WEEK 13 regarding representation and human

rights.
Meaning and Importance of the Constitution
"Most modern constitutions delineate the (What is a constitution? n.d.)
foundational principles of the state, (Constitution: Why the Constitution Is
government structures, procedures, and the Important, n.d.)
fundamental rights of citizens within a
Direct Quote:
superior legal document that ordinary
legislative measures cannot unilaterally alter." "Reasons why the Constitution is
Generally, this higher law is referred to as the important:
Constitution.
These points will help answer why the
The content and nature of a particular Constitution is important.
constitution and its relation to the rest of the
legal and political order vary considerably 1. The Constitution is an embodiment:
among countries. Constitution has no The Constitution is a written
universal and uncontested definition." (What is instrument that embodies the rules of a
a constitution? n.d.) political or social organization. These
rules and regulations lay down the base
However, most widely recognized of the nation so that it can run without
definitions of a constitution would incorporate any issue or dispute; in case any
the following traits: problem occurs in the legal and
governmental sectors or between the
A constitution comprises fundamental
masses of the country and the
legal and political regulations that:
judiciary, these provisions will help the
1. Apply to all individuals within the country to get through this phase
state, including regular legislative where a regular threat of a civil war
bodies. breakdown which is the last thing any
2. are concerned with the structure and country can want to experience exists.
operation of the institutions of 2. The Constitution serves as the
government, political principles, and foundational framework for any
citizen rights; government, encompassing the legal
3. are based on widespread public and cultural norms that govern the
legitimacy; country's populace and its institutions,
4. are more challenging to modify especially when international
compared to regular laws, requiring organizations involve themselves in
specific conditions like a two-thirds domestic affairs. It establishes three
majority vote or a referendum), and primary branches of government: the
5. meets the internationally recognized executive, legislative, and judicial
criteria for a democratic system branches. The three branches of
government are the sources of stability
 of any country; without them, the only their well-being and dignity. The
things that will rise are terror and Constitution helps the country's
corruption among the masses. people avail themselves of all the basic
3. The Constitution governs the power rights they deserve. Several examples of
distribution: The Constitution defines the most basic rights protected by the
the powers of each branch and lets Constitution are the right to life, the
everyone related to a country know the right to freedom, the property right,
powers that the governmental and legal and the right to participate freely in the
bodies have. The Constitution restricts democratic system.
the responsibilities of each party, 7. Power transfer at the time of national
whether it is a governmental emergency: The Constitution is an
institution, companies of the country, extremely important document for a
or the nation's masses. The country because it controls power
Constitution regulates the relationship transfer during national emergencies.
between the government and the By national emergencies, we refer to a
people so that no one party can treat disaster that can wipe out several parts
the power in any way possible. of the nation or damage any part of the
4. Apex body: A constitution is superior nation in an extremely severe manner,
to all the laws of the country, which civil war breakdown, etc.
indicates that it passes down any law or
provision circulated in the nation. Thus, this section answers why the
Every law that the government enacts Constitution is important. The Constitution is
has to be conventional with the the nation's spine; we should respect its
Constitution, indicating that no existence and dignity while ensuring that each
individual or legal body will be able to citizen follows its rules and provisions.”
speak upon it; otherwise, it will not
Evolution of the Philippine Constitution
maintain its strength and will fall, and
so will the nation. Since declaring independence on June 12,
5. Goals of a country: The Constitution 1898, the Philippines has undergone six
lays down the national goals of any constitutional revisions. The Malolos
country; by nation goals, we refer to Constitution, crafted in 1899, was the
any aspiring objective that a country country's first Constitution and the first
has. Given that every country has republican Constitution in Asia. It was
several points, the Constitution will adopted by the First Philippine Republic and
help reach goals such as democracy, existed from 1899 to 1901.
secularism, socialism, and national
integration. Direct Quote
6. Basic rights: A country's Constitution "During the American Occupation, the
guarantees several rights and provisions Philippines were governed by the laws of the
for any individual or group of people, United States of America. The United States
on behalf of which they can ensure Congress passed organic acts for the
government of the Philippine Islands' year tenure to a four-year term, allowing the
administration. The initial organic law was the possibility of re-election for a second term.
Philippine Organic Act of 1902, establishing a
Philippine Assembly of Filipino citizens. The During World War II, the Japanese-
subsequent organic legislation, the Philippine sponsored government nullified the 1935
Autonomy Act of 1916, marked the first Constitution and appointed the Preparatory
commitment to Philippine independence. Committee on Philippine Independence to
These statutes functioned as the Philippines' replace it. The 1943 Constitution was used by
governing frameworks from 1902 to 1935. the Second Republic, with Jose P. Laurel as the
President.
In 1934, the United States Congress
approved the Philippine Independence Act, After the Philippines was liberated in
which outlined the guidelines for forming a 1945, the 1935 Constitution was reinstated. It
constitution for the Philippines. This remained unchanged until 1947, when the
legislation required the Philippine Legislature Philippine Congress initiated its amendment
to organize an election to choose delegates for a through Commonwealth Act No. 733. On
constitutional convention tasked with drafting March 11, 1947, the Parity Amendment gave
the country's Constitution. The 1934 US and Filipino citizens equal rights to develop
Constitutional Convention was finished on natural resources and operate public utilities in
February 8, 1935. This Constitution was the country. The Constitution remained the
submitted to the President of the United States same until the declaration of martial law on
for certification on March 25, 1935. This September 23, 1972.
Constitution was created by the Philippine
Before President Marcos declared Martial
Independence Act of 1934. The Filipino
Law, a constitutional convention was already
people ratified the 1935 Constitution through
deliberating on whether to amend or revise the
a national referendum on May 14, 1935, and
1935 Constitution.”
took effect on November 15, 1935, with the
inauguration of the Commonwealth of the (During the American Occupation, the
Philippines. Among the provisions of the 1935 Philippines were, n.d.)
Constitution was the clause stating that it
would remain the Constitution of the Direct Quote:
Philippines once independence was granted on "This convention finished its work and
July 4, 1946. submitted it to President Marcos on December
1, 1972. President Marcos submitted it for
In 1940, the National Assembly of the ratification in early January of 1973. Foreseeing
Philippines changed the 1935 Constitution. that a direct ratification of the Constitution
These changes transformed the unicameral was bound to fail, Marcos issued Presidential
assembly into a bicameral congress. Decree No. 86 s. In 1972, citizens' assemblies
Additionally, the amendment altered the were created to ratify the newly drafted
President's term from a non-extendable six- Constitution using a viva voce vote instead of
secret ballots. Marcos announced that it had
been ratified and would take effect on January
17, 1973. Although the 1973 Constitution had
been "ratified" in this manner, opposition Issues and Challenges
against it continued. Chief Justice Roberto V. Issues:
Concepcion, in his dissenting opinion in the
● Economic development – how do
case of Javellana v. Executive Secretary,
we ensure economic growth
exposed the fraud that happened during the
benefits low-income people?
citizen’s assembly ratification of the 1973
● How can we guarantee diversity
Constitution on January 10–15, 1973.
and protect the rights of religious
However, the final decision on this case was
and ethnic minorities?
that the ratification of the 1973 Constitution
● Power deconcentration – how do
was valid and in effect.”
we reduce the considerable power
(The Government of the Philippines, n.d.) of the political and economic
elites and give actual power to the
When democracy was restored in 1986, people?
President Corazon C. Aquino issued ● Better governance – how to
Proclamation No. 3, suspending certain increase the effectiveness of the
provisions of the 1973 Constitution and government in meeting the
promulgating a transitory constitution. A nation’s aspirations?
month later, President Aquino issued ● Spreading growth – how can we
Proclamation No. 9, s. 1986, which created a even have regional development?
constitutional commission tasked with writing
a new charter to replace the 1973 Constitution. Challenges:
The commission finished its work at 12:28 Corruption encompasses inadequate law
a.m. on October 16, 1986. The National enforcement and a justice system that's not
Plebiscite was held on February 2, 1987, working well. Public officials lack transparency
ratifying the new Constitution. On February and aren't held accountable. There's a stark
11, 1987, under Proclamation No. 58, divide between the wealthy few and the
President Aquino announced the official impoverished many. Vulnerable groups like
canvassing of the results and ratification of the women, children, minorities, journalists, and
draft constitution. The 1987 Constitution activists face insufficient protection of their
finally came into full effect on the same day, rights—the military's involvement in political
with the President, other civilian officials and matters and the Muslim insurgency in
Armed Forces members swear allegiance to the southern Mindanao further compound these
new charter. This Constitution is considered issues.
the "Freedom Constitution" because it
embodies and safeguards liberty rights and
what is due in all aspects.
WEEK 14
Malolos Constitution (1899) Malolos Constitution
On July 18, 1898, Emilio Aguinaldo For the first time, representatives of the
issued a decree requesting the election of Filipino people produced the Constitution,
delegates to the revolutionary Congress, which was also Asia's first republican
followed five days later by another decree Constitution, led by Felipe Calderon and
proclaiming that Aguinaldo would select the assisted by Cayetano Arellano. The
congress representatives because elections were Constitution was influenced by Mexico's,
not feasible at the time. Fifty delegates were Guatemala's, Costa Rica's, Brazil's, Belgium's,
appointed by Aguinaldo (but this number and France's constitutions. After several minor
fluctuated from time to time). On September changes (mainly due to Apolinario Mabini's
15, 1898, Aguinaldo convened the concerns), the final text of the Constitution
Revolutionary Congress at the Barasoain was presented to Aguinaldo, paving the way
Church in Malolos, Bulacan, in compliance for the foundation of the first Philippine
with the two decrees. Republic.

