READINGS IN

PHILIPPINE HISTORY
EARLY PHILIPPINE SOCIETY AND THE SPANISH CONTACT
• SOCIAL STRUCTURE –individuals are grouped into a
structurally related class or sets or roles, with different functions,
meanings, or purposes.
• MARITIME TRADE – the exchange of goods transported by sea
vessels between territories
• AGE OF EUROPEAN EXPLORATION – Europeans voyaged to
new territories in search of trading goods such as gold, silver, and
spices.
• Blair and Robertson collected these Spanish documents in 1903.
The result is the 55 – volume The Philippine Islands
• The oldest written record in the Philippines is the Laguna
Copperplate Inscription, a written record of 1225 that sheds light
on some Philippine islands in the 13th century and the conduct of
trade.
• Lastly, the earliest spanish record of the Philippines was that of
Pigafetta.
• The LCI’s journey began amidst the rice fields of Lumban, Laguna.
• Dutch anthropologist Antoon Postma described the copperplate as
“a crumpled, blackened, thin piece of metal… 20 by 30 cm plate
of copper fully covered on one side with an inscription in ten
lines finely written characters. Except for a damaged upper left
corner, the plate appeared to be in perfect condition.
• The characters in the LCI resembled Indonesian Indic scripts, so
the LCI was initially thought to have come from Indonesia. It
suggests connections with the broader Southeast Asian maritime
trade network.
• The LCI is a “a semi – official certificate of acquittal of a debt”.
To summarize, it narrates a debt settlement between a woman
named Namwaran and the community leader of Pasig,
documenting the repayment of a loan of one “kati” of gold. This
seemingly mundane transaction unfolds against a backdrop of
rich social and cultural details, revealing insights into pre –
colonial Philippine society.
• As a piece of new historical evidence, the LCI established that the
Philippines islands were thriving well into the age of trade in
Southeast Asia around the 10th century.
 • The LCI stands as a beacon of the Philippines’ rich and
interconnected past, it reminds us that the story of this nation
extends far beyond the arrival of European colonizers.
• LCI serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving
and understanding our heritage, shaping our identity and informing
our future.
CHAU JU – KUA’S
CHU FAN CHI
• Chau Ju – Kua was a Chinese nobleman and custom inspector in
South China, as well as a compiler of knowledge and
recollections of traders. His work is commonly translated as
“Records of Various Barbarous Nations” that establishes the
existence of trade between South China and early Filipinos.
• In Chu Fan Chi, he referred to a country called “Ma – i” and
described its people as well as the conduct of trade.
• In Chu Fan Chi, it shows and provides valuable information on
historical trade networks, cultural exchange, and diverse societies
encountered. That is why, it is considered one of the most
important primary sources for understanding medieval
maritime trade and cross – cultural interactions.
• In addition, it offers insights into Chinese perspectives on
FOREIGN CULTURES and their economic interests. The text
reflects the vibrant exchange of goods, ideas, and people during the
Song dynasty.

ANTONIO PIGAFETTA’S FIRST VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD

BY MAGELLAN
• Italian explorer and scholar that became part of the expedition under
the order of the prince of Spain, King Charles I.
• Served as Ferdinand Magellan’s assistant.
• He kept a journal accounting everything that seemed fascinating
and foreign to him.
• Author in writing the First Voyage Around the World by
Magellan.
• Pigafetta plays a vital role in understanding and knowing the
Philippine history
 IMPORTANT EVENTS THAT PIGAFETTA WROTE ON HIS
BOOK.
• Magellan’s encounter with the Philippines in 1521 was a significant
chapter with lasting consequences.
ARRIVAL AND INTIAL CONTACT:
• March 16, 1521: Magellan’s fleet arrives on the island of
Homonhon, establishing first contact with the natives.
• April 7, 1521: they reached Cebu, the largest island at that time.
• Gift Exchange and Alliances: friendly initial interactions involve
gift exchanges and establishing alliances with the local ruler, Raja
Humabon.
CONVERSION AND CONFLICT:
• Baptism and Conversion: Magellan convinces Humabon and many
others to convert to Christianity, seeing it as an opportunity to
expand Spanish influence.
• Battle of Mactan: Magellan clashes with a rival chieftain.
Lapulapu, on the island of Mactan. Magellan is killed, marking a
turning point in the expedition.
AFTERMATH AND IMPACT:
• Departure and Continued Journey: the remaining ships under the
command of Juan Sebastian Elcano continue their voyage,
eventually completing the firs circumnavigation of the globe.
• Spanish Colonization: Magellan’s “discovery” of the Philippines
paved way for Spanish colonization, which lasted for over 333 years
and had a profound impact on the country’s history, religion, and
culture.
• Legacy of Conflict: The Battle of Mactan symbolizes resistance
against foreign domination ad is celebrated as a national day of
remembrance in the Philippines.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
• Antonio Pigafetta, a chronicle on the voyage, wrote extensively
about their experiences in the Philippines, providing valuable
insights into pre – colonial society and culture.
• The encounter also influenced trade between the Philippines and
Europe, introducing new goods and establishing trade routes.
LESSON SUMMARY
• Early Philippine society had political and social structures, beliefs, a
system of writing, and trade practices.
• Filipinos regularly trade with China and the rest of Southeast Asia.
These populous thriving communities in the Philippines were the
ones that the Magellan expedition encountered upon their arrival.
• Analyzing a historical source requires other disciplines.
• The Spanish expeditions were set out to colonize new territory for
resources such as spice, gold, and vast lands to expand their empire.
History and the Historian
Who qualifies as a historian?
Historian
- an obscure and strange image for those who did not have the chance to
have a closer study of history
- someone who continuously pursues historical knowledge
• All of the historical knowledge that we study and utilize are product
of meticulous research done by historians.
History
- A study of past based on existing pieces of historical evidence
Difference between Historian and Student of History
Historian
- Produces historical knowledge
- Occupied with asking relevant historical question
Student of History
- Gains historical knowledge
Task of Historian
- They needed to examine and interpret them through skills that
required in training from historical methodology
• Historical fact is different from a fact from the past. A fact in the
past is anything happened in the past.
Edward Hallet Carr
- A British historian, diplomat, journalist, and international relations
theorist and an opponent of empiricism.
- Best known for a history of Soviet Russia
- States that a historical fact is something that is determined by the
historian.
 - Correct in saying that History is a continuous process of interaction
between the historian and his fact
• Fact cannot speak for themselves
• Historical research requires rigor
Historical Methodology
- Consists of certain techniques and rules that historian follows
• Bias is inevitable historian can balance this by relying on
legitimate historical evidence
• Bias is only acceptable if they paid attention to precision and
rigors
REVOLT & REVOLUTION
Diego Silang y Andaya
• (December 16, 1730 – May 28, 1763) was a Filipino revolutionary
leader who conspired with British forces to overthrow Spanish rule
in the northern Philippines and establish an independent Ilocano
nation.
• His revolt was fueled by grievances stemming from Spanish
taxation and abuses,
• He met an Itneg woman with a name of Gabriela Cariño. He married
Gabriela and raised a family in the Ilocos Province.
• Silang advocated against tributes and forced labor and was critical
for clergy, his convictions did not possess an anti- colonial
character.
• He was willing to make himself and his province subject to another
colonial power, despite his apparent radicalization of going after the
clergy and the principalia.

