Citizenship-Training1

A. Historical and Legal Basis of NSTP

1. Malolos Constitution (1898 – 1901)

  • First Philippine Constitution

  • First republican constitution in Asia

2. Philippine Organic Act of 1902 & Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916 (1902 – 1935)

  • Philippine Organic Act of 1902: Established a Philippine Assembly composed of Filipino citizens.

  • Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916: Included the first pledge of Philippine Independence.

3. Commonwealth and Third Republic / 1935 Constitution (1935 – 1943 & 1945 – 1972)

  • Passed by the U.S. Congress in 1934

  • Creation of a constitution via the 1934 Constitutional Convention, ratified in a national plebiscite on May 14, 1935.

  • The constitution remained effective after declaring independence on July 4, 1946.

  • In 1940, the constitution was amended to establish a bicameral congress and revised presidential term limits.

4. Japanese-Sponsored Republic / Second Republic / 1943 Constitution (1943 – 1945)

  • The Japanese government voided the existing constitution during WWII.

  • A Preparatory Committee was established for Philippine Independence.

  • The new constitution was adopted by President Jose P. Laurel's administration.

5. Martial Law Constitution / 1973 Constitution (1973 – 1986)

  • Initiated by President Ferdinand Marcos through a Constitutional Convention.

  • Ratified via Presidential Decree No. 86, s. 1972 using a public assembly for vote ratification.

  • Enforced despite opposition, effective January 17, 1973.

6. Freedom Constitution / 1987 Constitution (1987 – Present)

  • After Martial Law, President Corazon Aquino suspended provisions of the 1973 Constitution and issued a transitory constitution via Proclamation No. 3.

  • A Constitutional Commission was formed to draft a new charter, ratified in a plebiscite held on February 2, 1987.

B. The Philippine Constitution

Preamble

  • Asserts the sovereignty of the Filipino people and outlines objectives such as promoting the common good and conserving national heritage.

Bill of Rights

  • SEC. 1: Life, liberty, and property shall not be deprived without due process.

  • SEC. 2: Security against unreasonable searches and seizures.

  • SEC. 3: Inviolability of communication.

  • SEC. 4: Freedom of speech and assembly.

  • SEC. 5: Free exercise of religion.

  • Further clauses detail rights regarding personal autonomy, property, and legal access.

Duties and Responsibilities of Filipino Citizens

  1. Respect and honor Filipino heritage and values.

  2. Contribute to national development and welfare.

  3. Engage in work ensuring dignity for self and family.

  4. Loyalty to the Republic and its Constitution.

  5. Report corrupt practices and engage in responsible citizenship, including voting.

C. United Nations Principles on Human Rights

  • Importance of sovereignty and integrity in the Philippines' approach to international relations, particularly concerning territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea.

  • Emphasis on diplomatic engagement with various nations while maintaining national interests.

  • Security initiatives including the Enhanced Comprehensive Localized Integration Program (E-CLIP) for rebel returnees.

D. Flag Heraldic Code of the Philippines

  • Governs the use and display of the national flag, including its dimensions, design, and correct way to hoist and display it.

  • Specifies the symbolism of the flag’s colors and elements, reflecting the nation’s identity and history.

  • Emphasizes respect for the flag and prohibits misuse or desecration.