The 1987 Philippine Constitution
The supreme law of the land. Established after the 1986 EDSA Revolution to restore democracy.
The Preamble
"We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid of Almighty God..."
Highlights: Truth, Justice, Freedom, Love, Equality, and Peace.
The 1987 Constitution is one of the few in the world to include the word "LOVE" in its preamble. If you see a question about values, don't forget this!
Three Branches: Checks & Balances
| Branch | Power | Composition |
|---|---|---|
| Legislative | Makes Laws | Congress (Senate & House) |
| Executive | Enforces Laws | President & Cabinet |
| Judicial | Interprets Laws | Supreme Court & Lower Courts |
The President can VETO a bill from Congress, but Congress can OVERRIDE that veto with a 2/3 vote of all members. This is the heart of Checks and Balances.
Article III: Bill of Rights
The fundamental protections of every Filipino citizen. High-yield for the exam.
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1
Due Process: No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
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2
Search & Seizure: Right to be secure against unreasonable searches. Requires a Warrant.
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3
Miranda Rights: Section 12. Right to remain silent and right to counsel during investigation.
RA 6713: Ethical Standards
Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials. Rule: "Public Office is a Public Trust."
The 8 Norms of Conduct
In situational questions, if an official buys a Ferrari while having a low salary, they violated Simple Living. Always match the lifestyle to the income!
SALN: Transparency Tool
Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth.
The SALN must be filed on or before APRIL 30 of every year. Laborers and honorary officials are EXEMPT.
Human Rights: UDHR
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948). Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly.
- Inherent: Born with it. Not given by government.
- Universal: Applies to everyone, everywhere.
- Indivisible: All rights are equally important.
Environmental Protection Laws
| Law | Common Name | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| RA 9003 | Waste Management | Segregation / Recycling |
| RA 8749 | Clean Air Act | Anti-Smoke Belching |
| RA 9275 | Clean Water Act | Water Pollution Control |
Whenever you see RA 9003, think of waste segregation. It is the most common environmental law in the exam.
Article I: National Territory
Comprises the Philippine archipelago, with all the islands and waters embraced therein.
Article IV: Citizenship
How a person becomes a Filipino citizen.
Jus Sanguinis
Right of Blood. If parents are Filipino, you are Filipino. (Followed in PH!)
Jus Soli
Right of Soil. If born in the country, you are a citizen. (Followed in USA, NOT PH!)
Article V: Suffrage (Voting)
The right to vote. Mandatory requirements:
- 1Filipino Citizen
- 2At least 18 years of age
- 3Resident of PH for 1 year
- 4Resident of the place for 6 months
The Ombudsman: Tanodbayan
The "Protector of the People." Investigates and prosecutes government officials for graft and corruption.
The President, VP, SC Justices, and Heads of Constitutional Commissions can only be removed via IMPEACHMENT.
The CSC: Central Personnel Agency
The Civil Service Commission is the agency you are taking the exam for! Its goal is to ensure Merit and Fitness in the government.
1. Permanent (Has eligibility)
2. Temporary (No eligibility / Pending)
Peace and ASEAN Logic
The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy. Member of ASEAN.
Current Events: Logic Check
Focus on recent laws signed, major sports victories (e.g., Olympics), and key government appointments.
Usually, questions cover events from the last 6 to 12 months before the exam. Know your current Cabinet members!
Social Justice & Integrity
The state must prioritize the needs of the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women, and children.
Integrity in Service 🇵🇭
You are now equipped with the knowledge to serve the Filipino people.