Silang’s Context That May Give Us Further Understanding of

His Decisions To Turn To British
• First, the idea of a nation was still nonexistent in 1762.
• Second, Silng’s demand, since the beginning of his revolt, were
practical and were not anchored on some ideals .
• Third his revolt was anchored on pratical matters and not some
ideals, and this is not that is automatically wrong.
Hermano Pule’s Cofradia de San Jose through its Hymns
• By the 19th century , most of Luzon and the Visayas had been well
co-opted to the Spanish colonial Society. Catholicism was already
 accepted and wide, and various expressions of this faith have
appeared throughout the archipelago.

Hermano Pule
• Was a native of Tayabas province (now Quezon) who inspired to
live in the monastic life.
• He was born in 1814 and went to Manila to pursue his dream.
• In 1832, at the age of 18, Pule organized 19 of his fellow tayabasin
living in Manila in a confraternity called Hermandad de la Archi-
Cofradia del Glorioso Senior San Josey de la Virgen Del Rossario
Cofradia de San Jose
• Cofradias, in 19th century were common feature of colonial society.
• Were introduced and encourage by the Jesuits to consolidate the
Christianization among the natives.
• In 1939 to 1940, the confraternity expanded across provinces in
Southern Luzon and recruited a considerable number of followers.
- Spanish forces attached the Confradia killing hundreds of its
members capturing and executing Hermano Pule.
Dalit sa Caluwalhatian sa Langit na Cararatnan ng mga Banal
• Hermano acquired this Hymn while he was in Manila and this was
made for Brotherhood use.
• The Dalit was contributed as a prayer pamphlets among members of
Confradia and is associated with the year 1839-1840
Philippine Revolution
- Most important points in Philippine history. It signaled the end of
the long Spanish era and served as a climax of the occasional revolts
that occurred in the centuries of Spanish colonization.
- Revolution started in August 1896, upon the discovery of
Katipunan.
- This erstwhile secret organization led to the revolution through
Andres Bonifacio in its early stages.
- Later, international conflict in the movement escalated to the tragic
execution of Bonifacio in May 1897 and the leadership takeover by
Emilio Aguinaldo
Kataastaasan, Kagalang-galang na Katipunan ng mga Anak ng
Bayan (KKK), or Katipunan
- is the most crucial organization formed in the Philippibne History.
- Propaganda movement led by Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Graciano Lopez
Jaena, and Jose Rizal
- One of the essential Katipunan documents