The Pasig Band performed the national It established a government following

hymn, which added to the celebratory democratic and republican principles,
atmosphere. Following Aguinaldo’s address, featuring the executive, legislative, and judicial
the delegates who were present voted in a branches. And the separation of church and
congressional election. Among the most State. The President of the republic was to
significant accomplishments of the Malolos execute executive powers with the support of
Congress were: his cabinet. Legislation has given the Supreme
Court and numerous lesser courts judicial
1. The Approval of the Philippine authority. The Supreme Court's Chief Justice
independence declaration, previously was to be chosen by the legislature, with the
conducted in Kawit, Cavite, on June President and his cabinet's Approval.
12, 1898, was confirmed by the
Malolos Congress on September 29, The First Philippine Republic
1898. The first Philippine Republic was
2. The Malolos Congress passed a law founded in Malolos, Bulacan, on January 21,
allowing the Philippines to borrow P20 1899. After being elected President, Emilio
million from banks for government Aguinaldo took the oath of office. After
expenses. reading the Constitution, article by article was
3. The Malolos Congress established followed by a military parade. Prime Minister
Universidad Literatura de Filipinas and Apolinario Mabini was elected. Teodoro
other schools. Sandico was one of the other cabinet secretaries
4. The Malolos Congress drafted the (interior). They are General Mariano Trias
Philippine Constitution. (finance and war), Apolinario Mabini (foreign
5. On June 12, 1899, the Malolos affairs), Gracio Gonzaga (welfare), Aguedo
Congress declared war on the United Velarde (public instruction), Maximo Paterno
States. (public works and communication), and Leon
Mara Guerrero (agricultural, trade, and 6. The Permanent Commission
commerce) (The Philippine Revolutionary 7. The Executive Power
Government, 2020). 8. The President of the Republic
9. The Secretaries of Government
Excerpts from Malolos Constitution 10. The Judicial Power
11. Provincial and Popular Assemblies
● Article 3. Sovereignty is solely in
12. Administration of the State
the hands of the people.
13. Amendment of the Constitution
● Article 5. The State respects all
14. Constitutional Observance, Oath, and
religions' freedom and equality
Language
and the separation of church and
State. The Malolos Constitution was the first
● Article 19. No Filipino shall be important Filipino document the people's
prevented from exercising his civil representatives ever produced. This
and political rights. Constitution was based on democratic
● Article 20.1. No Filipino will be traditions that originated in the United States.
deprived of the right to freely It established a government in the Philippines
express his views and opinions, that was "popular, representative, and
whether orally or in writing, accountable," with three distinct branches:
through the press or other executive, legislative, and judicial. The
comparable means. Constitution included safeguards against
● Article 20.2. No Filipino shall be abuses and enumerated national and individual
denied the right to join any group rights for Filipinos and foreigners.
for objects of human life that do
not violate public morals. The Assembly of Representatives made
● Article 23. Any Filipino can up of representatives elected according to the
establish and maintain legislation, was in charge of legislating. The
educational or instructional paper provided for a permanent commission
establishments in compliance that would sit as a law-making body when
with any restrictions that may be Congress was not in session to keep Congress's
established. Popular education function going. The assembly chose the
will be compulsory and optional President of the republic. The cabinet, which
in the Nation's schools. consisted of secretaries from several
government agencies, reported to the
Table of Titles parliament rather than the President. The
Supreme Court and lesser courts were to be
1. The Republic
established according to law and were
2. The Government
entrusted with the administration of justice.
3. Religion
The assembly was to elect the Chief Justice of
4. The Filipinos and Their National and
the Supreme Court with the President's and
Individual Rights
cabinet's approval.
5. The Legislative Power
 The Constitution is a testament to the Filipino legislators, gave Filipinos the ability to
Filipino people's ability to forge their govern themselves. The First Philippine
democratic path. The Constitution embodied Assembly, which met on October 16, 1907,
the values of a people who emerged from the was made up of educated Filipinos from
Dark Ages into the Light of Reason during a prominent families, such as Sergio Osmeña and
time of turmoil and stress (The Malolos Manuel L. Quezon, who revived the topic for
Congress, n.d.). speedy independence for the Filipinos by
sending political missions to the United States
Congress.

