Final Handouts for Soc 10

FINAL HANDOUTS FOR SOC 10

Lesson XIV The Third Republic Under the 140 constitutional amendment of the 1935 Constitution, the unicameral Assembly was abolished and replaced by a bicameral Congress. The congressional election took place in 1941, but a month later, the elected members were not able to convene because World War II broke out and was followed by the Japanese occupation. On June 9, 1945, the Philippine Congress convened for the first time after the war. Brig. Gen. Manuel Roxas was selected Senate president. The Congress called for national election set on April 23, 1946. Prior to the election, the worsening relation between Osmena and Roxas, both from the Nationlista Party, reached a breaking point, when Roxas left the Party and organized his own, the Liberal Party, Roxas ran against Osmena for the presidency, while Elpidio Quirino ran against Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez for vice-precidency. The Liberal won with Roxas and Quirino defeating Osmena and Rodriguez. Roxas had beaten Osmena by slim margin of some 203,000 votes and became the last president of the Commonwealth and, months later, the president of the Third Republic.
Independence and the Republic On July 4, 1946, the Independence of the Philippines and the inauguration of the Philippine Third Republic were highlighted by the lowering of the American flag by the American Ambassador Paul McNutt and the raising of the Philippine flag by President Manuel Roxas.
The First President of the First Republic Manuel Roxas begun his active and prominent role in the Philippine politics years before the Commonwealth as a member of the legislature. He was elected to the Senate in 1941. After the Pearl harbor incident he offered his services to McArthur as a military aide. He acted as liaison officer between the Army Commander and the Philippine government. Roxas was appointed presidential secretary by Manuel Quezon before the latter left for Australia at the beginning of the war.
Towards Rehabilitation The third Republic started of a foundation of a war-damaged nation. As its first president, the mammoth tasks of rebuilding and rehabilitating the country were loaded on Roxas’ shoulders. Roxas was convinced to a point that the Philippines could not survive, much less rehabilitate its economy without American aid and investment. When Roxas went to Washington to solicit the help of the United States government for funds, he told the Americans that “the Filipinos are not of the Orient except y geography. We are part of the Western world by reason of culture, religion, ideology, and economics. Although the color of our skin is brown the temper of our minds and hearts are almost identical with yours… So you have in us the protagonist of your political and economic system – a broadcasting station for Americanism.” Roxas request for an immediate loan of $ 25 million within five years and $ 1 billion at 1.5% interest for 30 years. The US Congress voted to grant him $ 25 million on March 1947 while UNRRA (United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration) granted him $ 10 million although he applied for $ 100 million. “In addition, the United States turned over to the Philippines $ 50 million worth of surplus military equipment. The United States Rehabilitation and Finance Corporation gave the Philippines a loan of $ 60 million.
The Bell Trade Act On April 30, 1946, the United State Congress passed a law authorized by the Congressman C. Jasper Bell, which came to be known as the Bell Trade Act. The acr provided for free trading relations between the Philippines and the United States up to the year 1954 after which, Philippine export to the US would be taxed an ascending tariff 5% every year until 1974, when all the Philippine exports will be paid in full to US import tax. On April 15, 1948, after delivering a speech wherein he reiterated Philippine solidarity with the United States, President Manuel Roxas died of a massive heart attack in Clark Field, Pampanga.
The Hukbalahap The succeeding president Elpidio Quirino announced that his administration will dedicate itself to the economic reconstruction, and the restoration of peace and order, to maintain the people’s faith and confidence in the government. The HUkbalahap started as a guerilla organization in 1942 under Luis Taruc and was, above all, anti-Japanese, throughout the was the peasant membered movement carried out their policy of working for a free and democratic Philippines. Operating in the provinces of Nueva Ejica, Tarlac, Pampanga and Bulacan, the Huks became the most potent anti-Japanese underground force during the war. The Huks were significantly instrumental during the liberation in the central and southern Luzon creating an easier entrance for the Americans when they arrived. Right after the liberation, the HUks refused to be disarmed by the Americans. The Americans soon started to arrest and detain the members progressively including Luis Taruc, who suspected the landlords to be behind in influencing the Americans. Taric was later released after a wave of peasant protests in Manila. During the period of Roxas, the president outlawed them referring to them as lawless and communists. Taruc, who was later elected in the Congress, was denied of his seat. The remainder of Roxas’ shortened term was spent in the hunt down of Taruc and the failure to finish the Huks. Realizing that the masses have somehow lost their faith and confidence in the government, President Quirino offered an absolute amnesty to the Huks after negotiation with Luis Taruc. A hero’s welcome was received by Taruc upon his arrival in Manila. Believing that Quirino was not sincere in his intensions the Huks resumed their struggle through arms. On April 28, 1949, Mrs. Aurora Quezon, the wife of the late President Manuel Quezon and their daughter Baby, along with ten others were ambushed and shot to death in Nueva Ecija. The blame was thrown to the Huks. Taruc denied the accusation. In a statement later released by Taruc, he admitted that the objective of the Huk was to overthrow the government. With the increasing strength and popularity of the Huk people of Manila started to believe the possibility of a government overthrow. Alarmed, Quirirno sent his Defense Secretary Ramon Magsaysay to win over the Huks to the side of the government through the policy of attraction. The finality of the Hukbalahap conflict came when Magsaysay became President. With the President being successful in his policy of attraction and was already identified with the masses, the Huks have soon lost popularity. In early 1954, Magsaysay sent Benigno Aquino, Jr., a journalist, as emissary to Luis Taruc to convince him and his men to surrender. The mission was succeeded with the unconditional surrender of Taruc which resulte to his imprisonment. Majority of his followers did the same. The last leader of the remaining Huks, Jesus Lava, was capture in 1964.
