Lesson 1: MEANING AND RELEVANCE OF HISTORY

Importance of Studying History:

- History helps individuals understand values, heritage, culture, society.

- It aids learning from past mistakes to make better future decisions.

- Benefits include discipline, knowledge, appreciation of heritage, intellectual acumen, and

political awareness.

What is History:

- Origin-based Definition: From Greek words "to see" (idein) and "to know" (eidenai).

- Greek term "historia" originally meant “the act of seeking knowledge” and later evolved to
mean “accounts of events compiled through inquiry.”

- Definition According to Historians: History is more than true facts; it involves analyzing,
interpreting biases, and verification using primary sources.

- Historians differentiate truth from fiction via "verification", a careful research process.

- Primary sources: Created at the time studied; historians use them to verify information.

History's Relevance to Humanity's Present and Future:

- History promotes:

1. Self-understanding (knowing unique heritage).

2. Assessment of current values by comparing past achievements.

3. Development of tolerance by accepting differences.

4. Resolution of social and individual problems.

5. Nationalism by uniting people.

- Key to history’s impact is decision-making. As Winston Churchill said, those who don’t learn
history repeat mistakes, hindering progress.
Five Values Gained from Studying History:

1. Discipline: Requires focus and self-control.

2. Knowledge: Useful for solving problems.

3. Appreciation of Heritage: Understand culture and traditions.

4. Intellectual Acumen: Develops critical thinking, memory, logical reasoning.

5. Political Awareness: Shapes political opinions and societal participation.

Lesson 2: DISTINCTION OF HISTORICAL SOURCES

Writing History:

- Involves collecting, studying, and interpreting significant events.

- Should teach history with purpose beyond fact-sharing: foster skills, values, and connect to
learners' life and intellectual levels.

- Content should be structured, accurate, and linked logically to other fields and everyday life.

Historiography:

- Study of how history is written: who, how, why.

- Examines interpretation changes over time and biases.

- Helps identify new research questions, different viewpoints, and appreciation of history’s
factors.

- Historians may have varying interpretations forming different historical schools of thought.

Verisimilitude:

- From Latin words for "truth" and "similar".

- Ensures historical writing’s accuracy, believability, and persuasiveness.

- Emphasizes clear and accurate communication of historical reality.

Lesson 3: CRITICISM OF SOURCES

Two Types of Criticism

1. External Criticism - Checks authenticity:

- Who wrote it and when.

- Author’s background, affiliations, patterns, forgery or ghostwriting.

- Date and origin consistency.

2. Internal Criticism - Checks credibility:

- Whether information is truthful and honest.

- Looks for contradictions, errors, bias, omissions.

- Uses doubt and analysis to find reliable information.

Positive Criticism:

- Understands source both literally and beneath the surface meaning.

- Ensures comprehensive interpretation.

Negative Criticism:

- Identifies falsehoods and fabrications to eliminate inaccurate claims.

Lesson 4: PRIMARY SOURCES: TYPES AND REPOSITORIES

Definition and Importance:

- Primary sources provide original information created during the studied period.

- Help tell the story of the past with direct evidence.

Types of Primary Sources:

1. Written documents (letters, diaries, speeches, government records)

2. Visual materials (pictures, paintings, videos)

3. Artifacts (tools, clothing, coins)

4. Oral histories and interviews (folklore, myths, firsthand stories)

5. Statistical data (census, surveys)

6. Digital content (social media, blogs)

Repositories of Primary Sources:

- Storage centers where sources are kept:

- Archives (e.g. National Archives of the Philippines)

- Libraries (rare books, manuscripts)

- Museums (artifacts, photographs)

- Online databases (digital libraries like Library of Congress)

- Access can be physical or digital.

- Repositories preserve and provide access to historical knowledge.

Lesson 5: FORMULATING ARGUMENTS

Significance:

- Crucial skill for distinguishing fact vs opinion, truth vs falsehood.

- Helps in comprehending diverse historical narratives and controversies.

- Enables logical, clear, and persuasive communication.