The argument over whether to accept or

reject the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Bill, which was
Article:
brought back by the Osmeña-Roxas mission
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE from the U.S. Congress in 1931 and allowed
PHILIPPINE COMMONWEALTH (1935 for a 10-year transition period before the
Constitution) establishment of Philippine independence,
divided the Philippine legislature. Following
by: Quennie Ann J. Palafox the passage of the independence bill, the
Democrata Party and the Nacionalista Party
The Constitution is acknowledged as the were split into two factions: pro and anti-
supreme law of the land, whether written or independence. The bill was rejected by the
unwritten because it serves as the foundation majority in the legislature, led by Quezon and
for the validity of any governmental act Recto, resulting in the antis being the majority.
required for its existence. At the same time, the pros became the
minority under Osmeña, Roxas, and others.
The Constitution is a documented
framework that defines the powers and duties Quezon and others won this battle on
of a government, as well as certain rights October 17, 1933, when the Philippine
afforded to individuals. legislature rejected the bill. Quezon finally
brought in the Tydings-McDuffie Act (Public
Following the signing of the Treaty in
Law 73-127), a significantly altered version of
Paris in Washington, D.C. in 1898, which
the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Bill approved by
ceded the Philippines to the United States in
President Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 24,
exchange for a payment of $20,000,000 to
1934, drafted by Senator Millard Tydings and
Spain, and the outbreak of the Filipino-
Rep. John McDuffie. The bill established July
American War in 1899, our country was
4 as the date of Philippine independence
placed under military rule until 1901, when the
following the Commonwealth's tenth year. On
Spooner Amendment ended military rule and
May 1, 1934, the Philippine Legislature
replaced it with a civilian government. The
approved this measure.
Jones Law in August 1916 and the adoption of
the Philippine Bill of 1902, which created a One of the most important features of the
lower legislative branch consisting of elected Tydings-McDuffie Act was the establishment
of a constitutional committee to draft the members that produced it.
Nation's fundamental legislation based on the The challenge came only a week before the
American model. The convention's delegates country was to hold a national referendum on
were then elected in 1934. Claro M. Recto was proposed constitutional revisions to establish a
unanimously elected President of the House of strong president with a six-year tenure and no
Representatives at the session's first meeting on term limits. Marcos announced that he intends
July 30. to end his transitional status as President-Prime
Minister and run for the new post of chief of
The 1935 Constitution established a State.
bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate
and House of Representatives. The President Former President Diosdado Macapagal, a
and vice president are to be elected to four-year Marcos foe and chairman of the convention
terms without the possibility of re-election. that crafted the 1973 charter, said the group
Adult Filipino men aged 21 and above, had "resumed" its proceedings and made a
possessing literacy skills, are entitled to vote, proclamation that the Constitution had been
with plans to expand this right. wrongly ratified and hence had no legal
authority in a telephone conversation.
The conference approved the proposed
Constitution on February 8, 1935, and President Marcos did not respond
President Roosevelt ratified it on March 25, immediately to the challenge. Still, the validity
1935, in Washington, D.C. In September of the charter group's action was questioned in
1935, elections were conducted. Manuel L. a statement issued by the Information
Quezon was elected as the Commonwealth's Ministry, in which reconvening was referred to
President. The Commonwealth Government, as a "nuisance."
regarded as a transition government before
granting Philippine independence with an Before the challenge, Antonio Tupaz, the
American-inspired constitution, had its legal Minister of State for Local Affairs and a
foundation in the 1935 Constitution. The convention member, made such a declaration.
Philippine government will eventually model "The reconvening of the convention bids to be
its administration after the United States. The a simple irritation," Tupaz added, even if the
Philippine Constitution of 1935 was the best- move was considered lawful. He claimed that
written charter in history (Palafox, 2012). 61 of the 110 districts in the country needed to
be represented.
Article:
According to Macapagal, the conference
VALIDITY OF MARCOS'S '73 was arranged at the request of 130 of the
CONSTITUTION IS CHALLENGED convention's original 311 delegates and held at
the suburban house of the body's vice
The legality of the 1973 Philippine president. According to Macapagal, the
Constitution, which President Ferdinand E. quorum required for reconvening was only
Marcos' government governs under, has been 109 because 50 delegates had accepted
questioned by 130 of the 311 committee positions in the Marcos government and could
no longer be regarded as members of the the high court, now led by a new chief justice,
charter drafting assembly. upheld the ratification.

With today’s proclamation, the President Marcos constituted a new

Macapagal group hoped to cast doubt on the administration and assumed the status of
proposed revisions that would be voted on President-Prime Minister for an extended
next Tuesday. duration after signing the 1973 charter
(Validity of Marcos's '73 Constitution is
According to Macapagal, the legal Challenged, 1981).
reasoning behind the challenge was that when
martial law was lifted last January, the 1935 Independence to Martial Law
Constitution was reinstated, and the Seventh Since independence, politics in the
Congress, which Mr. Marcos had suspended, Philippines has been plagued by corruption
was restored to power. and scandals. Presidents Ramon Magsaysay
(1953-1957), Carlos Garcia (1957-1961), and
The charter convention, whose members Diosdado Macapagal (1961-1965) were
were elected freely in 1970, began work in successful in stabilizing the country,
1971 on a new constitution to replace the 1935 implementing domestic reforms, diversifying
charter, drafted under American supervision. the economy, and strengthening ties with the
Marcos' declaration of martial law in 1972 United States and Asia.
overtook the drafting of this charter. Marcos
was presented with a draft of the charter. Ferdinand Marcos became the first
Philippine President to win the 1965 election
Its President, Macapagal, recessed the and secure re-election in 1969, marking a
legislature on November 30, 1972, with several historic consecutive electoral victory. He
members in jail and others underground. proclaimed martial law in 1972, just before the
Macapagal then submitted a draft constitution conclusion of his second and final term, to stay
to President Marcos. in power beyond his lawful mandate, citing a
burgeoning communist insurrection as
Marcos planned to hold a referendum to
justification.
approve the proposal, but he changed his mind
and presented it to citizens' assemblies for Subsequently, he took advantage of a
ratification. When the government's critics halted constitutional assembly to compel the
brought their case to the Supreme Court, creation of a new constitution known as the
Chief Justice Roberto Concepcion noted in a 1973 Constitution. This Constitution enabled
judgment that while most of the court him to govern through decrees until 1978
considered the procedure invalid, "there is no when a parliamentary system replaced the
judicial obstacle to it being in force and effect." presidential system outlined in the 1935
Constitution.
During the years under martial law, a
subsequent vote yielded favorable responses to Marcos clung to power under this new
concerns about the Constitution's legality, and regime and continued to rule by fiat, repressing
democratic institutions and restricting civil ● The 1899 Malolos Constitution
liberties. Martial law was technically lifted in (1899–1901)
1981, but he remained to govern by the ● The 1935 Constitution (1935–
expedient of being "re-elected" to a second 6- 1943, 1945–1973)
year term in a sham of an election. He ● The 1943 Constitution (1943–
continued to suppress dissent, and thousands 1945)
of vocal objectors to his rule either ● The 1973 Constitution (1973–
mysteriously disappeared or were incarcerated. 1986)
Despite the decline in the economy, ● The 1987 Constitution (1987–
corruption allowed him and his wife, Imelda, present)
to live extravagantly, causing resentment
domestically and criticism internationally. As per ex-Aquino spokesperson Teodoro
Locsin Jr., the 1973 Constitution still needs to
Article: be ratified due to significant opposition against
then-President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s process.
1987
Philippine Constitution In terms of the law of the land, the Aquino
administration had three options:
Do you know that every time the
Philippines' constitution changes, the ● To revert to the 1935
President proclaims to mark the anniversary of Constitution, they had to resort
the new charter's implementation? to general elections because
Constitution Day is observed on this day. Marcos abolished the bicameral
legislature;
Only the 1943 Constitution lacked a ● Should keep the 1973
corresponding proclamation from the Constitution and be given the
country's constitutional revisions. authority to amend it. "She did
not want to acquire legitimacy
President Corazon C. Aquino declared
and authority from the very
February 2 of each year as Constitution Day by
institutions that she fought,"
Proclamation No. 211 of 1988 to
Aquino said," and
commemorate the new 1987 Constitution.
● To initiate a fresh beginning and
How well do you know the country's distance from the remnants of a
highest law? We listed vital information discredited dictatorship.
concerning one of the country's most
President Corazon Aquino, in April
important legal documents.
1986, created the 1986 Constitutional
The five constitutions in the Philippines Commission (ConCom), which drafted a
started with the country’s independence in replacement for the 1973 Constitution
1898: through Proclamation No. 9.
 'The new constitution,' she said, 'should After a statewide education campaign on
truly reflect the aspirations and ideals of the the draft constitution, a National Plebiscite
Filipino people.' was held on February 2, 1987.

Bishop Teodoro Bacani, former Supreme "Do you vote for ratifying the proposed
Court Chief Justice Roberto Concepcion, a Constitution of the Republic with the
former Labor Minister who later became a ordinance appended to it?" the voters were
Senator and Foreign Affairs Secretary named asked.
Blas Ople, Father Joaquin Bernas SJ, who
served as the President of Ateneo De Manila The following are the results of the 1987
University, and the former Chairperson of the referendum, as determined by the Commission
University of the Philippines Student Council, on Elections, based on returns from 83,288
now recognized as Connie, were members of precincts and 21,785,216 votes cast
the 48-person assembly during the 1986 throughout the Philippines:
ConCom.