The Kartilya ng Katipunan

- The original title of the text was Manga Aral Nang Katipunan ng
mga Anak ng Bayan or Lessons of the Organization of the Sons of
the Country.
- Emilio Jacinto wrote the document in 1896.
- He was on 18 when he joined the movement and he was a law
student at the University os Santo Tomas, despite his youth Jacinto
exhibited valuable intellect that upon seeing his Kartilya was much
better than Bonifacio’s Decalogue.
- On April 15, 1897, Bonifacio appointed Jacinto as a commander of
Katipunan in Northern Luzon, Jacinto was 22 years old. He died in
Manila at the young age of 24 in Magdalena, Laguna.
- But the breaking point of Bonifacio and Aguinaldo's rivalry, and
arguably, of the Katipunan, was the events that unfolded during the
Tejeros Convention.
- Aguinaldo triumphed into becoming the President, defeating
Bonifacio. The election of revolutionary leaders among the Magdalo
and the Magdiwang councils effectively disregarded the Katipunan
as the central revolutionary organization. It was the beginning of the
Katipunan's end. Aguinaldo recalled the events:
- The proclamation of independence also invoked that the established
would be under a dictatorship led by Emilio Aguinaldo. The first
mention was at the very beginning of the declaration. It stated:
republic In the town of Cavite Viejo, in this province of Cavite, on
June 12 1898
 Historical Negationism
Negationism
- the denial and distortion of the historical record. Also known as
illegitimate revisionism.
Revisionism
- the reinterpretation of a historical account, especially in light of new
facts, evidence, or interpretation. Revisionism could be legitimate
(the work of professional historians) or illegitimate (negationism,
mainly functions as propaganda).
Historical negationism
- an attempt to rewrite the past using unacceptable techniques
3 Historical Revisionism
1. Rizal 's Sa Aking mga Kabata
2. Marcos & History
3. The Jabidah Massacre
Ambeth Ocampo
- Filipino public historian, academic, cultural administrator,
journalist, author, and independent curator
Hermenegildo Cruz
- Filipino writer and prominent trade union organizer.
Nilo Ocampo
-Rizal scholar
In 1991, historian Ambeth Ocampo noted that the documentation of
the poem is lacking, and the original manuscript does not exist.
The poem's earliest appearance was in 1906, when Hermenegildo
Cruz a nationalist writer and union organizer, included it in his book
Kun Sino ang Kumatha ng "Florante," a biography of Francisco
Balagtas."
National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario traced the use of the
words laya or kalayaan to mean "freedom" or "liberty" and found
that the term was not used until del Pilar used it in 1882.
Word maharlica for libertad (liberty) and timaua for libre (free).
Kalayaan only appeared in a dictionary in 1889.
Marcos & History
Ferdinand Marcos
Was the only official dictator that the Philippines ever had
consolidated from the United States in 1946. Martial Law in 1972
 He employed topnotch Filipino historians to write a multi-volume
Philippine History under his name. The series was entitled Tadhana:
The History of the Filipino People. The project started in 1974 and
was headed by several historians from the University of the
Philippines
Historian Reynaldo lleto
- dubbed as the Unfinished Revolution of 1898.
The Jabidah Massacre
The Moros or Muslims in the Philippines have had a long history of
resistance against foreign rule from the Spanish to the Americans,
and later against the Philippine government.
Operation Merdeka
- was led by General Eduardo Martelino of the Armed Forces of
the Philippines
Jibin Arula
-One of the members of the Jabidah unit, and a lone survivor
What is Jabidah?
- It is the codename for a supposedly super-secret, twin-goaled
operation of President Marcos to wipe out the opposition-literally
- Jabidah 'massacre' was the Yellow's first big fake news.

Multiperspectivity
It is defined as a way of looking at historical events, personalities,
developments, cultures and societies from different perspectives.
Historical Context:
Spanish Historian Jose Montero y Vidal
- Provided a biased account portraying the mutiny as an attempt to
overthrow Spanish rule.
- Criticized for his biased interpretation of events.
Governor-General Rafael Izquierdo
- Implicated native clergy and leaders in the mutiny, emphasizing
subversion against Spanish rule.
- Account corroborated with Montero’s, providing additional
perspective.
GOMBURZA (Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora)
- Executed on February 17, 1872, for alleged involvement in the
mutiny.
- Seen as martyrs by some, immortalized for their role in the Filipino
nationalist movement.
Filipino Soldiers and Laborers
- Express dissatisfaction with Spanish policies, including the abolition
of privileges and prohibitions on education and trade.
Pardo de Tavera’s Account
- Highlights the mutiny as a response to draconian policies and
political tensions between the friars and Spanish residents.
French Writer Edmund Plauchut’s Account
- Suggests reforms as a solution to the underlying issues, including
changes in governance and educational policies.
Balintawak Meeting Attendees (August 26, 1896)
- Key figures in the Katipunan, including Bonifacio, Jacinto, and
other leaders.
Santiago Alvarez
- Provides insight into the preparations and fears leading up to the
Balintawak meeting.
Pio Valenzuela
- Offers details about the refuge and gathering places of Katipunan
leaders.
The Philippine-American War Insurrection
- Marks the shift from resistance against Spain to resistance against
the United States.
- Aguinaldo's government challenged U.S. sovereignty, leading to
conflict and guerrilla warfare.

Representation in History
Social history
- a subdiscipline of history that deals with particular social sectors.
Patriarchy
- a social system where men hold more power compared to women.
Secessionism
- the act of or advocacy for independence from and no longer being
part of a country.
Historical injustice
- past moral wrong committed against a group of people

Misrepresentations in history can lead to misunderstandings,

discrimination, fear, anger, and social divisions.
History as something that is "written by victors" is already an outdated
cliché.

History From Below

The history of history has traditionally focused on the affairs of the state,
church, monarchy, and other significant institutions.
Focused at the belief that great men move history, known as the Great
Man Theory.
Reynaldo Lleto's Pasyon and the hymns of the Cofradia de San Jose.
- shown inventiveness in selecting primary sources that align with the
authentic voices of the masses,
Professor Reynaldo C. Ileto
- For him, the authentic voices of the masses cannot be fully captured
if we continued to rely on sources that originated from the elite or
from above.
William Henry Scott
- argues that historians can reflect the experiences of the masses and
ordinary people
- historians must locate cracks in the "parchment curtain" to gain a
clearer view of the past.
- uses an example of a 1571 document that formalized Legazpi's
occupation of Manila, where the native datus refused to seal the pact
using sandugo, indicating their insincerity.
Sandugo
- considered the first treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and
Filipinos. "Sandugo" is a Visayan word which means "one blood".