Key Components of a Good Argument:

1. Clear main claim (thesis).

2. Logical structure.

3. Supporting evidence.

4. Clear reasoning.

5. Analysis and evaluation of sources.

6. Convincing writing style.

Steps for Argument Analysis:

- Discern reliability and relevance of sources.

- Recognize biases, motives, and check for emotional influence.

- Assess evidence accuracy and completeness.

- Understand current vs outdated or informational vs appropriate content.

Chapter 2: Analyzing Primary Sources in Philippine History

LESSON 1: ANTONIO PIGAFETTA: FIRST VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD

Antonio Pigafetta – First Voyage Around the World

- A Venetian scholar and explorer who joined Magellan’s expedition to the Spice Islands
(Moluccas).

- His journal, “The First Voyage around the World (1519-1522)”, offers invaluable firsthand
accounts.

- Documented the journey with Magellan’s five ships and 270 men.

- Notable discoveries:

- Strait of Magellan (new waterway through South America).

- Relations with indigenous people:

- Diplomatic relations with Rajah Humabon of Cebu.

- Conversion of natives to Christianity.

- Pigafetta wrote about pre-colonial Philippines’ cultures, landscapes, social customs, language,
music, warfare, and personal grooming.

- His journal sheds light on the political structures and social life in Philippine islands.

- Importance: His diary is a treasure chest for Filipinos to understand their historical heritage
pre-colonial times.

LESSON 2: KARTILYA NG KATIPUNAN: EMILIO JACINTO

Emilio Jacinto – Kartilya ng Katipunan

- Born December 15, 1875; key revolutionary leader and officer in Katipunan.

- Known as the “Brain of the Katipunan.”

- Wrote the first version of the Kartilya ng Katipunan, a guide/manual of principles for
Katipunan members fighting Spanish colonial rule.

- Also served as spokesperson and treasurer for the Katipunan.

- His pen name was Dimas-ilaw.

- Kartilya emphasized ideas of freedom, equality, bravery, and respect for others.

- It influenced the drafting of the Malolos Constitution.

- The Kartilya remains a mirror reflecting Filipino spirit, heart, and traditions.

LESSON 3: MGA GUNITA NG HIMAGSIKAN - EMILIO AGUINALDO

Overview:

- "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" is a book written by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President
of the Philippines.

- It provides a special view of the Philippine Revolution of 1896, showing the struggles to free
the Philippines from Spanish rule.

Key Information:
- Born on March 22, 1869, in Kawit, Cavite; first President of the Philippine Republic.

- He led revolutionary forces against Spain and later the United States.

- Passed away on February 6, 1964, in Quezon City.

- Between 1928 and 1946, Aguinaldo wrote his memoir "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan".

- The book covers his life, younger years, joining the revolution, and his leadership in the
Magdalo faction of the Katipunan.

- After Andres Bonifacio's death, Aguinaldo became the main revolutionary leader.

- The Philippine Revolution was a historic turning point fought for freedom and identity.

- The memoir highlights Filipino heroism, sacrifice, patriotism, and resilience during the
revolution.

THE PACT OF BIAK-NA-BATO AND EXILE:

- Signed on December 14, 1897, with Spanish Governor-General Fernando Primo de Rivera.

- Included agreed financial terms totaling around $1,700,000 Mexican pesos:

- Voluntary exile of Aguinaldo and comrades to Hong Kong.

- Compensation for war damages to non-combatants.

- Despite agreements, full payment was never made; fighting resumed.

- Reasons for the pact:

1. Military Stalemate – neither side could decisively win.

2. Internal Disagreements within revolutionaries.

3. Strategic Repositioning by Aguinaldo to regroup and resupply.

- Aguinaldo returned to fight again in Cavite in April 1898, declared independence on June 12,
1898 in Kawit, Cavite.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MEMOIR:

- Provides personal insights into Aguinaldo’s thoughts and justifications.

- Defends his role amidst controversies, such as the execution of Bonifacio.

- Covers key events like battles, leadership roles, the Tejeros Convention, military court trial,
and enemy attacks.

- Illustrates the determination and sacrifices of Filipinos.