The commission's first meeting was

conducted on June 2, 1986, when Cecilia
Muoz-Palma, the first woman nominated to
the Supreme Court in 1973, was elected Aquino announced the results of the
President. referendum and declared the 1987 Philippine
Constitution adopted on February 11, 1987,
The process involved in drafting the 1987 through Proclamation No. 58. On the same
Philippine Constitution, much like other day, the Constitution went into effect.
significant legal documents in the country,
certainly faced its share of conflicts and Lino Brocka, a filmmaker recognized for
challenges. documenting socioeconomic realities, was a
member of the ConCom. However, he and
Reports suggest that ConCom members other ConCom members left the sessions due
were involved in intense discussions and to intense debates and disapproval of key
debates during multiple sessions, deliberating measures.
on various topics such as the death penalty,
economic strategies, land reform, government On August 28, 1986, Brocka wrote to the
structure, and even the continuation of the panel, announcing that he had informed
American military bases in Clark and Subic. President Cory Aquino of his irreversible
resignation (Gavilan, 2016).
According to Palma, the ConCom
completed its work in about 111 days. The WEEK 15
proposed Constitution was passed on October
12, 1986, with 44 delegates voting in favor and
two voting against, and was delivered to History of Philippine Taxation
Aquino three days later.
 Before the Spaniards The Contador de’
came, taxation already existed. Resultas was the Chief Royal
Historically known as Accountant in the 17th and
I. Pre- barangays, pre-colonial II. Spanish 18th centuries, with duties
Colonial kingdoms' datus (or rajahs) Era similar to those of the
Era collected tributes from their Commissioner of Internal
subordinates in exchange for Revenue (CIR). He was the
protection or security. Given Chief Arbitrator, and his
that barter was the leading financial judgments were final
form of trade back then, tax unless the Council of Indies
(called buwis or handug, with reversed them. Taxes levied on
the variant handog) came in the people at the time ranged
the form of crops or goods, in from a one-gold-maiz annual
which the people living under tribute to a tax on the value of
the Datu should share a jewels and gold trinkets and
portion of their harvest or indirect taxes on tobacco, wine,
property in exchange for cockpits, burlas, and powder.
security and protection. From 1521 to 1821, the
Philippines' financial
Only the timawa (free difficulties necessitated an
men) pay taxes because the annual subsidy of P250,000
maharlikas (nobility) and the from the Spanish Treasury,
datu offer the protection, while primarily because of an
the oripun or uripon (slaves) ineffective revenue collection
could not offer anything system.
because they lived to serve;
thus, the highest and lowest The tribute, initially
castes were exempted from tax between 8 and 10 reales, was
payment. the other type of tax from the
Spanish Era. Forced labor, also
known as polo y servicio, was
used to pay taxes. Spain
eventually replaced tribute
with cedula, allowing them to
keep track of who was eligible
to pay taxes. Another source of
tax revenue for the Filipinos
was the encomienda system,
which grants land ownership
to deserving peninsulares. The
 diezmos prediales was 1/10 of civil administration
the produce of the encomienda commenced in 1902 under
that should be paid to the vice William H. Taft. Yet, the
regal government, and creation of the Bureau of
sanctorum was the tax paid to Internal Revenue (BIR) took
the local church. The vinta, a place after Reorganization
type of tax paid by inhabitants Act No. 1189 was endorsed
in the provinces around on July 2, 1904, under the
Western Luzon's coast to governance of the second
defend the territory against civil governor, Luke E.
Muslim pirates, and the Wright. The BIR officially
donativo de Zamboanga, began operating on August
which was levied expressly for 1, 1904, under the guidance
the conquest of Jolo, were the of Secretary of Finance
other local taxes. Henry Ide, who authored the
Internal Revenue Law of
The following items are 1904. John S. Hord served as
examples of Filipino taxes the inaugural Collector
during the Spanish occupation (Commissioner), leading a
(STI n.d.): team of 69 personnel,
including a vice collector,
Tributo(encomienda tax)
chief clerk, law clerk, records
: 10 reales
clerk, and three division
Diezmos prediales chiefs.
(governmenttax) :
Three more American
1 real
collectors followed John S.
Commission on internal Hord's tenure: Ellis
revenue: 1 real Cromwell (1909-1912),
William T. Holting (1912-
Sanctorum: 1214), and James J. Rafferty
3reales (1914-1918). After the
Philippine Commission and
the US President approved,
they were all nominated by
During the early the Governor-General.
American rule from 1898 to
III. Under Collector
1901, the Philippines was
American Holting's leadership, on
governed by American
Era January 1, 1913, the BIR
military officials. The initial
experienced its initial
reorganization, forming eight charge of detection and
divisions: 1) Accounting, 2) surveillance activities until
Cash, 3) Clerical, 4) January 1, 1951, when it was
Inspection, 5) Legal affairs, eliminated. From 1921
6) Real Estate, 7) License, through 1941, the BIR's
and 8) Records. The Real organization remained
Estate and License Divisions mostly unchanged, except
were limited to collecting for minor adjustments,
revenue for the City of including introducing the
Manila. Miscellaneous Tax Division
in 1939.
Filipino collectors were
designated in line with then- The Secretary of
US President McKinley's Finance issued Regulation
Filipinization strategy. They No. 95 in 1937, reforming
are Wenceslao Trinidad the Provincial Inspection
(1918-1922), Juan Posadas, Districts and establishing an
Jr. (1922-1934), and Alfredo Internal Revenue Office in
Yatao (1934-1938) were the each province, administered
first three BIR collectors by a provincial agent.
appointed under this policy.

