance with law.

7. Freedom of expression
8. Freedom ot the press
9. Right to peaceably assemble and petition the government
11. Liberty of abode and travel
12. Right to information on matters of public concern
13. Right to form unions, associations, or societies
14. Right
17. Non-impairment of obligations
against torture, of contracts
force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any other means which vitiate
15. free
Freewill
access to courts and quasi-judicial bodies
18.
16. Right to be
Miranda compensated and rehabilitated for the infliction of torture and other similar
Rights
practices
a. Right to be informed of his/her right to remain silent
19. Right to bail and against excessive bail
b. Right to be informed of his/her right to have competent and independent counsel
c. C. Right to be informed that if he/she cannot afford the services of a counsel, he/she
will be provided with one
d. Right to remain silent
c. C. Right to be informed of the nature and cause of accusation against him/her
e. Right to have competent and independent counsel
d. Right to speedy, impartial, and public trial
f. Right to be provided with a counsel, if he/she cannot afford the services of a counsel
g. Right to waive his/her right to remain silent
f. Right to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of witnesses and the
h. Right to waive his/her right to competent and independent counsel
production of evidence in his/her behalf
i. Right to waive his/her right to be provided with a counsel, if he/she cannot afford the
g. Right not to appear during his/her trial
services of a counsel
21. Privilege of the writ of habeas corpus
22. Right to speedy disposition of cases
24. Right to political belief and aspiration
26. Right against excessive fines
27. Right against cruel, degrading, and inhuman punishment
28. Non-imprisonment for debt and non-imprisonment for nonpayment of poll tax
Suffrage
"Suffrage may be exercised by all citizens of the Philippines not otherwise disqualified by law, who
are at least eighteen years of age, and who shall have resided in the Philippines for at least one year
and in the place wherein they propose to vote for at least six months immediately preceding the
election. No literacy, property, or other substantive requirement shall be imposed on the exercise of
suffrage”

Legislative power Executive Power Judicial power
Power of taxation Control power Supreme Court shall have the
Power to declare the existence Executive power Control following powers
of state of war power (1) Exercise original
Power to override the veto of Military power jurisdiction over cases affecting
the President a. Commander-in-Chief of the ambassadors, other public
Confirmation power AFP ministers and consuls, and over
b. Declare martial law petitions 1or certiorari,
C. Suspend the privilege of the prohibition, mandamus quo
writ of the habeas corpus warranto, and habeas corpus
d. Call armed forces to prevent (2) Review and revise, reverse,
or suppress lawless violence, modify, or affirm on appeal or
invasion, or rebellion certiorari, as the law or the
Rules of Court may provide,
Power to define, prescribe, and Power of appointment final judgments and decrees of
apportion the jurisdiction of interior courts in
the various courts (a) All cases in which the
Revoke or extend the Veto power constitutionality or validity of
proclamation of martial law or any treaty, executive
suspension of the privilege of agreement law, ordinance, or
the writ of habeas corpus executive order or regulation is
Concur treaty and concur the Diplomatic power in question.
grant of amnesty (b) All cases involving the
Conduct inquiries in aid of Contract and guarantee foreign legality of any tax, impost,
legislation and domestic loans assessment, or toll, or any
Power to prescribe the Addressing Power penalty imposed in relation
qualifications of judges Supervision over local thereto.
of lower courts government units and (c) All cases in which the
autonomous regional jurisdiction of any inferior
governments court is in issue.
Pardoning power (d) All criminal cases in which
a. Grant reprieves the penalty imposed is death or
b. Grant commutation of life imprisonment
sentence (e) All cases in which only an
C. Grant pardon error or question of law is
d. Remit fines and forfeitures involved.
e. Grant amnesty (3) Assign temporarily judges
of inferior courts to other
stations as public interest may
require. Such temporary
assignment shall not last longer
than six months without the
consent of the judge concerned.
(4) Order a change of venue or
place of trial to avoid a
miscarriage of justice.
(5) Promulgate rules
concerning pleading9 practice,
and procedure in all courts and
law
(6) Appoint its officials and
employees in accordance with
the Civil Service Law.
Residual power Power to determine the
Power to call Congress to a constitutionality of treaty,
special session international or executive
agreement or law
Discipline /dismiss judges of
lower courts
Administrative supervision
over all courts and the
personnel
Qualification of Elected and Appointed Officials of the Branches of the Government

Qualification Legislative Executive Judiciary
Citizenship Natural-born citizen Natural-born citizen Natural-born citizen
requirement
for Senators
At least 25 years of age

– for district
Representatives and
party – list
representatives
Voter Registration Registered voter Registered voter None
requirement
Literacy requirement Able to read and Able to read and write
writer
Residency Resident for a period Reside of the None
requirement of not less than 2 years Philippines for at least
for Senators 10 years
Resident for a period

of not less than 1 year-
For District
Representatives
Other requirement None None At least fifteen years or
more a judge of a
lower court or
engaged in the practice
of law in the
Philippines.

