Homework:

A. Draw an editorial interpretation of The 1987 Philippine Constitution Preamble. (traditional)

B. Answer this question: What are the rights that were violated by China by not complying with
the arbitral? Relate your answer to Article I of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
C. Look for the articles that will specifically explain each section of Article II. (1 section = 1
article, a total of 28 articles for Article II)

In the context of the West Philippine Sea dispute and arbitral tribunal, China breached the
following rights in accordance to the Article 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution:

• Interfering with Philippine fishing

• Interfering with Philippine petroleum exploration
• Constructing artificial islands
• Failing to prevent Chinese fishermen from fishing in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ)
• Chinese law enforcement vessels had unlawfully created a serious risk of collision when they
physically obstructed Philippine vessels
• China had caused severe harm to the coral reef environment
• Violated its obligation to preserve and protect fragile ecosystems and the habitats of
endangered species

B.
In the context of the West Philippine Sea dispute and arbitral tribunal, China breached
the following rights in accordance to the Article 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

The arbitral tribunal's verdict supported the Philippines' national sovereignty upon
rejecting China's "nine-dash line" claim, which included an extensive portion of the West
Philippine Sea. China's unwillingness to comply with the verdict jeopardize the Philippines'
exercise of sovereignty over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The arbitral tribunal assessed
that China's actions in the West Philippine Sea, such as interfering with fishing and resource
exploration, not prohibiting Chinese fishermen from fishing in the exclusive economic zone
(EEZ), Chinese law enforcement vessels unlawfully posed a serious risk of collisions by
deliberately obstructing Philippine vessels, China caused severe harm to the coral reefs and
other marine environment, and it infringed on its legal duty to preserve and protect fragile
ecosystems and the habitats of endangered species. On top of that, demands have been
expressed concerning freedom of navigation in international seas as a result of China's
fortification of manmade islands and belligerent stance in the area. China's actions can be
interpreted as impeding the sovereignty and freedom of navigation of vessels from other
countries across these borders by failing to comply with the arbitral.

(IDK IF ISASAMA KO PATO KASO ANG REDUDUNDANT NA IF EVER PERO MAY

SENSE KASI SIYA? XD “The Philippines sought arbitration to preserve its national pursuits,
including its rights to fish, explore, and utilize resources in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ)
and such Chinese measures have adversely affected the Philippines' national pursuits in the
area.”)
C.

Section 1 (pag tinamad yan sha magsulat di na nya susulat ang definition hehe)

Title: Millions of Filipinos to cast their votes as polls open for Philippine elections

Explanation: Article 2, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution integrates numerous

important concepts that sustain the Philippine government and society in a brief yet deep
principle. By referring to the Philippines as a "democratic and republican State," the Constitution
emphasizes the country's commitment to democratic government and the rule of law. According
to the news report, "Millions of Filipinos are ready to vote as polls open for Philippine elections."
This article is a cornerstone of Philippine democracy, highlighting the power and duty of Filipino
citizens in creating the future of their country. It supports the notion that the government is not a
self-contained organization, but rather gets its legitimacy and authority from the consent of the
governed where citizens have the right to be involved in the political process in which they elect
their leaders, and hold them responsible.

Source: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/philippines-elections-may-9-bongbong-leni-
2671736

Section 2

Title: Philippines tells UN that Manila for peaceful settlement of disputes in South China Sea

Explanation: The Philippines on Saturday, September 23, 2023, urged “the peaceful settlement
of disputes, in accordance with international law” in the South China Sea, where Manila has
competing claims with Beijing. The Philippines recognizes the significance of international law
by incorporating "the generally accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the
land." This suggests a commitment to upholding international norms, treaties, and conventions
that promote peaceful coexistence and cooperation among nations. The Constitution
emphasizes the Philippines' overall peace policy. It emphasizes the country's aim to put
emphasis on peaceful diplomacy and collaboration in international relations, with the goal of
avoiding disputes and promoting world harmony.

