1987 Philippine Constitution Overview

Preamble and Declaration of Principles

• The preamble outlines the aspirations and goals of the nation, emphasizing the desire for a just and democratic society.
• It affirms the Filipinos' commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, and democracy.
• The preamble highlights the desire to build a nation based on justice, freedom, and peace.
• The constitution lays out the 1987 Fundamental Principles of the State where it emphasizes sovereign equality, respect for human rights, commitment to peace among nations, and commitment to international law.

Structure of Government

• The 1987 Constitution establishes a republican form of government, with three distinct branches:
  • Executive: Headed by the President, who acts as the chief executive and commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
  • Legislative: Composed of a bicameral Congress, comprised of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
  • Judicial: Headed by the Supreme Court, responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring justice.
• The system is built on the principle of separation of powers, limiting the influence of any single branch.
• The constitution details specific powers, responsibilities, and checks and balances among the three branches.
• The structure of local government is also addressed to create self-governed units that act efficiently and respond to local needs.

Bill of Rights

• Chapter III meticulously lists fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to all citizens.
• These rights include, but are not limited to:
  • Right to life, liberty, and security
  • Right to due process of law and equal protection of the laws
  • Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly
  • Right to privacy
  • Right to bear arms
  • Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures
• The Bill of Rights is designed to safeguard individual liberties and prevent governmental overreach.
• The constitution explicitly states that the rights enumerated are not the only ones that are protected

Fundamental Policies of the State

• The 1987 Philippine Constitution outlines fundamental policies that guide the government in achieving its objectives. Key aspects include:
  • Promotion of social justice: The state is committed to ensuring a just and equitable society by addressing inequalities and promoting opportunities.
  • Protection and advancement of human dignity: The emphasis is on protecting the inherent worth of every individual, considering their needs and ensuring they have a sound quality of life.
  • Establishment of a democratic and just society: The constitution prioritizes promoting democracy, equality, and justice in its governance and in its policies.
• These fundamental policies set a framework for development and social progress.

Amendments

• The process for amending the Constitution is outlined to ensure stability and safeguard against hasty changes.
• The process involves specific procedures and a degree of public participation, ensuring broad consensus.
• The process itself is designed to be thorough and deliberate, allowing ample time for review and consideration.
• This is to prevent the government from making rash decisions when amending the constitution.

Citizenship and Suffrage

• The constitution defines citizenship, rights, and responsibilities for Filipinos.
• It emphasizes the importance of national unity and the rights of all residents.
• The rights to suffrage and the exercise of other political rights are clearly stated.

Separation of Church and State

• The constitution ensures the separation of church and state, safeguarding religious freedom for all citizens.
• This aspect emphasizes the importance of religious freedom, recognizing the need for a balance between public and religious matters.
• The separation aims to prevent government interference in religious affairs and vice versa.

Executive Department

• The role and powers of the president, including appointing powers, are clearly defined.
• The roles of other government officials, such as the vice president, are outlined to provide clarity.

Legislative Department

• The Senate and the House of Representatives' roles, as well as their functions are discussed.
• The relationship and powers associated with these two bodies in the government are highlighted.

Judicial Department

• The Supreme Court's powers and composition are detailed.
• The roles of other courts in the judicial system also mentioned.

Local Government

• The roles and structure of local governments are discussed.
• Specific details about different local government units are provided.

Transition

• The transition clause in the constitution details how the new government will transfer power smoothly.
• The specifics involved in the transition procedures are mentioned.

General Provisions

• The constitution includes miscellaneous provisions that cover various aspects of governance.
• This contains supplementary aspects for the laws and rules of governance

Amendments

• The amendment process, including the procedures that require the consent of the people, is stated.

Other Provisions

• Additional provisions of the constitution are clearly laid down (e.g., national defense).
• Further provisions for various aspects of governance to provide a clearer picture of the different elements of the constitution.