Key Events in the Memoir:

1. Early life and involvement with Katipunan and Magdalo faction.

2. Battles and leadership in the revolution.

3. Most intense battle in Bacoor on Nov 1, 1896

4. Bonifacio's invitation to Cavite (Dec 1, 1896).

5. Reorganization of Magdiwang Council and contrast with Magdalo Council.

6. Tejeros Convention and Bonifacio's execution.

7. Return to Imus and key captures of Bonifacio brothers.

8. Military court establishment and trial of Bonifacio.

9. Surprise attack on Naic and defense of Maragondon.

10. Execution of Bonifacio brothers on May 10, 1897.

LESSON 4: THE 1898 DECLARATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE

Overview:

- The Philippines was under Spanish colonial rule from 1565 to 1898.

- Filipino intellectuals and reformists (including José Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Graciano López
Jaena) championed reforms.

- The execution of José Rizal (1896) sparked the revolution.

- The secret revolutionary society Katipunan, led by Andrés Bonifacio, initiated uprisings.
- Internal conflicts led to leadership shift to General Emilio Aguinaldo.

THE EXILE TO HONG KONG:

- Following the Pact of Biak-na-Bato in December 1897, Aguinaldo and fellow leaders went into
exile in Hong Kong.

- Formed the Hong Kong Junta, a revolutionary government in exile.

- The group smuggled supplies and established diplomatic ties with Australia, Japan, and the
U.S.

THE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR (1898):

- The war broke out in 1898; U.S. Navy Commodore George Dewey defeated the Spanish fleet
in the Battle of Manila Bay.

- Aguinaldo returned to the Philippines with American support promising independence.

- June 12, 1898: Aguinaldo declared Philippine independence.

AFTERMATH:

- U.S. later distanced themselves, leading to conflict with Filipino forces in 1899.

- Aguinaldo declared president of the Philippine Republic on Jan 1, 1899

- Captured in March 23, 1901, he pledged allegiance to the U.S. and retired from public life.

THE PROCLAMATION:

- Declared at Aguinaldo's ancestral home in Cavite el Viejo (present-day Kawit, Cavite).

- Marked the end of 300 years of Spanish colonial rule.

- Momentous symbolic events:

- Unfurling of the Philippine flag sewn by Marcela, Lorenza, and Delfina Herbosa in Hong
Kong.
 - The flag’s design symbolism:

- White triangle: equality and fraternity.

- Three stars: Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao.

- Sun with eight rays: provinces in the first revolt.

- Blue stripe: peace, truth, justice.

- Red stripe: patriotism and valor.

- The flag became the national flag.

- Marcha Filipina Magdalo became the national march, composed by Julian Felipe.

- Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista read the Acta de la Proclamacion de Independencia.

- Endorsed by 98 people, including American officer L.M. Johnson.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

- Symbolized Filipino determination to break free from Spanish rule.

- Reflects Filipino spirit, resilience, unity, and quest for self-governance.

- First public performance of Philippine National Anthem and display of the flag.

- Marked colonial Asia’s first free and united nation.

- Principles continue to inspire nation-building.

Source Analysis: "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" by Emilio Aguinaldo

"Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" is an autobiographical memoir written by General Emilio

Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippine Republic, covering his life and leadership during
the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule. Written between 1928 and the 1940s and
published posthumously in 1964, the memoir provides detailed personal accounts of revolution
events, battles, leadership roles, and controversies such as the Tejeros Convention and the
execution of Andres Bonifacio. It aims to offer insights, justify Aguinaldo’s decisions, and
document the revolution from his perspective. The memoir is intended for historians, scholars,
and anyone interested in Philippine history. While it enriches understanding and aligns with
other historical records, it also reflects Aguinaldo’s subjective views and biases, particularly in
defending his legacy. Thus, the memoir is a valuable but personally interpreted historical source
illuminating Filipino heroism, sacrifice, and revolutionary leadership.