The Quirino Administration Vice President Elpidio Quirino immediately succeeded Roxas as President after the latter’s death in 1948. The new president promised to accomplish his two objectives, the continuation of the country’s economic recovery and the preservation of the faith and confidence of the people through the restoration of peace and order. In November 8, 1949 national elections, Quirino (Liberal Party or LP) won over Dr. Jose P. Laurel (Nacionalista Party or NP) and Jose Avelino (revel Liberal). Fernando Lopez of LP was elected vice President. According to political observers, this election was the dirtiest and bloodiest election the Philippines has ever had. In faraway, Lanao Province in Mindanao, it was reported that the birds, bees, monkeys, and the dead cast their vote for the “Liberal Party.”
The Bell Mission Report In 1946 the Bell Trade Relations Act provided for the free trade between the Philippines and the US up to 1954. It seemed, however, that the free flow f American goods in the Philippine market adversely affected the country’s dollar reserves. Almost immediately, control on importation and foreign exchange were imposed. In 1950, President Quirino went to the US although President Truman already survey mission headed by Daniel W. Bell, president of the American Security and Trust Co., to “survey all aspects of Philippine economy.” As a result of a Bell report cited the existence of “inefficient production, low incomes, excessive volumes of imports, misdirected investments, mounting deficits, inefficiency and corruption in the government.” The Bell report recommended reforms in public administration, improvement of production, higher taxes, and more efficient collection of government revenues; a minimum wage law, a tax on the sale of foreign exchange and land reform.
Quirino Accomplishments The most important achievement of the Quirino administration was its success in disabling the powerful HUkbalahap, thereby, fulfilling one of its objectives, the restoration peace and order. In accomplishing his economic recovery objective Quirino worked on the creation of the President’s Action Committee on Social Amelioration (PACSA) which was intended to assist in improving the economic condition of the masses. In infrastructure, the Maria Cristina and the Ambuklao Dam Projects were built during Quirino’s term. In social welfare, the Boy’s Town of the Philippines was established. Quirino also traveled frequently and, as an excellent ambassador of goodwill and friendship, was able to improve foreign affairs. The Quirino administration was tainted with numerous accusations of graft and corruption. The most damaging was the scam on the US War Surplus Property which had a cost of $ 50 million and from which an amount of $ 20 million was questioned. The allegation was that the Liberal Party had used it for its election campaign.
Ramon Magsaysay: the Man of the Masses. Magsaysya defeated quirino for the presidency while Carlos P. Garcia was elected vice president. Magsaysay gained popularity for this successful campaign against the Huk communist guerillas. He revitalized the Phil. Armed forces by boosting the morale of the soldiers promoting those who have killed Huk members and even offered cash rewards to those who could give information about the Huks, particularly their leaders. The Huks who used to be very influential and powerful in the countrysides were weakened significantly through his aggressive military campaign. He was the first president who conducted visits to the barrios, talked and ate with peasants, hugged the elderly, carried babies and joined farmers in their labor, thereby creating a picture of a government that loves its people. The upliftment of barrio life became the focus of his administration and this made him to be loved by the masses. His desire to continue the campaign against the Huks and other communist factions drove Magsaysay to seek the presidency. In November 1953 he ran under the Nationalista Party and defeated Quirino. In his inaguaration he wore the barong tagalog, the first time for a Philippine president. The Philippines entered into a treaty together with US, France, Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan to prevent the communist expansion in Southeast Asia. The result was the establishment of the Southeast Treaty Organization(SEATO) in Manila in Sept. 1954. On May 9, 1956, after severl years of negotiations, the Philippine-Japan Reparation Agreement was signed in Manila. It provided that Japan would pay reparations for the destruction committed by their forces in the Philippines during WWII which totaled $300,000,000 for 25 years. During the Magsaysay administration Malacanang opened its gates and was declared as a house of the people. Responding to the need of the farmers for their own land to till Magsaysay had the Congress pass the Land Tenure Reform Act. During his term the Social Security System or SSS was likewise created to protect the Filipino laborer with security benefits. On March 17, 1957, coming from Cebu and on his way back to Manila, Magsaysay was killed in a plane crash, vice President Garcia immediately assumed the presidency. An estimated two million Filipinos attended the funeral of the late president.
Garcia Administration After completing Magsaysay’s unexpired term, Garcia under the Nacionalista party, ran and won his own four-year term defeating Jose Yulo(LP) and several others in the November 1957 presidential election. It was the first time in the Philippine history that the ones elected for the position of the president and vice president would come from opposing parties. The National Economic council passed the resolution no. 204 upon endorsement of the presiden. The resolution, signed into law on August 28, 1958, promulgated Garcia’s Filipino First Policy. The policy called for the adoption of guidelines for preferential treatment to Filipino businessmen over foreigners. The Austerity Program, another project of the Garcia administration, was adopted to encourage budget savings on the part of the government. Garcia also acted on the Bohlen-Serrano Agreement which shortened the lease of the US Bases from 99 years to 25 years and made it renewable after every five years. Garcia opted for a reelection, he was defeated by Diosdado Macapagal of the liberal in the 1961 presidentail election. Emmanuel Pelaez, also from the Liberal Party, was Macapagal’s vice president.
The Macapagal Administration. On December 30, 1961, Macapagal took his post as the fifth president of the Third Republic. Macapagal promised to bring about a new era of peace and prosperity to the Filipino people. Upon Macapagal’s recommendation, the Agricultural Land Reform law was enacted by Congress on August 8, 1963. Under this law, the government will purchase private lands and distribute small lots to ladless tenant farmers who will pay back the cost of the lots on easy-payment terms. It was during Macapagal’s term that the Philippines officially filed her claim to Sabah(North Borneo) on June 22, 1962. The claim started some political friction bet. Malaysia and the Philippines. The Macapagal administration was responsible for transferring the celebration of the Philippine independence day from the July 4 after WWII to Jun e 12 of Aguinaldo in Kawit. Macapagal promoted the Filipino language by having it used on various official documents of the government school diplomas and even signages. Macapagal did his best but his promise of a new era of prosperty did not materialize. He promised that he not will seek a reelection and will give the as the next presidential opportunity to the then Senate President Ferdinand Marcos. However, as the next election was closing in, his decision reversed. Upon the invitation of the Nacionalista members, Sen. Marcos switched parties to run opposite Macapagal. On the presidential election of November 7, 1965, Pres. Macapagal and Gerardo Roxas for vice president were defeated, in a ladslide, by the Nacionalista Party candidates Ferdinand Marcos and Fernando Lopez.