WOMEN IN THE PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Gender Inequality- has been constant at various periods since the Spanish
colonization.
Gender Egalitarian- Men and women were both recognized as equally
valuable members of the society
Babaylan ( visayan) or Catalonan ( tagalog)
• Spiritual leaders, who performs significant and sacred rituals, and
communicates with deities and the community’s dead ancestors.
• Also perceived as the community’s healer.
• Accused of being mangkukulam or manggagaway.
Good Women
- where the ones who devoted themselves to prayer and the church.
- they should demonstrate primness all times.
In World War II, women were subjected not only to violence, hunger,
and death, but also sexual abuse.
MOROS IN THE PHILIPPINE HISTORY
Moro in the context of Philippine history begins with basic Spanish
history that tells us of the Moorish rule of Spain from 711 to 1492
Moro was not an indigenous name of the inhabitants of Mindanao who
were Islamized,
Murillo Velarde
- describes Muslims in Mindanao as "tenacious in their errors their
dealings, discriminating with regard to convenient to them, and
fearless in war...rather than valorous, they are rash..."
Najeeb Saleeby
- the Americans inherited from the Spaniards what historian would
later coin in 1913 as “the Moro Problem”
John Pershing
- a governor of the Moro province “the only good Moro is a dead
Moro.”
J. Ralston Hayden
- wrote about the impact of American rule on the Moros in 1928.
- The Islamic concept of the ummah (community) was encapsulated
in the term "bangsa" or nation, hence Bangsa Moro.

Unit 3: Lesson 10: Problems in interpreting Philippine History

History as a Dialogue: History is more than just a record of past events
Interpretation vs. Theory: Historians offer interpretations, not theories.
Cannot simply be lifted straight from the source material.
Oversimplification: Oversimplification occurs when interpretations lack
sufficient detail.
Inadequate Evidence: Inadequate evidence perpetuates potentially
erroneous readings of the past.
Tentativeness: Historical interpretations are tentative and subject to change.
Dynamic Nature of History: The quality of historical accounts lies in their
complexity, adequate sourcing, and openness to revision based on new
evidence.

The Battle of Mactan

Magellan's Involvement in Local Conflicts
Lapu-Lapu's Evasion of Spanish Control
Gaspar Correa's Description of Lapu-Lapu
Immediate Cause of Battle
Personal Involvement of Magellan
Pre-Battle Negotiations
Tactical Maneuvers
Imbalance in Forces:
Magellan's troop of 49 faced Lapu-Lapu's 1,500 warriors
Description of Battle
Injury of Magellan
Magellan was pierced by a poisoned arrow in his right leg, leading to a
gradual retreat of his men.
Magellan's Death
The First Catholic Mass in the Philippines
Pre-Spanish Era
Before the arrival of the Spanish in the Philippines, the archipelago was
inhabited by various indigenous communities with diverse cultures and
languages.

Trade and Cultural Exchange

The Philippines had a thriving trade network with neighboring countries

Arrival of the Spanish

The arrival of the Spanish in the Philippines marked a significant turning
point in the history of the region.

Spanish Arrival and Impact

First Catholic Mass
Colonial Rule
Trade and Commerce
Language and Education
 Conversion to Catholicism

Historical Background
- The conversion of the Filipino people to Catholicism took place
during the Spanish colonial period in the 16th century.
Role of Spanish Missionaries
Fray Andres de Urdaneta and Fray Martin de Rada
- played a crucial role in the conversion process.
- they established churches, conducted baptisms, and taught the
Filipino people about the Catholic religion.
Indigenous Beliefs and Practices
- This syncretism allowed for a blending of traditional Filipino
customs with Catholic rituals and traditions.
Impact on Filipino Culture
- The conversion to Catholicism had a profound impact on Filipino
culture, influencing art, music, language, and religious practices.
Catholicism
- remains the dominant religion in the Philippines.
The First Mass
- the first Catholic mass in the Philippines was held on March
31,1521, on the island of Limasawa.
- it was officiated by Father Pedro de Valderrama, a member of
the expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan.
Magellan, introduced Christianity to the Philippines, leading to the
conversion of the indigenous population.
The first mass is considered a symbol of the beginning of Spanish
colonization and the long-lasting influence of Catholicism in the
Philippines.
Albos Log
- provides an account of the first Catholic mass in the Philippines,
which took place on March 31, 1521, on the island of Limasawa.
- describes the presence of Ferdinand Magellan and his crew, as well
as the conversion of the locals to Christianity.
Pigafetta's Testimony
- written by Antonio Pigafetta, a member of Magellan's expedition,
also documents the first Catholic mass in the Philippines.
Bernard’s Account (1981)
- the first Catholic mass in the Philippines was held on March
31,1521. It took place on the island of Limasawa and was officiated
by Father Pedro de Valderrama.
- provides a detailed description of the mass, highlighting the rituals
and prayers conducted during the ceremony.
Who is Antonio Pigafetta?
- an Italian scholar and explorer
- was part of Ferdinand Magellan's voyage.
- born in Vicenza, Italy in 1491 and died in 1531.
- best known for his detailed account of Magellan's circumnavigation
of the globe.
- the natural phenomena he witnessed have greatly contributed to the
knowledge and understanding of the world during that time.
- His work has been studied and referenced by historians,
geographers, and scholars for centuries.
Seven Days in Mazaua
- a significant event during Ferdinand Magellan's voyage to the
Philippines in 1521.
Mazaua Island
- located in the Visayas region of the Philippines,
- is believed to be the site where the first Catholic mass was held in
the country.
Bernard's Analysis
- raises questions about the reliability of Pigafetta's account of the
seven days in Mazaua.
- Bernard argues that Pigafetta's narrative may have been influenced
by personal bias or political motivations.
- he suggests that Pigafetta's account should be scrutinized and
corroborated with other historical sources to determine its accuracy.
- highlights potential inaccuracies in Pigafetta's account.
- he points out inconsistencies and contradictions in the descriptions
of events and locations.
- suggests that further research and analysis are needed to validate
the accuracy of Pigafetta's narrative.
- reveals the significant cultural interactions that took place during
the seven days in Mazaua.
 - the account highlights the exchange of gifts, rituals, and
ceremonies
- sheds light on the historical significance of the events in Mazaua.
- it provides valuable insights into the early encounter
Jose Rizal
- was born on June 19,1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Philippines.
- he pursued higher education in Manila and later studied medicine in
Europe.
- a prolific writer, poet, and novelist, known for his works such as
Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.
- his writings exposed the injustices and abuses of the Spanish
colonial governmentNational Hero
- is considered the national hero of the Philippines
- his execution by the Spanish authorities on December 30,1896,
further fueled the desire for freedom among Filipinos