Source Analysis: The 1898 Declaration of Philippine Independence Document

The 1898 Declaration of Philippine Independence, known as the "Acta de la Proclamación de

Independencia del Pueblo Filipino," was created by Don Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista, a war
auditor and commissioner. Drafted on June 12, 1898, during the Philippine Revolution, it
officially proclaimed the Philippines' independence from over 300 years of Spanish colonial rule.
The document was intended for both Filipinos and the international community, especially the
United States, to assert Filipino sovereignty and legitimacy of the revolution. It emphasizes
Filipino determination to achieve freedom and calls for international recognition. While it
strongly reflects a nationalistic perspective favorable to the revolutionary government led by
Emilio Aguinaldo, it omits some social issues like agrarian struggles. As a primary historical
source, it validates the Filipino quest for self-governance and serves as a foundational
document symbolizing the birth of a free and united Philippine nation.

Lesson 5: THE MALOLOS CONSTITUTION

- During the Spanish-American War, Emilio Aguinaldo established a Revolutionary Government

to intensify the fight for Filipino independence.

- This government replaced a dictatorship; Aguinaldo adopted the title President instead of
Dictator to signify the creation of a republic.

- Key events:

- First cabinet assembled on June 15, 1898

- Expanded cabinet on September 23, 1898

- Apolinario Mabini became Secretary of Foreign Relations on January 2, 1899

- The Malolos Constitution was announced on January 23, 1899, marking the birth of the First
Philippine Republic.

COMPOSITION ANDI INFLUENCES:

- The 1899 Political Constitution (Malolos Constitution) served as the foundational law for the
First Philippine Republic.

- Drafted by Felipe Calderón y Roca and Felipe Buencamino.

- Effective from January 21, 1899.

- Had 101 rules or articles grouped into 14 sections

- Inspired by the Spanish Constitution of 1812 and constitutions from countries like Belgium,
Mexico, Brazil, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.

- Key idea: the power of the country is given back to the people.

RATIFICATION AND PROMULGATION:

- Ratification is the formal approval and legitimizing of the constitution, ensuring its
announcement and implementation.

AFTERMATH & LEGACY:

- Despite efforts, the constitution was never fully enforced due to lack of international
recognition.

- Post Spanish-American War, the United States took control of the Philippines.

- The Philippine-American War began on February 4, 1899, led by Aguinaldo.

- Key battles:

- First Battle of Manila (American victory)

- Second Battle of Manila or Battle of Caloocan (Filipino defeat, February 22-24, 1899)

- Malolos was captured by Americans on March 31, 1899.

- Aguinaldo was captured on March 23, 1901; surrendered on April 19, 1901.

- General Miguel Malvar took over and surrendered on April 16, 1902.

TRANSITION TO AMERICAN CONSTITUTIONALISM:

- U.S. passed laws like the Philippine Organic Act of 1902 and the Tydings-McDuffie Act (1934)
providing constitutional frameworks.

- The Malolos Constitution had minimal influence on later Philippine constitutions rooted in
American constitutionalism.

- The original Malolos Constitution copy is preserved in the Batasang Pambansa Complex

Summary of Titles of the 1899 Constitution (Malolos Constitution):

1. Title I - The Republic: Established Philippines as a free, independent nation.

2. Title II - The Government: Described a democratic government structure.

3. Title III - Religion: Guaranteed freedom and separation of Church and State.

4. Title IV - The Filipinos: Defined who are Filipinos and their rights.

5. Title V - Legislative Power: Outlined the legislative body.

6. Title VI - The Permanent Commission: Duties during Assembly adjournment.

7. Title VII - Executive Power: Power vested in the President.

8. Title VIII - The President of the Republic: Duties and election details.

9. Title IX - Secretaries of Government: Roles and responsibilities.

10. Title X - Judicial Power: Judicial system and independence.

11. Title XI - Provincial and Popular Assemblies: Local government powers.

12. Title XII - Administration of the State: State budget and financial management.

13. Title XIII - Amendment of the Constitution: Process for changes.

14. Title XIV - Constitutional Observance, Oath, and Language: Rules on oath and language.

15. Transitory Provisions: Temporary measures.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE:

- Designed to be popular, representative, and accountable.

- Had separate legislative, executive, and judicial powers.

- Included a Permanent Commission as a decision-making body when the law-making group was
not in session.

REVIEW AND RATIFICATION:

- The Malolos Constitution was carefully reviewed from October 25 to November 29, 1898.