The Marcos Administration Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, was born on September 11, 1917 in Sarat, Ilocos Norte. Marcos’ shot to prominence was when while a law student at the University of the Philippines, he was put on trial in 1935 for the murder the Julaino Nalundasan, reelected congressman of their district. Ferdinand Marcos was found guilty of the crime by the lower court presided by Judge Roman Cruz and was given the life sentence. The decision was appealed to the Supreme Court with Marcos defending himself. In spite of being in jail, he took the bar examination and topped it. A bar topnotcher defending himself on a murder trial caught the attention of many. One of them was Supreme Court Associate Justice Jose P. Laurel. Laurel then worked for the acquittal of Ferdinand. Marcos signed up and fought as a military soldier in Bataan. After the war, Marcos ran and was elected in 1949 as congressman. In 1959, he was elected to the Senate and eventually became Senate President in 1963. After learning Macapagal was running again, Marcos broke off with the Liberal Party and joined the Nacionalista Party to become its presidential candidate in the 1965 election.
Marcos’ First Term (1965 – 1969) On December 30, 1965, Marcos took his oath of office as the sixth president of the Philippine republic. Vice President Lopez was also inducted into office. Marcos began his administration with a mountain of serious problems inherited from the past administration. The national treasury was almost empty due to the excessive spending of the Macapagal administration. In the election of November 14, 1967, the Nacionalista Party won a sweeping victory. Only one Liberal senatorial candidate was elected. He was Benigno Aquino Jr., former governor of Tarlac, the youngest of all senatorial aspirants, and the topnotcher of the 1967 senatorial election.
The Re-Election of Marcos The Reelection of President Marcos was unprecedented in the annals of the political history of the Philippines. First, he was the only president of the republic to be reelected for a second term. And second, he as the First Philippine President to take his oath of office (December 30, 1969) in the native language.
Economic Problems The Second term would be a period of difficult challenges for Marcos. The global economic crisis brought about by the rising oil prices reached the Philippines and adversely affected her economy. This came as an effect of the decision of the oil-producing Arab countries to cut back oil production in response to Western Military aid to Israel in the Arab-Israel conflict. The prices of the prime commodities spiraled skyward and many people became jobless. Overspending in the 1969 elections led to higher inflation and the “floating peso” devaluated. In addition, the frequent visits of natural calamities brought devastation to infrastructure and agricultural crops and livestock.
Lesson XV Martial Law and the Fourth Republic
Student Power and Demonstration The bloodiest of this student demonstrations was what referred as “The First Quarter Storm” which occurred on the night of January 30, 1970 when angry demonstrators stormed Malacanang but were driven away by Metrocom and polices forces.
The Call for New Constitution Constitution 1935 was obsolete for it was no longer in harmony with the condition of the times. Its defects apparently were as follows: (1) it was a relic of colonialism, neing drafted during the American regime and was an imitation of the US constitution, (2) too much powers given to the President may spawn a dictator, (3) imbalance among the legislative, executive and judicial branches (4) lack of a provision on presidential election protests, 95) its Parity Amendment was a memento of American imperialism, (6) the Commission on Election was not granted adequate powers to prevent election anomalies, (7) the GAO (General Auditing Office) was virtually a watchdog without teeth, and (8) it had no provision on local autonomy.
The Constitutional Convention The Constitutional Convention met in inaugural session on June 1, 1971 at the Manila Hotel. It was formally opened by Senate President Gil J. Puyat and House Speaker Comelio Villareal. The highlight was the address of President Marcos who appealed to the delegates to form a constitution which would cure the political and socio-economic ills of the nation. The first convention president Carlos P. Garcia who, unfortunately, died on June 14, 1971 of heart attack. He was succeeded by Diosdado Macapagal, another former President of the Philippine Republic.
Re-Emergence of Communist Movement The radical nationalism of the Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP) became influencial to many of these organizations. The communist leader were split into two, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the Maoist faction, was founded under the leadership of Jose Ma. Sison. The New People’s Army (NPA) and was put under the leadership of Bernabe “Kumander Dante” Buscayno. The NPA, from thereon, would become one of the most difficult enemies of the Marcos regime.
“Plaza Miranda Massacre” After the historical visit of Pupe Paul VI the condition of the Philippines worsened. Its speak in the so-called “Plaza Miranda Massacre” on the evening of August 21, 1971, during the proclamation rally of the Liberal Party Candidates for the local election scheduled on November 8, 1971. Some of those severely injured were Senators Jovito Salonga and Eva Estrada Kalaw. Ninoy Aquino, who was expected in the occasion, was not present. Marcos threw the accusation of the crime on the NPA and Aquino.
Suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus Immediately issued Proclamation No. 880 that same midnight suspending the privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus “in order to maintain peace and order, secure the safety of the people and preserve the authority of the State. Despite the suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus, the campaign for the election of the eight national senators and about 15, 000 local officials continues with the customary political rallies and fiery platform speeches. The local elections were held on November 8, 1975. The country was again faced with more street demonstrations and a massive resurgence of subversive activities. Marcos described the violent events as a conspiracy of the Radical Left (the Communist) and the Radical Right (the oligarchs). Some critics say that Marcos was merely exaggerating the situation so in order to gain more reasons to stay in power.
