SS1 READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

DEFINITION OF HIST0RY

-HISTORY is the study of the beliefs and desires, practices, and institutions of human beings

-The English word history is derived from the Greek noun Istoia, meaning learning.

-The study of history is more than just knowing or memorizing facts.

-It is a historian’s duty to draw insights from the ideas and realities that have shaped the lives of
men and women and the society.

-By its most common definition, the word history now means, “the past of mankind”

SOURCES OF HISTORY

Materials used by historians that are not in books. These are: archaeological, epigraphical or
numismatic, he has to depend largely on museums. Where there are official records, he may
have to search for them in archives, courthouses, government libraries etc.

There are private papers not available in official collections; he may have to hunt among the
papers of business houses, the monument rooms of ancient castles, the prized possessions of
autograph collectors, the records of parish churches, etc. Having some subject in mind, with
more or less definite determination of the persons, areas, times, and function i.e., the
economic, political, intellectual, diplomatic, or other occupational aspects) involve, he looks for
materials that may have bearing upon those persons in that areas at the time they function in
that function, These materials are his sources, The more precise his determination of persons,
area, time, and function, the more relevant his sources are likely to be.
TYPES OF SOURCES

A. Primary Sources – Are materials produced by people or groups directly involved in the
event or topic being studied. These are either participants or eyewitness to the event

Kinds of Primary Sources:

1. Human fossils

2. Artifacts ( coins, fossils, tools, furniture, clothing, all from the time under study)

3. Royal Decrees and Laws

4. Official Reports

5. Chronicles

6. Friar accounts

7. Maps

8. Memoirs

9. Personal account

10. autobiographies

11. Magazines

12. Legislative Journals

13. Court Records

14. Speeches

15. Personal Letters

16. Online Databases

17. Blogs

18. Documentary Films

19. Recorded Interviews

20. Video and audio recordings

21. Diaries

22. Newspaper articles written at the time

23. Original documents (birth certificate, will, marriage license, trial transcript ,etc.)

B.Secondary sources - the testimony of anyone who is not an eyewitness- that is one who was
not present at the event of which he tells

Example:

1. Books

2. Articles

3. Scholarly journals

4. Encyclopaedia entries

5. Newspapers account of a meeting

6. Magazines articles about a subject

7. Biographical works

8. Bibliographies

9. Commentaries and Criticism

10. Histories

11. Newspapers

12. dictionaries

INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL CRITICISM:

1. Internal criticism –means establishing the historical reliability of a document.

2. External criticism –means providing the authenticity and provenance of a source

HIGHER EXTERNAL CRITICISM:

1. Date - when was the source produced?

2. Location - where was it created

3. Author - by whom was it made?

4. Analysis - from what pre-existing material was it created?

5. Credibility - What is the value of its contents?

LOWER EXTERNAL CRITICISM:

1. Integrity - in what original form was it produced

OLDEN-JORGENSEN (1998) AND THUREN (1999) - perceives the following Essential Principles
of source Criticism:

1. Relics (e.g. finger prints) are more credible than narratives (e.g. statement or letters)

2. Documents may be forged or corrupted thus; its reliability depends on the strong
indicators of its originality

3. The closer the materials is to the event it tends to describe, the more it can give an
accurate description of it

4. Primary sources is more reliable than the secondary sources, which is more reliable than
the tertiary sources

5. If several independent sources contain the same message, the credibility of the source
is heightened

6. Sources tend to provide some kind of bias. These tendencies should be minimized or
supplemented with opposite motives

7. If the witness or source has no direct interest in crating bias, the credibility of the
message increased
 SOME REPOSITORIES OF PRIMARY SOURCES

1. National Archives of the Philippines

2. National Library of the Philippines

3. National Historical Commission of the Philippines

4. U.P. Main Library

5. ADMU Rizal Library

6. DLSU Library

7. Library of Congress

8. Archive General de India’s

9. National archives and Record Administration

10. Archive General de la Nation

11. American Historical collection

12. Lopez Memorial Museum

13. Ayala Museum

14. National museum of the Philippines

Categories of Primary sources:

1. Contemporary records

Examples of these primary sources are:

a. Instruction documents - such as appointment notification, direction from foreign office

to the ambassador

b. Stenographic and phonographic records, business and legal papers such as bills,
journals, leases. Wills and tax records
c. Autobiographies which have very little chance of error. They are non-prejudicial but
need ascertainment of its authenticity

2. Confidential Reports - primary sources not intended for general audience, less reliable
than contemporary sources e.g military and diplomatic dispatches journals, diaries, or
memoirs, and personal letters

3. Public Reports – Primary sources meant for the general audience. They are less reliable
it includes:

a. Newspaper reports and dispatches reliability depends upon the agency from which it
originated and the newspaper in which publish.

b. Memoirs and autobiographies it is written at the close of life when the author’s memory are
fading and are therefore, not very reliable

c. Official histories of the legal activities of government or business house possess incriminating
material and are less reliable

4. Government document-Statistics about the economic, census, and vital matter which have
first-hand importance and required proper evaluations.

5. Public Opinion-Expressed in editorials speeches pamphlets, letters, to the editor, but

authenticity must be corroborated by other evidence because it may not always reliable

6.Folklores and proverbs- Reveals the stories of legendary heroes and tells about the
aspirations, superstitions, and customs of the people. If utilized, historians must possessed a
thorough knowledge of the history of the period and distinguish legendary versus authentic
element
LESSON 2: TEJEROS CONVENTION

THE TEJEROS CONVENTION (CONVENED ON MARCH 25, 1897)

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

The first days of the Philippine Revolution saw the defeat of the katipunan in Manila, forcing
Bonifacio and his men to retreat to mountains of Montalban. It was different story in Cavite.
Here the Katipunan under Emilio Aguinaldo manage to subdue the Spanish forces by surprise
and take control of the province. The victory, however, was short-live as the Cavite
Katipuneros- Which consisted of two groups, the Magdiwang ( headed by Mariano Alvarez)
and Magdalo( headed by Baldomero Aguinaldo)- were soon fighting each other over territory
and logistics. Unable to resolve their differences, Aguinaldo invited the Supremo Andres
Bonifacio to mediate. However, when he arrive it infuriated the Magdalo . The two factions
finally agreed to form a revolutionary government.

Jacinto Lumbreras – signed the invitation to the meeting , presided over the assembly

- Acting president of Magdiwang forces

MEMBERS OF MAGDIWANG SEATED WITH LUMBRERAS:

1. Andres Bonifacio 11. Luciano San Miguel

2. Mariano Alvarez 12. Pablo Mojica

3. Pascual Alvarez 13.Severeno de las Alas

4. Ariston Villanueva 14. Santiago Rillo

5. Mariano Trias

6. Diego Mojica

7. Emiliano de Dios
8. Santiago Alvarez

9. Artemio Recarte

10. Santis Nocon

MEMBER OF MAGDALO PRESENT DURING THE ASSEMBLY:

1. Baldomero Aguinaldo

2. Danie Tirona

3. Cayetano Topacio

Ariston Villanueva- of the Magdiwang forces received the confidential information that Daniel
Tirona of the Magdalo faction was set to undermine the proceedings of the assembly

- Alerted Capt. Gen . Apoy (Mariano Alvarez) who had troops in readiness for any sudden
eventuality

Daniel Tirona – of the Magdalo forces questioned the election of Andres Bonifacio as
Secretary of Interior

-Recommended Jose Del Rosario to occupy the position because he was a lawyer

Severino de las Alas- Insisted to change the system of government of the Katipunan, and how
to establish it.

Andres Bonifacio- declared the result of the Katipunan as null and void because Tirona violated
the agreement to conform to the rule of majority by questioning the election of Bonifacio as
Secretary of Interior.

-supremo of the Katipunan

- reminded the group of their agreement to conform to the law of majority

-explained that the K in the middle of the sun in Katipunan flag use in the revolution
stood for Kalayan
Gen. Apoy alerted by Ariston Villanueva to alert the troop for any sudden eventuality

ANTONIO PIGAFETTA’S FIRST VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD

Antonio Pigafetta – Chronicler of Magellan’s voyage

- Went to Barcelona ,Spain in 1519 with Roman Ambassador Francisco Cheregato in an

unknown capacity

- Presumed to be Antonio Lombardo mentioned in the list of Magellan’ s servants

- One of the18 survivors of Magellan”s voyage who returned to Spain in 1522

- Pigafetta’s account was not publish due to lack of financier

- Rizal had known Pigafetta’s work until he came across the Italian text in the British
Museum

James A. Robertson- did an excellent service to Philippine scholars when he translated into
English the original Italian text in Bibliotica Ambrosiana, Milan Italy

March 16, 1521 - Magellan landed in the Philippines

Humuno (Humunhon) Island- where Magellan and his men landed and had their first
encounter with the natives

Mazua (Limasawa) - Where the allege first Catholic mass was officiated

Casi casi means brother

Rajah Colambu King of Butuan

Raljah Siaui King of Calagan

Abba god of the Natives

Zubu-The largest and the one with the most trade port

- Where the mass baptism of the native occurred including the baptism of their king and queen

-Carlo was the name given to the King of Zubu and Johanna was the name given to her queen

- Magellan give the Queen an image of the child Jesus

Mactan Island near Cebu ruled by Lapu-Lapu

Lapu-Lapu- native ruler of MACTAN who killed Magellan with his men

-The first Filipino freedom fighter

- The first Filipino to fight against foreign invader

Ferdinand Magellan - Portuguese mariner soldier who sailed under Spain

Zula - one of the chieftain of the island of Mactan who sent one his sons to present two goats
to the captain general, and to say that he would send him all that he had promise, but that
he had not been able to send it to him because Lapu Lapu the other king refused to obey the
King of Spain

March 18, 1521- Magellan’s first encounter with the native where exchange of goods
happened

March 31, 1521- The allege first Christian Mass was held in the island of Mazua (Limasawa)

April 7, 1521- Magellan’s troops entered Zubu, passing by villages

April14, 1521- Magellan and his men brought the banner ashore and mass baptism occur

April 27, 1521- Battle of Mactan happened

JUAN DE PLASENCIA - CUSTOMS OF THE TAGALOG

- Known for moving on foot visiting areas where the natives live

- made a laborious study of the native’s language

- He founded numerous towns not only in Laguna and Tayabas (Quezon Province) but also in