Retraction document
- is a letter allegedly written by Jose Rizal
- he renounced his previous writings against the Catholic Church.
- expresses remorse for his past actions and seeks forgiveness.
- was supposedly written on the eve of Rizal's execution in 1896
- It is believed to have been signed under duress
 POLITICAL HISTORY
Political history
 focuses on the narrative and survey of political
events, ideas, movements, organs of government,
elections, voters, parties, and leaders.
 studies how power is organized and operated within a
society.
Social and Cultural History
 dislodged the prominence of political history, the
study of political systems, processes, and institutions.
EVOLUTION OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION
Constitution
 defined as a set of fundamental principle or
established precedent according to which a state or
other organization is governed.
 the word itself means to be part of a whole.
 define the nature and extent of government.

The Constitution of the Philippines, the supreme law of the

Republic of the Philippines, has been in effect since
1987.
There were only three other constitutions that have
effectively governed the country:
 The 1935 Commonwealth Constitution
 The 1973 Constitution
 The 1986 Freedom Constitution

1897: CONSTITUTION OF BIAK-NA-BATO

The Constitution of Biak-Na-Bato
 was the provisionary Constitution of the Philippine
Republic during the Philippine Revolution
 was promulgated by the Philippine Revolutionary
Government on November 1, 1897.
 from Cuba
 was written by Isabelo Artacho and Felix Ferrer in
Spanish, and later on, translated into Tagalog.
 was never fully implemented, since a truce
  The Pact of Biak-na-Bato, was signed between the
Spanish and the Philippine Revolutionary Army.
ORGANS OF THE GOVERNMENT UNDER THE
CONSTITUTION:
a. The Supreme Council
 which was vested with the power of the Republic
 headed by the president and four department
secretaries: the interior, foreign affairs, treasury,
and war
b. The Consejo Supremo de Gracia Y Justicia
(Supreme Council of Grace and Justice)
 which was given the authority to make decisions and
affirm or disprove the sentences rendered by other
courts and to dictate rules for the administration of
justice
c. The Asemblea de Representantes (Assembly of
Representatives)
 which was to be convened after the revolution to
create a new Constitution and to elect a new Council
of Government and Representatives of the people.
The Philippine Republic
 the separation of the Philippines from the Spanish
monarchy and their formation into an independent
state with its own government
 has been the end sought by the Revolution in the
existing war
 begun on the 24th of August, 1896
 November 1, 1897, unanimously adopted the
following articles for the constitution of the State.

•After the signing of the truce, the Filipino revolutionary

leaders accepted a payment from Spain and went to exile in
Hong Kong.
•Upon the defeat of the Spanish to the Americans in the
Battle of Manila Bay on May 1, 1898, the United States
Navy transported Aguinaldo back to the Philippines.
• The newly reformed Philippine revolutionary forces
reverted to the control of Aguinaldo, and the Philippine
Declaration of Independence was issued on June 12, 1898,
together with several decrees that formed the First
Philippine Republic.
•The Malolos Congress was elected, which selected a
commission to draw up a draft constitution on September
17, 1898, which was composed of wealthy and educated
men.

1899: MALOLOS CONSTITUTION

• the document they came up with, approved by the
Congress on November 29, 1898
• promulgated by Aguinaldo on January 21, 1899, was titled
"The Political Constitution of 1899" and written in
Spanish.
• has 39 articles divided into 14 titles, with eight
articles of transitory provisions, and a final additional
article.
• patterned after the Spanish Constitution of 1812,
with influences from the charters of Belgium, Mexico,
Brazil, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, and the
French Constitution of 1793.

Felipe Calderon
- main author of the constitution, these countries were
studied because they shared similar social, political,
ethnological, and governance conditions with the
Philippines.
• Prior constitutional projects in the Philippines also
influenced the Malolos Constitution, namely:
 The Kartilya and the Sanggunian-Hukuman
 The charter of laws and morals of the Katipunan
written by Emilio Jacinto in 1896
 The Biak-na-Bato Constitution of 1897 planned by
Isabelo Artacho
  Mabini's Constitutional Program of the Philippine
Republic of 1898
 The provincial constitution of Mariano Ponce in 1898
 The Spanish constitutions, and the autonomy projects
of Paterno in 1898.

