MODULE 7
Chapter 23: Post-War Problems and the Republic
-Agoncillo textbook, Ch. 23 "Post-War
Problems"
-Watch the documentary, "Postwar
Rehabilitation of the Philippines 1946" on
YouTube (accessible through the class YouTube)
• America granted independence to the
Philippines on July 4, 1946.
• Free at last
o A blessing as the Filipinos were finally
independent after more than four (4)
centuries of enslavement to foreign rule
o But at the same time, a curse as the
Filipinos were truly not yet ready,
having just emerged from the Second
World War with a lot of problems
• The Philippines had to immediately face the
following socio-economic-political issues:
o A devastated economy
o National infrastructure in ruins
(buildings, roads, houses destroyed)
o A people, traumatized from the war
o The collaboration of certain Filipinos
with the Japanese
o The demands of the Americans for
parity rights (to be given the same
rights as the Filipinos, but without the
responsibilities and burdens of
citizenship)
• Philippine Civil Affairs Unit (PCAU)
o A government agency created primarily
to provide speedy relief for Filipinos in
the immediate aftermath of WWII
• Reorganization of the Government
o Principles of the Osmeña government
o
▪ Restoration of the Commonwealth
Government
▪ Freedom and democracy
▪ Officials as servants of the people
▪ Basic individual rights
▪ Philippine-American collaboration
▪ Membership in the United Nations
▪ Rehabilitation of the Philippine National Bank
▪ Creating the People’s Court and the Office of
Special Prosecutor to deal with “collaborators”
▪ The Bell Trade Act
▪ 8-year free trade
▪ Gradual removal of preferential trade
relations and tariff exemptions without
reciprocity
• Nacionalista Party split into two
o The Osmeña/Roxas factions
o The Nacionalista Party
▪ A conservative, nationalist party
▪ Founded in 1907 by Makario Sakay, Jose
Palma, Lope K. Santos
▪ The oldest party in the Philippines and in
Southeast Asia
▪ Historically prominent members included
Quezon, Osmeña, Magsaysay and Garcia
and Marcos
▪ Current prominent members include
Manuel Villar, Alan Peter Cayetano,
Bongbong Marcos, Antonio Trillanes
• The Liberal Party is born
▪ Founded in 1946
▪ Manuel A. Roxas becomes the first
President of the Third Philippine Republic
▪ Historically prominent members include
Roxas, Quirino, Macapagal
▪ Current prominent members include
Noynoy Aquino, Drilon, VP Robredo, Mar
Roxas
• 1946 elections; Osmeña loses and Roxas wins
• Principles of the Roxas Government
• Last president of the Commonwealth
• First president of the Third Republic
• Rebuilding the economy
• Industrialization of the country
• Participation of the people in the reconstruction
• Full cooperation with the United States
• Restoration of the rule of law
• Policy on collaboration
o Punishment and amnesty
▪ The exemptions
• Claro M. Recto refuses amnesty, stands
his ground as a patriot
• Guerilla amnesty
• Post-war financial aid with strings attached
• 99 year lease for US military bases
• Parity
• Treaty of General Relations
• First treaty for the Philippine Republic
• Relinquished U.S. sovereignty over the
Philippines and recognized the
independence of the Republic of the
Philippines
• The Huks get elected, then expelled
• The 1947 Plebiscite on parity rights for
the Americans
▪ Osmeña, Roxas supported it
▪ Recto, Laurel and the Huks
opposed it
• Manuel Roxas dies April 15, 1946
o Elpidio Quirino succeeds as President
• Principles of the Quirino Government
• Efficient government
• Increased production
• Honest enforcement of tax laws
• Preservation of national integrity
• Contended with strengthened Huk emergence
and communist resurgence
• declared Quezon City as capital
• Ran for the 3rd time but lost to his Defense
Secretary
Additional lecture:
1.Why was the granting of Philippine
independence at this time both a blessing and
a curse?
-Granting Philippine independence was
a blessing as it ended colonial rule but a
curse due to the country's
unpreparedness for self-governance.