Bulacan and Rizal

-died in 1590 at Lilio, Laguna

Dr. Santiago de Vera- the Gov. and Captain General of the Philippines and President of the
Royal Audiencia during Plasencia’s time

Relacion de las Costumbres- Famous work of Fr. Plasencia

- was the 1st Civil Code of the Philippines

-preserve the present generation the formerly unwritten customs, traditions and beliefs of the
natives

-Give natives the opportunity and indispensable tool to protect and defend themselves in legal
cases

Among his works includes:

1. Gathering the native converts into reductions(villages) under the special care of
missionaries

2. Establishment of numerous primary schools

3. Forming of a grammar and vocabulary text of the Tagalog language

4. Credited for several ethnological studies

Barangay - smallest unit of the government ruled by a dato, compose of 30 families or more

-In its origin barangay was a family of parents and children ,relations and slaves

Datu - Govern the barangay and captains in their war

Division of people into three distinct classes :

1. Maharlica –freemen

2. Aliping namamahay –commoners

3. Aliping saguiguilid- slaves

MAHARLIKA

- They do not pay their taxes to the Datu

-Accompany the datu in war at their own expense

- Share the spoils of war with the datu

-Rowed for the datu when summoned to do so

- Help the datu to build his house

ALIPING NAMAMAHAY

-They are married and serve their master

-Accompanied him whenever he went beyond the island and rowed for him

-They live in their own houses

- They are lords of their property and lands

- Children enjoy the ranks of their father

-Could inherit and enjoy the property of their parents

- They could not be made slaves

ALIPING SAGUIGUILID

- They can be sold

-They could not be taken from their village

- They live in their masters houses

-They could not marry with out theirs master’s consent

-They own no property

CAUSES OF SLAVERY:

1. Captivity in war

2. Non- payment of debt

3. By birth

4. By marriage

5. Penalty for crime committed

Division of property

If a maharlika have children with their slaves mother and children will become free, illegitimate
children could not inherit their father’s property, but legitimate children was bound to free
their mother and give him something

Natural children- do not inherit equally with the legitimate children but only 1/3 of the part of
property

In case that there are no legitimate children or natural children, illegitimate children will inherit
the property. Child of a slave woman could not inherit the property.

Unmarried woman cannot own a property land or dowry, for the result of all their labor would
go to their parents

RELATION OF THE WORSHIP OF THE TAGALOGS, THEIR GODS AND THEIR BURIALS

Simbahan-a temple or place of worship

Pandot- a festival or worship

Sibi- a temporary shed on each side of the house with a roof to protect people from rain

Sorihile- small lamp put on post at the center of the house

Nagaanitos- Barangay or family of worship

Temple- house for worship

IDOLS

Bathala - all powerful maker of all things

Tala - the morning star

Plieades -seven little dwarfs

Mapolon -Change of season

Balatic - Greater Bear

Licha- images with different shapes

Dian masalanta- patron of lovers

Lacapati -patron of generations

Idianale -patron of cultivated lands and husbandry

Buaya or crocodile- water lizards

Catalona- male or female officiating priest in an offrering

Summer -sun time

Winter- water time

DISTINCTION AMONG THE PRIEST

1. Catalonan-a man or a woman, this office is honorable one among the naïve, position
was held by people of rank. Office was general.

2. Mangagaway or witches who deceived by pretending to heal the sick office is general

3. Manyisalat- the same as mangagaway-have power to applying such remedies to lover

that they would abandon and despise their wives and prevent them from having intercourse.
Office is general

4. Mancocolam- whose duty was to emit fire from himself at night once or often each
month that could not be extinguish except in ordure allowed by a priest and filth. Office was
general

5. Hocloban by simply saluting or raising their hands they killed whom they choose to.
Office was general

6. Silagan-tear out the liver and eat it thus causing the victims death (Catanduanes)

7. Mangtatangal-his purpose was to show himself at night to many persons without his
head or entrails (Catanduanes)

8. Aswang-Which is equivalent to sorcerer. Some claimed that Aswang fly and murdered
men and eat their flesh . This was among the Visayan

BURIAL

The deceased was buried beside his house

In case of a chief:
1. He was place a little house or porch guarded by a slave

2. They mourn him for4 days

3. Afterward laid him in a boat which serve as coffin

4. Animals in pairs (male and female) was put in the boat together with a rower

5. Slaves make sure that the animals are feed

In case of a warrior

- A living slave was tied beneath his body until the slave died.

- In the course of time. All suffered to decay

- For many days, the relatives of the dead man bewailed him

-The grief was also accompanied by eating and drinking

Maca- Paradise or Village of rest

Casanaan place of grief and affliction (place of anguish)

Satan-the demon

Tigbalang-a ghost called vivit and phantoms

Patianac women who died in child birth heard lamenting at night as a form of punishment

JACINTO’S - Kartilla ng katipunan

Emilio Jacinto

- Born Dec.15, 1875 at Trozo, Manila

- Dubbed by Bonifacio as the “the Soul and the Brains of Katipunan”

- Jose Dizon Jacinto’s uncle who sponsored his education at Colegio de San Juan de Letran and
UST

-One of the Katipunan founders

- 19 ears old when he join the Katipunan in 1894

- Elected as Fiscal in the supreme council of Katipunan, served as the Secretary of the
Katipunan

- Editor of Kalayan news paper of the Katipunan(to misled the Spaniards it was M. H. del
Pilar who was listed as the editor and place of publication was Yokohama)

- Appointed by Bonifacio as the commanding General of the Northern district of Manila

on April 15, 1897

- After the death of Bonifacio he preferred to fight from the forces of Emilio Aguinaldo

- Turned down Aguinaldo’s invitation to served his defacto government

- He wrote “ A la Patria” To My Fatherland” on October8.1897 using his penname Dimas

–ilaw

- Wrote Kartilya of the Katipunan

- Died at Mahayhay, Laguna on April16, 1899

- Decalogo ng Katipunan Code of Conduct written by Andres Bonifacio, however upon

reading Jacinto’s Kartilya, he decided to use the Kartilya believing that it was superior than the
Decalogo

- Bonifacio adopted the Kartilya as the official primer of the Katipunan

KARTILYA

- The official primer of the Katipunan

- The best known of all Katipunan text

- The only document of any length set imprint by the Katipunan before August 1896

- It became an essential part of ritual of the widely spread patriotic association

- Kartilya’s structure resembled the declaration used in Masonic lodges of Manila

ASSOCIATION OF THE SON’S OF THE PEOPLE

OBJECTIVE: To unite the hearts and mind of the Tagalog by means of inviolable oath in order
that this union may be strong enough to tear aside the thick veil that obscures thought, and to
find the true path of Reason and Enlightenment

Foremost Rule: True love of the Native land and genuine compassion for one another

As soon as anybody enters the association he shall perforce renounce disorderly habits and
shall submit to authority of the sacred commands of the Katipunan

All acts contrary to noble and clean leaving

Actions are demanded and esteemed

Teachings of the Katipunan

1. A life of the people is not dedicated to a great and sacred cause is like a tree without a
shade, or poisonous weed

2. A good deed lacks virtue if it springs from a desire for personal profit and not from
sincere desire

3. True charity resides in acts of compassion, in love for one’s fellow men and in making
true reasons the measure of every move deed and word

4. Be their skin dark or pale, all men are equal. One can be superior to another in
knowledge , wealth, and beauty … but in being

5. A person with a noble character values honour above self – interest, while a person
with ignoble character value self- interest above honour

6. An honourable man’s word is his bond

7. Don’t waste time, lost wealth may be recovered, but time lost is lost forever

8. Defend the oppressed and fight the oppressor

9. An intelligent man is he who takes care in everything he says and keeps quite about a
secret

10. Along the thorny path of life, the man leads the way and his wife and children follow. If
the leader goes the way of perdition. then so those who are less
11. Do not regard a woman as mere plaything, but as a helpmate and partner in the
hardships of this existence. Have due regard of her weakness and remember the mother who
brought joy into this world and nurtured in your infancy

12. What you would not want done to your wife , daughter, and sister , do not do to the
wife , daughter and sister of another

13. A man’s worth does not come from being a king, or in height of his nose ant whiteness
of his face, or in him being a priest, a Representative of God or in his exalted position on the
face of this earth , Pure and truly noble he is ,though born in the forest and able to speak only
his own tongue behaves decently, is true to his word, has dignity and honour, who is not an
oppressor and does not abet oppressors who knows how to cherish and look after the land of
his birth

14. When these doctrines have spread and the brilliant sun of or beloved liberty shines on
these poor islands, and sheds its sweet light upon a united race everlasting happiness , then
lives lost, the struggle and the suffering will have been more than re compensated

15. If the applicant understands all this, and believes he will be able to fulfil these duties, he
should put his request in writing

16. Having fully understood the principles and teachings proclaimed of the sons of the
people. I wish with heart and soul to become a member respectfully therefore. I beg to be
deemed worthy of admission and to be counted as one of the sons of the association, and I
pledge to comply with the teachings and submit to its Orders

EMILIO AGUINALDO’S MGA GUNITA NG HIMAGSIKAN

Emilio Aguinaldo

- Born march 22, 1869 at Kawit, Cavite

- He was Caveza de Barangay in Kawit , Cavite

- Became the 1st Governadorcillo Capitan Municipal at the age of 25

- He joined Freemasonry on Jan. 1, 1895

- Encourage by Santiago Alvarez , he became member of the Katipunan on March 7 1895

under the Magdalo faction

- Revolutionary Government replaced the Katipunan with Aguinaldo as president

- He became President of the Biak- an Bato Republic on November 2, 1897 until
December 14, 1897

- Pack of Biak- na Bato was signed between Aguinaldo and Governor – General Primo
de Rivera abolishing the Revolutionary Government, provision of the treaty included his exile
and some of his men

- With the failure of the treaty he returned to the Philippines and established a dictatorial
form of government with him as a dictator on May 24,1898

- Dictatorial government lasted until June 23, 1896,replace by second revolutionary

government which lasted up to January 22,1899

- Became president of the 1st Philippine Republic

- Captured in Palanan ,Isabela by American forces

- Aguinaldo was the 1st and the youngest president of the Philippines

- He died at the age of 94

ANG PAMUNUAN NG SANGGUNIANG MAGDIWANG:

