Post-War Challenges and Authoritarianism in the Philippines

Vocabulary flashcards covering the post-World War II reconstruction of the Philippines, key political figures, the declaration of Martial Law, and the Marcos regime leading up to the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Hukbalahap

An armed movement in the post-World War II Philippines whose presence reflected unresolved social and economic grievances during the nation's transition to independence.

Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946

Legislation that provided United States financial aid to support the rebuilding and recovery efforts of the Philippines following the devastation of World War II.

Bell Trade Act

An act establishing post-war economic ties between the Philippines and the United States, which drew criticism for favoring American economic interests over those of the newly independent nation.

Parity Rights Amendment

A 1947 constitutional amendment granting American citizens equal rights with Filipinos to exploit Philippine natural resources, sparking debates concerning national sovereignty and economic independence.

Sergio Osmeña Sr.

President of the Philippines from 1944 to 1946 who advocated for reconstruction support and worked on securing post-war financial assistance and aid from the United States.

Manuel Roxas

The first President of the independent Republic of the Philippines (1946–1948), who led post-war economic recovery and political stabilization while securing U.S. financial aid.

Elpidio Quirino

Vice President under Manuel Roxas who served as President from 1948 to 1953, continuing recovery efforts by promoting industrialization, housing programs, and social welfare initiatives.

Martial Law (Philippines)

A period of authoritarian governance imposed by Ferdinand Marcos from 1972 to 1981 under the justification of communist insurgency and civil unrest, which concentrated power in the executive branch and bypassed constitutional safeguards.

Proclamation No. 1081

The official document signed by President Ferdinand Marcos on September 21, 1972, declaring Martial Law across the Philippines, which was publicly announced on September 23, 1972.

1973 Constitution

The constitution introduced during Martial Law that replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary system, effectively abolishing term limits and enabling Ferdinand Marcos to prolong his rule indefinitely.

Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (New Society Movement)

A movement introduced by Ferdinand Marcos aimed at promoting discipline and nationalism, but which became overshadowed by corruption, crony capitalism, and severe foreign debt.

Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

A prominent opposition senator and critic of the Marcos regime who was imprisoned under Martial Law and later assassinated at Manila International Airport on August 21, 1983.

1986 Snap Elections

Special presidential elections held on February 7, 1986, marked by widespread accusations of electoral fraud when official COMELEC results declared Ferdinand Marcos the winner while independent NAMFREL tallies showed Corazon Aquino leading.

People Power Revolution of 1986

A peaceful civic uprising in 1986 that culminated in the collapse of the Marcos regime and the restoration of democratic governance in the Philippines.