The Philippine Organic Act of 1902, also known as the Cooper Act, established a bicameral legislature with the

Philippine
Commission and Assembly. The Governor-General held executive powers. However, it did not provide full autonomy and
self-government. The Jones Act of 1916 replaced the Cooper Act and established a fully elected Philippine Legislature. It
reduced the Governor-General's powers, making the legislature more independent. The law also promised eventual
independence for the Philippines, contingent on a stable government. This law expanded Filipino participation in the
government by introducing a fully elected legislature, reducing executive control, and promising eventual independence.
Early in the 20th century, the Cooper and Jones Laws—important pieces of legislation—facilitated Filipino self-
government and boosted involvement in politics. A bicameral legislature was established under the Cooper Law, and the
Governor-General was given administrative authority. It did not, however, provide total independence or self-
government. The Cooper Law was replaced by the Jones Law, which went into effect in 1916 and brought in a fully
elected legislature. Greater Filipino representation and involvement in politics were made possible by this move. Less
authority was granted to the Governor-General, giving the legislature more freedom. A stable government would grant
the Philippines independence eventually, according to the Jones Law. In conclusion, the Jones Law represented an
important step toward the Philippines' independence and autonomy.