Haring Bayan………………………………………………… Supremo Andres Bonifacio

Pangalawang Hari ng Bayan…………………………. Heneral Mariano Alvarez

Ministro ng Guerra………………………………………. Kgg. Ariston Villanueva

Ministro de Interior……………………………………… Kgg. Jacinto Lumbreras

Minestro de Hacienda…………………………………..Kgg. Diego de Mojica

Ministro de Justicia………………………………………..Heneral Mariano Trias

(mananagalog at Makata)

Ministro de Fomento………………………………………. Henereal Emiliano Riego de Dios

Capitan Heneral……………………………………………..Santiago Alvarez

Ang pamunuang Magdalo ay “MAKA- HARI” (monarchico)

Headquarter is in Noveleta and later transferred to San Francisco de Malabon (Gen. Trias)

Their territories in Cavite Are:

1. Noveleta

2. San Francisco de Malabon

3. Rosario

4. Tanza

5. Naic

6. Ternate

7. Maragodon

8. Magallanes

9. Bailen

10. Alfonso

11. Indang

12. San Roque

PAMUNUAN NG SAGGUNIANG MAGDALO

Presidente……………………………………………………………… Hen. Baldomero Aguinaldo

Vice Presidente………………………………………………………. Hen. Edilberto Evangelista

Secretario de Guerra……………………………………………… Hen. Candido Tirona

Secratario de Interior……………………………………………. Kgg. Felix Cuenca

Secretario de Fomento………………………………………….. Kgg. Glicerio Topacio

Secretario de Hacienda………………………………………….. Cayetano topacio

Teniente General Abanderado……………………………….. Emilio Aguinaldo

Ang Sangguniang Magdalo ay may uri ng pamunuang “REPUBLIKADO”, head quarter in Cavite
el Viejo

TERITORIES UNDER MAGDALO:

1. Cavite el Viejo

2. Imus

3. Dasmarinas

4. Silang

5. Amadeo

6. Mendez- Nunez

7. Bakood

8. Carmona

AMBROSIO RIANZARES- BAUTISTA’S 1898 DECLARATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE

Ambrocio Rianzares Bautista - Born in Biňan Laguna on Dec. 7, 1830

- Joined the La Liga Filipina, Cuerpo de Compromisarios, and propaganda

- Tasked to write and solemnly read the’’Acta de la Proclamacionde la Independencia

del Pueblo Filipino”

- Known as Don Bosyong

- Waved the Philippine National flag before the crowd from the central window of the
mansion of Emilio Aguinaldo at Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898

- Appointed as judge of the Court of 1st Instance of Pangasinan when Filipino –

American war ended

- Died of a fatal fall from a horse- drawn carriage on dec. 4 , 1903

97 delegates signed the Act of Declaration of Independence including an American artillery

officer Colonel L.M Johnson

Aguinaldo did not wave the Philippine national flag but he only unfurled it
AN ACT OF DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista a War counselor and special delegate designated to proclaim and
solemnize the declaration of Independence by dictatorial government of the Philippines
pursuant, and by virtue of a decree issued by the Engregious Dictator Don Emilio Aguinaldo.

They resolve to start the revolution because of the arbitrary arrest and abuses of the civil
guards who cause deaths in connivance with and even under the express orders their superior
officer who at times order the shooting of those place under arrest under the pretext that they
attempted to escape in violation of rules and regulation, and the unjust deportations of
illustrious Filipinos especially those decreed by General Blanco at the instigation of the
archbishop and friars interest in keeping them in ignorance for egoistic and selfish ends.

Revolution started in order to regain the independence and sovereignty of which the people
had been deprive by Spain through Governor Miguel Lopez de Legaspi

Legaspi enter a blood compact with Sikatuna of Bohol and took the island of Cebu by force
because Tupas did not allow him to occupy it.

Soliman- the last Muslim king of manila

Lakandula – the last Muslim king of Tondo

Pedro Paterno- negotiator of the Pact of Biak na Bato

Aguinaldo president of the Biak na Bato Republic and Governor General Primo the Rivera
entered an agreement under the Pact of Biak na Bato. After the signing of Bialk na Bato,
Aguinaldo went to Hong Kong for self exile both parties violated the agreement that they
signed, Aguinaldo returned in order to initiate a new revolution.

United States of America Powerful and Humanitarian country that protect the Philippines

Emilio Aguinaldo designed the Philippine national flag

White triangle of the Philippine national flag signify the distinctive emblem of the
famous society of the Katipunan, which by means of its blood compact inspired the masses to
rise in revolution.

The three stars signify the three main islands of the archipelago:

1. Luzon

2. Panay (where the revolutionary movement started)

3. Mindanao

Sun representing the gigantic step made by the son of the country along the path of
civilization

8 Rays of the sun signify the 8 provinces which declared themselves in state of war as soon as
the first revolt was initiated:

1. Manila

2. Cavite

3. Bulacan

4. Pampanga

5. Nueva Ecija

6. Bataan

7. Laguna

8. Batangas

FILIPINO GRIEVANCES AGAINST GOVERNOR WOOD

The document “Filipino Grievances against Governor Wood” was a petition and an
impeachment request for Gov. Gen. Leonard Wood. The Philippine Legislature adopted it as a
joint resolution on November 17, 1926. Jose Abad Santos and Jorge Bocobo prepared the draft
of the document. The petition was not acted upon by the United States because Governor
Wood died due to surgery failure in 1927.

Jose Abad Santos

- Born in San Fernando, Pampanga, to Vicente abad Santos and Toribia Basco

- He was a pensionado who studied law at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois

- Served as Assistant Attorney at the Bureau Of Justice after passing the bar examination
in 1911

- Rose to the rank of

- Attorney –General and was appointed Under Secretary of Justice in 1921

- Become Chief Legal Council of the Senate President and the speaker of the House of
Representatives

- Appointed Associate Justice of the Supreme court in 1932

- Became Chief Justice in 1941

- Administered the oath Manuel L. Quezon and Vice President Sergio Osmena on
December 30, 1941

- Appointed as Acting President of the Commonwealth Government before Quezon left

the Philippines in 1942.

- He was arrested by the Japanese on April 11 ,1942 and executed on May 7, 1942, in
Malabang ,Lanao, in the presence of Pipeto his son.

Jorge t. Bocobo

- Born October 19, 1886 in Gerona, Tarlac .to Tranquilino Bocobo and Rita Teodora
Tabago

- A pensionado. He earned his Bachelor of Laws from Indiana University in 1907

- After a law clerk career in the Executive Bureau, he started teaching at the University of
the Philippines college of Law in 1911.

- Appointed as Full Professor of Law and Acting dean of the College.

- Became President of the University of the Philippines (1934- 1939)

- Associate Justice of the Supreme court (1942- 1944)

- A close associate and a speech writer of President Quezon

- Died July 23,1965

Leonard Wood

- Appointed governor –general of the Philippine Islands by Us President Warren G.

Harding on October 15,1921
- Tension with key Filipino officials aggravated by his misuse of the Veto power
characterized by his tenure

- He veto 16 measures passed by Philippine Legislature in his first year of office as

compared to Francis Burton Harrison, his predecessor who only vetoed 5 bills

- Interfered in the case of Ray Conly, a Manila Police detective ,in 1923 heightened the
tension

- Secretary Jose P. Laurel sought his removal from service due to immorality and
misconduct in office by receiving money from gambling lords

- Wood ordered Interior Secretary Laurel to reinstate Conley to the police force

- Secretary Laurel resisted and resigned. In support of Laurel’s resignation and protest of
Wood’s handling the government affairs in the country, the Filipino members of the Wood
Cabinet and Council of State tendered their resignations,

- The event was known as “Cabinet Crises of 1923”

American sovereignty was implanted in the country with the purpose of training Filipinos

The art of self- government and granting us independence. Our good not his gain to be
America’s aim.

The first 20yrs. Of civil government were marked by mutual understanding and loyal
cooperation between Americana and Filipinos. At the end of that period, when it seemed that
the goal had finally been reached, after the President of the United States had advised the
Congress that the time had come for America to fulfill her sacred pledge. Major Gen. Leonard
Wood was sent to the Philippines as Gov. Gen wood’s conduct of the government has been
characterized by a train of usurpations and arbitrary act; this resulted to the reversal of
America’s Philippine policy.

Executive order No. 37 Declaring the Laws creating and defining the powers of the board of
control which is authorized to vote the stocks owned by government in certain private
corporations are absolute nullities. In the same order the Governor – General also announce his
purpose to exercise solely and by himself the powers and duties developing upon said board

PRESIDENT CORAZON AQUINO’ S SPEECH BEFORE THE US CONGRESS

Maria Corazon (CORY) SUMULONG AQUINO

- Served as the 11th president of the Philippines

- 1st woman president of the Philippines

- Most prominent figure of the EDSA People Power Revolution that ended the 20 year
presidency of President Ferdinand Marcos

- Married to Senator Benigno “ Ninoy” Aquino Jr. Marcos political opponent

- After her husband assassination on August 21, 1983 she became the leader of the
opposition

- She ran for presidency with Salvador Laurel as vice-president in a snap election called
by Macos on Feb. 7, 1986. Called for civil disobedience after the Batasang Pambansa
proclaimed Marcos And his running mate Tolentino as winners.

- Aquino secured the presidency on Feb 25, 1986 when defectors from the Armed Forces
of the Philippines and the support from the Roman Catholic Church resulted in the People
Power Revolution, which ousted Marcos from power.

Context of the speech:

Cory left America to bury her husband Ninoy Aquino and return to America as the President of
the Philippines.

For the Nation, Ninoy became the pleasing sacrifice that answered their prayers for freedom

A president turned dictator and traitor to his oath, suspended the constitution and shut down
the congress. He detained Ninoy along with thousands of others Senators, Publishers, and
anyone who had spoken of democracy.

They lock him up in a tiny, nearly airless cell in a military camp in the north; they stripped him
naked and held a threat of sudden midnight execution over his head.

At any time during his long ordeal, Ninoy could have made a separate peace with a dictatorship
as so many of his countrymen had done. But the spirit of democracy that inheres in their race
and animates this chamber could not be allowed to die.

Ninoy’s death was the resurrection of his country’s and the courage and faith by which
alone they could be free again .

