The Evolution of Philippine Constitution - 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution

Summary

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was enacted by President Corazon Aquino after the ousting of Ferdinand Marcos, following the People Power Revolution. Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3, abolishing the 1973 Constitution and establishing a revolutionary government. The purpose of this provisional constitution was to restore democracy, protect basic rights, and reorganize the government. It functioned from March 25, 1986, to February 1, 1987, ensuring a transition towards a new government structure under the 1987 Constitution, while addressing corruption, human rights, and peace restoration.

Takeaways

• 📜 The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was enacted by newly installed President Corazon Aquino.
• 🗓️ This constitution was effective from March 25, 1986, to February 1, 1987.
• ⚖️ President Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3, abolishing the 1973 Constitution and restructuring the government.
• 👩‍⚖️ Renato Puno, who later became a Supreme Court Chief Justice, drafted the constitution.
• 🚨 The constitution established a revolutionary government after the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos.
• 🛡️ The document aimed to restore democracy, protect basic rights, and promote transparency in government.
• 💡 The constitution was a transitional document, paving the way for the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
• 🗳️ The provisional government prioritized reorganization, human rights, anti-corruption efforts, and economic recovery.
• 🏛️ Some articles from the 1973 Constitution remained, such as those on the judiciary, presidency, and local government.
• 🔄 The key difference from the 1973 Constitution was the removal of the parliament and prime minister's office, emphasizing a revolutionary government structure.

Q & A

What was the main purpose of the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

The main purpose of the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was to declare national policy, implement reforms mandated by the people, protect basic rights, and ensure an orderly transition to a government governed by a new constitution.

Who issued the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution and when?

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was issued by President Corazon Aquino on March 25, 1986, through Proclamation Number 3.

What government positions were abolished under the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution abolished the 1973 Constitution, the parliament, the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister's office, and all national and local positions.

Who was responsible for drafting the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

Renato Puno, who later became one of the Supreme Court's Chief Justices, was responsible for drafting the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution.

How long was the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution effective?

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was effective from March 25, 1986, to February 1, 1987.

Why was the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution created?

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was created in response to the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos, which was marked by human rights violations and political oppression. It aimed to restore democracy, protect basic rights, and reorganize the government after the dictatorship.

What were some key principles included in the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

Key principles of the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution included the restoration of democracy, protection of basic human rights, eradication of graft and corruption, and the maintenance of civilian authority over the military.

What were the major differences between the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution and the 1973 Constitution?

The 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution was a transitional constitution that removed the Batasang Pambansa (Parliament) and gave President Aquino both executive and legislative powers. It was also framed in accordance with the establishment of a revolutionary government, unlike the 1973 Constitution.

What provisions of the 1973 Constitution were retained in the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

Provisions retained from the 1973 Constitution in the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution included articles on the declaration of principles and state policies, the presidency, the judiciary, local government, constitutional commissions, accountability of public officers, the national economy, and general provisions.

What changes were made to the government structure under the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution?

Under the 1986 Provisional Freedom Constitution, all elective and appointed officials temporarily remained in office, elections were addressed, and the government was reorganized with new priorities such as economic rehabilitation and the restoration of peace and order.