Elections are fundamental to a republic. They are the primary way citizens choose their leaders and participate in shaping the future of their nation. The Philippines, with its rich and often turbulent history, has seen its electoral systems evolve significantly since gaining full independence. Understanding these changes means looking closely at the practices, laws, and…
Post-Independence / Republic Era
Understanding ‘People Power’ in Philippine History: From EDSA to Today
The Philippines has a unique place in modern history for its use of what has become known globally as “‘People Power’.” This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it describes a powerful form of non-violent protest and civilian resistance that has significantly shaped the nation’s political path. When we talk about ‘People Power’ in Philippine history, we…
The Steep Economic Cost of Cronyism in the Philippines Post-EDSA Revolution
The EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986 marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history. It signaled the end of over two decades of authoritarian rule under Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and ushered in a new era with promises of democracy, reform, and economic recovery. One of the defining features of the Marcos era, and a major…
The Philippine Military Academy: Training Leaders Through the Eras
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) holds a unique and deeply significant place in the history and national consciousness of the Philippines. Often referred to as the “West Point of Asia,” it is the premier military institution responsible for molding young Filipinos into officers and leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). For over…
The Philippine Nationalism and Identity in the Post-War Era (1946-1972)
Forging a Nation Amidst Ruins and Shadows The period from 1946 to 1972 stands as a defining chapter in the narrative of the Philippines, a time marked by the euphoria of regained independence and the daunting task of nation-building amidst the literal and figurative ruins of World War II. Emerging from decades of American colonial…
The Social Movements and Civil Society Organizations in the Philippines (1946-1972)
Seeds of Change in the Third Republic The period from 1946 to 1972 marks a critical chapter in Philippine history, encompassing the entirety of the Third Republic, from the ashes of World War II and the declaration of independence from the United States to the precipice of authoritarian rule with the Declaration of Martial Law….
The Philippine Foreign Policy and Relations with Asian and Western Countries (1946-1972)
Charting a Course in a Divided World The period from Philippine independence in 1946 to the declaration of Martial Law in 1972 marked a formative era for the nation’s engagement with the international community. Emerging from the devastation of World War II and shedding centuries of colonial rule, the nascent Republic faced the monumental task…
The Philippine Constitutional Convention of 1971: The Prelude to Martial Law (1971-1972)
The period between 1971-1972 stands as one of the most tumultuous and defining moments in modern Philippine history. At its heart lay the Philippine Constitutional Convention of 1971 (ConCon), an ambitious undertaking born from widespread public clamor for systemic change and reform of the aging 1935 Constitution. Envisioned as a vehicle for national renewal, addressing…
The Macapagal Presidency: The Land Reform Program and the Change of Independence Day (1961-1965)
The Dawn of a New Era and Enduring Changes The period from 1961-1965 marked a significant chapter in the annals of Philippine history, defined by The Macapagal Presidency. Ascending to power on a platform of integrity and a promise to uplift the common man, President Diosdado Macapagal steered the nation through a complex era characterized…
Marcos Calls Snap Election in Bid to Retain Power
Marcos Calls Snap Election in Bid to Retain Power: A Nation on the Brink The twilight months of 1985 found the Philippines teetering on the edge. Two decades under the iron fist of President Ferdinand Marcos had transformed the nation. What began with promises of progress had devolved into authoritarian rule under Martial Law Philippines,…