The Proclamation of the Martial Law At the height of the series of bombings and growing subversive activities Marcos Stated. President Marcos, on September 23, 1972, announced his proclamation placing the entire Philippines under martial law. The Proclamation 1081 which declared Martial Law had been signed by Marcos even earlier, on September 21, 1972. The media and the academe were arrested and detained on the accusation that they were either sympathetic to the rebels, supporting the rebel movement or members of the communist movement. Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr., Jose Diokno, and Ramon Mitra. Other general orders of Marcos immediately after proclamation were, the imposition of curfew in the entire Philippines. To take over and control newspapers, to take over the management, control and operation of MERALCO, PLDT, the National Water Works and Sewerage Authority. The Philippine National Railways, the Philippine Airlines, and other public utilities. Amnd to keep such under his custody for the duration of national emergency. The delegates of the Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) reassembled and resumed work on Sept. 25 except for the anti-Marcos delegates. They worked more quickly and finished the new constitution on November 29, 1972. On November 30, Marcos issued P.D. No. 73 setting the date of the plebiscite on January 15, 1973 for the ratification of the Constitution. Marcos, instead, organized the Citizen Assemblies through P.D. No.86 to present the people. Citizen Assembles voted for the ratification of the 1973 Constitution through the Citizen Assemblies, the suspension of the convening of the Interim National Assembly, the continuation of the Martial Law, and the suspension of the elections for the period of at least seven years. The Constitution of the 1973 had been ratified by the Citizen Assemblies. The ratification resulted to the abolition of the Congress, the institution of a parliamentary form of government, and the prerogative when to call for the interim national assembly. President would exercise absolute legislative power.
The Martial Law Years 1. Land Reform – which declared the country under land reform program. Land reform scope to tenanted rice and corn lands and set the retention limit at 7 hectares. 2. Mindanao – under the chairmanship of Nur Misuari, an organizer of the Minadanao Independence Movement, MNLF soone clashed with the government forces in an armed conflict resulting to casualties on both sides along with civilians destruction. Marcos initited a truce with the MNLF through the involvement of Islamic states.
The high morale of MNLF freedom fighters forced the Manila government under Marcos to sign a peace agrrement under the auspices of the Libyan government of Col. Muamar Qadafi. This peace agreement is known as the Tripoli Agreement. 3. 1976 Constitutional Amendments – the creation of the interim batasang pambansa instead of a national assembly. President would also become the prime minister and would contitnue to exercise legislative powers until martial law. the president may legislate outside the IBP when necessary in case of grave emergency, or threat or danger to national security.
The 1976 Amendments only continued Marcos’ dictatorship. The Amendments only made the IBP a “subber stamp” with Marcos being the prime minister aside from being president. 4. Partido komunista ng Pilipinas, Felicisimo Macapagal, signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Marcos Admonistration. 5. The Marcos administration initiated diplomatic relations with communist states like the eastern bloc Hungary and East Germany in 1973, China and Romania in 1975; and USSR in 1976. Marcos strengthened US ties through the US military bases agreement on 1975. 6. The National College entrance Examination was initiated to improve the quality of education. 7. Marcos created the Batasang Bayan, a 128-member legislature that included his cabinet members who would advise the president on important legislative measures. 8. On April 7, 1978, the first national election under martial law was held. The massive victory of the Kilusang Baging Lipunan. Mrs. Imelda Marcos, won the highest votes in Metro Manila. The opposition denounced the massive vote buying and cheating in the lelection. The opposition liberal party boycotted the elections. On June 12, 1978 the IBP was convened with Ferdinand Marcos as President-Prime Minister and Querube Makalintal as Speaker. 9. Marcos lifted martial law by signing proclamation NO. 2045. The opposition called face lifting as a precondition to the Philippine visit of Pope John Paul II 10. 1981 Constitutional Amendments – the Parliamentary system was modified as executive power was restored to the president. An executive committee was created to assist the president in the exercise of his functions and the prime minister was a mere head of the Cabinet. 11. Numerous establishments were built during the period of Martial Law. The Philippine heart center, the National Kidney institute and the Lung center of the Philippines. The San Juanico Bridge, the BLISS housing projects and the Light Railways Transit in Metro Manila.
The Fourth Republic After the end of more than eight years of Martial Law, the government of the Philippine Republic changed drastically from the intended parliamentary democracy to a mixed presidential dictatorship under Marcos. The new Society or historically speaking the Fourth Republic of the Philippines.
The first Presidential election. The first presidential election in twelve years was held. Marcos ran and won a massive victory over the other almost unknown candidate – alejo Santos of a Nacionalista Party. The major opposition parties, United Democratic Opposition(UNIDO), a coalition of opposition parties under Salvador Laurel and Laban, boycotted the elections. On june 30, 1981, Marcos was inaguarated in grandiose ceremonies and proclaimed the birth of a new Republic, this new Republic last for a little han five years.