- Important amendments and ideas included:

- Religious Freedom Amendment: Ensured freedom to practice any religion.

- Opposition by Apolinario Mabini: Mabini opposed the draft as he felt a republic during war
wasn't practical.

- Proposed changes by Aguinaldo: Gave the President more power for quick decisions during
war, but these changes were meant to be temporary.

Source Analysis of the Malolos Constitution:

The Malolos Constitution was crafted by a group of Filipino representatives called the Malolos
Congress, with Felipe Calderon as the main architect. This historical document serves as the
foundational law of the First Philippine Republic, officially proclaimed on January 21, 1899,
during a revolutionary period against Spanish rule. Its content reflects the aspirations of Filipino
revolutionaries for a democratic, accountable government that recognized the rights and
freedoms of its citizens. It intended to establish a political identity for Filipinos and assert
their sovereignty, freedom, and self-governance. While it carries a nationalist and anti-colonial
message, the constitution's perspective should be understood within the larger context of
decolonization movements in Asia. The document also conveys the desire for religious
freedom and separation of church and state. However, its positive portrayal of revolutionary
leaders and emphasis on the Philippine perspective may introduce bias, downplaying other
colonial viewpoints.

Lesson 6: THE FIRST PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC

- The First Philippine Republic (Malolos Republic) was officially established on January 23,
1899, during ongoing fights for independence from Spain (1896-1898) and the war between
Spain and the U.S. (1898).
- The Malolos Constitution was introduced on January 21, 1899.

- Emilio Aguinaldo served as the President.

- The Republic maintained governance until April 1, 1901.

AFTERMATH OF THE BATTLE OF MANILA BAY:

- After winning the battle at Manila Bay against Spain, Aguinaldo announced the Philippine
Declaration of Independence on June 12, 1898.

- New revolutionary governments declared on June 18 and 23, 1898.

- The 1898 Treaty of Paris ended the war between Spain and the U.S.; however, it was not
officially announced until April 11, 1899.

THE FIRST CONSTITUTIONAL REPUBLIC IN ASIA:

- The Republic is recognized as the first real republic in Asia with a formal constitution.

- Aguinaldo had led earlier governments such as Tejeros and Biak-na-Bato, but the Malolos
Constitution was approved by a partly-elected congress, promoting true democratic
representation.

THE END OF THE FIRST PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC:

- Officially formed on January 21, 1899.

- War with America began on February 4, 1899.

- Following several battles (First and Second Battle of Manila, Battle of Caloocan), Malolos was
captured on March 31, 1899.

- Aguinaldo was arrested on March 23, 1901 and surrendered on April 19, 1901.

- General Miguel Malvar continued fighting until surrendering on April 16, 1902.

JURISDICTION CLAIMS:
- The government claimed jurisdiction over Palaos (modern Palau) and the Sulu archipelago, but
actual control was never established.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE:

- It included a Council of Government (Cabinet), Assembly of Representatives, and Supreme

Court.

- Important figures: Gracio Gonzaga (Chief Justice), Juan Arceo and Felix Ferrer (chamber
presidents), and several Associate Justices.

- The Philippine Revolutionary Army was renamed as the Philippine Republican Army.

- The first military school, Academia Militar, was established in Malolos on October 25, 1898.

Source Analysis of the First Philippine Republic:

The First Philippine Republic was established through the Malolos Constitution and the Malolos
Congress, assembled by Emilio Aguinaldo on September 15, 1898, at the Barasoain Church in
Malolos, Bulacan. The Constitution was enacted on January 21, 1899, leading to the
inauguration of the Republic on January 23, 1899. As the primary source, the Constitution
provides firsthand details about the government's fundamental laws, principles, and structure. It
reflects the political turmoil of the time, including the ongoing struggle between Spain, the
United States, and Philippine revolutionaries for sovereignty. Crafted to govern the Filipino
people, it underscored calls for independence, democracy, and the establishment of legal order.
The document also signals the Republic's intent to assert itself internationally. However, the
narrative presents a Philippine perspective, promoting nationalism and highlighting the
legitimacy and aspirations of the republic, potentially minimizing opposing colonial viewpoints.

