When we look at the history of the Philippine Republic, we often hear about presidents, national heroes, and political leaders. Their stories are important, but they are only part of the picture. A nation is not just built by those in power; it is built, shaped, and sustained by the millions of ordinary people who…
Post-Independence / Republic Era
Separation of Church and State in the Philippines: A History of Complex and Contradictory Policies
The idea that government and religion should be separate is a cornerstone of many modern democracies. In the Philippines, this principle, known as the “separation of church and state,” is clearly stated in the Constitution. Article II, Section 6 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution reads: “The separation of Church and State shall be inviolable.” This seems straightforward,…
Science and Technology Development in the Philippines: A History of Efforts in the Republic
Science and technology (S&T) are like the engines of progress for any nation. They drive innovation, improve daily life, create jobs, and help solve big problems like hunger, disease, and climate change. For the Philippines, understanding the history of science and technology development in the Philippines since it became a republic is crucial. It shows us how…
Representing the Philippines Abroad: A Look at Filipino Diplomats Through History
The story of a nation isn’t just written within its borders. It’s also told in meeting rooms in foreign capitals, in international organizations, and through the tireless efforts of the people who represent their country on the global stage. For the Philippines, this story is rich with individuals – Filipino diplomats – who have worked to protect…
Philippine Political Dynasties: From Early Republic Roots to Modern Entrenchment
The landscape of Philippine politics has long been defined by the presence and power of political dynasties. These are families where multiple members hold or have held elected office, often consecutively or simultaneously, across various levels of government. Far from being a recent phenomenon, the roots of these powerful family networks stretch back deep into…
Philippine Land Reform: Unresolved Conflicts Post-EDSA Revolution
The year 1986 marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history. The EDSA People Power Revolution brought an end to the Marcos dictatorship and ushered in a new era of democracy and hopeful change. Millions cheered, symbols of freedom were raised, and there was a collective sense that the nation could finally address its deep-seated problems….
Philippine Land Reform: A Comparison of Magsaysay’s and Macapagal’s Policies
The issue of land ownership and distribution has been a central challenge throughout Philippine history. For centuries, large tracts of land were owned by a few wealthy individuals or entities, leaving the majority of farmers as tenants who worked the land but owned none of it. This unequal system led to poverty, social unrest, and…
Philippine Foreign Investment Policies: Navigating Openness and Protectionism in the Republic Era
The story of foreign investment in the Philippines is a complex tapestry woven with threads of economic aspiration, political shifts, and a deep-seated historical tension between embracing global capital and protecting national interests. Since gaining independence in 1946, the Republic of the Philippines has grappled with how best to manage the inflow of foreign direct…
Overseas Filipino Workers: Pillars of the Modern Philippine Economy
The story of the modern Philippine economy cannot be fully told without highlighting the crucial role played by its Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). These millions of Filipinos who live and work in other countries are not just individuals seeking better opportunities; they have collectively become a fundamental pillar supporting the nation’s economic structure and contributing significantly…
Lorenzo Tañada: The ‘Grand Old Man’ Who Battled Authoritarianism in the Philippines Senate
In the vast and sometimes turbulent landscape of Philippine history, few figures stand as tall and unwavering as Senator Lorenzo M. Tañada. Known affectionately as the “Grand Old Man of the Philippine Senate,” Tañada was more than just a long-serving legislator; he was, for many Filipinos, the conscience of the state, a persistent and courageous…