2.What were some of the immediate problems
faced by the newly-independent country?
-Immediate problems for the newly
independent country included
economic instability, war-damaged
infrastructure, and political struggles in
forming a functional government.
3.In the documentary, what was the over-all
attitude of the Filipinos after WWII?
-In the documentary, Filipinos were
hopeful for independence but faced
hardships in the aftermath of WWII.
4.What factors led to the split between the
Nacionalista and Liberal parties?
-The split between Nacionalista and
Liberal parties was driven by differing
ideologies, power struggles among
leaders, and personal ambitions.
5.What were the highlights of the Osmeña,
Roxas and Quirino governments?
Highlights of the governments:
• Osmeña focused on post-WWII
rebuilding efforts.
• Roxas prioritized economic recovery
and policies favoring landlords.
• Quirino tackled economic challenges
and social issues but faced corruption in
his administration.
6.How were Filipino Japanese collaborators
eventually treated?
-Filipino Japanese collaborators faced
varied treatments, including
imprisonment, amnesty, and
prosecution based on their level of
involvement in wartime activities. Over
time, some were pardoned or
reintegrated into society.

Chapter 24: The HukBaLaHap Movement
-Watch the documentary "Communist Huk
Rebellion in the Philippines - COLD WAR
DOCUMENTARY"
• Hukbo ng Bayan Laban sa mga Hapon
• Rooted in the encomienda system
• Palliative reforms lead to discontent
o The Huk gave voice to such discontent
• The life of the Filipino peasant
o A life of penury and degradation
▪ Depicted in Rizal’s Indolence of
the Filipinos
▪ Peasants bore the burden while
the elites reaped the rewards
▪ Penury/usury (takipan,
talinduwa, takalanan)
• Socialism and Communism
o Literature that began it all
▪ Banaag at Sikat by Lope K.
Santos
• The difference between Socialism and
Communism
• Socialism: Pedro Abad Santos
▪ More achievable;
state/government still exists;
advocates a classless society
• Communism: Crisanto Evangelista
▪ Less realistic; utopian;
advocates overthrow of the
government; proposes a
stateless society
• Socialist-communist merged
• The Huks
o Anti-Japanese above all
o Worked for a free and democratic
Philippines
o Three-point agenda
▪ Military
▪ Economic
▪ Political
• Experience with the Americans
▪ Roxas and the Huk
• A murder implicates the Huk
• Fall of the Huk politburo
▪ Magsaysay as Defense
Secretary, then as President
▪ Ninoy Aquino as negotiator for
Luis Taruc’s surrender
1.How is the Hukbalahap movement rooted in the
Spanish era of our country?
-The Hukbalahap movement traces its roots to
agrarian struggles and resistance against
Spanish land exploitation during the colonial
era.
2.What problems did the movement represent?
-The movement represented agrarian issues,
social injustice, and the fight against oppressive
landowners, seeking land reform and better
working conditions for peasants.
3.Which ideologies or beliefs influenced the Huks?
- The Huks were influenced by communist
ideologies, socialist principles, and a desire for
equitable distribution of land and resources.
4.At what point did the Huks fight on the side of and
against the Philippine Government?
-Initially, the Huks fought alongside the
Philippine government against the Japanese
during World War II. Later, they turned against
the government due to unfulfilled promises of
land reform and perceived betrayal.
5.What events led to the downfall of the Huk?
-Several factors contributed to the downfall of
the Huk movement, including government
crackdowns, loss of popular support, internal
divisions, and the shift in Cold War dynamics,
leading to decreased external support for
communist movements.