Archibald MacLeish had said that democracy must be defend by arms when it is attack by arms,
and with truth when it is attack by lies. He failed to say how it shall be won.
Cory held fast to Ninoy’s conviction that it must be by the ways of democracy that she held
out for participation in the1984 election the dictatorship called. But the result of election was
fraudulent.

Marcos called its doom in a snap election. You saw a nation armed with courage and integrity
,stand fast by democracy against threats and corruption You saw people so committed to the
ways of democracy that they were prepared to give their lives for its pale results.

Cory thanks the US for changing the US policy toward the Philippines. For balancing America’s
strategic interest against human concerns illuminate the American vision of the world.

When the parliament announces Marcos’s victory the people turned out the streets and
proclaimed the president of all the people. And true to their word, when a handful of military
leaders declared themselves against the dictatorship, the people rallied to their protection.
Surely, the people take care of their own. It is on that faith and obligation it entails that Cory
assumed presidency.

Democracy was restored by ways of democracy, so we are completing the constitutional

structures of our new democracy under a constitution that already gives full respect to the Bill
of Rights.

My predecessor set aside democracy to save it from communist insurgency that numbered less
than five hundred. Unhampered by respect for human rights she went it with hammer and
tongs. Through political initiatives and local re- integration programs, we must seek to bring
the insurgents from the hills and by economic progress and justice show them that which the
best- intentioned among them fight. I will not allow an insurgent leadership to spin our offer of
peace and kill our young soldiers and threaten our new freedom. Yet I must explore the path of
piece to the out most.

Cory said that she will honor the 26$billion foreign debt Half of the export $2billon dollars must
go to pay just the interest on a debt whose benefits the Filipino people never received,

Cory thanks America for the haven from oppression and home they gave to Ninoy and her and
their children. For the three years happiest years of their lives.

LUNA AND AMORSOLO’S PAINTINGS

Juan N. Luna

- Born in Badoc, Ilocos Norte, on Oct. 23. 1857

- He was the 3rd child of Joaquin Luna and Laureana Novico

- Obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree at Ateneo de Manila

- He also studied at Academia de Debujo Y Pintura (Academy of Fine Arts ) in Manila

- He earned a seaman’s certificate in1875 at Escuela Nautica de Manila (now Philippine

Merchant Marine Academy)at age 17.

- He travelled to Spain 1877 and studied at Escuela de Bella Artes in Madrid

- He was the 1st Filipino artist to gain international fame by joining Salon of Madrid
Barcelona, and Munich

- His joining of the Salon was a matter of patriotic duty . He proved that the Indio was
intellectually capable and as competent as any foreigner .

- It was a form of nationalism fought in Europe’s cultural centres aimed at boasting

Filipino self respect.

- Luan returned to the Philippines 1894, He travelled to Japan in 1896 but

returned during the outbreak of the Philippine revolution.

- He was arrested by the Spaniards on Sept. 16, 1896 with his brother Antonio Luna, and
imprisoned at Fort Santiago on suspicion of being with Katipunan

- The Spanish court Pardoned him on May 27, 1897.

- He went back to Spain inJuly1897 and Joined Jose P. Laurel, Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar
and Graciano Lopez – Jaena

- He died of heart attack in Hong Kong

- His works exemplified as one of the prominent examples of Romanticism and Realism
schools of art.

The following are some of Luna’s works:

1. The Death of Cleopatra also known as “ la Muerte de Cleopatra” it was awarded a silver
medal by Exposicion National de Bellas Artes (Nationa Exposition of Fine Arts ) in Madrid in
1881

2. The Spollarium (1884) The Painting depicted bloody carcasses of slave gladiators
dragged away from the arena where they had entertained their Roman masters with their lives.
It was submitted by Lunato the Exposition National de Bellas artes in 1884 in Madrid. It won
gold medal

3. El Pacto de Sangre (1884) the Painting portrays the blood compact between Rajah
Sikatuna and Miguel de Lagaspi accompanied by other conquistadors.

4. La Batalla de Lepanto (1887) the Painting featured Don Juan of Austria in battle 1571
while at the bow of a ship

5. The Parisian Life(1892) Also known as Interior d’ un Café (inside a Café) It depicted the
scenery within a café in Paris, France. It showed a female identified as a courtesan or a
prostitute about to stand from a sofa overshadowing three men placed at the far- left corner of
the painting

FERNANDO AMOSOLO

- Born in Paco, Manila on May 30, 1892 to Pedro amorsolo and Bonifacia Cueto

- Grew up in Daet , Camarenes Norte but his Parents moved back to Manila in his
mother’s 1st cousin Fabian de la Rosa, upon his father’ death

- Amorsolo became an apprentice of Fabian de la Rosa in 1905 at age 13

- His 1st commercial success came when water color postcards for ten centavos each.

- He also won second prize for the painting Levento Priodico at Bazar Escolta in 1908

- He studied at the Art School of the Liceo de Manilain1909and, after graduating , began
attending the University of the Philippines “ school of fine Arts” , where Fabian de la Rosa
serving as an instructor.

- After graduating from UP he worked as a draftsman at the bureau of Public Works

- He also did the job of a chief artist at the Pacific Commercial Company

- He also worked as part-time faculty at the University of the Philippines where he work
for 38 yrs.

- Amosolo was given a grant by Enrique Zobel de Ayala, a Spanish Citizen and leading
businessman in the Philippines, to study for seven months At Academia de San Fernando in
Madrid. It allowed him to visit New York, where he encourage post war impressionism and
cubism that would have a significant influence in his work.
- Upon returning to Manila, he set up a studio and begun enormously productive period.
He made a series of paintings that captured the popular imagination using subject borrowed
from de la Rosa

- He was a shy man whose only real genius was painting. He help shape
and formalized the image of a perfect Filipina

- His popularity came from his ideal and brilliant treatment of paintings that featured
peasants in colorful costumes, scenes of rice planting and harvesting, society portraits and
sensual female bathers.

- His canvass portrays a timeless, relaxing Philippine countryside

- Instead of painting objects of lavishness and glorious scenes of victory in battle, he

depicted the common folks like the farmers , vendors, and young women who went about their
daily task and chores

- He died of heart failure on August 24, 1972 at the age of 79

- The Grand Old Man of the Philippine Art” was honored by President Marcos as the First
National Artist in Painting

AMORSOLO”S WORKS:

1. Defense of a Filipina Woman’s Honour (1945) Depicted a Filipino man protecting a

woman either his wife or daughter, from being rapes by an unseen Japanese soldier

2. Antipolo Fiesta(1947) Oil painting on canvass depicted a typical rural scene. It showed a
group of people celebrating the fiesta in Antipolo

3. The first Baptism

4. Planting Rice

5. Palay Maiden

6. Sunday Morning Going to Town

LOCATION OF THE FIRST MASS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Ferdinand Magellan’s discovery of the Philippines in 1521 was a significant event for Spain. It
proved that a westward route to the Moluccas, the spice island, was possible. The expedition
celebrated the first circumnavigation of the world. Three hundred men originally joined the
voyage in Spain, but only 18 survived. They returned home in the ship Victoria under its captain
Sebastian Elcano. Other notable survivors were Antonio Pigafetta and the quarter master
Francisco Albo

PEOPLE WHO PAYED ROLE IN THE CONTROVERSIES SOROUNDING THE SITE OF THE FIRST
MASS IN THE PHILIPPINES

1. Antonio Pigafetta- On Thursday morning March 28, 1521, they landed in Mazaua, the
island where they saw the light in the previous night. Pigafetta related that on that island was
held the first mass in the Philippines on Marxh31, 1521. It was officiated by Fr. Pedro de
Valderama. A Diocesan Priest, and Magellan’s chaplain, in the presence of Rajah Kolambu,
Rajah of Mazaua, and Rajah Siagu Rajah of Butuan. Magellan and the two rajah sailed from
Mazaua for Cebu on April 4, 1521

2. Francisco Collin- Presented in his book the first mass, the Solemn planting ofcross, and
the formal taking possession of the island in name of the Crown of Castille as having taken
place on Easter Sunday of 1521 in Masao, Butuan. Collin’s narrative accurate up to landing in
Homonhon. However, it became vague when he brought Magellan to Butuan without
explaining how and the to Limasawa. He presented in his book the first mass, the Solemn
planting of the Cross, and the formal taking possession of the islands in the name of the Crown
of Cstille as having taken place on Easter Sunday of 1521 at Masao, Butuan

3. Francisco Albo He gave a different version of the route taken by Magellan. He did not
mention the first mass but he suggested the planting of the cross and the formal possession of
the Archipelago for the Castillan Crown, which occurred in Butuan.

4. Fr. Pablo S. Pastells Rediscovery and more attentive study of Pigafetta and Albo’s log
made him realized that the first mass in Butuan was erroneous . With pastels footnote on
Collin’s work and Pigafettas narrative in the Blair and Roberson series, it resulted in a shift in
scholarly opinion regarding the site of the first mass

5. Francisco Albo Although he did not mention the first mass, albo recorded the planting
of the cross on a mountaintop visible to the top where three islands, to the west and south
west that fit the southern end of Limasawa and not the coast of Butuan where the islands were
seen only towards the north and none to the south or southwest.

6. Gines de Mafra- His account completed after his second visit to Mazaua in1543 as a
pilot in the Villalobos expedition mentioned the king of Mazaua , showing gifts to Magellan. His
testimony therefore has more weight than Pigafetta Albo the Genoese Pilot’s since it caries the
authority that the first mass held in Butuan and not in Limasawa.

THE CAVITE MUTINY

The Cavity mutiny of January 20, 1872 happened at the height of the secularization
Controversy.

It involved several laborers and native soldiers. It happened when Gov. Gen. Rafael Izquierdo
abolished the privileges enjoyed by the laborers of the Cavite arsenal of exemption from tribute
and the forced labor.

The military Mutiny resulted in the arrest of Filipinos and Mestizos who were purportedly
behind it. Among those arrested were Fathers Jose Burgos , Mariano Gomez ,and Jacinto
Zamora. They were jailed in Fort Santiago and tried for rebellion, The GOMBURZA, as they
collectively known were sentence to death by garrote on February 17,1872.

RAFAEL de IZQUIERDO

- Spanish Gov. Gen and captain general of the Philippines from April 14, 1871 to January
8, 1873.

