The 1935 Constitution of the Philippines, ratified during the Commonwealth Era under President Manuel L. Quezon, served as the fundamental law of the land until it was superseded by subsequent constitutions. This historical document laid the groundwork for the governance of the Philippines as a Commonwealth under the United States.
One of the key provisions of the 1935 Constitution was the limitation on the term of the President. According to Article VII, Section 2 of the Constitution, the President was limited to a single term lasting six years. This provision aimed to ensure a degree of stability in governance while preventing the accumulation of unchecked executive power.
The 1935 Constitution of the Philippines provided several methods for amending its provisions. These methods included:
Constituent Assembly (Con-Ass): Amendments could be proposed by a vote of three-fourths of all the Members of the National Assembly. The proposed amendments would then be submitted to the electorate for ratification in a plebiscite.
Constitutional Convention (Con-Con): Amendments could also be proposed by a constitutional convention, which could be called by a two-thirds vote of all the Members of the National Assembly. Delegates to the convention would be elected by the people, and any amendments proposed by the convention would be submitted to the electorate for ratification in a plebiscite.
People's Initiative: A proposed amendment could also be directly proposed by the people through a petition of at least ten percent of the total number of registered voters, with at least three percent of the registered voters in each legislative district. If the petition is successful, the proposed amendment would be submitted to the electorate for ratification in a plebiscite.
Once proposed through any of these methods, the amendments would then need to be ratified by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite in order to be adopted.
These procedures provided a mechanism for the Constitution to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and circumstances of the country.
President Ferdinand Marcos, armed with knowledge from the future and a vision for a prosperous and self-sufficient Philippines, faced the challenge of navigating within the constraints of the existing constitutional framework. While he recognized the importance of adhering to constitutional principles, he also saw the need for bold and decisive action to propel the nation forward.
Marcos believed that the six-year term limit imposed on the presidency by the 1935 Constitution was insufficient to enact the comprehensive reforms and long-term development plans necessary to realize his vision for the Philippines. He understood that true progress required continuity of leadership and stability over an extended period.
In his deliberations, Marcos contemplated the process of amending the Constitution. He understood that proposing such a significant change would require careful strategizing and widespread public support. While he was confident in the merits of his proposal, he also recognized the need to demonstrate tangible results to garner the backing of the Filipino people.
As Marcos contemplated his next steps, he weighed the complexities of Philippine politics and public opinion. He understood that any attempt to amend the Constitution would face scrutiny and resistance from various quarters. Yet, fueled by his vision for a stronger, more prosperous Philippines, he remained undeterred in his determination to enact transformative change.
In the corridors of power, Marcos engaged in strategic discussions with his advisors, contemplating the best course of action to advance his agenda while respecting the constitutional framework. Aware of the challenges ahead, he prepared to embark on a journey that would test his leadership, resilience, and commitment to the welfare of the Filipino people.
President Ferdinand Marcos's aspirations for the Philippines transcended the confines of his current term in office. Armed with a deep understanding of history and a vision for the future, he embarked on a quest to redefine the nation's trajectory and secure its rightful place on the global stage. As he navigated the intricate web of politics and governance, Marcos remained steadfast in his resolve to usher in an era of progress, prosperity, and self-reliance for the Filipino people.
November 27 to 29, 1966
The arrival of Pope Paul VI in the Philippines marked a momentous occasion in the nation's history. As a predominantly Catholic country, the visit held immense significance for the Filipino people, who eagerly awaited the opportunity to receive the Holy Father.
Preparations for the Pope's visit were extensive, with elaborate arrangements made to ensure a warm welcome and a memorable experience for the pontiff. Crowds gathered along the streets, waving banners and chanting greetings, as the Pope's motorcade made its way through the bustling cities.
Upon his arrival, Pope Paul VI was greeted with great enthusiasm and reverence. His presence brought a sense of unity and spiritual renewal to the nation, as he delivered messages of peace, love, and compassion to the Filipino people. His words resonated deeply with the faithful, inspiring them to deepen their faith and live according to the teachings of the Church.
During his visit, Pope Paul VI celebrated Mass at various locations, including the Manila Cathedral and the Rizal Park, where hundreds of thousands of people gathered to receive his blessing. His homilies touched on themes of social justice, unity, and the importance of family, resonating with the values deeply ingrained in Filipino culture.
The Pope's visit also provided an opportunity for President Marcos to showcase the Philippines on the global stage. The successful and well-organized visit reflected positively on the country's ability to host such significant events and highlighted its strong Catholic heritage.
As Pope Paul VI bid farewell to the Philippines, he left behind a legacy of faith, hope, and unity. His visit served as a reminder of the enduring strength of the Filipino people's faith and the profound impact of the Catholic Church in shaping the nation's identity.