Chapter 25 Recognition of the Tao
-Watch "Ramon Magsaysay" by Historiador Filipino on
YouTube
• The Tao: the backbone of Magsaysay’s
government
o His campaign strategy: barrio-to-barrio
• Magsaysay’s strategy in solving rural problem:
1. Improvement of land tenure system
 2. Easy-term credit for peasants and farmers
3. Intensive community development
• Agricultural Reform
• Magsaysay’s way of ensuring accountability
o Free telegram so citizens may complain
about corrupt officials
• Getting Japan to pay
• The Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO)
• Reasons behind the failure of the tao
1. The Malacañang issue: sign of the
immaturity of the tao
2. Magsaysay’s government was over-
extended
3. Lack of funding for grandiose projects
• Magsaysay dies; Garcia succeeds as president
• 1957 elections
o Noisiest and most expensive
o Cohabitation between Garcia and
Macapagal
• Principles of the Garcia government
1. Philippine economic independence through
Filipino First policy
2. outlawed the Communist Party of the
Philippines
3. Dealing with foreign powers as a sovereign
equal
4. Balanced economy through equal impetus for
agriculture and industry
5. Social justice and general welfare of the people
6. Eradication of graft and corruption
7. Austerity measures
How was Magsaysay different from traditional Filipino
politicians?
Magsaysay stood out for his genuine connection with
the common people, his hands-on approach to
problem-solving, and his commitment to transparency
and accountability, which differed from the typical elite-
centric and corrupt practices of traditional politicians.
Why did his "Tao" campaign platform considered a
failure?
His "Tao" campaign, focusing on uplifting the common
people, was criticized for lacking concrete policy
frameworks and sustainable programs. It struggled to
bring about significant long-term changes in addressing
poverty and socio-economic disparities.
What were the achievements and failures of
Magsaysay's and Garcia's administrations?
Magsaysay's administration saw successes in fighting
corruption, improving government services, and gaining
public trust. However, failures included insufficient
progress in addressing poverty and agrarian reform.
Garcia's administration had successes in economic
growth and infrastructure development but faced
challenges in addressing social inequalities and failed to
fully resolve land reform issues.
Chapter 26 Continuing Crisis
• Magsaysay died March 16, 1957
• Garcia succeeded him immediately as
president, serving Magsaysay’s remaining 8
months, then running for his own term on 1957
o November 1953-March 1957 : Vice
President
o March 1957 - November 1957 :
President (succeeded Magsaysay)
o November 1957-November 1961:
President (won his own full term)
• Macapagal becomes President, 1961-1965
o Defeated Garcia’s run for a 2nd term
o The “poor boy from Lubao”
o Underlines socio-economic agenda
o The so-called “midnight” appointments
o The “Stonehill scandal”
▪ Harry S. Stonehill and his
suspiciously speedy deportation
• Independence Day moved to June
 • The Land Reform Code
• Election of 1965
o Marcos vs Macapagal
o The beginnings of religious
infringement
▪ INC endorses Marcos
• Marcos becomes President (1965-1986, 21
years)
o The Vietnam Aid Law and Marcos’s
change of heart
▪ Reasons NOT to join the
Vietnam War
• Rampant criminality and the Citizen’s
Legal Assistance Committee
The Culatingan and Lapiang Malaya massacres
▪ Culatingan, Concepcion, Tarlac
▪ June 13, 1966
▪ At least 5 farmers were killed by members
of the Philippine Constabulary in
Culatingan, Concepcion, Tarlac
▪ Authorities, however, said that the victims
were part of the Hukbalahap and engaged
in battle with them. The town vice mayor
belied this, claiming that they were
“peaceful farmers.”
• Lapiang Malaya
• On May 21, 1967, the group plotted to
overthrow the government of president
Ferdinand Marcos. Armed with bolos
and wearing amulets, the group
composed of about 380 individuals
wearing blue uniforms with red and
yellow capes, marched to Malacañang
Palace. They were stopped by the
Philippine Constabulary, armed with M-
16s, in Taft Avenue, Pasay. The group
charged the ranks of the police and
were shot at, leaving at least 33 dead
and 47 wounded
• The Manila Summit
• The main agenda: the Vietnam War and the
march of communism
• The criticism
• The anti-Summit demonstrations
• Awakening of the political consciousness in the
Filipino youth
• The witch-hunt
Why did Macapagal decide to change the Philippine
Independence Day date?
Macapagal changed the date from July 4 to June 12 to
honor the true date when the Philippines declared
independence from colonial rule in 1898.
How did religion begin to flex its muscle at this time?