• The people delegated governmental functions to civil

servants while they retained actual sovereignty
• The 27 articles of Title IV detail the natural rights
and popular sovereignty of Filipinos, the enumeration of
which does not imply the prohibition of any other rights not
expressly stated.
•Title III Article V also declares that the State
recognizes the freedom and equality of all beliefs, as
well as the separation of Church and State.
• The form of government, according to Title II, article
4 is to be popular, representative, alternative, and
responsible, and shall exercise three distinct powers-
legislative, executive, and judicial.

Assembly of Representatives
 legislative power was vested in a unicameral body.
 members of which are elected for terms of four years.
Secretaries of the Government
- were given seats in the assembly, which meet
annually for a period of at least three months.
Bills
- could be introduced either by the president or by a
member of the assembly.
• Some powers not legislative in nature were also given to
the body, such as the right of impeaching the president,
cabinet members, the chief justice of the Supreme Court,
and the solicitor-general.
• A permanent commission of seven, elected by the
assembly, and granted specific powers by the constitution,
was to sit during the intervals between sessions of the
assembly.
• Executive power was vested in the president, and
elected by a constituent assembly of the Assembly of
Representatives and special representatives.
• The president will serve a term of four years
without re-election.
• There was no vice president, and in case of a vacancy, a
president was to be selected by the constituent assembly.
• The 1899 Malolos Constitution was never enforced due
to the ongoing war.
• The Philippines was effectively a territory of the
United States upon the signing of the Treaty of Paris
between Spain and the United States, transferring
sovereignty of the Philippines on December 10, 1898.

1935: THE COMMONWEALTH CONSTITUTION

• It is worth mentioning that after the Treaty of Paris, the
Philippines was subject to the power of the United States of
America, effectively the new colonizers of the country.
• From 1898 to 1901, the Philippines would be placed
under a military government until a civil government would
be put into place.
• Two acts of the United States Congress were passed that
may be considered to have qualities of constitutionality.
First was the Philippine Organic Act of 1902, the first
organic law of the Philippine Islands that provided for
the creation of a popularly elected Philippine
Assembly.
• The act specified that legislative power would be vested in
a bicameral legislature composed of the Philippine
Commission as the upper house and the Philippine Assembly
as the lower house.
• Key provisions of the act included a bill of rights for
Filipinos and the appointment of two non- voting Filipino
Resident Commissioners of the Philippines as representative
to the United States House of Representatives.
• The second act that functioned as a constitution was
the Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916, commonly
referred to as "Jones Law," which modified the structure
of the Philippine government through the removal of the
Philippine Commission, replacing it with a Senate that served
as the upper house and its members elected by the Filipino
voters, the first truly elected national legislature.
• It was also this act that explicitly declared the purpose of
the United States to end their sovereignty over the
Philippines.
• In 1932, with the efforts of the Filipino independence
mission led by Sergio Osmeña and Manuel Roxas, the United
States Congress passed the Hare-Hawes- Cutting Act with
the promise of granting Filipinos' independence.
• The bill
- was opposed by then Senate President Manuel L.
Quezon
- rejected by the Philippine Senate.
• By 1934
Tydings-McDuffie Act
- also known as the Philippine Independence Act,
was passed by the United States Congress
- provided authority and defined mechanism for the
establishment of a formal constitution by a
constitutional convention.
- members of the convention were elected and held
their first meeting on July 30, 1934, with Claro M.
Recto unanimously elected as president.
- was crafted to meet the approval of the United States
government, and to ensure that the United States
would live up to its promise to grant independence to
the Philippines.

• The constitution created the Commonwealth of the

Philippines, an administrative body that governed the
Philippines from 1935 to 1946
• It is a transitional administration to prepare the country
toward its full achievement of independence.
• It originally provided for a unicameral National Assembly
with a president and vice president elected to a six-year
term without a re-election.
• It was amended in 1940 to have a bicameral Congress
composed of a Senate and a House of Representatives, as
well as the creation of an independent electoral commission,
and limited the term of office of the president and vice
president to four years, with one re- election.

Rights to suffrage
- were originally afforded to male citizens of the
Philippines who are twenty-one years of age or over
and are able to read and write, this was later on
extended to women within two years after the
adoption of the constitution.
• While the dominant influence in the constitution was
American, it also bears traces of the Malolos Constitution,
the German, Spanish, and Mexican constitutions,
constitutions of several South American countries, and the
unwritten English Constitution.
• The draft of the constitution was approved by the
constitutional convention on February 8, 1935, and ratified
by then U.S. President Franklin B. Roosevelt on March 25,
1935.
• Elections were held in September 1935 and Manuel L.
Quezon was elected President of the Commonwealth.
• The Commonwealth was briefly interrupted by the
events of the World War II, with the Japanese occupying
the Philippines.
• Afterward, upon liberation, the Philippines was declared an
independent republic on July 4, 1946.
 PHILIPPINE ELECTIONS AND POLITICAL PARTIES
Right of Suffrage
- the right of suffrage, or the right to vote, is defined in
Section 1, Article V of the 1987 Constitution.
- this right is not a natural right but a privilege given to
the citizens of a nation or state.
Suffrage
- is a powerful tool of the people that involves the
selection of public officials who will run the
government and represent their concerns through the
laws proposed and supported in congress