The real estate, At the onset of World

licensing, and cash divisions War II, the BIR was merged
IV. Japanese
were abolished in May 1921 Era with the Customs Office and
through Act No. 299, and led by a Director of Customs
their powers were transferred and Internal Revenue under
to the City of Manila. Due to
the Japanese administration
this transfer, the BIR was left
(1942-1945).
with five departments:
Administrative, Law,
Accounting, Income Tax,
and 5) Inspection. As a V. Post-War BIR was re-established
result, the BIR established Era separately on July 4, 1946,
the following: 1) the after the Philippines gained
Examiner's Division, independence from the
formerly known as the United States. It resulted in a
Income Tax Examiner's reorganization on October 1,
Section that combined with 1947, as a result of Executive
the Income Tax and Secret Order (EO) No. 94, which
Service Sections, was in included the following
actions (STI n.d.): Tax Unit within the Income
Tax Division of the
1. The Revenue Assessment Department. At
Accounts and the same time, Republic Act
Statistical Divisions (RA) 690 was passed,
were consolidated establishing the withholding
with the Accounting tax system. This technique of
Unit. collecting income tax upon
2. All records in the receipt of income resulted in
Administrative approximately 25% of the
Division’s Records total income tax received
Sections were throughout the period.
consolidated.
3. The Law Division Revenue
was in charge of all Memorandum Order
legal matters. (RMO) No. 41, the BIR’s
third major reform, went
Revenue Regulations into force on March 1, 1954.
No. V-2, dated October 23, As a result of this
1947, split the country into phenomenon, the following
31 inspection units, each offices were established (STI
under the control of a n.d.):
provincial revenue agent
(except for a few special units 1. Specific Tax
led by city revenue agents or Division,
supervisors for distilleries 2. Litigation Section,
and tobacco factories). 3. Processing Section,
and
The BIR underwent its 4. Office of the City
second major reform on Revenue Examiner.
January 1, 1951, when
Executive Order No. 392 Through RMO No. V-
was issued. Three new 4-47, a training unit, was
departments were created: established on September 1,
Legal, Assessment, and 1954.
Collection.
On July 20, 1955, the
In late January of that BIR established its first two
year, Memorandum Order regional offices in Cebu and
No. V-188 was issued, Davao, as per RMO No. V-
setting up the Withholding 536, as a first step toward
decentralization. Each reporting of individuals and
regional office was led by a resident corporations' assets,
regional director, who was incomes, and liabilities across
assisted by five branch chiefs, the Philippines into a
as follows (STI n.d.): National Tax Census,
marking a pivotal
1. Tax Audit, development.
2. Collection,
3. Investigation, On June 19, 1959, RA
4. Legal, and No. 233, sometimes known
5. Administrative. as the Rewards Law, was
passed to enforce tax
The creation of the payment further and
regional offices divides the discourage tax evasion by
Philippine islands into three rewarding informers with a
revenue regions. quarter of the revenue seized
from the tax evader.
The BIR's
organizational setup The Philippines was
expanded in 1956 per the divided again in 1964 into 15
government's regionalization regions and 72 inspection
scheme. As a result, BIR's districts. The Tobacco
regional offices grew from Inspection Board and the
eight to ten in 1957. Each Accountable Forms
regional office also had its Committee were established
own Accounting Machine inside the Commissioner's
Branch. Office.
The title of the head of
the BIR was changed from Source: STI (n.d.). Philippine Taxation and
Collector to Commissioner the History of Bureau of Internal Revenue.
in January 1957. Jose Aranas https://phlconnect.ched.gov.ph/admin/upl
was the BIR’s last Collector oads/da4902cb0bc38210839714ebdcf0efc3/
and first Commissioner.
04-Handout-2_2.pdf
In 1958, the BIR
created the Tax Census
Division and the respective Marcos and Aquino Administration
Tax Census Units in every Taxation is a practice that dates back to
regional office. This move our pre-colonial ancestors, which can be
aimed to centralize the characterized as a reciprocal interaction
between the governing party and the governed.
The colonial regimes' taxation policies were was one of the most important
more subjugating and coercive. It even led to initiatives that considerably
the suffering of many Filipinos, particularly enhanced BIR’s collection
during the Spanish and American Regimes, performance
which eventually resulted in a series of ● During the martial law period, the
uprisings. Though also oppressive, the President issued several tax
Japanese era had only a few policies amnesty decrees
implemented due to Japan's short occupation ● The promulgation of the
in the country. Our Filipino leaders were able National Internal Revenue Code
to establish concrete taxation strategies that 1977 updated the 1934 Tax Code.
were autonomous and focused on the state's
requirements after the Philippines obtained Aquino (Cory Aquino) Administration
independence from the United States. In the
● Following the February 1986
contemporary period, more comprehensive
People's Revolution, BIR
and liberal taxation schemes were launched.
redoubled its efforts to improve
Some of these happened during the two most
tax administration.
polarizing administrations in the history of the
● The “Operation: Walang Lagay”
Philippine government. These two were the
was launched to promote efficient
Marcos and (Cory) Aquino administrations.
and honest tax collection.
Marcos Administration ● On January 30, 1987, BIR was
reorganized under the
● The "Blue Master Program" and administration of Commissioner
"Voluntary Tax Compliance Bienvenido Tan, Jr., following
Program."\ EO No. 127
● Commissioner Vera's ● The VAT was launched to
administration subdivided the simplify tax administration and
country into 20 regional offices make the tax system equitable.
and 90 revenue district offices. ● In 1988, the Revenue
● The establishment of diverse Information Systems Services Inc.
divisions, including the Internal was abolished and transferred
Audit Department (taking over back to the BIR under a
from the Inspection Memorandum Order from the
Department), Administrative Office of the President dated May
Service, International Tax Affairs 24, 1988
Staff, and Specific Tax ● The “Tax Administration
Departments. Program,” which is the expression
● The permanent Tax Account of the BIR’s objective to increase
Number in 1970 for taxpayers tax collection and simplify tax
● The introduction of the package administration, was established
audit investigation by industry
 with the arrival of Commissioner process has become a crucial reference point
Jose Ong in 1989 for other peace processes (COL 002
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY,
Duterte Administration n.d.).
President Rodrigo Duterte approved the
Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Out of the 59 armed conflicts that have
(TRAIN) Law on December 19, 2017. The ended in the last 30 years, 44 concluded with
law aims to fix several tax system flaws to make peace agreements (Fisas, 2015: 16). Parallel to
it simpler, fairer, and more efficient (What is this has been the growth of social, scholarly,
Train Law, 2018). It exempts all taxpayers with and institutional capacities to evaluate these
an annual income of Php 250,000 or less from processes and strengthen peace-building
paying taxes (STI n.d.). Petroleum products measures (Human Security Report Project,
and consumer goods containing natural, 2012). However, the peace process has always
artificial, or high-fructose syrup sweeteners, gone off with a hitch. Hence, all peace
except natural fruit juices and milk, will see processes learn from previous experiences
price increases as compensation. Though while innovating in their practices and
TRAIN law advocates fair and just taxation contributing to the international peace-
wherein it taxes the rich more than the poor, building experience. South Sudan, Aceh
some analyst believes that TRAIN is unlikely (Indonesia), and Northern Ireland all absorbed
to alleviate poverty and answer the income lessons from the Mindanao peace process.
inequality in the country due to its tricky or Other nations with internal problems,
misleading provisions, which still favors the including Myanmar, Thailand, and Turkey,
ruling elites or the upper class (Punongbayan are keenly studying the Mindanao peace accord
2019). (COL 002 READINGS IN PHILIPPINE
HISTORY, n.d.).
WEEK 16 Context
On March 27, 2014, the Philippine The Philippines is an archipelago
government and the Moro Islamic Liberation comprising approximately 7,000 islands (COL
Front (MILF) agreed to terminate an armed 002 READINGS IN PHILIPPINE
war that began in 1969 and resulted in more HISTORY, n.d.). Among these islands, the
than 120,000 deaths and hundreds of largest is Luzon (where the capital, Manila, is
thousands of forcibly displaced persons. Since situated), and the second is Mindanao.
the end of the armed war in Nepal in 2006, the Together with Timor-Leste, the Philippines is
Comprehensive Deal on the Bangsamoro has the only Asian country with a majority
been the most important peace agreement Christian population. A population of around
signed worldwide (COL 002 READINGS IN 100 million people lives in a 300,000 km2
PHILIPPINE HISTORY, n.d.). region. The presidential system of government
is in place, and executive power is limited to a
Every peace accord is tailored to a specific single six-year term (Peace Process In
situation and conflict. However, because it is Mindanao, n.d.).
the most recent peace process, the Mindanao
 King Philip II of Spain, whose service In addition to the armed conflict in
Magellan was sailing worldwide when he Mindanao and the communist insurgency, the
arrived at the archipelago in 1521, is Philippines also suffered from Islamist terrorist
responsible for the country's name. After three attacks linked to transnational networks in
centuries as a Spanish colony, the Philippines recent years.
were handed over to the United States in 1898.
The fact that Spain never actually acquired Peace Agreements
possession of Mindanao has far-reaching The talks began in 1997 with an
implications. Three centuries before Magellan, agreement on a general cease-fire. The parties
Islam had arrived, and the Spanish discovered a outlined a negotiation agenda in the Tripoli
well-organized system of rule, primarily Agreement (2001) that included three primary
through the sultanates of Maguindanao and elements: security (which had already been
Sulu (Peace Process In Mindanao, n.d.). agreed upon in 2001), humanitarian response,
rehabilitation, and development (agreed in
In 1946, the Philippines was the first 2002), and ancestral territories (2008) (Peace
Asian country to gain independence without Process In Mindanao, n.d.).
an armed struggle (1 year before India). When
a nonviolent people's movement defeated The parties eventually adopted the
Ferdinand Marcos' dictatorship in 1986, the Framework Agreement in October 2012,
Philippines became a pioneer in overthrowing laying out a path for the transition. The parties
an oppressive system through peaceful means. completed the annexes on transitional
In 2001, a second people's power revolution mechanisms (February 2013), revenue
overthrew Joseph Estrada's government, which generation and wealth sharing (July 2013),
had been accused of corruption (Mindanao power-sharing (December 2013), and
Peace Process, n.d.). However, progress has normalization (January 2014) during the next
been gradual during the last nearly three 15 months (January 2014). Finally, the
decades of democracy. Politics continues to be Comprehensive Agreement was signed in the
a family battle in which a few families maintain Presidential Palace in March 2014 (Peace
power from generation to generation. Relatives Process In Mindanao, n.d.).
of overthrown presidents are still involved in
The agreement's major axis is the
politics (Peace Process In Mindanao, n.d.).
Creation of the Bangsamoro. This new self-
Several metrics suggest progress in governing state will replace the existing
poverty reduction, literacy, and employment, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao
but neighboring nations such as Malaysia, after a transition overseen by the MILF. The
Indonesia, and Thailand are well ahead of the accord envisions a reform process in the future
Philippines (UNDP, 2015). The New People's autonomous area that will see a parliamentary
Army, a Maoist-inspired insurgency that has system replace the presidential administration
been active since 1968, feeds its ideology on the that controls the rest of the country
continuance of societal injustices (Peace (Mindanao Peace Process, n.d.). The goal of
Process In Mindanao, n.d.). this pact is to encourage the formation of
thematic political parties.
 The government understands that The "Comprehensive Agreement on the
insurgency must be a part of the solution and Bangsamoro" is what it's called. During the
assume the corresponding responsibilities. As a Spanish invasion and colonization, the
result, the insurgency’s evolution into a Bangsamoro were considered natives or
political movement should include original residents of the southern Philippines.
participation in municipal and regional Bangsamoro people are acknowledged as their
elections. descendants and spouses (the Philippines signs
a historic peace pact with Muslim rebels, n.d.).
Regarding approval, the peace accord
must be translated into a statute that governs Bangsa is a local word that means nation.
the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which governs the Moro is derived from the Spanish colonial
Statute of Autonomy. A referendum will be term "Moors," which refers to Muslims (Key
held in the conflict-affected districts after points on Philippine Muslim peace pact, rebels
parliamentary authorization. Because the ...., n.d.).
municipalities bordering the current
autonomous community will have the AUTONOMY: The MILF abandons its
opportunity to join the new entity, this claims to a separate state in Mindanao's
referendum will also help to define the southern area in favor of parliamentary
autonomous region's territorial extent (Peace autonomy in the Bangsamoro autonomous
Process In Mindanao, n.d.). region. By 2016, this will be established. The
Bangsamoro will replace another Muslim
Constitutional reform is a divisive autonomous area, the MNLF, which the
topic. The MILF maintains that reform is government claims failed in the 1990s (the
required to consolidate the accords. On the Philippines Signs Historic Peace Pact with
other hand, the government has been hesitant Muslim Rebels, n.d.).
to start a lengthy procedure that could open a
"Pandora's box." However, concerns regarding DISARMAMENT: The MILF will
the constitution's many agreements imply that “gradually” decommission its forces and place
such a reform process may be considered. the weapons “beyond use,” with a local police
Beyond the accord with the MILF, the unit taking over law enforcement tasks from
Mindanao peace process may help to spark a the Philippine police and military (Key points
national debate regarding the country's on Philippine Muslim peace pact, rebels ....,
territorial arrangement since key forces in other n.d.)
areas urge comprehensive constitutional
POWERS: On defense, foreign policy, money,
reform along federal lines (Peace Process In
and citizenship, the Philippine government
Mindanao, n.d.).
will retain exclusive authority (Philippines
Here are the agreement's main points, signs historic peace pact with Muslim rebel,
as Agence France-Presse reported:" n.d.).
(Philippines signs historic peace pact with
TAXES/REVENUES: The autonomous
Muslim rebel, n.d.)
administration will get 75% of all local taxes
and levies, 75% of metallic resource revenues, majority and the chairmanship (Key points on
and control over fishing regions up to 12 Philippine Muslim peace pact, rebels ...., n.d.).
nautical miles from the coast (Philippines signs
historic peace pact with Muslim rebel, n.d.). ELECTIONS: In May 2016, a regional
parliament with 50 representatives will be
ISLAMIC LAW: The region will be governed elected in conjunction with national elections
by a secular administration rather than an (Key points on Philippine Muslim peace pact,
Islamic state. Only Muslims will be subject to rebels ...., n.d.).
Sharia law, and it will only apply to civil cases,
not criminal acts. Basic rights to life, travel, Implementation Challenges
privacy, and freedom of religion and speech are Despite the positive developments,
guaranteed to all residents (the Philippines implementing the peace agreement faces
signs historic peace pact with Muslim rebel, multiple obstacles (Peace Process In
n.d.). Mindanao, n.d.).

