1899: MALOLOS CONSTITUTION

Summary

The Malolos Constitution of 1899, crafted by a commission of educated Filipino leaders, marked the establishment of the first Philippine Republic. Following the Philippine Revolution against Spain, Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence on June 12, 1898. The constitution, consisting of 92 articles, delineated the principles of governance, civil rights, and the separation of church and state. Though patterned after earlier constitutions, it was never fully implemented due to the subsequent American occupation. This historical document represented a significant step towards self-governance and the assertion of Filipino sovereignty.

Takeaways

• 🇵🇭 The Malolos Constitution, also known as the Political Constitution of 1899, was the constitution of the first Philippine Republic.
• 📝 It was drafted by Felipe Calderón Iroca and Felipe Buen Camino as a response to earlier constitutional efforts by Filipino leaders.
• 🤝 Following the truce with Spain, Filipino leaders accepted exile in Hong Kong, receiving financial compensation for ending hostilities.
• 🚢 Emilio Aguinaldo was brought back to the Philippines by the U.S. Navy and declared independence on June 12, 1898.
• 🗳️ Elections from June to September 1898 led to the formation of the Malolos Congress, which was tasked with drafting the constitution.
• 📜 The Malolos Constitution was approved on November 29, 1898, and promulgated on January 21, 1899, containing 92 articles divided into 14 titles.
• ⚖️ The constitution established the principle of popular sovereignty, separating powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
• ✝️ It emphasized the separation of church and state and ensured equality of all religions within the country.
• 🌍 The Malolos Constitution was influenced by the Spanish Constitution of 1812 and other international constitutions, reflecting a desire for progressive governance.
• ❌ Despite its establishment, the Malolos Constitution was never fully implemented due to the subsequent U.S. occupation following the Treaty of Paris.

Q & A

What was the Malolos Constitution?

The Malolos Constitution, formally known as the Political Constitution of 1899, was the constitution of the first Philippine Republic, written by Felipe Calderón Iroca and Felipe Buen Camino.

What event led to the formation of the Malolos Constitution?

The Malolos Constitution was formed after the signing of a truce between Filipino revolutionary leaders and Spain, which allowed for their exile in Hong Kong and the eventual return of Emilio Aguinaldo to the Philippines.

When was the Malolos Constitution promulgated?

The Malolos Constitution was promulgated by President Aguinaldo on January 21, 1899.

How many articles are included in the Malolos Constitution?

The Malolos Constitution contains 92 articles divided into 14 titles.

What was the significance of the Preamble in the Malolos Constitution?

The Preamble outlines the goals of the constitution, such as establishing justice and promoting general welfare, and asserts that sovereignty resides with the people, directly challenging colonial authority.

What was the structure of the government established by the Malolos Constitution?

The Malolos Constitution established a government with three distinct powers: legislative, executive, and judicial.

Who was the main author of the Malolos Constitution?

Felipe Calderón Iroca was the main author of the Malolos Constitution.

Why was the Malolos Constitution never fully implemented?

The Malolos Constitution was never fully implemented due to ongoing conflict, as the Philippines became a territory of the United States after the Treaty of Paris.

What powers did the legislative branch hold according to the Malolos Constitution?

The legislative power was vested in a unicameral body called the Assembly of Representatives, which was responsible for making laws.

What influence did the Spanish Constitution of 1812 have on the Malolos Constitution?

The Malolos Constitution was patterned after the Spanish Constitution of 1812, which was the first constitution of Spain and the earliest codified constitution in world history.