Lesson 7: POLITICAL CARICATURES OF THE AMERICAN ERA — ALFRED MCCOY

- The Philippines was under American colonial rule from 1898 to 1946.

- This period saw significant transformations in politics, economy, and culture which still
influence the country today.

- Political caricatures from this era provide a unique lens to understand these historical
changes.

THE AMERICANIZATION OF THE PHILIPPINES:

1. The United States took control of the Philippines from Spain after the Spanish-American War
(1898).

2. The Americans set up schools, government offices, and courts patterned after the U.S. system
and made English the main language of instruction.

3. The Philippines joined the world economy, with American industries using Philippine farms
and mines for materials which spurred farming for profit, mining, and oil industries.

4. American culture—music, movies, and products—became popular; basketball was

introduced and became a dominant sport.

5. The Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934 provided a transition period of 10 years toward Philippine
independence, which was delayed by World War II and ultimately granted on July 4, 1946.

POLITICAL CARICATURES AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE:

- Alfred McCoy, a renowned historian, compiled political cartoons of the American era in his
book Philippine Cartoons: Political Caricature of the American Era (1900-1941).

- These cartoons, printed in dailies and periodicals, reveal:

- Media opinions and broad images of society and politics under American rule.

- Use of exaggeration, satire, and symbolism to discuss political issues and figures.

- Tools to provoke thought, simplify complex political subjects, and stimulate public discussion.

Source Analysis: Political Caricatures of the American Era (Alfred McCoy)

- Origin: Work by Alfred McCoy, a noted historian.

- Information Type: Compilation of political cartoons published in newspapers and periodicals

during the American era.

- Context: Created in the 20th century during American colonization, reflecting societal and
political changes.

- Audience: Mainly for the general public interested in Philippine politics and society during
American rule.
- Purpose: To provide a unique historical and societal perspective on American-era Philippines
through caricatures.

- Significant Qualities: Visual commentaries revealing political corruption, power dynamics, and
social issues using satire.

- Relation to Other Events: Linked to the transition from Spanish to American cultural influence
and socio-economic conditions of Filipinos under U.S. rule.

- Corroboration: Aligns with historical records of the era including power dynamics and cultural
shifts; contrasts with sources that emphasize positive American influence by highlighting social
problems.

Lesson 8: FILIPINO GRIEVANCES AGAINST GOVERNOR WOOD: COMMISSION ON

INDEPENDENCE

- Leonard Wood was a U.S. Army major general and served as Governor-General of the
Philippines (1921–1927)

- Noted for modernizing education, judiciary, police, and sanitation.

- Faced backlash for his role in the First Battle of Bud Dajo (March 1906), a violent conflict with
the Moro people causing heavy civilian casualties.

- Though not directly leading the attack, Wood accepted full responsibility for its tragic
outcome.

- Due to intense criticism, Wood resigned as governor of Moro Province in April 1906.

FILIPINO GRIEVANCES AGAINST GOVERNOR WOOD

- Wood’s term as Governor-General was controversial for overreaching authority and arbitrary
decisions that undermined Philippine autonomy.

- Drafted by lawyers Jose Abad Santos (Chief Legal Counsel) and Jorge Bocobo (Law professor),
the grievances were adopted as a joint resolution on November 17, 1926 by the Philippine
Legislature.

Related Key Events

- Cabinet Crisis of 1923:

- Triggered by Wood’s handling of a corruption scandal involving Ray Conley, head of Manila
police vice squad.

- After Wood cleared Conley despite bribery evidence, Filipino officials, including Senate
President Manuel L. Quezon and Speaker Manuel A. Roxas, resigned in protest.

- Formation of the Commission on Independence (November 1918):

- The Filipino grievances against Wood were sent to the U.S. Congress on July 26, 1923, urging
investigation and action.

Source Analysis: Filipino Grievances Against Governor Wood

- Origin: Collective output by Filipino politicians and lawyers Jose Abad Santos and Jorge
Bocobo.

- Information Type: Joint resolution expressing Filipino grievances and protest against Governor
Wood’s administration.

- Context: Created in 1926, during intensified Filipino efforts toward independence and
resistance to American colonial rule.