Source: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/philippines-tells-un-that-manila-for-peaceful-
settlement-of-disputes-in-south-china-sea/2999904#

Section 3

Title: Looking back at the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution

Explanation: The 1986 People Power Revolution was a watershed moment in Philippine history.
It was a civilian-led campaign that sought to depose then-President Ferdinand Marcos. Marcos
had controlled the Philippines for nearly two decades at the time, and his reign was
characterized by dictatorship, nepotism, and human rights violations. The People Power
Revolution of 1986 proved civilian power's superiority over military authority. As the movement
gathered traction and millions of Filipinos flocked to the streets to protest Marcos' tyranny, the
military faced a key choice: employ violence to repress the rallies or support the general public's
cry for change.

Source: https://chmsu.edu.ph/looking-back-at-the-1986-edsa-people-power-revolution/

Section 4

Title: NSTP signed into law, replaces ROTC

Explanation: This section of Article 2, Section 4 recognizes that the government may oblige its
citizens to make significant contributions to the common good by performing personal service in
particular instances, such as national defense or times of crisis. "Personal military or civil
service" refers to a variety of activities such as service in the military, disaster relief, healthcare,
or other types of civic duty that may be required for the nation's welfare and protection. The
notion of a collective agreement between the government and its citizens is reflected in this
constitutional clause. The government owes it to the people to serve and protect them, and
citizens may be called upon to contribute to the common good, particularly in situations of
national crisis or defense.

Source: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2002/02/05/149547/nstp-signed-law-replaces-rotc

Section 5

Title: PBBM calls on ASASAAP to promote inclusive development, maintain peace and order in
the country

Explanation: The essential concepts that support democratic governance and the
responsibilities of government in a democratic society are emphasized in Article 2 section 5 of
the 1987 Philippine Constitution. The government has an important role in sustaining peace and
order through enacting and enforcing laws, encouraging dispute resolution methods, and
assuring people's safety. Instead of serving the interests of a chosen few, the government has a
duty to foster the well-being and welfare of its population as a whole.

Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/06/27/pbbm-calls-on-asasaap-to-promote-inclusive-
development-maintain-peace-and-order-in-the-country

Section 6

Title: Ladlad gets nod from Supreme Court

Explanation: The controversy centered on the refusal of accreditation and consequent exclusion
of the political party "Ang Ladlad," which predominantly represented the Philippines' LGBTQ+
minority, from participating in the 2010 party-list elections. The Commission on Elections
(COMELEC) has dismissed Ang Ladlad's accreditation application, citing the party's advocacy
of immorality and violation of religious beliefs. In this judgment, the Supreme Court of the
Philippines found in favor of Ang Ladlad, ruling that COMELEC's refusal of accreditation was
unconstitutional. The Court highlighted that the Constitution requires the separation of Church
and State, and that public authorities, including COMELEC, should not base political choices on
religious teachings or prejudice towards groups based on their religious beliefs or orientations. It
also emphasizes the necessity of government bodies remaining impartial in issues relating to
religion and upholding the ideals of equal rights and non-discrimination in a society that is
democratic.

Source: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2010/04/09/564533/ladlad-gets-nod-supreme-court

Section 7

Title: Suspending the Termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement: Navigating the Geopolitical
Currents of the Philippines-US Alliance

Explanation: The Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) is an agreement between the Philippines
and the United States that regulates how US military troops that visit the Philippines for bilateral
military drills and training are treated. The Philippine government, led by Former President
Rodrigo Duterte, formally notified the US of its intention to terminate the VFA in February 2020.
This was regarded as an important judgment in accordance with the provisions of Article 2,
Section 7. The government of President Duterte expressed concerns about sovereignty and the
idea that the Philippines should pursue a more autonomous foreign policy approach. In
summary, the Philippines' approach to the VFA and its larger foreign policy reflects the country's
continued attempts to pursue an independent foreign policy that upholds national sovereignty,
territorial integrity, and national interests, all in conformity with its constitutional values.

Source: https://ndcp.edu.ph/suspending-the-termination-of-the-visiting-forces-agreement-
navigating-the-geopolitical-currents-of-the-philippines-us-alliance/

Section 8

Title: LOOK BACK: When the Senate said ‘no’ to US bases renewal

Explanation: After years of negotiations between the Philippine and US administrations, the
Philippine Senate decided in 1991 to reject the proposal to renew of the US-Philippines Military
Bases Agreement. The closing of these US military outposts was a key step forward in the
Philippine government's pursuit of its objective of nuclear-weapons-free territory, as stipulated in
Article 2, Section 8 of the Constitution. The bases were known to have been utilized for a variety
of military purposes, including nuclear weapon storage. The Philippines reaffirmed its
adherence to a nuclear-free nation and non-nuclear status by eliminating these bases.