Ninoy Aquino Benigno Ninoy Aquino born in Concepcion Tarlac to a prosperous family of hacienderos. His father Benigno Aquino Sr. was prominent official in Quezon’s Commenwealth and during the WWII.Ninoy lost his father while a teen amid rumor of collaboration with the Japanese during the occupation. At 17, Ninoy was the youngest war correspondent to cover the Korean War for the Manila Times of Joaquin Roces. He received a Phil. Legion of Honor award from President Quirino at age 18. At 21, he became an adviser to Defense secretary Ramon Magsaysay. Ninoy took law at UP but then returned to journalism. He was Magsaysay’s emissary to Luis Taruc who surrendered unconditionally after some negotiations. At 22, he was mayor of Concepcion in 1955. He married Corazon Cojangco and had 5 children. He became vice governor and then governor of Tarlac in 1961. He was the youngest senator in the country’s history at age 34. In 1968, he warned Marcos for creating a Garrison State by ballooning the armed forces budget, maintaining overstaying generals and militarizing our civilian government offices. Aquino continued to criticize the Marcos regime. His most celebrated speech, entitled A Pantheon for Imelda. He exposed the first lady’s first extravagant project the P50 million Cultural Center calling it a monument to shame. The outraged Marcos called Aquino a congenital liar. Soon, the fiscalization tactcs of Aquino became his signature trademark. Aquino considered the highest office in the land, the presidency. Since Marcos by law was prohibited to serve another term. However, the Plaza Miranda bombing on August 21, 1971 created a new path of destiny for Aquino. Marcos allies insinuated that perhaps, Aquino might have been involved so to eliminate his potential rivals within the party. A communist insurgency to be the handwork of the New People’s Army. When Marcos proclaimed Martial Law in 1972. Aquino was one of the first subversion. Aquino announcing that he was going on a hunger strike, a fast to the death to protest the injustices of his military trial. On May 13, 1975, the 40th day, upon the requests of his family and friends, he finally ended his fasting, confident that he had made a symbolic gesture.Military Tribunal found Aquino guilty of all charges and was sentenced to death by firing squad. This was never implemented. Ninoy was allowed to take part in the elections for the Interim Batasang Pambansa.aquino organized and ran with 21 candidates in Metro Manila. His political party Lakas ng Bayan(People Power) was born. Its acronym was Laban.people believed that his party would win overwhelmingly in an honest election. All his candidates lost due to widespread election fraud. In March 1980, Aquino suffered a heart attack, the result of seven years in prison. The doctors realized he had a blocked artery, but Aquino refused to be operated by local doctors employed by Marcos. Imelda Marcos made a visit to Aquino at the hospital. She offered him to go to the US on conditions that he will return and he will not speak there against Marcos. Aquino was operated in Dallas, Texas. Marcos extended his exile for medical reasons. Aquino renounced his two covenants with Imelda because of the dictates of higher national interest. Ninoy added a pact with the devil is no pact at all. Aquino spent three years in self-exile, setting up a house with Cory and their kids in Newton, Boston, Massachusetts. On Fellowship grants from Harvard University and the Massachusetts Insitute of Technology, he worked on two books and gave lectures. Marcos aware of Aquino’s growing popularity in his absence, accused him of masterminding some bombings in Metro Manila. Aquino denied advocating a bloody revolution, but warned that radicalized oppositionists may resort to this soon. Aquino urged Marcos to heed the voice of conscience and moderation, and declared his willingness to lay his own life on the line. Aquino decided to go back to the Philippines. Warned that he will either be imprisoned or killed. He answered, if it’s my fate to die by an assassin’s bullet, so be it. Ninoy had to fly alone to attract less attention. He acquired a passport on an alias, Marcial Bonifacio, Marcial for martial law and Bonifacio for Fort Bonifacio. Marcos government warned all international airlines that they would be denied landing and forced to return to his homeland, and no government can stop him. On August 21, 1983 former Se. Benigno Aquino returned to the Philippines. It would have been convenient for the Marcos government if Aquino had stayed out of politics. He wished to express to Marcos to step down and seek a peaceful regime change and return the country to democracy. A few steps after leaving the plane multiple gunshots were heard outside. Aquino was shot dead in the head at the Tarmac of Manila International Airport while in custody of the Aviation Security Command(AVSECOM) guards. The alleged killer, Rolando Galman, were assigned to an investigation by the presidential fact-finding board. The country wept with the death of NInoy. “Ninoy, Di Ka Nag – iiisa” became very popular along with the “yellow ribbon” nad other yellow items which commemorated him. His funeral turned to be the longest and the largest in Philippine History as its was attended by some two million people from all walks of life.
Investigation and Trial of the Aquino Murder Realizing that the people were enraged by the brutal and unjust murder of Senator Aquino, Marcos immediately created a fact finding commission. The commission had only two sitting and was disbanded at once due to heavy public criticisms. Marcos created a five-man independent board of inquiry to investigate on the Aquino murder to be known as the Agrava fact finding board headed by Justice Corazon Agrava. Marcos made a statement charging the communists, particularly under the order Rodolfo Salas, for killing of Senator Aquino. The board came up with the findings that the Aquino assassination was carefully planned and was executed by the military, that it was not Galman who shot and killed Aquino. Chairman Agrava implicated seven ilitary men headed by Brig. Gen. Luther Custodio. The four other members, however, implicated twenty-five military men headed Gen. Fabian Ver. The report were submitted to the SandiganBayan on February 1985. The trial lasted seven months and, on December 2, 1985, the tribunal decided for the acquittal of all the 26 accused. The peop[le protested the decision with rallies and demonstrations flooding the streets of Metro Manila. On August 13, 1985,fifty-six Assemblymen signed a resolution calling for the impeachment of President marcos. They cited the San Jose Mercury News expose of the Marcoses’ multi-million dollar investment and property holdings in the United States. The committee on Justice, Human rights and good Government dismissed the impeachment complain for being insufficient in form and substance.
Lesson XVI The 1986 Philippine Revolution and the Aquino Administration By 1985, the political and economic instability in the country faced fears that the violent overthrew of the Marcos dictatorship was forthcoming. Allegedly, the white house had advised the Marcos government to exert effort to gain more the confidence of the people. Foreign news agencies began to emphasize the issue of “loss of confidence” on Marcos.
Snap Presidential Election of 1986 In order to prove the international community that he still has people’s confidence, Marcos, on November 23, 1985 call for a snap special presidential election. February 7, 1986 as the date for snap election. President Marcos and Assemblyman Arturo Tolentino as their official candidates for president and vice-president. The opposition was divided, there was a phenomenal “Ninoy” sentiment among many Filipinos at that time. The ability to beat Marcos opposition candidate that is charged with the “Ninoy” sentiment. Chino Roces, through his one million signature campaign to have Ninoy;s wqodow Corazon “Cory” Aquino to run for president. She would be the best one to confront Marcos in the polls. A divided opposition will not beat Marcos. Finally, the UNIDO and the PDP Laban parties agreed to unite and jointly filed their official candidates – Mrs. Cory Aquino for president and Doy Laurel for Vice President. No effort had been spared in the use of “guns, goons and gold” to intimidate voters to support the Marcos. Behind the scenes, the government party implemented a massive strategy to take the results of the elections in favor on the KBL candidates. Cory’s lack of political experience, the opposition candidates Aquino and Laurel drew larger crowds who voluntarily went to the rallies. The “L” Laban party sign, as an expression of popular support. The snap presidential elections of February 7, 1986 was one of the most historic elections in the Philippine history. The first time a women candidate, Mrs. Corazon Aquino, ran for President. After the election, conflicting results showed Marcos-tolentino winning in the partial official count of the Commission of Elections while, on the other hand, Aquino and Laurel were leading in the unofficial count of the National Movement for Free Elections, a non-government organization headed by Jose Concepcion. The confusion was further aggravated, 30 COMELEC computer operators walked out of the PICC hall. At the end of the COMELEC Marcos-Tolentino winning the election. Massove protest followed. Due to the reports alleged fraud, CBCP issued a statement condemning the elections. The US senate passed a resolution stating the same. Mrs. Aquino called the people to a “civil disobedience.” Mrs. Aquino along with the opposition, rallied the people at the Luneta Grandstand for the “Tagumpay ng Bayan.” The occasion was attended by more than three million people.
