Narrative Report: The Rebirth of the Philippine Army (1898-1935)

The years spanning from 1898 to 1935 marked a pivotal period in Philippine history,
characterized by profound political and military transformations. At the heart of these
developments was the emergence of the Philippine Army, not just as a military force but as a
potent symbol of the nation's resilience and its unwavering pursuit of independence.

The seeds of change were sown with the end of the Spanish-American War and the signing of
the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898. While the treaty granted independence to Cuba, it
signaled a transition for the Philippines from Spanish to American colonial rule, leading to the
Filipino-American War.

In 1898, the United States acquired the Philippines after defeating Spain, triggering
expectations of independence among Filipinos, led by Emilio Aguinaldo. Denied their
aspirations, conflict erupted in Manila in February 1899, marking the onset of the Philippine-
American War.

Facing initial defeats, Filipino forces turned to guerrilla tactics against better-equipped
Americans. The conflict saw the U.S. employing superior firepower, leading to a gradual gain of
control. The Balangiga Massacre in 1901 and the subsequent capture of Aguinaldo in 1902
marked the end of active resistance, although sporadic clashes persisted.

Following Aguinaldo's capture, Miguel Malvar assumed leadership and embraced guerrilla
warfare tactics, employing fast, small-scale operations against the superior American military.
Despite successful guerrilla operations, prominent leaders like Simeon O’la, Macario Sakay, and
Moro bands faced capture, ultimately considered as mere bandits.

*Hare-Hawes Cutting Act (1933) and Tydings-McD

uffie Act (1934):* The Hare-Hawes-Cutting Act of 1933 set a specific date for Philippine
independence, influenced by American farmers' concerns and Filipino leaders' desire for self-
governance. This paved the way for the Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934, establishing a 10-year
transitional period of Commonwealth government leading to full independence on July 4, 1946.

The Commonwealth Era (1935): The Commonwealth era, spanning from 1935 to 1945, served
as a crucial transitional period as the Philippines prepared for independence. During this time,
the National Defense Act of 1935 (Commonwealth Act No. 1) was enacted, providing the
framework for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and emphasizing self-reliance.

National Defense Act (1935): The National Defense Act played a pivotal role in shaping the AFP,
consolidating various military units under a unified command structure. It outlined national
defense policy, focusing on self-reliance and the development of indigenous defense
capabilities. The act facilitated the mobilization of reservists during emergencies and addressed
the training and education of military personnel.
Establishment of the Philippine Army: Formally founded on December 21, 1935, as the Army of
the Philippines, the Philippine Army had its general headquarters in Manila, with units
stationed across the provinces. The National Defense Act provided the blueprint for the original
organization of the Philippine Army.

World War II and USAFFE: As World War II unfolded, the United States Army Forces in the Far
East (USAFFE) assumed control over elements of the AFP from 1941 to 1946. Despite this
period of external control, the foundation laid by the National Defense Act remained
instrumental in shaping the modern Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The period from 1898 to 1935 witnessed a dynamic interplay of political and military events,
culminating in the establishment of the Philippine Army. From the Treaty of Paris and the
Filipino-American War to the Commonwealth era and the National Defense Act, each milestone
marked a step toward the nation's destiny of independence. The Philippine Army, born out of
these tumultuous times, stands as a testament to the nation's enduring spirit and commitment
to sovereignty.