Republic of the Philippines

Commission on Higher Education

Libon Community College
Libon, Albay

Readings in Philippine History BSED-SCIENCE 1

1899: Malolos Constitution

The year 1899 marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history, as the nation was on the cusp of
achieving independence after centuries of colonial rule. This period saw the birth of the Malolos
Constitution, a document that encapsulated the aspirations of the Filipino people for self-determination
and governance. In this essay, we will delve into the intricacies of the Malolos Constitution, examining
its historical context, drafting process, key provisions, and ultimately, its unfortunate non-enforcement
due to the ongoing war and the transfer of sovereignty through the Treaty of Paris in 1898.

1) Historical Background

a) Aftermath of the Truce

i) The Filipino revolutionary leaders' exile in Hong Kong.
ii) Acceptance of payment from Spain.

b) American Victory in the Battle of Manila Bay

i) The return of Aguinaldo to the Philippines with the United States Navy's assistance.
ii) The Philippine Declaration of Independence on June 12, 1898.

c) Formation of the Malolos Congress

i) Election of the Malolos Congress.
ii) The selection of a commission to draft the constitution in September 1898.

d) Influences on the Constitution

i) The Spanish Constitution of 1812.
ii) Charters of other nations like Belgium, Mexico, Brazil, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and
Guatemala.
iii) The French Constitution of 1793.

e) Preamble of the Political Constitution of 1899

i) The significance of the preamble in asserting sovereignty.
ii) Implications of seeking divine aid in the attainment of national goals.

2) The Malolos Constitution

a) Title I: Sovereignty
i) Exploring the concept of retroversion of sovereignty to the people.
ii) Delegation of governmental functions while retaining actual sovereignty.

b) Title II: Form of Government

i) Characteristics of a popular, representative, alternative, and responsible government.
ii) The clear separation of powers - legislative, executive, and judicial.

c) Title III: Declaration of Rights and Guarantees

i) Detailed examination of natural rights and popular sovereignty.
ii) Emphasis on freedom, equality of beliefs, and the separation of Church and State.

d) Title IV: Legislative Power

i) The structure and functions of the unicameral body - the Assembly of Representatives.
ii) The role of secretaries in the assembly and the legislative process.
 e) Title V: Executive Power
i) The presidency as the executive branch's head.
ii) Presidential election procedures, term limits, and vacancy protocols.

f) Title VI: Permanent Commission

i) Composition, responsibilities, and powers of the Permanent Commission.

3) Non-Enforcement of the Malolos Constitution

a) Ongoing War
i) The impact of the Philippine-American War on the constitution's implementation.
ii) Challenges faced by the First Philippine Republic during this period.

b) Treaty of Paris (1898) and Transfer of Sovereignty

i) How the signing of the Treaty of Paris in December 1898 affected Philippine sovereignty.
ii) The Philippines effectively becoming a territory of the United States.

4) Conclusion

a) Significance of the Malolos Constitution

i) Reflecting on the importance of the constitution in Philippine history.
ii) Its role in laying the foundation for future governance.

b) Legacy and Relevance

i) Examining the lasting impact of the Malolos Constitution on modern Filipino governance.
ii) How its principles continue to resonate in the Philippines today.

Presented By:

Aliza Joy Goronal

Noted By:

Mr. Ariane Nel Sedano PhD (CAR)