- He was known as an “ autocratic Gov. Gen.” famous for the use of iron fist in
government

- His policies contradicted with the policies of the liberal minded Gov. Gen. de la Torre.

- He was the Gov. Gen. when the Cavite Mutiny occurred in 1872.

JOSE MONTERO Y VIDAL

- One of the most knowledgeable Spanish historians in the Philippines , despite his bias
against the Filipinos

- He was residing in Manila at the time of the Cavite Mutiny in 1872

- His account embodied the official the official interpretation of the military mutiny as
part of the general revolt initiated by the three priest and their lay and clerical colleagues in
Manila

- Trinidad Pardo de Tavera commented that Vidal’s account was bias

- Sargent la Madrid- led the two hundred native soldiers to rose up in arms, assassinated
the commander of the fort and wounded his wife.

- Fernando Rojas dispatch two Spaniards to inform Manila authorities of the uprising but
they met on the way by group of natives, who put them instantly to death

Domingo Mejares left Cavite in a war vessel for Manila arriving there at midnight. He informed
the commander of the Marine of what occurred in Cavite.

Pardo de Tavera did not mention directly any friar conspiracy; however, he saw the
punishments rendered by the government as a result of a wrong opinion. The belief that all
opponents of the friars were enemies of Spain resulted in the Filipinos disaffection which
ultimately gave rise to 1896 Philippine Revolution.

RETRACTION OF RIZAL

- Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda was born June 19,1861 in Calamba
,Laguna to Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonzo

- Studied at Ateneo Municipal and University of Santo Tomas but went to Europe to
continue his medical studies

- Rizal wrote the Noli Me Tangere , where the Spanish-Philippine colonial government
depicts the greed and immorality of the friars, and superstition of the Filipinos exposed.

- In El Filibusterismo , he expressed his political ideas and predicted the coming of

revolution.

- On July 3,1892, he founded the la Liga Filipina but was arrested and exiled to Dapitan,
Zamboanga on July 7,1892

- He was allowed to return to Manila to sail for Cuba as a military doctor but arrested in
the course of the journey and imprisoned at Fort Santiago on Nov. 3, 1896.

- Accused of being the principal organizer and living soul of the insurrection of the
Philippines, the founder of societies, periodicals, author of the books dedicated to dedicated to
foment and propagate the ideas of rebellion and sedition of towns, and chief of filibusterism of
the country
- The court Martial found him guilty of the crimes of offending illegal association and
promoting and inciting rebellion.

Gov. Gen. Polavieja signed the decree on Dec. 28, 1896 approving the decision of the court
martial of Rizal’s execution at Bagumbayan field Dec. 30 1896 at the age of 35.

JESUITS WHO WERE WITH RIZAL IN THE LAST HOUR OF HIS LIFE:

1. Father Miguel Saderra Mata

2. Fr. Antonio Rosell

3. Fr. Luis Viza

4. Fr. Jose Villaclra

5. Fr. Federico Faura

6. Fr. Vicente Balaguer

Frank C. Laubach explained how necessary Rizal’ conversion among the Jesuits in his book “Rizal
Man and Martyr. He was a protestant minister, provided an analysis of Rizal’s retraction.

Fr. Pio Pi superior of the Jesuits in the Philippines who claimed that he composed the formula
of retraction and profession of faith presented to Rizal

Fr. Vicente Balaguer had been in Dapitan with Rizal. He claimed that he became Gods
instrument in the conversion and retraction of Rizal

Alleged witnesses of Rizal’s :

1. Juan del Fresno Chief of the picket

2. Eloy Moure adjutant of the Plaza

Fr. Manuel A Garcia C. M, was the priest who found the holograph of Rizal. Published in the
Daily Mirror on March 11, 1950

Ricardo Pascual in his book “Dr. Jose Rizal beyond the Grave” claimed that the retraction
document was a forgery and Rizal’s retraction a fraud
The two foremost hand writing experts in the Philippines Dr. Otley Beyer and Dr. Jose Del
Rosario working separately had arrive to a conclusion that the retraction of Jose Rizal is
positively authentic

Henry Otley Beyer professor of anthropology in the University of the Philippines and curator of
UP Museum

Don Luis Taviel de Andrade the defender of Rizal (lawyer)

Senator Rafael Palma former president of the University of the Philippines and a prominent
Mason, he claimed that a retraction was not in keeping with Rizal’s character and mature belief.

Austin Coats a British writer, presented an analysis of Rizal’s retraction in his book “Rizal the
Nationalist and Martyr”

Leon Ma. Guerrero III affirmed the authenticity of Rizal’s retraction in his book The First Filipino
(a biography of Rizal)

THE CRY OF THE PHILIPPINE REVOLUTION

President Diosdado Macapagal signed proclamation No. 28 in 1962 declaring June 12 as

Independence Day of the Philippines shifted public opinion to the significance of the 1896
Revolution. Soon arise the controversy of the cry of Philippine Revolution as accounts resurface
on the date and place of its actual occurrence.

Katipunan was best remembered for the so called “ Cry of Balintawak” on August 26, 1896 ,
made more dramatic, and memorable by the mass tearing of cedulas personal. However, the
significant event in Philippine history was changed to the Cry of Pugad Lawin on August 23,
1896

Guillermo Masangkay

- In his account he mentioned that the first cry of Philippine Revolution occurred on
August 26,1896 at Balintawak in Caloocan

- He was a Katipunan General and a childhood friend of Andres Bonifacio.

- Masangkay was born on June 25, 1887 at Tondo Manila

- He became member of the Katipunan when Bonifacio founded it in 1892

- His mission was to initiate members from Cavite and succeeded in recruiting many
Katipuneros including Emilio Aguinaldo

- He was responsible for a law that declared November 30 s “ Bonifacio Day” in 1920 and
the erection of Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan City

- He died at the age of 96

CONTEXT OF MASANGKAY’s ACCOUNT

On August 26, 1896 a big meeting was held in Balintawak at the house of Apolonio Samson, the
cabeza of the barrio of Caloocan. It was attended by all leaders of Katipunan composed of the
board of directors of the organization.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss when the uprising to take place. Teodoro Plata,
Briccio Pantas and Pio Valenzuela opposed the early start of revolution.

The tearing of Cedulas by the people present in the meeting was the beginning of the formal
declaration of the separation of the Philippines from Spain.

The government officially adopted Masangkay’s RAF of the First Cry of Philippine Revolution
during the early years of the American rule after having consulted the surviving Katipuneros
and known historians. The change of celebration happened in 1963 when the National Heroes
Commission made a recommendation to President Diosdado Macapagal to call the Cry of
Balintawak as the Cry of Pugad Lawin and moved the celebration to August 23 instead of 26.
The account of Pio Valenzuela became the basis of this changed.

PIO VALENZUELA

- Physician general of the supreme council of the Katipunan and close friend of Bonifacio

- In his memoirs he claimed that the First Cry of the Philippine Revolution happened
august 23 , 1896 at Pugad Lawin

- Valenzuela was born July 11,1896 at Polo , Bulacan, He joined the Katipunan at aged 23
with Bonifacio and Jacinto

- He took charge of the Katipunan’s publication whom he named “ Ang Kalayaan”

- He was Bonifacio’s messenger to Rizal task to convince the later to join the
revolutionary movement but failed

- With the discovery of the Katipunan, he fled to Balintawak on August 20,1896.

- He voluntarily surrendered to Governor – General Ramon Blanco on Sept 3, 1896, to
avail of the amnesty granted to the revolutionist but was deported to Spain, where went trial
and imprisonment

- He died at the age of 86

CONTEXT OF VALENZUELA’s ACCOUNT

The place of refuge of Bonifacio and some Katipuneros was Balintawak. The first place were
some 500 members of the Katipunan meet on August 22,1896 was the house of Apolonio
Samson at Kangkong. Here views were only exchanged and no resolution was debated or
adopted. It was Pugad Lawin, in the house, and yard of Juan Ramos son of Melchora Aquino
where over 1,000 members of the Katipunan met and carried out, considerable debate and
discussion on august 23. 1896. The discussion was on whether or not the revolution against the
Spanish government should be started on August 29, 1896. Only one man protested and fought
against a war and that was Teodoro Plata (Bonifacio’s Brother in law) After the tumultuous
meeting, many of those present tore their cedula certificates and shouted “Long Live the
Philippines”

TEODORO AGONCILLO

-Strengthened Valenzuela’s version of the attacked of Philippine Revolution

- He utilized his influence and campaign for a change in the First Cry’ location from Balintawak
to Pugad Lawin and the date from August 26, 1896, to August 23, 1896

CONTEXT OF AGONCILLO’S ACCOUNT

It was in Pugad Lawin, where they proceed upon leaving Samson’s place in the afternoon of
22nd that more than 1,000 members of the Katipunan met in the yard of Juan A. Ramos, son of
Melchora Aquino. In the morning of August 23rd considerate discussion arose whether the
revolt against the Spanish government should be started on the 29th. Only one protested but
was overruled in his stand. Bonifacio then announced the decision and shouted; “Brothers, it
was agreed to continue with the plan of revolt. My brothers, do you swear to repudiate the
government that oppresses us?” And the rebels, shouting as one man replied yes sir. Bonifacio
asked them to bring out their cedulas and tear them to pieces to symbolize their determination
to take arms , with tear stained eyes the rebels shouted Long Live the Philippines, Long Live the
Katipunan,

Emilio Aguinaldo’s MEMOIR OF REVOLUTION

On August22 1896 the Magdalo council received a secret letter from Supremo Andres Bonifacio
in Balintawak, which stated that the katipunan will hold a meeting on the 24th of the said
month, and that it was extremely necessary to send two delegates or representatives but the
Magdalo Council decided to send only one representative. He returned bearing a letter from
the Supremo dated 24 August. It contained a shocking announcement that the Katipunan would
attack Manila at the night on Saturday 29 August, the signal for which would be the putting out
of the lamps in Luneta.

Andres Bonifacio the supreme Head of the Katipunan gave his first battle cry against tyranny on
August 24, 1896

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION

Constitution is the supreme law of each state. It lays down rules regarding the organization,
powers, and functions of the government. It defines the basic features of the state and the
relation between the citizens and the state.