Religion gained influence through its involvement in
political affairs, exerting pressure on policymaking and
social issues, often leveraging its moral authority.
How was the first term of President Ferdinand Marcos
before his Martial Law years?
In his first term, Marcos focused on infrastructure
development and economic reforms, but corruption
was already a concern, and there were signs of
authoritarian tendencies.
What were the various civil and political unrest during
Marcos's early presidency?
There were student protests, labor strikes, and clashes
with leftist groups critical of Marcos's policies. These
tensions highlighted social and political discontent.
How did the Philippine Government respond to the
Vietnam War at this time?
The Philippine government supported the United States
by sending a non-combatant medical and engineering
team to assist South Vietnam. This support aligned with
the Philippines' commitment to its alliance with the US
during the Cold War.
PROFILE OF THE ECONOMY
Agoncillo textbook, Ch. 28 "External Economy"
Agoncillo textbook, Ch. 27 "Profile of the Economy"
What kind of economic relationships did the
Philippines have with other countries, especially
neighboring countries in Asia?
The Philippines had trade and diplomatic relations with
neighboring Asian countries, engaging in trade
agreements and economic partnerships.
Which Philippine products became a significant earner
for the country?
Exports like electronics, garments, agricultural products
(like coconut and sugar), and services such as
outsourcing became major earners for the Philippines.
How did our external economy impact our national
situation? Did it elevate people out of poverty? Or
further sink them deeper?
While external economic ties contributed to growth, the
benefits weren't evenly distributed. Some segments
saw improvement, but poverty remained widespread
due to unequal distribution of wealth and
opportunities.
What major events took place during this era?
Several significant events occurred, including economic
reforms, political shifts, social movements, natural
disasters, and changes in international relations
impacting the country's development and stability.
THE CULTURAL AND SOCIAL SCENE
Agoncillo textbook, Ch. 29 "The Cultural and Social
Scene"
How did Philippine society change during this time?
Philippine society experienced urbanization, shifts in
cultural norms, and increased exposure to global
influences due to advancements in technology and
communication.
What became of the gap between the rich and the
poor?
The wealth gap widened as economic growth didn't
uniformly benefit all segments of society. There was a
persistence of poverty alongside the accumulation of
wealth among the affluent.
What kind of culture, arts, literature flourished at this
time?
There was a flourishing of Philippine contemporary art,
literature, and music that showcased a blend of
traditional influences with modern themes. Philippine
cinema also gained recognition internationally during
this period.
Which countries or other societies influenced these
changes?
The Philippines was influenced by Western cultures,
notably the United States, but also drew inspiration
from neighboring Asian countries. Globalization and
increased connectivity allowed for diverse cultural
exchanges that impacted artistic expressions and
societal norms.
MOD 8: Martial Law
TOPIC 1: Declaration of Martial Law
-Agoncillo textbook Ch. 30 "Under Martial Law"
-The Conjugal Dictatorship by Primitivo Mijares
Watch the "Batas Militar" documentary on YouTube, -
also accessible on the Class YouTube.
“Martial law–also called martial rule–is a type of
jurisdiction in which military authority temporarily
replaces civil authority. It authorizes the military to
exercise the responsibilities of branches who are unable
to function, such as the legislature, executive branch, or
the courts. This is usually in response to war, natural
disaster, or civil unrest, and is limited to such times of
emergency; as such, at the conclusion of the instigating
circumstance, martial law must end and the civil
authority resumed.”
However, “A state of Martial Law does not suspend the
operation of the Constitution, nor supplant the
functioning of the civil courts or legislative assemblies,
nor authorize the conferment of jurisdiction on military
courts and agencies over civilians where civil courts are
also able to function, nor automatically suspend the
privilege of the writ of habeas corpus.” (1987 Philippine
Constitution )
Habeas corpus (Latin, you have the body) is “A writ
(court order) that commands an individual or a
government official who has restrained another to
produce the prisoner at a designated time and place so
that the court can determine the legality of custody and
decide whether to order the prisoner's release..” it is
protection against illegal confinement, such as holding a
person without charges.”