TERRITORY: To span five provinces in the The first constraint is time. The
south, as well as two cities, six towns, and 39 government linked the transitional period to
villages, accounting for nearly 10% of the the conclusion of the presidential term in May
Philippines’ total land area (the Philippines 2016 during the Framework Agreement
signs historic peace pact with Muslim rebels, negotiations in 2012 (Mindanao Peace Process,
n.d.). n.d.). However, the negotiating teams need
help with the agreed-upon negotiation and
ENABLING LAW: By the end of the year, implementation schedule. As a result, the
Aquino will seek parliament to enact a parties will need to agree on a longer
“Bangsamoro Basic Law” for the autonomous implementation period (Philippine Peace
region (the Philippines signs a historic peace Process in Mindanao: n.d.).
pact with Muslim rebels, n.d.).
The delay is a shared responsibility. On
PLEBISCITE: In a referendum in 2015, the one hand, the insurgency needs more
people living in territories to be included in the qualified and trustworthy people to shoulder
autonomous region must ratify the law (the all transitional obligations. On the other hand,
Philippines signs a historic peace pact with the government negotiating team needs more
Muslim rebels, n.d.). buy-in for the agreement and its
implementation by other parts of the
TRANSITIONAL AUTHORITY: After the bureaucracy (Peace Process In Mindanao,
referendum approves and ratifies the basic law, n.d.).
the territory will be governed by a 15-member
"Bangsamoro Transition Authority" until a At the same time, Congress has been
regional parliament is elected. The members of postponing the passage of the peace
the transitional authority are appointed by agreements into law even though the judiciary
Aquino, although the MILF will have a must still determine if they are constitutional
(Peace Process In Mindanao, n.d.). These state
institutions will likely raise issues that further groups also proliferate. These armed groups
block the implementation of the agreements can be classified into three categories: a MILF
that have been signed. breakaway group that is skeptical about the
government's political commitment (e.g., the
In the Philippines, prejudice against Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters),
Muslims, a heritage from the colonial period, extremist cells that are linked to international
still runs deep. extremist violence (e.g., Abu Sayyaf and
Jemaah Islamiyah), and ordinary criminal
With less than a year until the
organizations.
country's presidential and legislative elections
(May 2016), "several important politicians and Other challenges are inherent in
media outlets are shifting to populist language transitioning from conflict to peace (Peace
to agitate public sentiment against the peace Process In Mindanao, n.d.). In addition to
process," according to the report. (Peace political will, the government must prove its
Process In Mindanao, n.d.) capacity to transform words into deeds, which
has historically proven challenging. In parallel,
Even among political actors with good
the insurgency requires a radical paradigm shift
intentions, a lack of knowledge about the
from a semi-clandestine military structure to a
Muslim population's social, political, and
social and political movement, a terrain with
cultural reality, particularly the insurgency,
limited experience and at a disadvantage
results in faulty diagnoses and wrong
compared with established political actors.
responses. “Previous governments have linked
the Moro problem to poverty and economic Several arrangements that will most
marginalization, ignoring the importance of likely figure in the discussions on political
identity and esteem parity. The insurgency has systems include any or a mix of the following:
been unable to establish a political discourse
that can be understood and supported by the 1. A structure separation from the
entire population. The peace negotiators only existing political system for the
demolished some of these erroneous development of MILF communities;
imaginaries after painstaking discourse, but the integration of MILF troops into the
Christian and Muslim parts of society still fear Armed Forces of the Philippines or the
each other.” (Peace Process In Mindanao, n.d.) Philippine National Police; and
strengthening institutions for
The rise of armed groups is the most “personal autonomy,” such as Islamic
serious security issue (Peace Process in education and Sharia law.
Mindanao, n.d.). One explanation is that in the 2. Areas constituted as special zones, such
Philippines, possessing guns is legal as long as a as Swiss cantons, where Muslims can
person is at least 21 years old and passes a exercise a high degree of self-
background check before being awarded a determination.
Possession License. Meanwhile, successive 3. A new and expanded autonomous
governments still need to disband paramilitary region with additional powers.
groups run by local politicians. Other armed
 4. A Muslim state under the federal to insulate it from any group or
system of government. party's partisan and personal
5. An independent state where Muslims interests.
are the majority.

