Philippine Government Structure Quiz

Constitution of the Philippines

The Constitution of the Philippines is the supreme law of the country, outlining the structure, powers, and principles that govern the government. It was adopted on February 2, 1987, and is the seventh constitution since the country gained independence in 1946.

Key Provisions

1. Democratic and Republican State: The Philippines is a democratic and republican state, with sovereignty residing in the people. All government authority emanates from them.
2. Rule of Law: The country is governed by the rule of law, and sovereignty is in the hands of the people.
3. Foreign Policy: The state pursues an independent foreign policy, with national sovereignty and territorial integrity as paramount considerations.
4. Church and State: The separation of Church and State is inviolable.

The Constitution also establishes the structure of the government, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, and outlines the roles and responsibilities of each branch.

Legislative Branch in the Philippines

The legislative branch of the Philippine government is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Senators are elected at-large by the people for a term of six years, while members of the House of Representatives are elected from legislative districts, with each district electing one member.

Key Provisions

1. Bicameral Legislature: The legislative branch is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
2. Election of Senators: Senators are elected at-large by the people for a term of six years.
3. Election of House Members: Members of the House of Representatives are elected from legislative districts, with each district electing one member.

Judicial System in the Philippines

The judicial system in the Philippines is the third branch of government, responsible for interpreting and applying the law. It includes the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and other lower courts.

Key Provisions

1. Supreme Court: The highest court in the Philippines is the Supreme Court, which is responsible for interpreting the Constitution and deciding on disputes between branches of government.
2. Court of Appeals: Below the Supreme Court is the Court of Appeals, which hears appeals from the lower courts.
3. Lower Courts: There are also lower courts, such as the Regional Trial Courts, Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts, which handle most cases.

Philippine Government Structure

The Philippine government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Executive Branch

The executive branch is headed by the President, who is both the head of state and the head of government. The President is responsible for executing and enforcing the law, as well as foreign relations and national defense.

Legislative Branch

The legislative branch is responsible for making laws and approving the national budget. It is a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Judicial Branch

The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting and applying the law. It includes the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and other lower courts.

Roles of the President

The President of the Philippines serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The roles and responsibilities of the President include:

1. Executing and Enforcing Laws: The President is responsible for executing and enforcing the law, including national defense and foreign relations.
2. Legislative Proposals: The President can propose legislative measures to Congress.
3. Veto Power: The President has the power to veto any legislation passed by Congress, although Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority.
4. Appointments: The President appoints the heads of government agencies and officials, including the members of the Cabinet.
5. Emergency Powers: During a state of national emergency, the President can suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus and assume control of the armed forces.