The state of the Nation pre-1972
-The 1970 Battle of Mendiola between student
demonstrators and government forces served as
prelude to the First Quarter Storm (FQS)
-The 1972 creation of the Moro National Liberation
Front (MNLF) marked the Muslim Filipinos’ fight for
independence but added to the uncertainty of the
current situation
-Terror bombing incidents created a frenzied call for
order
-Joe’s Department Store on Carriedo Street,
Manila
-The Manila Water Works and Sewerage
Authority (NAWASA)
-Manila City Hall
PD 1081
-Pres. Ferdinand Marcos signed Presidential Decree (PD)
1081, placing the entire country under Martial Law
He cited the danger of rebellion, the rise of lawlessness
as the justification
-The Writ of Habeas Corpus was thus suspended,
enabling his military to detain without warrant, any
person suspected of carrying out crimes of rebellion
and/or insurrection
This then led to massive abuses and rampant violation
of the basic human rights of the Filipinos
The New Society
-The suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus
-The arrest of anti-Marcos individuals
-Strict media censorship
-Rallies, demonstrations, public meetings and labor
strikes are prohibited
-Curfew
-Travel ban
-The surrender of firearms and other explosives
The 1973 Constitution
The new 1973 Constitution replaced the then 1935
Constitution, although the method of approval and
ratification was not without controversy
The new 1973 Constitution featured the following:
Official abolition of the legislative body
-The exercise by President Marcos of the powers of
President and Prime Minister
-The change of government from presidential to
parliamentary and
-The exercise by the President of the power to call the
interim Assembly
On economic development
-National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)
Still functioning today
-Completed in 1986 but never fueled due to the ouster
of Pres. Marcos and the fear of nuclear disaster
following the 1986 Cherobyl incident
-Infrastructure projects (water ports, airports, bridges,
dams, irrigation, communication facilities and school
buildings)
-San Juanico Bridge, Philippine Heart Center,
Lung Center, Folk Arts Theatre (Tanghalang
Francisco Balagtas today) and the Cultural
Center of the Philippines
All still operational today
Foreign relations
-Created a foreign policy independent of American
influence (in theory)
-Established the ASEAN in 1967, together with four (4)
other countries in the region (Thailand, Indonesia,
Malaysia and Singapore)
-Opened diplomatic relations with China and Russia
Currently two countries enjoying close relations with
the current administration
Human rights violations
-8000 cases of salvaging (summary executions) and
kidnapping
-50000 individuals arrested on mere suspicion of
subversion
-Writ of habeas corpus still suspended
Desaparecidos (the disappeared)

-Bolster and develop the Philippine geothermal plant in

Tiwi, Albay, Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw in Laguna
Still operational today

-Discovery of oil in the west coast of Palawan (Nido-

Cadiao Malintoc oilfields)
This oilfield only ceased operations in 2019, after 40
years of operation

-Construction of the first nuclear plant in the Philippines Plundered Wealth of the Nation
(Morong, Bataan)
 developing a society that values transparency, human
rights, and citizen voices.

TOPIC 2: Human Rights Abuses

McCoy, A. (2001). Dark Legacy: Human Rights Under
the Marcos Regime. You may click here
download. And you may also visit this website to see
the enumerated implications of Mr. McCoy's paper.

Carroll S.J., J. (1999). The Philippines: Forgiving or

Forgetting? Public Policy, April-June 1999. Click here
The documentary "BATAS MILITAR: MARTIAL LAW in
to download.
the Philippines" introduced me to President Ferdinand
Marcos' martial law, a crucial and devastating chapter in
How extensive were the human rights violations
Philippine history. For me, as a teenager, it was a
during the Marcos regime?
graphic depiction of an era marked by oppression of
The Marcos regime was marked by widespread human
rights and liberties, reckless abuses of human rights,
rights abuses, including torture, enforced
and the dismantling of democratic institutions.
disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and suppression
I felt a range of emotions right after the end of the
of freedom of speech and assembly.