Conclusion
WEEK 17
LOCAL HISTORY
The following components of the peace Local history is the study of history in a
process must be strengthened: local context, emphasizing events that shaped a
local community, such as persons or specific
● Both sides must build a national locales in a village or town. These events could
consensus on the roadmap agreed be examples of movements, battles, births, and
upon during the negotiations by deaths (3 Reasons Why Local History Matters,
conducting additional n.d.).
consultations on the issues
discussed in the negotiations. The No matter how different you are, you
government must reach out to the have a shared history in the city where you live.
leaders of the Christian majority, Below are the three reasons local history is
particularly members of Congress important for our community (3 Reasons Why
and local officials. The MILF Local History Matters, n.d.).
must reach out to the MNLF and
traditional Muslim leaders. 1. Shared Experiences are Depicted in Local
● Christian and Muslim religious History
leaders must lead in rallying their As we learn more about notable people or
people to support the peace sites in our city from years past, we discover
process. The bishop-Ulama that those citizens raised children, worked hard
Forum, a conference of Christian to make a living, relocated to a new country, or
and Muslim religious leaders in had an entrepreneurial spirit they used to start
the Philippines, must be actively a business. We can often visit conserved
involved in harnessing this historic landmarks within a city as we learn
support. about these shared experiences. These well-
● The government and MILF must preserved sites can be used to get firsthand
provide strong and effective accounts from persons who lived in the
mechanisms for the neighborhood decades or centuries ago (3
implementation of the peace pact. Reasons Why Local History Matters, n.d.).
A neutral third party must be
present to oversee faithful 2. The Human Condition Can Be Learned
compliance of Manila and the through Local History
MILF with the terms of the Records of families and people who
agreement directly. settled in the city centuries ago can be found in
● Funding for implementation local history museums. Personal letters, papers,
must be identified and allocated and images of people, businesses, and events
that affected the city’s history are also included unrepresentative and limited is the motivation
in these records. These archives provide behind the need to establish local history.
detailed information on how people lived Filipino people's history is mostly Central
decades or centuries ago. Museum exhibits Luzon's, particularly that of the Tagalogs.
show these records and help visitors cultivate Important events and developments, including
empathy and a deep understanding of the personalities, are addressed only briefly and
circumstances and concepts surrounding an completely neglected at worst, especially in the
event or life at a certain time (3 Reasons Why Visayas and Mindanao. In this regard, the
Local History Matters, n.d.). result is a misrepresentation of Philippine
history by failing to fully account for the
3. Local History Museums Are Centers for inherent differences in historical and cultural
Learning experiences of various ethnic groups in various
Local history comes alive in museums and geographical areas throughout the country
historical societies. We create learned (The Importance of Local History in
connections when guests can read, visit a Philippine History, n.d.).
historic place, look at an artifact, appreciate
images, or study real documents. Museums Historians, Filipino and foreign, are not
provide extra information not present in altogether to be blamed for the kind of
classrooms and object-based learning that gives Philippine histories they have come up with.
touchable looks into the past beyond what a The issue stems from Philippine
single textbook can provide (3 Reasons Why historiography, which was bound by the severe
Local History Matters, n.d.). constraints of Western criteria or norms (e.g.,
historical writing has to be based on written
Importance of Local History in Philippine sources). As the phrase goes, "Without a
History document, there is no history." Primary
Many Filipino laypeople need more resources were the only ones regarded as
interest in or understanding of Philippine reliable, even when using written sources. As a
history. An inadequate historical background result, national historians' work is severely
and a general propensity on the side of the limited by the need for written resources
people to be less mindful of the value of the produced by Filipinos in their communities.
past in their present life may have caused this As a result, any information they have
phenomenon (The Importance of Local absorbed into Philippine history has come
History in Philippine History, n.d.). Such from colonial sources, which are seen as
ignorance or apathy may have also resulted discriminatory." (The importance of local
from the absence of materials, especially on history in Philippine history, n.d.) Hence,
local history, which is close to the hearts and national historians have been handicapped by
minds of the people. this adherence to a generally accepted historical
approach, which offers limited information
It is impossible to overestimate the
and undertakes for a people whose view of
importance of local history in comprehending
their history and struggles is perhaps primarily
and writing our national history. The
found in their oral literature.
realization that Philippine history is
 The nation comprises its parts, which individuals better understand and appreciate
include regions, provinces, cities, and their national experience and heritage as
municipalities, and the nation's history must Filipinos (The Importance of Local History in
be the sum of its parts' histories. No town, only Philippine History, n.d.).
province, exists without the withed and vice
versa. National history can only be understood LOCAL HISTORICAL SITES
in the context of local history. Interest in The Philippines is a country with a rich
studying and comprehending Philippine cultural and historical heritage. Listed below
history largely depends on one's appreciation are several historic shrines and monuments
of the history of one's hometown (The from around the archipelago that serve as
Importance of Local History in Philippine reminders of the country's rich culture and
History, n.d.). history.