Source: https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/146410-look-back-senate-no-us-base-renewal-
1991/

Section 9

Title: PANTAWID PAMILYANG PILIPINO PROGRAM IN THE PHILIPPINES

Explanation: The 4Ps is the Philippine government's launch poverty-reduction initiative. It was
founded in 2007 and has since grown to give targeted help to low-income families living in
poverty. The initiative strives to address these families' multiple issues and promote equality and
inclusion by enhancing their ability to gain access to key services and resources. The program
helps those who are eligible to meet financial stability and independence by providing direct
cash assistance. It assists families in meeting their fundamental necessities and reducing their
reliance on subsistence living. It demonstrates the government's commitment to fostering a
more equal and just society in which all individuals may achieve financial security

Source: https://borgenproject.org/pantawid-pamilyang-pilipino-program-in-the-philippines/

Section 10

Title: UHC Act in the Philippines: a new dawn for health care

Explanation: The Philippines passed the Universal Health Care Law, officially known as
Republic Act No. 11223, in February 2019. It is a huge step forward in the country's attempts to
ensure fair access to high-quality healthcare for all Filipinos. The law's goal is to establish
universal health coverage, which means that every Filipino, regardless of economic condition,
would be able to obtain necessary healthcare services without financial burden. The Universal
Health Care Law emphasizes its commitment to social justice by making healthcare services
accessible and cost-effective to all Filipinos. It is consistent with the values of fairness and
inclusion in national development, emphasizing that every person has the right to adequate
healthcare services and financial protection from illnesses.

Source: https://www.who.int/philippines/news/feature-stories/detail/uhc-act-in-the-philippines-a-
new-dawn-for-health-care

Section 11

Title: Gov't employees oriented on Bawal Bastos law

Explanation: Article 2 Section 11 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution shows the Philippine
government's primary commitment to upholding and protecting the inherent value and rights of
every individual under its authority. The declaration underlines that the State acknowledges and
respects every human being's innate worth and value, regardless of background, status, or
conditions. It emphasizes the concept that everyone has intrinsic dignity, which must be
respected and protected.

Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/03/22/govt-employees-oriented-on-bawal-bastos-law

Section 12

Title: Philippine Supreme Court Upholds Historic Reproductive Health Law

Explanation: In the Philippines, the RH Law is a key piece of law that tackles several elements
of family life, reproductive health, and women's rights. It was passed in order to encourage
responsible parenting, offer greater access to family planning services, and safeguard women's
reproductive health and rights. By promoting access to family planning information and services,
the RH Law strives to protect and strengthen families. It acknowledges that family planning may
assist couples in managing the size of their families appropriately, that may be beneficial to
family well-being. The RH Law provides provision for maternal health care and services in order
to minimize maternal mortality rates and protect the health of pregnant women health.

Source: https://reproductiverights.org/philippine-supreme-court-upholds-historic-reproductive-
health-law/

Section 13

Title: Marcos commends National Youth Commission, encourages more youth development

Explanation: The National young Commission is a Philippine government institution designed to

address the needs and problems of the young population. In accordance with Article 2, Section
13 of the Constitution, it plays an important role in promoting and preserving the well-being of
young Filipinos. It acknowledges the capabilities of young people as catalysts for positive
change and works to build an environment that allows them to make a positive contribution to
the nation's progress and well-being. These activities cover a wide range of dimensions of youth
development, such education, health, employment, and civic involvement.

Source: https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/878682/marcos-commends-
national-youth-commission-encourages-more-youth-development/story/

Section 14

Title: WE MAKE CHANGE WORK FOR WOMEN

Explanation: The Philippines' "Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality (WEGE) Act" is an
example of how this clause has been used. The legislation is consistent with the constitutional
commitment to maintaining women's and men's fundamental equality under the law. It targets a
gender-based offenses such as harassment, discrimination, and assault, as well as ensuring
equal legal rights and safety for women. It recognizes women's critical role in nation-building,
protects their fundamental equality under the law, and takes specific actions in order to foster
gender equality, defend women's rights, and empower women in different sectors of life.

