Article 2: Declaration of Principles and State Policies

Section 10: The State shall promote social justice in all phases of national development.

Key Points:

Social Justice: This section of the Philippine Constitution underscores the fundamental
principle of social justice. Social justice is a concept that emphasizes fairness, equity, and the
protection of the rights of all individuals in society.

Inclusivity: The provision emphasizes that social justice should be promoted in all phases of
national development. This means that the government is obligated to ensure that every
Filipino citizen, regardless of their background or circumstances, is included in the benefits of
national progress and development.

Equal Opportunities: The Constitution mandates that the government should work towards
creating a society where opportunities, benefits, and privileges are accessible to all Filipinos,
regardless of their socioeconomic status, ethnicity, gender, or any other factor.

Implications:

Addressing Inequality: Article 2, Section 10 serves as a reminder of the government's duty to

address social and economic inequalities within the country. It places a strong emphasis on
bridging the gap between the rich and the poor and promoting a more equitable distribution of
resources.

Example: The "Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program" (4Ps) is a government initiative that
directly addresses economic inequalities. By providing cash grants to the poorest families in the
Philippines, it aims to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, ensuring that the most
vulnerable citizens have access to essential resources.
Policy Guidance:

Policy Guidance: This constitutional provision guides policymakers in crafting laws and policies
that prioritize social justice. It encourages the development of policies that focus on poverty
reduction, equal access to education and healthcare, and other measures aimed at improving
the lives of all Filipinos.

Example: The passage of the "Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act" reflects the
constitutional guidance provided in Article 2, Section 10. This law ensures that qualified
students from low-income families have equal access to higher education by providing free
tuition and other subsidies in state universities and colleges.

Relevance:

Social Programs: Article 2, Section 10 has led to the creation of various social programs and
initiatives in the Philippines. These programs are designed to uplift marginalized sectors of
society, provide support to those in need, and ensure that basic services are accessible to all
citizens.

Example: The "Senior Citizen Act" provides various privileges and benefits to senior citizens,
such as discounts on goods and services, social pensions, and healthcare assistance. This
program exemplifies the relevance of Article 2, Section 10 by addressing the needs of an often
marginalized demographic.

Legal Framework: It provides a legal framework for pursuing social justice in various areas such
as education, employment, housing, and land reform. It serves as a foundation upon which laws
and policies related to social justice are built and enforced.

Example: The passage of the "Comprehensive Land Use Plan" at the local government level
aligns with Article 2, Section 10's emphasis on equitable land use. This legal framework helps
ensure that land is utilized in a manner that benefits all citizens, especially in urban planning
and housing development.

In summary, Article 2, Section 10 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution highlights the importance
of social justice in all aspects of national development. It guides the government in its efforts
to create a fair and inclusive society where every Filipino can enjoy the benefits of progress
and development.