Because it reflects people’s identity, Rizal Park

experiences, and goals, local history is expected Rizal Park is located in the middle of
to be closest to their hearts and minds. It is the Manila, the Philippines’ capital, and overlooks
interpretive recreation of their community’s Manila Bay (ART IN THE PHILIPPINES.,
history, “encompassing its political, social, n.d.).
economic, and cultural life, as well as the
Some of the most pivotal moments in
evolution of the geographical unit’s
Philippine history have occurred at Luneta.
institutions and the accomplishments and
Because of his martyrdom, Dr. Jose Rizal
failures of its people (The importance of local
became a hero of the Philippine Revolution
history in Philippine history, n.d.). Thus, to
after his execution on December 30, 1896. As a
understand and appreciate Philippine history,
memorial to him, Luneta Park was formally
one should first know the history of his locality
renamed Rizal Park. Among the most notable
and its contributions to regional development
events in Luneta Park were the declaration of
and overall nation-building (The importance
Philippine independence from American
of local history in Philippine history, n.d.).
dominance on June 4, 1946, and the political
Therefore, the solution to national rallies of Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon
history's inadequacy is its revision and Aquino in 1986 (ART IN THE
enrichment. It is the responsibility not only of PHILIPPINES., n.d.). The Rizal Monument
the national historian but also of the local also serves as the origin or Kilometer Zero of all
people. Providing a proper and adequate other cities in the Philippines. The Rizal
account of its people's historical experience is Monument in this park is the national
the fundamental obligation of every locality. monument of the country. Swiss artist Richard
This technique will enrich national history Kissling designed this bronze and granite
while correcting the misconception that monument for the Philippines' national hero,
Philippine history is primarily the history of unveiled in 1913. One of the most renowned
Manila and its environs. Rather than sites in the Philippines, this monument
encouraging regionalism, local history can help commemorates the life of Jose P. Rizal, the
nation's hero, born on June 19, 1861, and Sikatuna-Legaspi blood compact is the first
deceased on December 30, 1896. treaty of friendship between people of different
races, religions, cultures, and civilizations. It
Lapu-Lapu Shrine was a friendship contract based on equality and
Mactan Shrine houses this bronze statue mutual respect (ART IN THE
of Lapu-Lapu. Lapu-Lapu was a Mactan PHILIPPINES., n.d.).
Island native ruler who opposed Magellan's
attempts to enslave his people, convert them to
Christianity, and subject them to the Spanish
throne. Magellan was killed in the subsequent
combat between the Spaniards and Lapu-Lapu Sultan Kudarat Monument
and his soldiers on April 27, 1521. The shrine This statue serves as a reminder that
was built where the fight is said to have despite conducting 11 voyages to Mindanao,
the Spaniards could only capture the entire
occurred (ART IN THE PHILIPPINES.,
part of the ire of Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan
n.d.). Kudarat Del, the seventh Sultan of
Maguindanao, which is commemorated by this
monument. He managed to keep the Spaniards
out of his sultanate in Mindanao. He was a
direct descendant of Sharif Kabungsuan, a
Magellan Shrine 14th-century Muslim missionary (ART IN
The Magellan Shrine is a massive THE PHILIPPINES., n.d.).
memorial tower dedicated to Ferdinand
Magellan, a Portuguese adventurer. Magellan is
thought to have been killed here in the Battle
of Mactan in 1521. The monument stands 30
meters tall on Punta Engao, Cebu's Mactan
Island. Bonifacio Monument
The Monumento Circle, which houses
the Bonifacio Monument, the famous
monument of Andres Bonifacio, is Caloocan's
most well-known landmark. Monumento
comes from the Spanish word monument
Blood Compact Site (Monumento Station, n.d.). Bonifacio is the
Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol, is home founder of the KKK, a revolutionary group
to the famous Blood Compact Site. The Blood that began the fight for Philippine
Compact, which took place on March 16, independence from the Spanish colonialism of
1565, between Sikatuna, a local chieftain, and the archipelago, which lasted more than 300
Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, a Spanish explorer years.
and colonizer, is regarded as one of the most
significant events in Philippine history. The
Pinaglabanan Shrine No. 7355, with the National Commission for
Pinaglabanan Shrine is in San Juan City, Culture and the Arts as its implementer.
Metro Manila, Philippines, near North
Domingo Cor. Pinaglabanan Street. A figure The Abel Iloko is the iconic hand-woven
of a woman carrying a bolo or machete, cotton textile of the Ilocano. Highly regarded
supported by two children, stands in front of for premier quality and durability, it was used
the shrine. This shrine recalls the first Filipino for the sails of galleon ships. The finest ones
raid on a warehouse in the area by the Spanish were comparable to the best linen products in
in 1896. The statue appears on the town seal as Europe. The Abel Iloko is used for blankets,
well. bed covers, draperies, and contemporary
fashion.

The tabungaw or gourd casque is a

traditional headgear made of a gourd. These
sturdy and waterproof hats are lined with
McArthur Landing Site excellently crafted outer nito weave, a work of
The McArthur Landing Site in Palo, art. Meanwhile, the inside of the hat is made of
Leyte, was built to memorialize General two levels of nito weave that are also uniquely
Douglas MacArthur's famous parting words, "I designed to make the hat fit snugly and
shall return," as he said before leaving the comfortably on the head.
country after the Japanese Imperial Ary
The art of producing silver or gold
defeated it during World War II. This historic
jewelry and crafts in the Philippines flourished
event occurred on October 20, 1944 (Majestic
with the growth of Catholicism in the country.
Country, n.d.). The invasion of the Allies on
The rush of church construction also came
the shores of Leyte was a watershed moment in
with the demand for liturgical vessels and
the Pacific War's history "as well as the human
objects. Crafts are done painstakingly by hand,
struggle for freedom. The landing on Leyte is a
from drawing and carving the design on wood
pivotal moment in the Philippines' long
to hammering and polishing the metal to reveal
history of friendship with the United States."
the piece's details.
(MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park,
n.d.) Mat weaving is passed down through the
matrilineal line in the Sama culture because
men do not participate in the craft
(GAMABA: Haja Amina Appi, n.d.). Each
colorful mat takes three months, from
harvesting and stripping the thorny pandanus
NATIONAL LIVING TREASURE
leaves to drying, dyeing, and executing the
The National Living Treasures Award
geometric patterns. The resulting products are
honors the country’s best traditional artists.
a marvel of color harmony, precise
The award was created through Republic Act
visualization, and design execution. The pis
syabit represents a customary textile wrap
donned as headgear by the Tausug community Kalinga dances reflect one underlying theme:
residing in Jolo. It is multicolored, measuring oneness.
100cm×100cm, and used as a headdress,
symbolizing the wearer's elevated societal The T'nalak is made from fine abaca
position. At present, the pis syabit is used even fibers. Its production is a tedious process, from
by women in its traditional function, as a shawl the stripping of the fibers to "bed-tying," which
or as a neckerchief. Some even use it as a table defines the design. The fabric tells a story using
cover and wall ornament. patterns, such as buling langit (clouds) and
kabangi (butterfly), and listens to the T'bolis'
The music of these instruments, Yakan, is distant past. The T'nalak is an art form rich in
the soundtrack to various significant ritual and steeped in meaning, creating a
community events. The kwintangan is used for unique beauty we can all take pride in.
courtship and celebrations; the kwintangan
kayu for serenading the palay for it to yield The inabal is made from stripped fibers of
more fruit; the gabbang for announcements the abaca plant; the textile processing is done
and an ensemble or peregeya; and a mainly by women. Wrap tie-dye designs are
combination of kwintangan, agung, gabbang, standard in the Mindanao culture. The abaca
kwintangan kayu, gandang, tagutuk, and textile is traditionally used as a blanket, wrap-
tuntungan for weddings, graduations, or around skirt, trousers, or sling bag. The inabal
baptisms. is now redesigned and reprocessed into high-
fashion bags, clothing, office accessories, and
The sugidanon is a long narrative tapestries.
composed of 10 epics sung in an exalted style.
The story centers on the heroic exploits of a Of all the Mangyan's oral traditions, the
semi-divine warrior character who embodies ambahan remains because it is etched in
the principal ideals of the Panay-Bukidnon bamboo tubes using an ancient Southeast
heritage. Considering the length of the epic Asian pre-colonial script called Surat Mangyan.
and the language used, which is no longer The Ambahan is a poetic literary form
spoken, the art of epic chanting would only be composed of seven-syllable lines. It is sung, and
recovered if not for the work of people such as its message ranges from courtship to saying
Federico Caballero. goodbye to a friend.

Every occasion has a Kalinga dance with a Palawan's kulilal and bagit traditions
series of graceful movements performed to the reflect humans' intensely poetic and subtle
beat of the gangsa. It features a kaleidoscope of harmony with each other and nature. The
colors due to the elaborate dress and kulilal expresses passionate love with the
adornments worn by the dancers and accompaniment of the kutyapi of a two-
musicians. This dance can be performed stringed lute played by a man and p'agang or
during festive occasions, such as a wedding bamboo zither that a woman plays.
ceremony, or in unhappy times, such as an Meanwhile, the bagit is strictly instrumental
illness or untimely death of a member. All music played on a kutyapi, depicting natural
elements, such as leaves resting or birds
chirping.

The kutyapi exists in a variety of designs,

shapes, and sizes and is known by names such
as kotapi (Subanon), fegereng (Tiruray),
faglong (B'laan), hegelong (T'boli), and
kuglong or kudlong (Manobo). It is technically
the hardest to master among Filipino
traditional instruments. The kutyapi only has
two strings, but it can be rich, melodic, and
rhythmic sound, captivating in its intimate,
meditative, and almost mystical charm.