The 1986 People power Revolution Exerting only the collective force of their faith and unselfish sacrifice, the people fulfilled one of Rizal’s prophecies in his book. El Filibusterismo wherein he wrote: “ When the people reaches that height, God will provide a weapon, the idols will be shattered, the tyranny will crumble likw a house of cards and the liberty will shine out like the first dan.” The Peopl Power Revolution. Defense Minister Enrile was informed at once while at his house. Around 2pm, Col. Honasan and Lt. Col. Eduardo Capunan rushed to take Enrile from his house realizing the imminent mass arrests to follow. Minister Enrile and vice Chief Staff Gen. Fidel Ramos gave a press conference at the Ministry of National defense at Camp Aguinaldo to announce their withdrawal of support to the president. Saying that he cannot serve a president who is no longer capable of maintaining decency in the government “Enough is enough Mr. President. Your time is up.” Radio Veritas – a catholic radio station, replayed the press conference nationwide. Jaime cardinal Sin exhorted Filipinos to come to aid of the rebel leaders by going to EDSA between Camps Crame and Aguinaldo and give emotional support, food and other supplies. Many people, including priests and nuns, marched to EDSA.
February 23 Government troops arrived at radio veritas to cut off its nationwide broadcast. The station has become valuable communication tool between the people and the rebels. People, coming from all walks of life, continued to pour EDSA as hours passed, armed only with prayers, rosaries, and the statue of Our Lady of Fatima. By early afternoon of February 23, Enrile and Ramos consolidated their positions. A contingent of marines coming from north and south, with tanks and armored vans led by Brig. Gen. artemio tadiar, was stopped about 2kms. Tadiar threatened the crowds but were not moved, forcing them to stand by from a distance. The last radio veritas transmitter failed. The staff located another station and broadcasted from a secret location under the “Radyo Bandido”. Une Keithley was the broadcaster who continued the radio program throughout the remaining days.
February 24 June Keithley received reports that mArcos had left Malacanang and came out from crame to appear to the crowds. The jubilation was , however, short-lived as Marcos appeared later on the government-controlled Channel 4, declaring the he will not step down. Channel 4 suddenly went off air. A group of RAM soldiers, under Col. Mariano Santiago, captured the station. “This Channel 4 serving the people again.” At the heght of the People Power, an estimated three million filled EDSA from Ortigas to Cubao. Rebel helicopters attacked Villamor Air base, destroying presidential vehicles. Another helicopters went to Malacanang fired a rocket and caused minor damaged. The majority of the armed forces had already changed sides. IN a dialogue with Marcos on television. Gen. Fabian Ver presented the need to immobilize the rebel helicopters using fighter planes to strike at any time. Marcos rejected the attack. Marcos replied that his order is to disperse the crowd with out shooting them.
February 25 Cory Aquino was inaugurated as President of the Philippines in a simple ceremony at club Filipino in greenhills. She was sworn in by Senior Associate Justice Claudio Teehankee. Ramos who was promoted to chief of staff. Enrile who was reinstated. Marc os sought the advice of the white House through US Sen. Paul Laxalt who cleared him that exile is a must. Marcos talked to enrile, requesting a safe passage. Marcos family was transported by four American helicopters to clark air base, on to Guam, and finally to Hawaii. People rejoiced in the streets. The demonstrators finally stormed Malacanang. Looting by some protesters occurred but the majority only wandered the extravagance. People around the world rejoiced and congratulated Filipinos they knew.
The constitutional commission Cory Aquino issued Proclamation no.3 on March 25, 1986, promulgating the Provisional Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines known as the Freedom Constitution. Former Supreme Court Justice Cecilia Munoz Palma led the Concom. On February 2, 1987, the people went to the pollsand ratified the new constitution in a national plebiscite.
Among the salient features of the 1987 Constitution are the following: 1. A declaration of State policies 2. A new bill of rights. 3. Creation of commission of human rights 4. A presidential system of government 5. President term up to six years. 6. President’s right to proclaim martial law with the approval of congress 7. Bicameral congress 8. Constitutional amnedments and impeachment cases 9. Autonomy of local government and the creation of autonomous regions 10. Free education up to high school level 11. The government’s right to incur new loans is subject to freedom of information and limitations by congress and monetary board.
Towards Economic Recovery Aquino inherited the problems besetting the former administration which was worsened by economic mismanagement and the uncontrollable greed of the Marcoses. The administration is now burdened with a foreign debt of more than $26 billion. Aquino government undertook several economic measures. Exerted to attract more foreign investments. An intensive tourism promotion program. Able to work out a debt restructuring program with the country’s foreign creditors. In 1986, Mrs. Aquino was invited to deliver a speech in the US congress for the restoration of democracy. Aquino was likewise selected Magazine’s Woman of the Year in 1986.
Carp and PCGG The government launched the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. The government has also exerted efforts to recover the so-called ill-gotten wealth of the Marcos family and their cronies through the Presidential Commission on Good Goernment(PCGG).
Coup Attempts Aquino repeatedly faced military coup attempts aside from the continued communist insurrection. The attempted military coup dubbed as God Save the queen posed a more serious threats to the Aquino administration. Gen. Fidel Ramos able to foil the attempt with the arrest of its leader Col. Gregorio Honasan of the RAM.