documentary. People were shocked and in disbelief at
how much suffering ordinary people endured. Seeing
Were these violations ever confronted?
how oppression and terror molded the lives of so many
There have been efforts to address these violations
people during that time was heartbreaking. I wondered
through legal mechanisms, truth commissions, and
whether any of the individuals in the documentary were
activism, although confronting all aspects of the abuses
still alive today. People who experienced martial law
has been a complex and ongoing process.
may still have stories to share that should be heard
because they keep impacting how we perceive that
Were the perpetrators, collaborators, and complicit
violent period of history. The first-hand accounts from
witnesses ever called out and punished?
people who experienced martial law scared and
Some perpetrators faced legal repercussions, but many
shocked me the most. It was shocking to learn about
weren't held accountable. Collaborators and witnesses
the censorship, the suppression of dissenting voices,
varied in their accountability, with some facing
and the disappearances. I didn't realize how intensely
consequences, while others escaped punishment.
the government was trying to hinder criticism and
strengthen its grasp on power.
How did such a culture of impunity encompass the
After watching this documentary, my understanding
country, both during and after the Marcos regime?
of modern history has been changed. I had heard of
During Marcos's rule, the culture of impunity was
martial law before, but it seemed far away and unreal.
bolstered by a weakened judiciary and the
These days, I see it as a sharp reminder of democracy's
consolidation of power. Afterward, political dynamics
vulnerability and the need to protect it. The
and a slow justice system allowed some perpetrators to
documentary's displays of power abuses made it clear
evade accountability.
how important it is to watch out for authoritarian
tendencies constantly. Knowing about this dark chapter
How do we, as a nation, move forward from this
in our history has made me aware of the generational
darkest of times in our history?
effects of historical events.
Moving forward involves acknowledging the past,
The aftermath of martial law continues to impact
seeking justice for victims, promoting transparency,
our political climate and social structures. My
strengthening institutions, and fostering a culture that
appreciation for our hard-earned freedoms and the
upholds human rights and accountability.
significance of actively defending democracy and justice
have increased. This documentary acted as a wake-up
What lessons can be learned from our experience
call for me as a teenager—a call to reflect on the past,
during the Marcos regime, especially by other
stand up for truth and reliability, and work toward a
countries experiencing similar oppression and abuses?
future where democratic values are respected and
preserved. It created a duty to actively contribute to
The Marcos regime teaches the importance of robust
institutions, respect for human rights, vigilant civil
society, and the need for mechanisms that hold leaders
accountable. It's a reminder that unchecked power can
lead to grave abuses and that democracy requires
constant safeguarding.
TOPIC 3: Marcos' Economic Plunder
Parlade, C. O. (2001). "The Plunder of the Economy
and the Marcos Ill-gotten Wealth". Click here to
download.
What socio-political events led the way to the
radicalization during the Martial Law years, especially
among young Filipinos?
Rising dissatisfaction with social injustices, authoritarian
rule, and a desire for systemic change led to
radicalization. Issues like poverty, student activism, and
government repression fueled discontent.
What was the situation that justified Martial Law for
then President Marcos?
Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972 citing threats to
national security, insurgency, and social unrest as
justifications. However, many viewed it as a means to
consolidate power and suppress dissent.
How would you describe the situation that then
developed during Martial Law?
Martial Law led to curtailed civil liberties, mass arrests,
human rights abuses, censorship, and authoritarian
rule. The government's control over media and
institutions tightened, dissent was suppressed, and a
culture of fear prevailed.
What is the most current development on this matter?
Efforts continue to seek justice and hold those
accountable for abuses during Martial Law. Discussions
and legal processes aim to address the wrongdoings of
that era.
Where is the Marcos family today?
Members of the Marcos family are involved in
Philippine politics, holding various government
positions. They remain influential in certain circles
despite controversies surrounding their legacy.
What lesson should we Filipinos today have learned
from the experiences of Filipinos during Martial Law?
The Martial Law period underscores the importance of
defending democracy, upholding human rights, and
ensuring checks and balances in governance. It serves as
a reminder to remain vigilant against abuses of power
and to actively safeguard freedoms and democratic
principles.
