Simone Lawson
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines outlines the country's commitment to establishing a just and humane society, promoting the common good, and securing independence and democracy for its citizens. This constitution contains several notable policies, including the protection of indigenous cultural communities' rights, the promotion of social justice, and the recognition of the importance of science and technology for national development. It also establishes the national language as Filipino and outlines the legislative powers of autonomous regions. The document emphasizes the role of public office as a public trust and promotes a dynamic social order that aims to raise the standard of living and improve the quality of life for all Filipinos.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Territorial jurisdiction | The Philippines has sovereignty over the Philippine archipelago, with all the islands and waters embraced therein, and all other territories consisting of its terrestrial, fluvial, and aerial domains. |
| Legislative powers | The organic act of autonomous regions shall provide for legislative powers over matters authorized by law for the promotion of the general welfare of the people of the region. |
| Peace and order | The preservation of peace and order within the regions is the responsibility of local police agencies, while the defense and security of the regions are the responsibility of the National Government. |
| Public office | Public officers and employees must be accountable to the people, serve them with responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency, act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives. |
| Indigenous cultural communities | The State shall protect the rights of indigenous cultural communities to their ancestral lands to ensure their economic, social, and cultural well-being. |
| Property rights | The use of property bears a social function, and all economic agents shall contribute to the common good. Individuals and private groups have the right to own, establish, and operate economic enterprises, subject to the State's duty to promote distributive justice. |
| Foreign policy | The State shall pursue an independent foreign policy with paramount consideration given to national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest, and the right to self-determination. |
| Nuclear weapons | The Philippines adopts a policy of freedom from nuclear weapons in its territory. |
| Social order | The State shall promote a just and dynamic social order to ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through adequate social services, full employment, and an improved quality of life. |
| Social justice | The State shall promote social justice in all phases of national development. |
| Human rights | The State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights. |
| Education | The State shall take into account regional and sectoral needs and encourage local planning in the development of educational policies. Academic freedom shall be enjoyed in all institutions of higher learning. |
| National language | The national language of the Philippines is Filipino. |
| Culture and arts | The State shall ensure equal access to cultural opportunities and encourage research and studies on the arts and culture. |
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What You'll Learn
The State shall pursue an independent foreign policy
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines outlines the country's commitment to establishing a government that embodies the ideals and aspirations of its people, promoting the common good, and conserving and developing its patrimony. One of the key policies outlined in this constitution is the pursuit of an independent foreign policy.
Section 7 of the 1987 Constitution states that "The State shall pursue an independent foreign policy." This means that the Philippines, as a sovereign nation, has the right and responsibility to make its own decisions regarding its relationships with other countries, international organizations, and global issues. This policy reflects the country's commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and independence in the international arena.
The same section emphasizes that in the Philippines' relations with other states, several key considerations should be paramount. These include national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest, and the right to self-determination. By prioritizing these factors, the Philippines ensures that its foreign policy decisions are aligned with its core values and principles.
The pursuit of an independent foreign policy allows the Philippines to navigate its international relations based on its unique context and priorities. It enables the country to adapt its strategies and policies to best serve its national interests and the well-being of its citizens. This independence also grants the Philippines a degree of flexibility in responding to changing global dynamics and emerging opportunities or challenges.
In conclusion, the statement "The State shall pursue an independent foreign policy" from the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines underscores the country's commitment to sovereignty, self-determination, and the protection of its national interests. By adopting this policy, the Philippines asserts its right to make autonomous decisions on the international stage, ensuring that its foreign relations are guided by its own values, priorities, and aspirations.
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Protection of the rights of indigenous cultural communities
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines outlines the country's commitment to protecting the rights of its indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) and indigenous peoples (IPs). This commitment is enshrined in the constitution, which recognises the importance of preserving the cultural treasure of the nation.
The constitution states that the State shall recognise, respect, and protect the rights of ICCs/IPs to preserve and develop their cultures, traditions, and institutions. This includes the protection of their ancestral lands and domains, which is essential to ensuring their economic, social, and cultural well-being. The State also recognises the applicability of customary laws in determining the ownership and extent of ancestral domains.
The 1987 Constitution promotes the idea that the use of property has a social function and that economic agents should contribute to the common good. It guarantees the right of individuals and private groups to own, establish, and operate economic enterprises while ensuring distributive justice. This is particularly relevant in the context of ICCs/IPs, as their concept of ownership is often community-oriented and based on the idea of collective property that belongs to all generations.
To further promote and protect the rights of ICCs/IPs, the constitution establishes a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. This commission is responsible for implementing mechanisms and appropriating funds to support these communities. The State also recognises the importance of indigenous cultural diversity and ensures that indigenous leaders participate in various aspects of society, such as schools and international cooperative undertakings, to promote their heritage and values.
