4.1 - THE EVOLUTION OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION & Biak-na-Bato Constitution

Summary

In this video, Nana K Abdul discusses the evolution of the Philippines' constitution, highlighting its importance in maintaining law and order, guiding government officials, protecting citizens' rights, and limiting governmental power. The script traces the history of the constitution from the 1899 Malolos Constitution to the current 1987 Constitution, emphasizing the Biak na Bato Constitution's significance as a symbol of Filipino aspirations for self-determination and democracy, despite its short implementation.

Takeaways

• 📜 The constitution is defined as a set of fundamental principles or established laws according to which a state or organization is governed.
• 🏛️ The constitution acts as a rule book for the government, outlining rules, creating branches of power, and defining responsibilities.
• 🛡️ It also contains the rights of the people, and it is illegal for the government to violate these rights.
• 🚫 The government cannot pass laws that go against the constitution; all laws must comply with its principles.
• 🗓️ Constitution Day in the Philippines is celebrated every February 2nd to commemorate the ratification of the latest constitution in 1987.
• 🔍 The importance of a constitution includes maintaining law and order, imposing rules and regulations, protecting citizens' rights and freedoms, and limiting government power.
• 📊 The Philippines has had a total of six constitutions, but only three have effectively governed the country: the 1935, 1973, and 1987 constitutions.
• 🏛️ The 1899 Malolos Constitution was the first and was a product of the Philippine Revolution, aiming for self-governance and independence from Spain.
• 🏳️ The Constitution of Biak na Bato, despite not being fully implemented, symbolizes Filipino aspirations for self-determination and served as a foundation for future governance.
• ⏳ The Biak na Bato Constitution was heavily influenced by the Cuban constitution and was written in Spanish, later translated into Tagalog.

Q & A

What is the definition of a constitution according to the video?

A constitution is defined as a set of fundamental principles or established rules according to which a state or other organization is governed. It serves as a rule book for the government, outlining the branches of power, responsibilities, rights of the people, and ensuring that all laws comply with its principles.

Why is it illegal for the government to violate the rights stated in the constitution?

It is illegal for the government to violate the rights stated in the constitution because the constitution is the supreme law that establishes and protects the rights of the people. Any violation is a breach of the fundamental principles and can result in legal consequences.

What is the significance of February 2nd in the context of the Philippine constitution?

February 2nd is celebrated as Constitution Day in the Philippines. It marks the day when the latest Philippine constitution was ratified in 1987, and it commemorates the date when any new charter takes effect.

Why is having a constitution important for a country?

Having a constitution is important for maintaining law and order, imposing rules and regulations, protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens, and limiting the power of the government to prevent abuse and ensure a democratic republic.

How many constitutions has the Philippines had in its history according to the video?

According to the video, the Philippines has had a total of six constitutions in its history, starting from the 1899 Malolos Constitution to the latest 1987 Philippine Constitution.

Which constitutions effectively governed the Philippines among the six?

Among the six constitutions, only three effectively governed the country: the 1935 Constitution, the 1973 Constitution, and the 1986 Philippine Constitution.

What was the purpose of the Biak na Bato Constitution?

The purpose of the Biak na Bato Constitution was to provide a framework for self-governing of the Philippines republic and to establish independence from Spain.

What were the three organs of government established by the Biak na Bato Constitution?

The three organs of government established by the Biak na Bato Constitution were the Supreme Council, the Konseho Supremo de Justicia (Supreme Council of Grace and Justice), and the Assembly of Representatives.

Why was the Biak na Bato Constitution never fully implemented?

The Biak na Bato Constitution was never fully implemented due to the signing of the Pact of Biak na Bato, a truce between the Spanish authorities and the Philippine Revolutionary Army, which led to a temporary cessation of hostilities but did not result in Philippine Independence.

What is the historical significance of the Biak na Bato Constitution?

The Biak na Bato Constitution is historically significant as it symbolizes Filipino aspiration for self-determination and a democratic republic, laid the groundwork for future Philippine governments, and stands as a testament to the struggle and inspiration of the Filipino people during the Revolution.