MODULE 9: EDSA PEOPLE POWER AND BEYOND
TOPIC 1: EDSA People Power
"People Power: The Filipino Experience" by Batas
Militar.
"Lakas Sambayanan" by the Foundation for Worldwide
People Power
"The Final Hours: EDSA People Power Revolution |
Need to Know" by GMA News.
Why did the 1986 EDSA Revolution happen?
The 1986 EDSA Revolution was a response to
widespread discontent with the Marcos regime's
corruption, human rights abuses, and the fraudulent
presidential election of 1986.
Who were the people involved?
Various sectors of society participated, including
civilians, religious groups, the military, and political
figures. Key figures included Corazon Aquino, Cardinal
Sin, and military officials who withdrew support from
Marcos.
What were the most significant issues and problems
that were expressed during the revolution?
The primary issues revolved around restoring
democracy, ending dictatorship, addressing human
rights abuses, and seeking fair and legitimate
governance.
How did the different sectors in Philippine society
respond to this challenge?
Society united against the dictatorship, staging peaceful
protests and boycotting the government to demand
change. The military's withdrawal of support for Marcos
played a pivotal role.
How did the revolution end? What ended it?
The revolution culminated in the peaceful ousting of
Marcos from power. The climax was when Marcos fled
Malacañang Palace, and Corazon Aquino was sworn in
as the new president, marking the end of the
revolution.
TOPIC 2: POST MARTIAL LAW
Cory, 1986-1992:
• Achievements/strengths
o Restored democracy, presidential form of
government
 o Policy of reconciliation and freed political
prisoner, ie Bernabe Buscayno of the NPA
and Joma Sison of the CPP
o Presidential Commission on Good
Government (Atty. John A. Agbayani)
o Convened the Constitutional Commission to
amend the 1935 Constitution and ratify the
1987 Constitution
o Local Government Code of 1991
o Establishment of the ARMM
o Co-created the Asia Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) in 1989
• Weaknesses/failures
o Six (6) coup d’etat attempts
▪ The most serious on Dec. 9, 1989,
by RAM under Honasan
▪ Cory asked the US for help putting it
down
o Typhoon Ruping in 1990, Dinagat Islands,
748 people died
o Earthquake in 1990, Luzon, Baguio, 1,597
people died
o Eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, Zambales,
722 people died
o Persian Gulf War in 1990, Middle East, led
to rising oil prices
Ramos, 1992-1998:
• Achievements/strengths
o US bases left
o Restoration of the death penalty
o Repealed the Anti-Subversion Law
o Strengthened Philippine claim on Spratlys
from China
o Enacted RA 8042, or the Magna Carta for
Overseas Workers (Migrant Workers Act)
o Southern Philippines Council for Peace and
Development (later abolished by Arroyo)
o Expanded Cory’s ARMM initiative
o Signed a peace agreement with the MNLF
• Weaknesses/failures
o US bases left
o Restoration of the death penalty
o Charter change
o Clark Centennial Expo Scandal
o Asian Financial Crisis of 1998
Estrada, 1998-2000:
• Achievements/strengths
o Philippines Anti-organized crime task force
(PAOCTF)
o VFA treaties
o All out war against the MILF
• Weaknesses/failures
o Charter change
o Moral turpitude,
▪ Having had several extra-marital
relationships with different women
o All out war against the MILF
o Allegations of graft and corruption
o EDSA Dos
o Impeachment for plunder and perjury
▪ Resignation
Arroyo, 2001-2010:
• Achievements/strengths
o Pardoned Estrada
o Served 2 terms, the 1st as successor, the
2nd as elected president
o Abolished the death penalty in 2006
• Weaknesses/failures
o Charter change
o Ran against FPJ, allegedly cheated, “Hello
Garci” tape scandal
o Allegations of Extrajudicial killings
o Oakwood Mutiny by Trillanes
o EDSA Tres
o Attempts to have her impeachment failed
twice
o Was charged with plunder, detained for 5
years in hospital (for allegedly misusing
P366m, but eventually acquitted)
Noynoy, 2010-2016:
• Achievements/strengths
o No “wang wang” policy
o Anti Illegal Logging Task Force
o National Greening Program, extended up to
2028
o K12
o Went against the Catholic Church for
supporting the RH bill, which would then
become law
▪ “Responsible Parenthood and
Reproductive Health Act of 2012”
o 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program),
cash transfer program to poor Filipinos in
return for commitment to education and
health care
• Weaknesses/failures
o The PDAF scandal (Priority Development
Assistance Fund); several members of
Congress were accused of misusing this so-
called pork barrel fund for their own uses,
 along with Janet Lim Napoles, ie Bong
Revilla, Juan Ponce Enrile, JInggoy Estrada
▪ Napoles was convicted of plunder
and currently serves a 12-18 year
sentence; 2023-sentenced to
additional 100 years
▪ Revilla was jailed at the PNP
detention facilities for 4 years
before being acquitted 2021 but
ordered to return P124m to the
national treasury, which he refuses
to do.