Constitution sets the following:

1. Organization of the government and its powers

2. Rules and principles that govern political process

3. Relationship between the government and the people

4. Rights and duties of the people

TYPES OF CONSTITUTION

1. Written Constitution drafted in a book form or a series of documents that form a book.
A consciously framed constitution or duly passed and enacted constitution. Definite and can be
quoted in support or against any power exercised by government. Formulated and adopted by
a constitutional convention, constituent assembly, or constitutional commission. Amendments
follow a settled process prescribe in the constitution. Examples of the state with written
constitution: Philippines, USA, Germany, India, Japan, France and Switzerland.

2. Unwritten Constitution Neither drafted nor enacted by a constitutional convention nor

even written in form of a book. Founded on several charters, laws, and convention. Product of a
gradual and continuous process of constitutional evolution. People accepted and obeyed it but
did not possess it in written form. Some parts are available in written forms but not codified in
the form of legal document, a code or a book examples of state with unwritten constitution:
United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

3. Flexible constitution amended and passed in a similar way as the passage of ordinary
law. Amendment procedure is simple and change easily made.

4. Rigid constitution Complicated method of amendment. Amendments need a particular

process, such as requiring the passing of the amendment by a two- thirds or three- fourths
votes of the member of the legislative body through passage of an amendment bill followed by
the ratification of the people on a referendum.

5. Evolved Constitution not enacted at any time by any assembly of persons or an

institution but the result of a slow and gradual process of evolution. Rules and principles draw
binding force from being recognized as ancient, historical, time- tested and respected customs
and conventions. Product of historical development, political needs, and practical wisdom of
the people.

6. Enacted Constitution Made passed, and adopted by an assembly or convention called

constituent assembly or constitutional convention. Passed after an intensive discussion over its
objectives, principles, and provisions. Drafted in a book form or contained in a series of
documents arranged systematically and formally

QUALITIES OF A WELL -WRITTEN CONSTITUTION

1. Brief outlined the objectives of the state to a measurable extent and not on a limited
scope. Do not contain many details. Specified the framework of the government of the state
and the rights of the citizens.

2. Broad Covered more comprehensive range making the constitution flexible and easily
adaptable to changing social economic and political conditions. Comprehensively enumerated
the powers and functions of the government and the relationship between the government
body and the governed.

3. Definite Must not include vague, unclear words or phrases having two or more possible
meanings that may cause a conflict of interpretation. Any vagueness may lead to opposing
arguments of essential features causing in culpable harm.

THE 1987 “BIAK -NA BATO” CONSTITUTION

The Biak- na Bato Constitution was the basis of the government of the

Republic of the Philippines drawn up and proclaimed in Naic, Cavite, on March 22, 1897. Isabelo
Artacho and Felix Ferrer wrote it by copying the 1815 Cuban constitution of Jimaguayer.

The representatives of the people of the Philippine Islands assembled on Nov. 1 1897, adopted
the constitution on Nov. 15 1897 Emilio Aguinaldo was the president of the assembly.

The constitution explicitly intended to be provisional or temporary. It was enforced in the

country for two years from the date of its promulgation but abolished on December 15,1897,
upon the conclusion of the Pack of Biak na Bato

THE 1899” MALOLOS” CONSTITUTION

Pedro Paterno president of the Malolos congress

Felipe Calderon tasked to write the draft of the Malolos constitution

He proposed the Union of the State and the Church with Catholicism as the state
Religion

The French constitution served as the basis but use has been made of the constitution
of Belgium, Mexico, Brazil, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Guatemala

Emilio Aguinaldo- signed the approval of the Malolos Constitution

The Malolos Constitution , as it was known was the first democratic Constitution drawn by
Asians . It was a charter of government drafted by intellectual leaders of the revolution against
Spain. The 1899 “Malolos “ constitution became the basis of the first Philippine Republic

THE 1935 CONSTITUTION

Tydings – McDuffie law or Philippine Independence Act, it called for the 1934 Constitutional
Convention

Act 4125 Known as Convention Bill ,it provided for the election of 202 delegates to the
convention

Teodoro Sandiko the oldest member of the 1934 Con Con

Wenceslao Q. Vinson youngest member of the 1934 Constitutional Convention

Manuel L. Quezon formally open the 1934 constitutional convention

Jose P. Laurel chosen as an honorary chairman of the 1934 Constitutional Convention after the
convention was called to order

Claro M. Recto elected as the president of the 1934 constitutional convention

Jose Aruego headed the bicameralists group of the 1934 constitutional convention

Jose e. Romero headed the unicameralist group of the1934 constitutional convention

Gregorio Perfecto signed the 1935 constitution with his own blood

THE 1943 CONSTITUTION

Preparatory Commission for Philippine Independence (PCPI)tasked to draft the 1943

constitution

Hideki Tojo Japanese premier who promised to grant Independence to the Filipinos

Jose P. Laurel signed the 1943 constitution as president

Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong Pilipinas(KALIBAPI) ratified the 1945 constitution

The 1943 Constitution became the basis of the Japanese- sponsored government known
as the Second Philippine Republic

THE 1973 CONSTITUTION

Republic Act No. 6132 known as the Constitutional Convention Act of 1971. It sanctioned the
election of 320 delegates to constitutional Convention on Nov.10,1970

Richard Gordon the youngest Member of the 1971 constitutional convention

Antonio de las Alas the oldest delegate of the 1973 constitution

The convention met in inaugural session at the Fiesta Pavilion of Manila Hotel on June 1,
1971. President Marcos, chief Justice Roberto Conception, Senate President Gil J. Puyat and
House Speaker Cornelio T. Villareal attended it.

The 1973 constitution was the basis of Marcos administration

 Senate President Puyat and House Speaker Villareal jointly presiding opened the
Convention. Commission on elections Chairman Jaime Ferrer called the roll of the delegates.
President Marcos address was the highlight of the inaugural ceremony.

De las Alas was chosen as Acting Chairman of the Convention

Juan Liwag was elected temporary Chairman to serve until the election of the president of the
Convention

President Carlos P. Garcia was elected president of the Convention . However, he suddenly died
of heart attack on June 14, 1971.

Sotero H. Laurel -President Protempore took over as president of the Convention until new
president was elected

Diosdado Macapagal was elected as President of the Convention on June 29, 1971 and served
until the adjournment of the convention

THE 1986’’ FREEDOM’’ CONSTITUTION

Upon her assumption of the presidency after the EDSA People Power Revolution,
President Corazon Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3 on March 25, 1986 , Proclamation No.3
embodied the 1986 “Freedom Constitution”, which became the Basis of her revolutionary
government, Proclamation No.3 superseded the 1973 constitution.

Among the provisions of the Provisional Constitutions were:

1. Implementation of reforms and reorganization in the government

2. Adoption of the new constitution

3. The orderly transition of a government under the new constitution

THE 1987 CONSTITUTION

President Aquino enacted Proclamation No.9 on April 23 1986 , Summoning the a

Constitutional Commission to draft and propose a new constitution.
 Following the provisions of the proclamation President Aquino appointed (48)
respected persons to compose the 1986 Constitutional Commission . Jose Gascon was the
youngest member at the age of 22 and Roberto Conception was the Oldest at the age of 84.

Cecilia Munoz Palma was the Chairman of the commission.

President Corazon Aquino signed the 1987 constitution as president.

LESSON 2: PHILIPPINE AGRARIAN REFORM POLICIES AND ITS DEVELOPMENT

PRE- SPANISH PERIOD

Pre -Spanish Filipinos live in barangays (villages) composed of 30-100 families ruled by datus
(chiefs) the datus administered the lands owned by these communities.

The barangays were composed of the datus (nobility, Maharlikas (freemen), Aliping
namamahay (serfs), and aliping Saguiguilid (slaves) .

The presence of different social classes in the barangay did not hinder people from having acces
to land. They shared resources with the rest of the community, as well as the fruits of the soil.
The barangay believed and practiced “stewardship” that emphasized relationship between man
and nature. Rice served as the medium of trade.

SPANISH PERIOD (1565-1898)

The Spaniards introduced the concept of Encomienda (Royal land grants). The encomendero
governed every encomienda. His task was to defend his encomienda from external attack,
protect the native (indios), support the missionaries, introduce them into the catholic faith, and
maintain peace and order. In exchange had the right to and privilege to collect tribute from the
natives.
Compras y bandalas- in this scheme, the Spanish authorities required the tillers of the land to
sell their agricultural products at a meager price or surrender it to Spaniards, who resell it for
profit

Hacienda system- replaced the encomienda system

Caciques- local chieftains

FIRST PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1899)

Article XVII of the 1899 Constitution provided the confiscation of the large estates of the friars
known as the Friar Lands. However, the plan to confiscate the friar Lands did not succeed
because the First Philippine republic was short live.

AMERICAN PERIOD (1898-1935)

The US Civil government in the Philippines saw the passage of laws on agrarian reform.

1. Philippine Bill of 1902. It provides regulations on the disposal of public lands. Set ceiling
on the hectarage of acquisition or ownership of private individuals and corporations: 16
hectares for

2. private individuals and 1,024 hectares for corporations. It offered the Americans the
opportunity to own agricultural lands

3. Land Registration Act of 1902 or Act No.496. It provided for complete registration of
land titles. Place all private and public lands under the Torrens System. It amended the
registration system implemented by the Spaniards.

4. Public Land Act of 1904 or Act No. 926. Implemented the homestead system in the
Philippines and provided rules and regulations in selling and leasing portions of the public
domain.

5. Friar Lands Act of 1904 0r Act 1120. It provided for administrative and temporary leasing
selling of friar lands to its tillers.

6. Cadastral act of 1913 or Act 2259 It speed up Torrens titles issuance, which was done by
surveying a municipality and presenting the result to the land registration court.
7. Public Land act of 1919 or Act 2874. It amended and complied the laws relative to lands
of public domain. It limited the used of agricultural lands to Filipinos, Americans and citizens of
other countries.

8. Philippine Rice share Tenancy Act of 1933 or Act NO.4054. It promoted the well being
of tenants in agricultural lands devoted to the production of rice. Its improved relationship
between landowners and tenants of rice. It legalized the 50-50 crop sharing arrangement with
corresponding support to tenants protecting them against abuses of landlords.