Disasters
The Pinatubo eruption coincided with the termination of the US-Phil Military Bases Agreement which the Phil Senate had refused to extend despite the opposition of Aquino. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake in central Luzon on July 16, 1990 resulted to the loss of around 1,700 lives and a burden of infrastructure problems for the administration. The power problem also plagued the term of Aquino. This would only resolved during the Ramos administration.
Lesson XVII – Towards Peace and Progress
1992 Presidential Elections In December 1991, Ramos declared his candidacy for president. He, however, lost the nomination of the dominant party Laban ng Democratikong Pilipno(LDP) to House Speaker Ramon Mitra. Ramos left LDP and founded the Partido Lakas ng Tao. The front runner was Mrs. Miriam Defensor Santiago, a feisty lady lawyer who had a platform of ending government graft and corruption. She won the support of the youth and Metro Manila. The election results were marred by allegations of fraud, though large scale cheating was not proven.
The First Protestant President On June 30, 1992, Fidel Ramos was inaguarated as the 12th President of the Philippines. Estrade also was sworn as the new vice president. Ramos was the first protestant to become president of this mostly catholic contry. He emphasized that he just happened to be a protestant and ust be a president for the Filipino people of all faiths.
The Power Crisis The Philippines was experiencing widespread brownouts due to the huge demand for electricity and antiquity of power plants. Enact a law creating an energy department that would plan and manage the Philippines’ energy demands. Ramos then issued the licenses to independent power producers to construct power plants within 24 hours.
Economic Reforms Ramos administration economics reforms were implemented to open up the national economy, encourage private enterprises. Invite more foreign and domestic investment. Ramos became the most travelled Philippine presidentin recent history with numerous trips abroad which generated about US $ 2o billion worth of foreign investments to the Philippines.
Philippines 2000 Ramos led the 4th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation. He also instituted tax reforms which includes a forced increase on VAT. Ramos administration enjoyed steady economic growth and stability. Philippines 2000’ prepared the way for the Philippines to become a newly industrialized country and the “Tiger Cub Economy in Asia.”
Peace Program Ramos made peace with the rebel panels when the final peace agreement between the government and the Moro National Liberation Frong led by NUr Nisuari was signed. And the communist party of the Philippines. Ramos created the National Unification Commission and appointed Haydee Yorac as its chairman. Amnesty to rebel military officer of the reform, AFP Movement under Col. Honasan, leader of the 1989 coup.
Spratly Conflict It started when the government learned in 1995 of a Chinese military structure on Mischief Reef in the Spratly Island. The Philippine issued a formal protest over China’s occupation of the reef and had the navy arrest 62 Chinese fisherman at Half Moon Shoal. When surveillance pictures confirmed that the structure were of military design. China claimed that the structures were shelters for fishermen. Chian still claims the Spratlys by way of historic right.
Welfare of Overseas Workers The negotiation between Ramos and Singapore Prime Minister Go Chok Tong over the case of the contract worker Flor Contemplacion, who charged and found guilty of murder, gave way to new measures in handling overseas workers protection.
The Centennial Celebration The Centennial Celebration of the Philippine Independence began in 1996 with the beginning of the Philippine revolution and the martyrdom of the national hero Jose Rizal. The centennial expo and Amphitheater at the former clark airbase in Angeles City, Pampanga was built almost controversies of overspending.
The Death Penalty Fidel Ramos declared his support for the reinstating of the death penalty which the Constitution had abolished in 1987. Ramos signed intp law the return of death penalty for heinous crimes through lethal injection.
Charter Change Ramos, an attempt was made to revise the 1987 Constitution; known as charter change. On reasons that economic provisions of the Constitution impedes the Philippines’ competitiveness for globalization. Ramos suggested that charter changed must begin. The proposal was countered with great opposition by various sectors doubting that this will only serve the personal interests of some politicians.
Lesson XVIII The Centennial; Independence and President
Erap Estrada Administration The 1998 Presidential election campaign. Estrada’s campaign in particular was focused on wooing the masses using the phrase “Erap Para Sa Mahirap”. The Majority of the Filipino electorate are from the MASA, the poor desired a leadership they could relate with. He won the largest majority in the Philippine history. Estrada was inaugurated on June 30, 1998 in the historical Basaoain Church.
Terrorism
President Estrada had to deal with was the wasr against terrorism. Abu Sayaf gunmen attacked a Malaysian resort Sipadan. The government exorted efforts to rescue the victims. On December 30, 2000, or what is referred to as the “Rizal-Day Bombing.” A series of explosions occurred in Metro Manila within a succession of a few hours.
Media
President Estrada was getting from the Philippine Daily Inquirer, he criticized the broadsheet newspaper, for “bias, malice and fabrication” against him.
The Jueteng Scandal Luis “Chavit” Singson, he gave President Estrada 400 million as “lord of all jueteng lords.” He also accused erap of receiving kickbacks of 180 million pesos from tobacco excise tax. Estrada’s impeachment by the House of Representatives in November 13, 200.
The Impeachment Trial Represenatative Joker Arroyo, presented witnesses and evidence to prove Estrada’s involvement in the illegal “jueteng” gambling and his maintenance of secret bank accounts allegedly under the alias of “Jose Velarde.” Singson testified against Estrada and claimed that they have been “partners” in-charge of the Jueteng. On the Evening of January 16, 2001, the majority of the Senators were allies of Estrada, voted not to open the second envelope that was said to contain incriminating evidence against the president. The final vote was 11-10, in favor on “No”, thereby keeping the envelope closed. The prosecution panel walked out of the impeachment court in the protest. The walkout indicated the court contempt. Davide nevertheless, did not enforce it.
Edsa Revolution 2 The Anti-Estrada protestors gathered in the historical EDSA at the EDSA shrine. The clamor of Estrada’s resignation grew stronger as more people poured in at EDSA in the following days. The AFP and many Cabinet members of President Estrada, realizing the political uproar on a national scale, decided to withdraw their support from the President. The Supreme Court declared the seat of presidency vacant. Chief Justice Davide sworn in Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as acting President of the Philippines. Estrada and his family left presidential palace. The International community recognized Arroyo’s succession. The entire Philippine government and the AFP acknowledge Arroyo as the new president. The Supreme Court ruled later that Estrada had indeed resigned and declared Arroyo as the Constitutional succeeding president.