Source: https://car.dole.gov.ph/news/we-make-change-work-for-women/
Section 15

Title: DOH-Calabarzon launches program to protect learners from dengue

Explanation: Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness that poses a severe public health
danger, has been reoccurring in the Philippines. The government has developed the National
Anti-Dengue Program to address this health risk and preserve people's right to health. The
initiative raises health awareness by informing the general public about dengue preventive and
control strategies. It informs individuals and communities on the significance of maintaining the
areas they live in clean, using mosquito screens or repellents, and getting medical attention for
dengue symptoms as soon as possible.

Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1181591

Section 16

Title: Clean Air Act after 23 years: Time to revisit the law

Explanation: The Philippines' Clean Air Act, implemented in 1999, is a comprehensive

environmental law aimed at combating air pollution and improving air quality. By tackling a
crucial environmental concern, it aligns with the constitutional obligation to conserve and
enhance a balanced and healthy ecological. The legislation establishes emission norms and
controls for cars, industrial sites, and other air pollution sources. It encourages the deployment
of less polluted techniques and procedures to minimize the emission of pollutants that are
contributing to air pollution.

Source: https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/12/clean-air-act-after-23-years-time-to-revisit-the-law

Section 17

Title: PRRD OKs inclusive education for learners with disabilities

Explanation: The State's focus of education is critical; this section supports social mobility by
giving individuals from varied origins equal opportunity to thrive. It contributes to equalize the
playing field and reducing socioeconomic inequities. Long-term economic gains result from
investments in education, research and technology, arts, culture, and sports, which increase a
country's human capital and productivity. Education is a long-term investment in the workforce
and economic success.

Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1169807
Section 18

Title: Labor issues and labor actions 2023

Explanation: The Labor Code of the Philippines is an extensive body of law in the Philippines
that governs different elements of labor relations, employment, and workers' rights. It represents
the government's commitment to recognizing labor as a fundamental social and economic force
and to defending workers' rights while promoting their well-being. The Labor Code protects
employees' rights by creating requirements for equitable salaries, working hours, rest intervals,
and holidays. It also affirms the ability of workers to create and join labor groups, allowing them
to collectively negotiate for improved working conditions.

Source: https://www.philstar.com/happens/1101

Section 19

Title: Pagcor warns vs illegal online gaming websites

Explanation: PAGCOR is a Philippine government-owned and regulated business that regulates

and oversees different sorts of gambling and gaming operations such as casinos, e-games, and
sports betting. Its mandate is consistent with the constitutional concept of establishing an
autonomous national economy under Filipino leadership. PAGCOR produces considerable cash
for the government, helping the country achieve fiscal independence. These funds are used to
support a variety of government programs and services, such as medical care, education, and
development of infrastructure.

Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1830740/pagcor-warns-vs-illegal-online-gaming-websites

Section 20

Title: Globe Business Aims to Strengthen the IT-BPM Sector with New Digital Masterclass
Series

Explanation: The IT-BPM industry in the Philippines is an increasing one, offering a diverse
variety of services such as business process outsourcing (BPO), contact centers, software
development, and IT services. It is one of the country's fastest-growing industries,
demonstrating the government's awareness of the private sector's critical role in economic
growth. It is mostly dominated by private firms, comprising both domestic and global
corporations. These organizations offer a variety of exporting and IT services to clients all
around the world. The sector has provided work for millions of Filipinos, mainly in contact
centers, customer support, and back-office operations. It helps to lower unemployment and
underemployment rates.
Source: https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/business/strengthen-it-bpm-
sector.html#:~:text=The%20Philippines'%20information%20technology%20and,or%20twice
%20the%202021%20figure.

Section 21

Title: Solon pushes free land distribution under CARP

Explanation: The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) is a significant Philippine

government project addressing land reform and rural development. It was originally introduced
in 1988 and has since been extended and amended to accomplish its goals. CARP reflects the
government's constitutional commitment to fostering holistic rural development and agricultural
reform. CARP's major purpose is to distribute agricultural lands in a fair manner to landless
farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries. This scheme has partitioned and dispersed
enormous agricultural estates to individuals who labor on them.