- Audience: American officials and people, informing them about Filipino opposition to Wood’s
rule and appealing for support of Philippine independence.

- Purpose: Protest arbitrary actions of Wood, highlight oppressive policies, and promote Filipino
autonomy.

Lesson 9: PRESIDENT CORAZON AQUINO'S SPEECH BEFORE THE US CONGRESS

- President Corazon Aquino delivered her historic speech before the US Congress in
Washington, D.C., on September 18, 1986.

- Significance: This was her first visit to America after becoming the first female President of the
Philippines.
- Political Context: The Philippines was recovering from the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos
who was ousted in February 1986 during the EDSA Revolution.

- Challenges: Post-Marcos Philippines faced a $26 billion foreign debt and a growing communist
insurgency.

Purpose and Contents of the Speech

- Main Focus: Aquino defended her administration’s plans to make peace with communist
insurgents, which was sensitive in the US politically at the time.

- Financial Appeal: She appealed for financial aid to help rebuild the Philippine economy
devastated by years of mismanagement.

- Reception: The speech was highly emotional, receiving 11 rounds of applause and a standing
ovation.

- Outcome: It helped convince the US Congress to grant an emergency aid of $200 million to the
Philippines.

WHY DID PRESIDENT CORAZON AQUINO DELIVER A SPEECH BEFORE THE US CONGRESS?

- The speech was a strategic effort to secure financial aid.

- It aimed to assure the international community of her government’s commitment to peace,

stability, and honoring debts.

- It sought to maintain financial confidence, especially against the backdrop of communist

insurgency.

The Rise of Corazon Aquino: A Journey to Presidency

- Maria Corazon Cojuangco, born January 25, 1933, in Tarlac Province, Philippines.

- Studied at exclusive girls’ schools in Manila; completed high school at Raven Hill Academy
(Philadelphia) and Notre Dame School (New York City). Graduated in 1953 from Mount St.
Vincent College with a major in French.

- Married to Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. (1954), a young politician.

- Martial Law Period: Ninoy was imprisoned for eight years by Marcos; later allowed to seek
heart surgery in the US (1980).

- Political Awakening: Ninoy’s assassination in August 1983 sparked national outrage; Aquino
became the opposition candidate for the presidential elections in February 1986.

- EDSA Revolution: Widespread protests from February 22-25, 1986 ousted Marcos; Aquino
declared president on February 25, 1986, the same day Marcos fled.

Highlights of Corazon Aquino’s Speech

- Aquino reflected on the grief of losing her husband Ninoy Aquino and his sacrifice for
Philippine freedom.

- She described Ninoy’s imprisonment and resistance during Martial Law as a symbol of hope
and resistance.

- Aquino recounted her participation in the 1984 elections, despite warnings about rigging.

- She honored the people’s courage in standing up to corruption, thuggery, and fraud.

- Discussed accomplishments such as restoring democracy, constitutional reforms, and human

rights protections.

- Acknowledged the ongoing communist insurgency and vowed to pursue peace while
defending democracy.

- Highlighted the $26 billion foreign debt as a burden but committed to honoring it.

- Called for continued friendship and cooperation with the US, emphasizing mutual interests
and shared democratic values.

Source Analysis of President Corazon Aquino's Speech Before the US Congress

President Corazon Aquino’s speech, delivered on September 18, 1986, was written by Teodoro
"Teddyboy" Lopez Locsin Jr., a prominent politician, journalist, and ambassador. The speech
primarily served as a diplomatic appeal targeting the US Congress and the international
community to secure financial aid for the struggling Philippine economy and to affirm her
government’s commitment to peace and democracy during a politically delicate period
following the Marcos dictatorship. This source presents Aquino’s viewpoint as the newly
installed president, emphasizing themes of democracy, honor, and national resilience. It relates
directly to significant historical events such as the EDSA Revolution, the assassination of Ninoy
Aquino, and the political shift in the Philippines. While the speech reflects Aquino’s political
beliefs and agenda, as a public diplomatic address it carefully balances persuasion with sincerity
to appeal to foreign audiences, particularly to maintain US support essential for the Philippines’
recovery.