9. Sugarcane Tenancy Contracts Act of 1933 0r Act No. 4113. It regulated the relationship
of landlord and tenants in sugarcane fields and required tenancy contracts on land planted with
sugarcane.

COMMONWEALTH PERIOD (1935-1946)

The 1935 constitution provided that “The promotion of social justice to ensure the well- being
and economic security of all the people could be state concern.”

After becoming President of the Philippine Commonwealth, Manuel L. Quezon Championed the
“Social Justice” program in solving the agrarian problem.

The Commonwealth saw the passage of the following laws:

1. Commonwealth Act No. 141 (public land Act of 1936) It amended the Public Land act of
1919. It provided a temporary provision of equality on the rights of American and Filipino
citizens and corporations. It compiled all existing laws on public lands in single documents.

2. Commonwealth Act no. 178. It amended Act No. 4054. It provided for specific controls
in the landlord- tenant relationship

3. Commonwealth Act No. 411 . It created the National Land Settlement Administration.

4. Commonwealth act No. 461. It regulated the relationship between landowners and
tenants. It provided for compulsory arbitration of any controversy arising between land owner
and tenant. It specified the grounds for tenants dismissal, which could be maid only with the
approval of the Tenancy Division of the Department of Justice

5. Commonwealth Act. No, 608 . Revised Commonwealth Act No. 461

JAPANESE PERIOD/ SECOND PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1942- 1945)

Peasants and workers organizations grew strength upon the arrival of the Japanese in the
Philippines. Most peasants took up arms and formed an anti- Japanese group called the Hukbo
ng Bayan Laban Sa Hapon (HUKBALAHAP) on March 29,1942.

Landlord supporters of the Japanese lost their lands to peasants with the Huks supporters
earning fixed rentals in tenants favor.

The gains acquired by the peasants ended at the end of the war.

THIRD PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1946-1972)

After Independence on July 4 ,1946, the problem of land tenure remained. Laws and
policies on agrarian reform enacted during the following administrations:

MANUEL A. ROXAS

Republic Act. No.34. It amended specific provisions of Act, No. 4054. It established the
70-30 sharing arrangements between tenant and landlord. It regulated share
tenancy contracts.

ELPIDIO R. QUIRINO

Executive order No.355 (Oct.23, 1950) It abolished the National Land Settlement Administration
and replace it with Land Settlement Development corporation (LADESECO). LADESECO took
over the functions of Agricultural Machinery Equipment Corporation and the Rice Corn
Production Administration. It established an acceleration and expanded peasant resettlement
program of the government.

RAMON MAGSAYSAY
1. REPUBLIC Act No. 1160 .it implemented the free distribution of agricultural lands of the
public domain. It abolished the LADESECO and created the National Resettlement and
Rehabilitation Administration (NARRA)

2. Republic Act. No. 1199 or the 1954 Agricultural tenancy Act. It governed the relationship
between landholders and tenants of agricultural lands (leasehold and share tenancy)

3. Republic Act No. 1400 or the 1955 Land Reform Act. It created the Land Tenure
administration(LTA)

4. Republic Act No. 821 .It established Agricultural Credit Cooperative Financing
Administration (ACCFA) that help small farmers secure liberal credit and promote the useful
groupings of farmers into cooperative associations to enable them to market their agricultural
commodities efficiently. It place agriculture based 0on economic equality with their industries.

5. Republic Act No. 1266. It authorized NARRA to expropriate the Hacienda Del Rosario.
Situated at Valdefuerte, Cabanatuan City, and subdivide it into lots to be sold to bonafide
occupants.

6. Administrative Order No. 67, s. 1954 (Sept. 30,1954) It created the Agricultural Tenancy
Commission to manage problems arising from tenancy

CARLOS P. GARCIA

Sustained the program of Magsaysay. No law on agrarian reform

DIOSDADO MACAPAGAL

REPUPLIC Act No. 3844 0f 1963 Agricultural Land Reform Code. It instituted the land
reforms in the country. It ended share tenancy and free tenants from its bondage. It established
leasehold, which aimed at converting the tenant farmers to lessees and tenant farmers. It
institutionalized a judicial system of agrarian cases.

Macapagal was regarded as the “Father of agrarian reforms” in the Philippines.

MARTIAL LAW PERIOD/ FOURTH PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1972-1986)

The declaration of Martial Law (Proclamation No. 1081) by President Ferdinand E. Marcos) on
September 21, 1972, ushered the New Society or Bagong Lipunan. His term saw the passage of:

1. Republic Act No.6389 (Code of Agrarian Reforms of the Philippines). It amended R.A no.
3844. It governed the implementation of agrarian reform in the Philippines. It created the
Department of Agrarian Reform that replaced the Land Authority.

2. Republic Act No. 6390. It Accelerated the Agrarian Reform Program’s Implementation by
creating an Agrarian Reform Special Account in the General Fund.

3. Presidential Decree No. 2. It decreed the entire country as a land reform area convened
the Agrarian Reform Coordinating Council

4. Presidential Decree No. 27. It ordered the emancipation of tenants from the bondage of
the soil. IT transferred to them the ownership of the land they till.

Marcos Agrarian Reform Program characterized five significant components: Land, Tenure
Program, Institutional Development, Physical Development, Agricultural Development, and
Human Resources.

FIFTH PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1987 – PRESENT)

Section 21, Article II of the 1987 constitution, provided that “The State shall promote
comprehensive rural development and agrarian reform”.

CORAZON C. AQUINO

Her term saw the passage of:

1. Executive Order no. 228 (July 17, 1987). It declared full ownership to qualified farmer-
beneficiaries covered by Presidential Decrees No. 27. It determined the value of remaining
unvalued rice and corn land subject to P.D. No. 27. IT provided for the manner of payment of
farmer beneficiary and mode of compensation to the land owner.

2. Proclamation No. 131 (July 22, 1987). It instituted a Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
Program (CARP). It created a special fund known as the Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF).

3. Executive Order No. 229 (July 22, 1987). It provided the mechanisms for the
implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
4. Executive Order no. 129-A (July 26, 1987). Known as the Reorganization Act of the
Department of Agrarian Reform. It modified Executive Order No. 129, dated January 30,1987,
and reorganized and strengthened the Department of Agrarian Reform.

5. Republic Act No. 6657 of the 1998 Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law. It instituted a
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) to promote social justice and
industrialization.

6. Executive Order No. 405 (June 14, 1990). It vested the Land Bank of the Philippine’s
primary responsibility to determine the land valuation and compensation for all lands coveted
under Republic Act No. 6657.

7. Executive Order No. 406. (June 14. 1990). It mandated specific Departments and
Agencies to align their respective programs and projects with the CARP. It directed the DAR to
accelerate the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development through economic and social
infrastructure support.

8. Executive Order No. 407 (June 14, 1990). It quickened the acquisition and distribution of
agricultural lands, pasture lands, fishponds, agroforestry lands, and lands of the public suitable
for agriculture.

9. Executive Order No. 448 (February 14, 1991). It amended the Executive Order No. 407
series 1990.

FIDEL V. RAMOS

His term saw the passage of:

1. Republic Act No. 7881. It amended specific provisions of R.A 6657. It exempted
fishponds and prawns from the coverage of CARP.

2. Republic Act No. 7905. It strengthened the implementation of the CARP.

3. Administrative Order no. 363 (October 9, 1997). It prescribed the guidelines for the
protection of areas non-negotiable for conversion and monitored compliance with Section. 20
of the Local Government Code.

4. Republic Act No. 8435 (Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997). It
prescribed urgent related measures to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors of the
country to enhance their profitability, and prepare said industry for the challenges of
globalization through an adequate, focused and rational delivery of necessary support services.
5. Republic Act No. 8532. It strengthened further the CARP by providing an augmentation
fund. Amended Section 63 of R.A. No. 6657.

His administration was committed to the vision “Fairer, faster and more meaningful
implementation of the Agrarian Reform Program.”

JOSEPH E. ESTRADA

Has approved and implemented:

Executive Order No. 151 (September 27, 1999). It established the Farmers Trust Development
Program. It provided institutional reforms and funs mechanisms for mobilizing long term
private sector capital for rural Development.

Estrada Implemented the Magkabalikat Para sa Kaunlarang Agraryo (MAGKASAKA) with DAR to
encourage investors to bring investment into the countryside.

His administration worked for the following:

1. Reworked performance targets by focusing on the number of hectares of land

distributed coupled with an accounting of farmers-beneficiaries and the specific croplands and
farm system covered

2. Speeded up litigation with DAR by setting up the agrarian justice fund for farmer-
beneficiaries and DAR field workers who were named respondents in cases filed by disobedient
landowners;

3. Forged alliances among countries implementing Agrarian Reform through the

International Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development.

GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO

Her term saw the passage of:

Republic Act No.9700. It strengthened the CARP and extended the acquisition and distribution
of all agricultural lands. It instituted necessary reforms and amended specific provisions of
Republic Act No. 6657, as amended.
Her administration adopted by the BAYAN-ANIHAN concept as the implementing frameworks
for CARP. Bayan means the people, Anihan means harvest, and Bayanihan means working
together. When applied to CARP, it means a united people working together to implement
agrarian reforms successfully.

Implementing strategies of Bayan-Anihan Framework

1. Salin-Lupa. Accelerating land transfer and improving land tenure.

2. Katarungan . A speedy and fair settlement of agrarian disputes and delivery of Agrarian
Reform Justice

3. Bayanihan. Better delivery by the government of appropriate support services to

Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and the mobilization of the ARBs themselves in the
transformation of the agrarian reform communities into Agrarian Reform Zones and
progressive framing

4. Kabayanihan ( Konsehong Bayan Para sa Anihan). Instituinalizing not only the system of
dialogue and consultation but also the joint problem solving with Agrarian Reform stakeholders
such as people’s organization, cooperatives, and NGO’s.

5. Kamalayan. Raising the awareness of DAR personnel, agrarian reform beneficiaries, and
the general public on Agrarian Reform and its contribution to social justice and development.

Achieved during her term were:

1. Land Tenure Improvement. DAR remained vigorous in implementing the land acquisition
and distribution component of CARP. Improved land tenure system through land distribution
and leasehold.

2. Provision of Support Services. CARP included a package of support services, such:

extension services, credit assistance, irrigation facilities, marketing facilities, roads and bridges,
and training and technical support program.

