Philippine Constitution
Government Structure, Bill of Rights & R.A. 6713
Key Constitutional Articles
Article I - National Territory
Defines the Philippine archipelago with its territorial waters, seabed, and airspace
Article II - Declaration of Principles and State Policies
Philippines is a democratic and republican state. Sovereignty resides in the people.
Article III - Bill of Rights
Fundamental rights: due process, equal protection, freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly
Article VI - Legislative Department
Bicameral Congress: Senate (24 members, 6-year term) and House of Representatives
Article VII - Executive Department
President and Vice President elected separately, 6-year term, no re-election for President
Article VIII - Judicial Department
Supreme Court is the highest court. Chief Justice and 14 Associate Justices.
Bill of Rights (Article III) - Key Sections
Section 1: Due Process & Equal Protection
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law
Section 4: Freedom of Speech & Press
No law shall abridge freedom of speech, expression, or of the press
Section 5: Freedom of Religion
Free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship
Section 8: Right to Form Associations
Right to form unions, associations, or societies
Section 12: Rights of Accused
Right to remain silent, to have counsel, Miranda rights
Section 14: Presumption of Innocence
Accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty
Three Branches of Government
Legislative
Makes laws
- Senate: 24 members, 6-year term
- House: District & Party-list reps
- Max 3 consecutive terms (House)
- Max 2 consecutive terms (Senate)
Executive
Implements laws
- President: 6 years, no re-election
- Vice President: 6 years, 2 terms max
- Cabinet departments
- Commander-in-Chief
Judicial
Interprets laws
- Supreme Court (15 justices)
- Court of Appeals
- Regional Trial Courts
- Municipal Trial Courts
R.A. 6713 - Code of Conduct for Public Officials
8 Norms of Conduct
- Commitment to public interest
- Professionalism
- Justness and sincerity
- Political neutrality
- Responsiveness to the public
- Nationalism and patriotism
- Commitment to democracy
- Simple living
Prohibited Acts
- Using office for personal gain
- Engaging in private practice (if prohibited)
- Soliciting gifts/benefits
- Using confidential information for profit
SALN Requirement
Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth
- Filed within 30 days of assumption
- Filed annually on or before April 30
- Filed within 30 days of separation
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You've completed all 5 Civil Service Exam Study Lessons!