Summary of the 1899 Constitution

 

THE 1899 CONSTITUTION (During the American Occupation)

The Malolos Constitution, also known as the "Constitution of the Revolutionary Government of the Philippine Islands," which President Emilio Aguinaldo signed into law on January 21, 1899 in Malolos, Bulacan, is regarded as Asia's first written constitution.

General Aguinaldo (seated, center) and ten of the delegates to the first assembly that passed the constitution, in Barasoain Church, Malolos

The constitution had several sections, the first of which declared the Philippine Republic independent and established a representative democracy with legislative, executive, and judicial institutions. The second section discussed civil rights. It said that in the eyes of the law, race, gender, and religion were irrelevant. It ensured the rights to speech, the press, freedom of assembly, and the practice of religion. Governmental structure was discussed in part three. A Senate-House legislature was established. A Supreme Court and an executive cabinet were established. The fourth section promoted public welfare. It outlined governmental responsibilities and protected public welfare, education, and health. Additionally, it enabled people to petition their government for a remedy. The fifth portion included the president's and the cabinet's responsibilities. It granted the president the power to make decisions, appoint people, and declare war. It chose a Vice President and created a cabinet of executive departments. The sixth section finally covered modifications. Enacting legislation needed the support of the president and a majority vote in each chamber of the legislature. Additionally, it allowed for amendment voting. 

The First Philippine Republic was born with the proclamation of the Malolos Constitution on January 23, 1899

Philippine history is marked by the Malolos Constitution. It established the First Philippine Republic and contained provisions for citizen rights, governmental structure, and modifications.