1935 Commonwealth Constitution

Summary

The 1935 Philippine Constitution laid the groundwork for the Commonwealth government, marking a transition toward Philippine independence from the United States. Influenced by American governance, it established a bicameral legislature and introduced voting rights for adult male citizens, later extended to women. Though not the first constitution, it was the first fully implemented one before being interrupted by Japanese occupation during World War II. The document aimed to ensure justice, liberty, and democracy while affirming the Filipinos' right to self-governance, ultimately paving the way for the Republic of the Philippines in 1946.

Takeaways

• 🇵🇭 The 1935 Commonwealth Constitution served as a legal basis for the transition towards Philippine independence from American rule.
• 📜 It established a bicameral legislature consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives.
• 🗳️ Voting rights were introduced for male citizens aged 21 and over, with these rights eventually extended to women.
• 🗓️ The President and Vice President were elected for a four-year term without re-election.
• ⚖️ The Constitution aimed to promote justice, liberty, and democracy for the Filipino people.
• 🏛️ Prior to the 1935 Constitution, the Philippines was governed under military rule and earlier legislative acts like the Philippine Organic Act of 1902.
• 🕊️ The Jones Law of 1916 declared the intent of the United States to grant Philippine independence once a stable government was established.
• 🌏 The implementation of the 1935 Constitution was interrupted by the Japanese occupation during World War II.
• 📅 The Philippines officially became a Republic on July 4, 1946, following the constitutional framework laid out in 1935.
• ✍️ President Roosevelt certified the Constitution, marking an important step in Philippine self-governance and sovereignty.

Q & A

What was the purpose of the 1935 Philippine Commonwealth Constitution?

The 1935 Constitution served as the legal framework for the Commonwealth government, which was a transitional government leading to Philippine independence.

How did the 1935 Constitution relate to American governance?

The 1935 Constitution was influenced by American constitutional principles, reflecting the historical context of U.S. colonization of the Philippines.

What significant acts preceded the 1935 Constitution?

The Philippine Organic Act of 1902 and the Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916 (Jones Law) were key legislative acts that shaped the governance structure before the 1935 Constitution.

What were the main features of the 1935 Constitution?

The Constitution established a bicameral legislature, elected a president and vice president for four-year terms, and introduced voting rights for male citizens aged 21 and older, which later included women.

What interrupted the implementation of the 1935 Constitution?

The implementation was interrupted by the Japanese occupation during World War II, which affected the governance structure established by the Constitution.

What did the preamble of the 1935 Constitution emphasize?

The preamble emphasized ideals such as justice, liberty, and democracy, aiming to establish a government that would promote general welfare.

What was the significance of President Roosevelt's certification of the Constitution?

President Roosevelt's certification on March 25, 1935, signified U.S. recognition of the Commonwealth government and the transition towards Filipino self-governance.

How many times was the 1935 Constitution amended, and what were the main changes?

The 1935 Constitution was amended three times, affecting the structure of the legislature and granting rights to U.S. citizens regarding Philippine resources.

When did the Philippines officially gain independence?

The Philippines officially gained independence on July 4, 1946, following the establishment of a Commonwealth government under the 1935 Constitution.

What legacy did the 1935 Constitution leave for future Philippine governance?

The 1935 Constitution laid the groundwork for future governance in the Philippines, influencing subsequent constitutions and the overall political framework of the country.