Qualifications for Voter Registration

• A citizen of the Philippines
• At least 18 years old
• Resided in the Philippines for at least one year, and in the
place where they intend to vote for at least six months
• Not otherwise disqualified by law
• No literacy, property, or other substantive requirement
shall be imposed
COMELEC (Commission on Elections)
- is the agency that enforces and administers all laws
and regulations relative to the conduct of elections
• Voter registration
• Filing of Candidacy
• Campaign Period
• Voting Period
• Canvassing of Votes
• Declaration of Winners
• Election Complaints
TYPES OF ELECTORAL SYSTEMS
Plurality Electoral System
- the candidate with the greatest number of votes
is declared the winner even if they did not get the
majority vote
Majority Electoral System
- the candidate must get a majority vote in order to
win
Proportional Representation
- the people will vote for parties and the party will
have the same percentage of positions in the
government as the percentage of votes they got in
the election
TYPES OF PARTY SYSTEMS
One party system
- monopoly of power
Two party system
- two parties going against each other for domination
in the government
Multiparty system
- more than two parties compete with almost equal
capabilities in affecting and winning
Party List System
- is a mechanism of proportional representation
in the election of representatives to the House of
Representatives
- Party list representatives comprise 20% of the total
number of representatives in the House of
Representatives.
-
Political Parties
- represent a certain group of people in society,
ensuring their rights and advocacies are voiced out
directly to the government.
- refers to an organized group of citizens advocating an
ideology or platform, principles and policies for the
general conduct of government
- a political party participates in all issues relative for
government.
TYPES OF POLITICAL PARTIES
National Party
- has members that can be found all over the
country or at least a majority of the regions.
Regional Party
- has members that can be found all over the region
or at least a majority of the cities and provinces
comprising the region.
Sectoral Party
- has members belonging to the labor peasant,
fisherfolk, urban poor, indigenous cultural
communities, elderly, handicapped, women, youth,
veterans, overseas workers, and professionals, and
whose principal advocacy pertains to the special
interest and concerns of their sector.

Sectoral Organization
- refers to a group of citizens or a coalition of groups
of citizens who share similar physical attributes or
characteristics, employment, interests or concerns.
Coalition
- refers to the group of duly registered national,
regional sectoral parties or organizations for political
and/or election purposes.
GOVERNMENT PEACE TREATIES WITH MUSLIM
FILIPINOS
MINDANAO CONFLICT: IN SEARCH OF PEACE AND
HUMAN RIGHTS
 •The current armed conflict started in late 1960s
•Moro National Liberation Front or MNLF
• "Moro Homeland"
•Philippine government
•In the 1970s, the Philippine government-initiated
peace talks and obtained a peace agreement with the
main Muslim armed opposition group (MNLF)
• Moro Islamic Liberation Front or MILF
• Muslims from Mindanao called themselves "moro"
• This extends to the use of the word "Bangsamoro"
(Moro Nation)
ROOTS OF THE CONFLICT
• The 2005 Philippine Human Development Report
(2005 PHDR) lists the following major historical and
contemporary roots of the conflict in Mindanao
• The forcible/illegal annexation of Moroland to the
Philippines under the Treaty of Paris in 1898
• Government financed/induced land settlement and
migration to Moroland
• The Muslims resented the loss of their lands, including
those idle but which formed part of their traditional
community.

PEACE INITIATIVES
• The resulting armed conflict from the early 1970s
created a major crisis in Mindanao, and in the
Philippines as a whole.
• In December 1976, signed an agreement
• Through the intercession of the Organization of
Islamic Conference (OIC)
• 1976 Tripoli Agreement
• The establishment of an autonomous government,
judicial system (for Sharia law), and special security
forces
 •The 1987 Philippine Constitution brought in a new
legal basis for a Muslim autonomous government in
Mindanao
• It has a provision (Article X) for an Autonomous
Region in Muslim Mindanao, whose creation is
dependent on acceptance in a plebiscite by the people
in the affected provinces.
• In 1989, a law was enacted that led to a plebiscite for
the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)
• In 1990, ARMM was established covering the
provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Shariff
Kabunsuan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, whose respective
populations voted in a plebiscite for inclusion into the
new region.
• But peace was still elusive
• Formal peace talks between the government and
MNLF had to start again in 1993 through the
mediation of OIC and the Indonesian government.
• The Philippine government and the MNLF signed the
1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) to complete the
implementation of the "1976 Tripoli Agreement
between the Government of the Republic of the
Philippines (GRP) and the Moro National Liberation
Front (MNLF)
COMPREHENSIVE AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO
PALACE IN MANILA
• Is a final peace agreement signed between the
Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic
Liberation Front on March 27, 2014 at the Malacañang
• Under the agreement, the Islamic separatists would
turn over their firearms to a third party, which would
be selected by the rebels and the Philippine
government.
• The MILF agreed to decommission its armed wing, the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF)
• In return, the government would establish an
autonomous Bangsamoro
Cultural History
The Philippines' cultural history is a fascinating blend
of influences, reflecting its unique location at the crossroads
of Southeast Asia.
Negritos
- First inhabitants in the Philippines
FOREIGN INFLUENCES
Chinese Traders
- Early trade with China brought cultural exchange,
leaving marks on language, writing systems, and
some religious practices.
Spanish Colonialism
- Spanish rule for over 300 years had a profound
impact. Christianity became and Filipino names. The
concept of a centralized government and the Spanish
language also took root.
- After Spanish rule, the US presence for nearly 50
years introduced aspects of American culture. The
education system and the use of English in
government and business stem from this period.
Family
- is central to Filipino society, with strong emphasis on
respect for elders and close family ties. This is
a value that transcends colonial influences.
EPIC POETRY
Biag ni Lam-ang
- a celebrated epic poem from Ilocano people.
- A hero known for his exceptional strength, bravery,
and miraculous birth.
Ibalon
- A legendary epic from the Bicol Region.
- Whispers a time shrouded in mist, where brave heroes
battled monstrous creatures, and brought order to a
wild land
Baltog
- a pioneer at heart, cultivates the land, planting gabi (a
type of taro).
Tandayag
- a monstrous boar that devours Baltog’s crops.
Handyong
- most celebrated hero of Ibalon
Indarapatra at Sulayman
- is an epic poem from the Maguindanao people of
Mindanao, Philippines. It tells the story of two
brothers, Indarapatra and Sulayman, who set out to
defeat monsters that are terrorizing the land. (Kurita,
Pah, Tarabusaw)
Bidasari
- the tale of Bidasari is a classic epic from the
Philippines, originating particularly from Mindanao. It's
a story of love, resilience, and overcoming evil.
Philippine epic poetry is a rich tradition. These poems,
passed down for generations through oral tradition,
served as a repository of history, culture, and values
for various Filipino communities.

