Chapter 17


I. Introduction


  • This chapter explores the impact of Martial Law on Philippine politics and society.

  • It aims to analyze the events leading to Martial Law, the political and social atmosphere during this period, and the changes brought about by the 1973 Philippine Constitution.


II. Background and Motivation


  • Post-WWII Philippines: The Philippines faced challenges in rebuilding after the war, relying heavily on US aid for rehabilitation.

  • Pro- and Anti-Americanism: The Philippines' strong ties with the US sparked debate, with some advocating for economic independence and national industrialization.

  • Growing Political and Economic Turmoil: The chapter highlights the worsening economic conditions, corruption, and rising communist and Muslim insurgencies.


III. Key Events Leading to Martial Law


  • First Quarter Storm (Jan-Mar 1970): A series of protests against the government's policies and economic turmoil.

  • Diliman Commune (Feb 1-9, 1971): A student protest at the University of the Philippines Diliman in solidarity with striking jeepney drivers.

  • Plaza Miranda Bombing (Aug 21, 1971): An attack on a Liberal Party rally, blamed on the Communist Party of the Philippines.

  • Suspension of Habeas Corpus (Aug 21, 1971): President Marcos suspended the writ of habeas corpus, citing the need to apprehend those responsible for the bombing.


IV. The Declaration of Martial Law


  • Proclamation No. 1081 (Sept 21, 1972): President Marcos declared Martial Law, citing the growing communist threat and the need for stability.

  • General Orders: President Marcos issued a series of general orders, consolidating power, restricting freedoms, and establishing control over the government.

  • Impact of Martial Law: The chapter delves into the effects of Martial Law on various aspects of Philippine life, including:

    • Political Activism: The rise of underground movements and the suppression of dissent.

    • Freedom of Speech and Assembly: The curtailment of basic rights and the silencing of opposition voices.

    • Government Structure: The shift from a presidential to a parliamentary system, with the president assuming significant power.

    • Human Rights Abuses: The widespread use of torture and extrajudicial killings by government forces.


V. The 1973 Philippine Constitution


  • Drafting and Ratification: The 1973 Constitution was drafted during the Martial Law period and ratified through Citizens Assemblies.

  • Key Features: The constitution established a parliamentary system, with a powerful executive branch led by the President and the Prime Minister.

  • Constitutional Changes: The 1973 Constitution facilitated the Marcos dictatorship, granting him extensive powers and control over the government.


VI. The 1976 Amendments


  • Presidential Decree No. 1033: President Marcos proposed amendments to the 1973 Constitution, including the creation of an interim Batasang Pambansa and expanding his own powers.

  • Referendum-Plebiscite: The amendments were approved through a referendum-plebiscite held on October 16, 1976.

  • Expansion of Presidential Power: The amendments further consolidated power in the hands of the President, allowing him to exercise legislative powers until Martial Law was lifted.


VII. Personal Experiences and Narratives


  • Bonifacio P. Ilagan's Narrative: The chapter includes a personal account of Ilagan's arrest and torture by the 5th Constabulary Security Unit (CSU), highlighting the brutality of the Marcos regime.

  • The "Desaparecidos": The chapter mentions the phenomenon of enforced disappearances, where individuals were abducted and detained without due process.


VIII. Key Figures and Organizations


  • Ferdinand Marcos: President of the Philippines (1965-1986) who declared Martial Law.

  • Kabataang Makabayan (KM): A radical youth group that played a significant role in the protests leading to Martial Law.

  • Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP): A Marxist-Leninist-Maoist party that engaged in armed struggle against the government.

  • New People's Army (NPA): The armed wing of the CPP.

  • 5th Constabulary Security Unit (CSU): A notorious unit of the Philippine Constabulary known for its use of torture.


IX. Key Themes


  • Authoritarianism: The chapter explores the rise of authoritarian rule under Marcos.

  • Political Repression: The chapter examines the suppression of dissent and the curtailment of basic freedoms.

  • Human Rights Abuses: The chapter highlights the widespread use of torture and extrajudicial killings.

  • Constitutional Change: The chapter analyzes the ways in which the 1973 Constitution facilitated the Marcos dictatorship.