Source: https://www.dar.gov.ph/articles/dar-in-the-news/104065

Section 22

Title: Land and Life: Indigenous Filipinos’ Ancestral Domain Rights

Explanation: The Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (IPRA Law) of the Philippines was passed in
1997 to recognize and defend the rights of indigenous cultural groups and indigenous peoples
(ICCs/IPs). It is a landmark piece of government legislation that underscores the government's
commitment to fostering the well-being and preservation of these communities' cultural heritage.
IPRA Law acknowledges ICCs/IPs' ancestral domains and ancestral lands. It gives these
groups legal rights and sovereignty over their customary regions.

Source: https://pulitzercenter.org/stories/land-and-life-indigenous-filipinos-ancestral-domain-
rights

Section 23

Title: Empowering Farmers Cooperatives and Associations of Zamboanga Sibugay

Explanation: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has aggressively cultivated relationships with
local farmers' cooperatives in order to strengthen the agricultural sector and farmers' lives
throughout the Philippines. These cooperatives are grassroots organizations that bring together
small-scale farmers to handle agricultural difficulties collectively, get access to resources, and
exchange information. The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations
and sectoral groups, organizes training programs and capacity-building seminars for farmers in
these cooperatives. This gives them the information and skills they need to enhance agricultural
operations, maximize yields, and decrease post-harvest losses.
Source: https://cda.gov.ph/region-9/empowering-farmers-cooperatives-and-associations-of-
zamboanga-sibugay/

Section 24

Title: Internet connection reaches remote areas

Explanation: Communication and information transmission are critical in the digital era for the
development of the economy, education, government, and civic involvement. Recognizing the
importance of digital connection and access to the internet, the Philippine government has
launched programs to bridge the digital gap and provide all residents with access to the latest
news, services, and opportunities online.

Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/06/05/internet-connection-reaches-remote-areas

Section 25

Title: Revisit Local Government Code instead of cha-cha

Explanation: a pivotal piece of legislation in the Philippines that reshaped the symbiotic
relationship between the national government and local government units (LGUs). It establishes
a framework for the devolution of authorities, responsibilities, and resources to LGUs, fostering
autonomy and allowing them to govern more effectively in their particular territories. The Local
Government Code transfers authority and functions from the national government to local
governments. Local governments, for example, have authority over local legislation, taxes, land
use planning, and the delivery of basic goods and services such as education and health care.

Source: https://opinion.inquirer.net/153092/revisit-local-govt-code-instead-of-cha-cha

Section 26

Title: Lawmakers reject proposed anti-dynasty provision in Cha-cha

Explanation: While the Philippines is yet to enact an all-encompassing national anti-dynasty law,
several municipal governments have taken the initiative to fight political dynasties at the local
level. These LGUs have enacted local regulations and policies targeted at increasing equitable
access to public service opportunities and diminishing the dominance of political dynasties in
the local political system. Some local governments set term restrictions on elected officials in
order to avoid power concentration within a single family. Term limits guarantee that various
people get the chance to serve in public office throughout time.

Source: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/01/29/1988614/lawmakers-reject-proposed-
anti-dynasty-provision-cha-cha
Section 27

Title: Sandiganbayan marks 1st half of 2023 with 42-year low caseload

Explanation: The Sandiganbayan is a specialized judicial body tasked with dealing with graft
and corruption charges involving public officials and workers, as well as instances involving ill-
gotten money. It was formed in accordance with Article 2, Section 27 of the 1987 Philippine
Constitution to ensure that those accused of corrupt acts are held responsible. The
Sandiganbayan conducts trials and resolves issues involving corrupt public officials and workers
with the utmost honesty, integrity, and impartiality. It is critical in maintaining the rule of the law
as well as transparency in government.

Source: https://www.rappler.com/nation/sandiganbayan-caseload-june-2023/

Section 28

Title: Pass FOI bill now, Palace urges Congress

Explanation: The FOI Program was formed in the Philippines to improve openness and
accountability in government by giving public access to government information. This initiative is
consistent with Article 2, Section 28 of the Philippine Constitution of 1987, which emphasizes
the state's commitment to disclose government transactions having public interest, subject to
appropriate legal constraints. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives people the right to
demand access to government papers, data, and information, subject to certain legal
exclusions. This covers information about public-interest government transactions, policies,
initiatives, and projects. This portal offers a consolidated platform for gaining access to
government information and papers.

Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1171276