FESTIVAL CELEBRATION
ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL (Kalibo, Aklan)
- is one of the oldest festivals of the Philippines
- formerly celebrated about 800 years ago
- celebration of Santo Nino (the infant Jesus) and starts
with an opening mass in church on the third Sunday of
January.
SINULOG FESTIVAL (Cebu)
- ‘Sinulog’ translates to ‘like the water current’
- name of the step performed by dancers in the street
- goes two steps forward and one step backwards,
forming a sort of water wave
HIGANTES FESTIVAL (Angono, Rizal)
- is based on the Angono folklore that tells us about
‘hingates’ or giant papier mache made by the locals to
protest against the Spanish inquisition
- now, these papier mache are used as a part of the
Higantes Festival.
MORIONES FESTIVAL (Marinduque)
- most dramatic and active festival in the Philippines. It
relates to the life of St. Longinus, the centurion who
pierced Jesus with a spear during the crucifixion.
PANAGBENGA FESTIVAL (Baguio City)
- is hopeful and the prettiest in the country
- celebrates the rising up of Baguio City after the 1990
Luzon earthquakes. The Kankanaey term
‘Panagbenga’ means ‘A Season of Blossoming’.
DINAGYANG FESTIVAL(Ilo-Ilo)
- Dinagyang’ is a Hiligaynon word meaning
‘merrymaking’
- celebration of the Santo Nino and the pact between
the Datus and the locals after the arrival of Malay
settlers.
PAHIYAS FESTIVAL (Lucban, Quezon)
- reflects Filipino creativity in its decorations and
festivities. It celebrates the patron saint of farmers for
a good harvest- San Isidro Labrador. A parade of
locals in costumes, giant paper-mache, and designed
floats is hosted.
KADAYAWAN FESTIVAL (Davao City)
- Kadayawan’ is a native expression in the Dabawon
tongue, derived from the word ‘madayaw’ meaning
‘good, valuable, and superior’
- a festival of thankfulness and relates to thanksgiving
traditions.
Women History
"A woman with a voice Is by definition strong Woman"
Babaylan
- Filipino Shaman
- Most important role of babaylan Is the healer of both
natural and spiritual illness.
Trinidad Tecson
- founded the Katipunans women chapter and gained a
reputation for her skilss in battle field.
Melchora Aquino
- A rich old widow when the revolution erupted provide
medicine and food to the exhausted katipuneros.
Gregoria De Jesus
- whose life put in danger as Katipunera.
Josefa Rizal
- Eldest sister of Dr. Jose Rizal.
- Who was elected president of the said chapter
Agueda Kahabagan
- who was recognized as a woman' general of republic
and fought fiercely in the Laguna among others.
Teresa Magbanua -
- who lead in revolutionary armies in Capiz
WOMEN ORGANIZATION
Red Cross
- to collect funds for the wounded soldiers and war
victim.
La Independencia titled "Lo Que” (Women Must Be in
Society)
- women should allow to venture in other profession
like teaching, care medicine, established schools for
población for boys and girls.
Makibaka 1960-1970
- malayang kilusan ng bagong kababaihan.
- believed that women should also be concerned with
social and economic equality.
INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND ETHNIC MINORITIES
Igorot- Cordillera
Aeta- Luzon
Mangyan- Occidental/Oriental Mindoro
Tumandok- Panay Island
Lumad- Mindanao
Moro- Mindanao
Ethnic Group
- people who share similar culture, language, religion,
ancestry or other characteristics.
Indigenous People
- inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and
ways of relating to people and the environment.
- have retained social, cultural, economic, and political
characteristics.
Negritos (Mindanao Sulu)
- Little Brown people
- As belonging to the race of people who live in the
interior and most rugged parts that they are
amborigines while the rest of the native immigrants.
NTC (Non-Christian Tribe)
- According to 1819 Census (NCT) totaled around
5000.000 of 10.5 million inhabitant in the Philippines.
CNI - 1957
- was a program modernization as can be read from the
integral section of the act.
- way to integrate the National Minorities was to
modernize their lifestyle and develop their civilization
through, so they can be on the same level as the
cultural majority that is everyone in the Philippines.
IPRA (Indigenous People Rights Acts) 1997
- was signed into law recognize " protect and promote
the rights of indigenous cultural
communities/indigenous people thought the Creation
of the Nation Commission Indigenous people.
- Approved by Fidel V. Ramos

Main Minority Groups

Cebuano Central Bicolano Pangasinan
Tagalog Waray Malay
Ilocano Kapampangan
Maranao
Hiligaynon Albay Bicolano
Maguindanao
Native Groups in Mindoro (I. P): 8 Tribes;
1. Iraya [Link]-buhid
[Link] [Link]
3. Alangan [Link]
4. Bangon [Link]