▪ Enrile remains charged, out on
bail…delay after delay has resulted
to an absence of a trial, 7 years
after he was charged with plunder;
2023-sandiganbayan allows Enrile
to file for dismissal
▪ Estrada was jailed for 3 years at the
PNP detention facilities but granted
bail; his case remains active and
trial is set to resume in August
2022…2023, case is ongoing,
estrada on bail
o Typhoon Haiyan in 2012, in Eastern Samar,
esp Tacloban, 6,300 people died
o Mamasapano clash in 2015, in
Maguindanao, a failed operation that
resulted in the deaths of 44 PNP-SAF
(Special Action Force)
▪ The SAF commandos were tasked
to capture two top bomb makers –
Zulkifli bin Hir (alias “Marwan”) and
Abdul Basit Usman – in a police
operation dubbed Oplan Exodus.
But the operation turned into an
hours-long firefight, resulting in the
deaths of 44 SAF troopers, 18
members of the Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF), and 3
civilians.
▪ Duterte and his government
promised to investigate and thus,
reports were submitted by joint
investigative forces of DOJ, the
Senate, the NBI, which said
that “undeniable breakdown of
both leadership and command and
control in the PNP,” and the former
Pres. Noynoy bypassed the chain of
command by allowing Purisima to
take part in the operation.
▪ Aquino was absolved in the end but
the victim’s families still cry for
justice
▪ Laglag bala controversy
▪ Dengvaxia (Sanofi)
Duterte, 2016-2022:
• Achievements/strengths
o Signed a law raising the age of sexual
consent from 12 to 16
o Campaign against illegal drugs
▪ Tokhang
o Decrease in crime
o Rice tariffication law which broke up rice
monopolies
o The TRAIN law which exempted low-income
earners from high taxes
o The Universal Health Care Act
o Went after abusive utility providers, ie
Maynilad, Meralco
o Broke up oligarchies, ie ABS-CBN
• Weaknesses/failures
o Worst recession in history
o Covid19 pandemic
▪ Alleged pandemic mismanagement
▪ Pharmally
o Alleged human rights violations
o Sought to restore the death penalty
o Russian invasion of Ukraine
How was the country in the immediate aftermath of
Martial Law and in the wake of the EDSA revolt?
After Martial Law, the country faced economic
challenges, social unrest, and a need for political
stability. Post-EDSA, there was hope for democracy, but
also challenges in rebuilding institutions and healing
divisions.
What were the immediate reactions of the youth
then?
The youth were active participants in protests,
advocating for democratic reforms, and played a crucial
role in shaping the post-Marcos era. There was a surge
of optimism among them for a more open and fair
society.
Who were the important personalities at this time and
what plans were they proposing to reform the
Republic?
Key figures included Corazon Aquino, who advocated
for restoring democracy and instituting reforms,
focusing on restoring civil liberties and economic
stability. Others proposed various reforms, including
agrarian reform, peace-building initiatives, and anti-
corruption measures. Leaders across political, religious,
and civil society spheres contributed to shaping the
country's direction after the EDSA Revolution.