Lesson XIX The Arroo Administration: A Long Road to Unity
GMA is the 14th and incumbent President of the Philippines. She is the country’s second fenale president afte Corazon Aquino and is the daughter of former President Diosdado Mcapagal.
2001 Presidential Succession At the height of EDSA revolt, right after the military and the national police had withdrawn their allegiance to Estrada, the Supreme Court declared the presidency vacant on Jan. 20, 2001. Arroyo was sworn in the same day as president of the Philippines. The supreme Court upheld the legitimacy of Arroyo’s succession. Despite the recognition of the international community and with the government under the Arroyo, Estrada and many in the opposition continued to defy Arroyo’s legitimacy as president.
People Power 3/ May 1 Mayhem On Labor Day, May 1, thousands of protesters, mostly from the poor marched from the Edsa shrine to Malacanang demanding that Estrada be released and reinstated. President Arroyo declared a State of Rebellion in Metro Manila. Many protesters were ordered arrested. The government was eventually able to quell the rebellion. The opposition condemned the declaration, suspecting it as a prelude to a Martial Law. The declaration was lifted later.
Oakwood Mutiny Arroyo faced a rebellion when junior military officers and soldiers, led by capt. Gerardo Gambala and Lt. Antonio Trillanes IV, mutinied and seized the Oakwood hotel. The president declared a state of rebellion in Luzon to prevent the incident from worsening. They surrendered soon before an attack by government forces was even made. The president created the Feliciano Commission to investigate the mutiny. On August 18, 2003, Sen Panfilo Lacson accused the first Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo of keeping campaign funds into a bank account under the fictitious name Jos Pidal. The allegation ended nowhere. Later, Ignacion Arroyo, Jr., the younger brother, claimed that he was Jose Pidal. The account was never opened when Ignacio, Jr. invoked his right to privacy.
Estrada Case On Sept. 12, 2007, former president Estrada was found guilty of plunder by the Sandigan Bayan and sentenced to reclusion perpetua with accessory penalties of perpetual disqualification from public office and forteiture of ill-gotten wealth. President Arroyo granted executive clemency to Estrada, the former president was released and was restored to his civil and political rights.
The 2004 Elections Arroyo made her announcement that she would not run anymore in 2004. Ten months later, however, she reversed her former statement and declared her intention to run. Sen. Panfilo Lacson and the well-respected film actor Fernando Poe, Jr. two of Estrada’s allies opted to run and oppose Arroyo. Arroyo won the election by over a million votes against her closest rival, FPJ. Arroyo took her oath of office on June 30, 2004 at Cebu City, the first time a Philippine president took the oath of office outside Luzon.
Strong Republic. Arroyo outlined her vision for the country towards building a strong republic.
The War on Terror. On July 20, 2004, the President ordered the withdrawal of the Philippine contingent in Iraq as a result of the hostaging of the contract worker Angelo de la Cruz. Arroyo said “..when it comes to showing off to the world, and life of a Filipino citizen, the life of our citizens come first.”
Heightened Opposition. Fernando “Da King” Poe Jr., died on Decmber 14, 2004 of cerebral thrombosis. The death of FPJ became a venue for the out pouring of anti-arroyo sentiments coming from various sectors of scoeity. His funeral was attended by more than a million fans, supporters and Anti-Arroyo protesters. The main issue against Arroyo was that she cheated the 2004 election stealing the presidency from FPJ. On April 2, 2005.
The 2004 Election Scandal In the middle of 2005, Samuel Ong, a former National Bureau of Investigation, calimed to have possessed COMELEC official, believed to be commissioner Virgilio Garciallano, dubbed as “Hello, Gacri…” that the 2004 election was rigged by Arroyo in order to win by more than one million votes. Arroyo admitted to have inappropriately spoken with an election official and apologized to the Filipino people on broadcast television saying “I Am Sorry…”, claiming that it was a “lapse in judgement”.
Calibrated Preemptive Response (CPR) Arroyo issued in September 2005 an executive order stating that demonstrations without permits would be pre-emptively stopped. The order was questioned in terms of its constitutionality.
Executive Order No. 464 The E.O. 464 which was prevented cabinet members, police and military generals, senior national security officials, and “such other officers as may be determined by the President” to attend congressional hearings unless the President gives them permission. This measure of the President, along with the Calibrated Preemptive Response were challenged before the Supreme Court, which apparently declared some sections to be constitutional.
A State of Emergency On February 24, 2006, People Power Revolution, an alleged coup plot headed by Capt. Danilo Lim and other rightist military adventurists was uncovered. President Arroyo declared a State of Emergency for the whole country in an attempt to quell rebellion and to stop lawless violence.
Improving Economy President Arroy, an economict herself, focus on economy. Marking the first time since 1970s with consecutive years of growth over 5%.
Charter Changed The issue of charter changed, moved to change the 1987 Constitution started with President Ramos. Charter change became a priority since 2004. Executive Order No. 453, The Consultative commission was created. One of the proposals was the transformation of the present presidential-bicameral republic into a federal parliamentary-unicameral form of government. Sigaw ng Bayan was created to gather enough signatures through peope’s initiative in order to call for a plebiscite on the prosed constitution changes. Many oppsed on the Cha-Cha on the allegation that the president and her allies would directly benefit from the proposed change. Supreme Court under the Chief Justice, rejected Sigaw ng Bayan’s People’s Initiative on the grounds that it failed to comply with the basic constitutional requirements for conducting a people’s initiative. In December 2006, Speaker Jose de Venecia, with support from Malacanang, went to push through with the charter change. CBCP called for a “massived prayer rally” set on Dec. 15. The CBCP expressed grave doubts on the motives of the House majority in pushing the Con-ass.