Additionally, the constitution prioritises science and technology for national development and progress. It encourages the development and utilisation of indigenous scientific and technological capabilities, integrating them into the country's productive systems and national life. This aspect further supports the advancement and empowerment of ICCs/IPs by recognising and utilising their unique contributions in these fields.
Overall, the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples, ensuring their inclusion and preservation of their cultural heritage within the nation's framework.
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Promotion of social justice and human rights
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines was established to build a just and humane society and promote the common good. It includes a commitment to social justice and human rights, which are outlined in Article XIII, "Social Justice and Human Rights".
The Constitution states that Congress must prioritise the protection and enhancement of human dignity and the reduction of social, economic, and political inequalities. This includes removing cultural inequities by fairly distributing wealth and political power for the common good. The promotion of social justice includes the commitment to create economic opportunities based on freedom of initiative and self-reliance.
The 1987 Constitution also recognises the rights of indigenous cultural communities to their ancestral lands, aiming to ensure their economic, social, and cultural well-being. It promotes the preservation and development of their cultures, traditions, and institutions, and guarantees equal access to cultural opportunities.
The Constitution further promotes social justice by recognising labour as a primary socioeconomic force and protecting workers' rights. It guarantees the right to self-organisation, collective bargaining, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right to strike. It also ensures security of tenure, humane working conditions, and a living wage.
In addition, the 1987 Constitution prioritises education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to foster patriotism, accelerate social progress, and promote human development. It also establishes a national language commission to promote the development and preservation of Filipino and other languages.
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Recognition of the role of women and youth in nation-building
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines outlines the country's commitment to recognising the role of women and youth in nation-building. This commitment is reflected in the following sections of the constitution:
Section 8
The constitution states that the Philippines, consistent with the national interest, adopts and pursues a policy of freedom from nuclear weapons within its territory. This policy decision recognises the importance of maintaining a peaceful and secure environment for the nation's development, with a particular focus on the well-being of women and youth.
Section 13
The state recognises the vital role of the youth in nation-building and commits to promoting and protecting their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. It aims to instil patriotism and nationalism in the youth while encouraging their participation in public and civic affairs. This section ensures that the youth are empowered and supported as active contributors to the country's progress.
Section 14
The state acknowledges the significant role of women in nation-building and guarantees their fundamental equality before the law. By recognising women's contributions and ensuring their legal rights, this section promotes gender equality and empowers women to actively participate in shaping the nation's future.
Section 15
The state prioritises the protection and promotion of people's right to health, including instilling health consciousness. This section addresses the importance of a healthy population, including women and youth, as a foundation for a strong and prosperous nation.
Sections 3 and 14
The constitution affirms the supremacy of civilian authority over the military, with the Armed Forces serving as protectors of the people and the state. This provision ensures that the military remains accountable to civilian leadership, which includes women and youth as equal participants in democratic processes.
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, through these sections, demonstrates a clear commitment to recognising and supporting the roles of women and youth in nation-building. By guaranteeing their rights, well-being, and involvement in decision-making processes, the constitution lays the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Philippines.
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The national language and translation of the Constitution
The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines states that the national language of the Philippines is Filipino. This was to be developed and enriched based on existing Philippine languages and others. The government was to encourage the use of Filipino as a medium of official communication and as the language of instruction in the educational system.
The Constitution also recognises English as an official language, to be used until superseded by a provision of law. It also acknowledges the use of regional languages as auxiliary official languages for instruction, with Spanish and Arabic promoted on a voluntary and optional basis.
The 1987 Constitution was promulgated in Filipino and English and was to be translated into major regional languages, Arabic, and Spanish. This was to be facilitated by a national language commission, composed of representatives from various regions and disciplines. This commission was also tasked with researching, coordinating, and promoting the development, propagation, and preservation of Filipino and other languages.
The study of the Constitution was to be included in the curricula of all educational institutions, along with the teaching of patriotism and nationalism, fostering a love of humanity, respect for human rights, and an appreciation of the role of national heroes in the country's history.
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Frequently asked questions
The 1987 Constitution is the supreme law of the Republic of the Philippines.
The 1987 Constitution outlines policies that include:
- Protecting the rights and well-being of indigenous cultural communities.
- Promoting social justice and human rights.
- Pursuing an independent foreign policy.
- Renouncing war and adopting peace.
- Prioritising education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports.
- Protecting intellectual property rights.
The innovation policy is outlined in Article XIV, Sections 10-13, which states that the State shall give priority to research and development, invention, innovation, and their utilization.
Article XIV also includes policies on the promotion of arts and culture (Sections 14-18) and the protection of the nation's cultural treasure (Section 15).
