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Name: Charrys Pearl S.

Millondaga Course: BEED


Subject: COED-101 Date: September 18, 2023

THE PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT IN TRANSITION

The transition of the Philippine government from pre-Spanish times to the present
day has been marked by a complex and multifaceted history. Prior to Spanish
colonization in the 16th century, the Philippines was composed of various indigenous
communities, each with its own system of governance. These societies were organized
into chiefdoms or sultanates, and decisions were often made through tribal councils or
the leadership of local nobility.

Spanish colonization, which began with the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521,
brought about a significant shift in the Philippine government. The Spanish established
a centralized colonial administration, introducing a system of governance that was
heavily influenced by Spanish law and Catholicism. The islands were ruled from Manila,
and local elites were co-opted into the colonial hierarchy.

The next major transition occurred in the late 19th century when the Philippines
was ceded to the United States following the Spanish-American War. Under American
colonial rule, efforts to modernize governance and introduce democratic principles
began. The Philippines became a Commonwealth in 1935, with a constitution and a
more autonomous government.

World War II disrupted this progress, but after the war, the Philippines gained
independence from the United States in 1946. This marked the establishment of the
Third Republic and the adoption of a democratic system of government. However, this
period was marred by political instability and corruption.

The government transitioned again during the martial law years under President
Ferdinand Marcos, which began in 1972. This period saw the concentration of power in
the executive branch and widespread human rights abuses. It ended in 1986 with the
People Power Revolution, leading to a shift towards a more democratic system and the
drafting of a new constitution in 1987.

Today, the Philippines operates as a democratic republic with a presidential


system of government. It has faced ongoing challenges such as political dynasties,
corruption, and issues of governance, but it continues to evolve and adapt to the
changing needs and aspirations of its people, reflecting the complex journey from its
pre-Spanish roots to its current governmental framework.

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