Article XVII provides:
Section 1. Any amendment to, or revision of, this constitution may be proposed by:
1) The Congress, upon a vote of three-fourths of all its members; or
2) A constitutional convention.
Some Flaws or Criticisms to the 1987 Constitution

1. There is no enabling law to end political dynasties. Section 26 of Article is clear that it is the
policy of the state to guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit
political dynasties. No effort to enact anti-political dynasty law only shows that elected
officials have future political plans for their family members to stay in power and preserve
the position.
2. Vague provision on how to revise and amend the constitution. Article XVI provides that the
Congress upon a vote of three-fourths of all members the requirement but it is unclear
whether the Congress which is composed senate and House of Representatives will vote
"jointly" or vote "separately”
3. Revocation and extension of the duration of martial law is a numbers game. While Article
V11 Section 18 is clear about the number of days and the grounds for the declaration of
martial law, the decision still rests upon the decision of the Congress which is likely to be
dominated by the allies of the President.
4. Impeachment process is also a numbers game. The term of office of elected and appointed
officials depends on the vote of the two chambers of Congress. These officials, it not
members of the dominant political party and are not close to the seating President, may not
be able to finish their term.
5. The principle "Separation of Church and State" has n0 enablin8 law. Religious leaders were
elected as public officials and there is no law that prohibits them. Policies and laws enacted
by the state were openly criticized by the church who even in the past indirectly influenced
the voters when it posted in different parishes the lawmakers who supported the
Reproductive Health Law by labeling them as "Team Patay" but there is no law that
punishes their acts.
6. Some grounds for impeachment are vague and open to abuse. Grounds like culpable
violation of the constitution, other high crimes, and betrayal of public trust are "catch-all"
terms that can be used against political rivals.
7. The Commission on Human Rights is a lame duck agency. The office has no "prosecutory"
power. It only investigates human rights violations and visitorial power over jails and
prisons.
8. The judiciary is not totally "independent" The power of the President to appoint judges of
lower courts and justices of the Supreme Court creates doubt from the people on decisions
of cases brought to them out of "utang na loob" Political observers sometimes predict
Supreme Court decisions based on the number of appointees of a seating President and not
from their collective wisdom.
9. The right of the people to information 011 matters of public concern is not "fully"
recognized. There 1s no law enacted granting freedom of information to people. Politicians
sometimes use it as a shield to cover their wrongdoings, disregarding transparency and
limiting accountability.
10. Party-list system was abused. Anyone may be nominated in the party-list even without full
knowledge of the needs and welfare of the sector they are presenting. The first batch of
party-list representatives obtained seats in the lower house by simply naming their parties
with letters “A” or through a number like A- __________ or 1- _________, lazy voters simply voted
for their parties because they were first in the list.
11. Vice President has no clear powers, functions, and duties. The constitution has designed the
Vice-President to be a "spare tire". However, he/she can be appointed as member of the
cabinet.
Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 13
Activity 1
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Activity 4
Discuss some flaws and criticisms to the 1987 Constitution.

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Evolution of Philippine Constitutions

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Evolution of Philippine Constitutions

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Evolution of the Philippine

1898 CONSTITUTION (MALOLOS CONSTITUTION)

Salient features of the 1899 Constitution

Sovereignty Resides on the People

Section 4 provides that the government is popular, representative, alternative, and

Who are Filipinos?

7. All orders of imprisonment, of search of a dwelling house, or detention of written correspondence,

Amendments to the Constitution

Unique provisions in the 1899 Constitution

Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 10

Narrate the History of the enactment of the 1899 Constitution.

Salient Features of the 1935 Constitution

The 1935 Constitution has the following state principles

Who are citizens of the Philippines?

Rights Guaranteed by the 1935 Constitution

1. Right to life, liberty, and property

Qualification of Elected and Appointed Official of the Branched of the Government

Qualifications Legislative Executive Judiciary

Amendments to the Constitution

Some Observations to the 1935 Constitution

Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Year & Section:_________________________________________ Score:______________

Narrate the History of the enactment of the 1935 Constitution.

Discuss the salient features of the 1935 Constitution

Salient Features of the 1973 Constitution

Who are citizens of the Philippines?

Rights Guaranteed by the 1973 Constitution

1. Right to life, liberty, and property

The following are the duties and obligations of citizens.

1. It shall be the duty of the citizen to be loyal to the Republic.

Power of the Three Branches of the Government under 1973 Constitution

Qualification of Elected and Appointed officials of the Branches of the Government

Amendments to the Constitution

Some Flaws or Criticisms to the 1973 Constitution

6. Unicameral Legislature. Having a unicameral legislature opens possibility of hasty

Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 12

Narrate the History of the enactment of the 1973 Constitution.

Discuss the salient features of the 1973 Constitution

Discuss the flaws and criticisms to the 1973 Constitution.

Salient Features of the 1987 Constitution

5. It also provides a more democratic representation in the lower house (House of

State Principles and Policies

Who are Citizens of the Philippines?

Rights Guaranteed by the 1987 Constitution

Power of the Three Branches of the Government under 1897 Constitution

Qualification of Elected and Appointed Officials of the Branches of the Government

At least 25 years of age

Resident for a period

Amendments to the Constitution

1) The Congress, upon a vote of three-fourths of all its members; or

Some Flaws or Criticisms to the 1987 Constitution

Name:_________________________________________________________ Date: ______________

Task sheet No. 13

Narrate the History of the enactment of the 1987 Constitution.

Discuss the salient features of the 1987 Constitution

Discuss some flaws and criticisms to the 1987 Constitution.

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Name:___________________________________________ Date:

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Year & Section:___________________________ Score:

Name:___________________________________________ Date:

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