3. Infrastructure Projects. DAR transformed the agrarian reform communities (ARCs) into
rural economic zones that helped create job opportunities in the country side. Kapit Bisig sa
Kahirapan Agrarian Reform Zones (KALAHI) Agrarian Reform Zones (ARZone). Launched as a
program strategy of the DAR in the CARP implementation. Partnership and convergence
strategy aimed at achieving asset reform, poverty reduction, food sufficiency, farm productivity,
good governance, social equity and empowerment of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) both
in ARCs and non ARCs.

4. Agrarian Justice. DAR hired more paralegal officers to support understaffed

adjudicatory boards.

5. Gulayan Magsasakang Arroyo. Intended to add income and food security to farmers and
their communities.

Her agrarian reform program focused on the vision of making the countryside economically
viable for the Filipino family by promoting social equity and new economic opportunities and
building partnerships and towards lasting peace and sustainable rural development.

SIMEONE C. AQUINO III

His administration sustained the gains of agrarian reform through Land Tenure Improvement
(LTI), Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD), and Agrarian Justice Delivery (AJD)

Achieved during his term were:

1. Created the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services
(ARCESS) to help the general purpose of reducing rural poverty in agrarian reform areas.

2. Instituted the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) to give credit support for crop
production to agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) and farmer’s organizations
not capable of availing loans

3. Established the Legal Case Monitoring System (LCMS) to ensure faster resolution and
close monitoring of agrarian-related cases

RODRIGO R. DUTERTE

He ordered the rebirth of land reform in the country. He pursued and “aggressive” land reform
program that facilitated the improvement of the life of poor Filipino Farmers.
He instructed DAR to pushed for the second phase of agrarian reform by awarding landless
farmers with undistributed lands under the CARP.

ISSUES ON AGRARIAN REFORM

The resistance of landowners is the most known issue in agrarian reform in the country.
Preventing ARBs from occupying the land, they faced high profile cases of violence and constant
threats. Some land owners used the following strategies to stop ARBs from occupying the land:

1. Filed cases against the farmers and personnel of DAR

2. Used legal remedies to prevent the acquisition and distribution of property in;

3. Subdivided property to relatives taking advantage of the 5 hectare retention.

Individualization of a collective certificate of land ownership award (CLOA) is another issue in

agrarian reform. Collective titles issued to fast-tracked land distribution showed the total area
owned by farmers collectively but did not delineate individual lots. Outlining individual lots
created boundary disputes among ARBs resulting in inheritance and conflicting claims. Some
collective titles did not have an annexed list of farmers producing applications that were not
difficult to validate.

Paying land amortization is an additional problem in agrarian reform. By Policy, the Land Bank
of the Philippines (LBP) is not allowed to receive amortization payments for land with survey
discrepancies or pending subdivisions.

LESSON 3: PHILIPPINE TAXATION

ESSENTIAL PRINCIPLES OF TAXATION

Taxation refers to the State’s inherent power to enforce burdens on citizens and objects within
its jurisdiction to collect revenues to carry out the government’s Legal activities.

Taxes are imposed proportional contributions from persons and property, levied by the
legislative body of a state by its sovereign power to fund the government’s expenses and
services.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF TAXES

1. Obligatory contribution to the government

2. Generally payable in money or monetary in form

3. Proportionate in character

4. Compulsory on persons, property, or the exercise of a right/privilege;

5. Enforced by the state over the subject/ object of taxation under its territorial jurisdiction

6. Imposed by the legislative body of the state;

7. Levied for governmental purposes

NATURE OF THE STATE’S POWER TO TAX

1. Inherent sovereignty. Maybe exercised but not explicitly granted by the Constitution

2. Legislative in character. Only Congress can impose taxes

3. Subject to natural and constitutional limits. Not an absolute power. It cannot be

exercised anytime by the congress

QUALITIES OF A GOOD TAX SYSTEM

1. Fiscal adequacy. Sources of revenue should be enough to cover demands of public

expenses.

2. Theoretical Justice. Imposed taxes should be proportionate to the ability to pay of

taxpayers

3. Administrative viability. Tax laws should be capable of appropriate , just and effective
administration
PURPOSES OF TAXATION

1. Fiscal or revenue. Raised revenue to support the survival of the government intended to
provide funds/property with which to promote the general welfare and the protection of its
citizens and enable it to finance its diverse activities.

2. Regulatory or non-revenue. Imposed as a form of regulation or control by the

government e.g., Tariffs imposed on imported goods to protect local industries.

Power of taxation originated upon the “lifeblood of necessity theory” that the:

1. Existence of the government is necessary

2. The government cannot survive without means to pay its expenditures;

3. The government compels contributions to all citizens and property within its
jurisdictions.

Taxation anchored on the “benefits received principle” or the reciprocal obligation of

protection and support between the state and its inhabitants. Taxpayers gained benefits and
protection from the government in return of their contributions.

REVIEW OF THE PHILIPPINE TAXES

INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES - Imposed under the National Internal Revenue

1. Income tax – imposed on income generated from trade, business, profession,

employment, or office, dealings on the property, and all other instances of the wealth flow to
the taxpayer other than a mere return of capital.

2. Transfer tax- Imposed upon the complimentary disposition of private property. E.g.,
estate tax and donor tax

3. Percentage Tax- measured based on certain percentage of the gross selling price or total
value in money of goods sold, exchanged or imported, or gross receipts earned derived by any
person engaged in the sale of services E.G, value-added tax and other percentage taxes.

4. Exercise Tax- applied to goods manufactured or produced in the Philippines for

domestic sales or consumption or any other disposition and things imported. Imposed in
addition to the value-added tax. E.G., sin taxes imposed on cigars, cigarettes, and alcoholic
products.

5. Documentary Stamp Tax- Imposed upon documents, instruments, loan agreements and
papers, and upon acceptances, assignments, sales, and transfers or the obligation, right or
property incident to it.

Tariff and Customs Duties

1. TARIFF- referred to a schedule of fees imposed on goods exported from or imported

into a country.

2. CUSTOMS DUTIES- Levied by the government on goods exported from or imported into
the country.

CLASSIFICATION OF TAXES

AS TO SUBJECT MATTER OR OBJECT

1. Personal or Poll or Capitation Tax- Imposed on a fixed amount on persons, citizens or

not, residing within a specified territory without regard to their property of the occupation or
business in which they may be engaged E.G., Community Tax

2. Property Tax- Imposed on real or personal property in proportion to its value or by some
other reasonable appointment method E.g., Real Estate Tax

3. Consumption Tax- Imposed on goods and services that people consume from the
market. Usually passed on to consumers by adding the amount of tax paid to the price of the
good or service. E.g., Value-Added Tax (VAT) and Excise Tax

AS TO PURPOSE

1. General/Fiscal/Revenue Tax- imposed to raise funds for the service of the government

2. Special/ Regulatory Tax- Imposed for the regulation of useful or non-useful occupation
or enterprises. Secondarily only to raise public funds.
AS TO WHO BEARS THE BURDEN

1. Direct Tax- demanded from the persons who also assume the burden of the fee. The tax
payer is directly or primarily liable. The charge is not transferrable to another. E.g., Corporate
and individual Income Taxes, Community Tax, Estate Tax.

2. Indirect Tax- Demanded from a person who protects himself/herself by passing the tax
burden upon the ultimate purchaser or consumer. The tax payer shifts the burden to another
though intermediates such as good and services. E.G., VT, EXCISE TAX, CUSTOMS DUTIES

AS TO THE SCOPE OR AUTHORITY OF THE TAX

1. National tax- Impose by the national government E.G., National Internal Revenue Taxes,
Custom duties, National Taxes imposed by social laws

2. Local Taxes- imposed by local government units (LGUs). E.g., Professional Tax,
Community Tax

AS TO DETERMINATION TO THE AMOUNT TO BE PAID

1. Specific Tax- imposed on some goods based on its quantity or other standards of
measurement. E.g., Taxes on wine and Fireworks

2. Ad Valorem Tax- imposed on a fixed proportion of the assessed value of the property
E.g., Real Estate Tax, Personal Property Tax

AS TO RATE

1. Proportional Tax- imposed based on a fixed percentage of the amount of the objects
market price E.g., VAT

2. Progressive Tax- imposed based on the rate that decreases as the tax base or bracket
increases. No such tax in the Philippines.

MEANS OF AVOIDING THE BURDEN OF TAXATION

1. Shifting. Transferring the tax burden by the original payer or the one on whom the tax
was assessed or imposed on someone else without violating it.
2. Capitalization. Done by reducing the price of the taxed object or service to lower the fee
imposed on its consumption

3. Tax Evasion. Used by the tax payer of illegal or fraudulent means to defeat or lessen the
payment of a tax. Also known as “tax dodging”. Punishable by law

4. Tax Exemption. Granting of immunity by the taxing authority on a tax payer from the
obligation of paying a tax.

5. Tax avoidance. Availing by the taxpayer of legally allowable alternative tax rates or
methods of assessing taxable property or income to minimize or reduce tax liability on a
specific property, items, and services. Called “tax minimization”. Not punishable by law.

ISSUES ON TAXATION

The Philippines have some of the highest income tax rates. In a sound tax system, income tax
rates should not be very high to discourage economic activities.

Several goods and services in the country are not taxed. The right way of reducing the high tax
rate is by expanding the tax base or set of products and the service to be taxed. Imposing a
lower rate tax on many goods and services would result in the same or higher tax revenue. The
overabundance of tax exemptions partly explained the relatively small tax revenue. Limiting
exemptions to essential goods like raw food and medicine could enhance the government
revenues

Various people evade the country’s tax system. Imposing the tax to more people as possible is
one way of widening tax base to reduce the tax rates.

The country’s tax system is very complicated and burdensome, particularly to small taxpayers.
Rules on the tax system should be plain and simple for the taxpayer’s easy understanding of
their liabilities and to comply appropriately.

The rich are not paying their just portion of taxes. More taxes levied to people who can afford
to pay in a sound tax system. The rich should pay a more substantial fraction of their income
than the poor. However, poor Filipinos effectively pay a more significant fraction of their
income in taxes. Tax rates on dividends and other forms of capital income earned mostly by the
rich are so low compared to the tax rate of ordinary workers. If these capital income tax rates
increased, the rich would pay more in taxes.