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Lesson 4
General Information
In This Lesson
1. Philippine History
Understanding the key periods and events in Philippine history.
Pre-Colonial Period
- • Barangay system of government
- • Trade with China, India, Arab merchants
- • Alibata/Baybayin writing system
- • Animistic and ancestor worship beliefs
Spanish Colonial Period (1565-1898)
- 1521: Ferdinand Magellan arrives; Battle of Mactan (Lapu-Lapu)
- 1565: Miguel Lopez de Legazpi establishes Spanish settlement
- 1571: Manila becomes capital
- 1896: Philippine Revolution begins (Katipunan, Bonifacio)
- 1898: Declaration of Independence (June 12); First Philippine Republic
American Period (1898-1946)
- 1898: Treaty of Paris; Spain cedes Philippines to USA
- 1899-1902: Philippine-American War
- 1935: Commonwealth established; Manuel L. Quezon as President
- 1941-1945: Japanese Occupation (WWII)
- 1946: Independence granted (July 4)
Post-Independence
- 1965-1986: Ferdinand Marcos era; Martial Law (1972-1981)
- 1986: EDSA People Power Revolution; Corazon Aquino presidency
- 1987: Current Constitution ratified
2. Philippine Government
The Philippines has a democratic, republican form of government with three branches.
Executive Branch
- Head: President
- • 6-year term, no re-election
- • Vice President (separate election)
- • Cabinet members
- • Implements laws
Legislative Branch
- Congress: Bicameral
- • Senate: 24 senators
- • House: 300+ representatives
- • Creates laws
- • Approves budget
Judicial Branch
- Supreme Court
- • Chief Justice + 14 Justices
- • Court of Appeals
- • Regional Trial Courts
- • Interprets laws
Local Government Units (LGUs)
- Region: Administrative divisions (17 regions)
- Province: Led by Governor (81 provinces)
- City/Municipality: Led by Mayor
- Barangay: Smallest unit; led by Barangay Captain
3. Current Events
Stay updated on national and international news. Here are key areas to follow:
Areas to Monitor
- Politics: Government policies, elections, new laws
- Economy: GDP, inflation, employment, peso exchange rate
- Social Issues: Education, health, poverty, environment
- International: ASEAN, foreign relations, global events
- Science/Technology: Innovations, discoveries, digital trends
Study Tips for Current Events
- • Read news daily (print or online)
- • Follow reputable news sources
- • Note names of key officials and leaders
- • Remember important dates and events
- • Understand the "why" behind headlines
4. Philippine Geography
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia with diverse geography.
Basic Facts
- Total Islands: 7,641 islands
- Major Island Groups: Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao
- Largest Island: Luzon
- Capital: Manila (Metro Manila NCR)
- Location: Western Pacific Ocean, part of Ring of Fire
Key Geographic Features
- Highest Mountain: Mount Apo (Mindanao) - 2,954 meters
- Longest River: Cagayan River (Luzon)
- Largest Lake: Laguna de Bay
- Active Volcanoes: Mayon, Taal, Pinatubo, Kanlaon
- Climate: Tropical; wet and dry seasons
17 Regions of the Philippines
Luzon:
NCR, CAR, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol
Visayas:
Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas
Mindanao:
Zamboanga, Northern Mindanao, Davao, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga, BARMM
5. Filipino Culture
Understanding Filipino values, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Filipino Values
- Bayanihan: Spirit of communal unity and cooperation
- Utang na Loob: Debt of gratitude; reciprocity
- Pakikisama: Getting along with others; group harmony
- Hiya: Sense of shame; maintaining face
- Respect for Elders: "Po" and "Opo"; mano
- Hospitality: Warm welcome to guests
National Symbols
Flag: Blue, red, white; sun and stars
Bird: Philippine Eagle
Flower: Sampaguita
Tree: Narra
Animal: Carabao
Fish: Bangus (Milkfish)
Fruit: Mango
Sport: Arnis
Important Holidays
- June 12: Independence Day
- August 21: Ninoy Aquino Day
- August 26: National Heroes Day
- November 30: Bonifacio Day
- December 30: Rizal Day
PUPCET General Information Tips
- ✓Review Philippine history - know key dates, events, and personalities.
- ✓Understand government structure - branches and their functions.
- ✓Read news regularly - current events are heavily tested.
- ✓Know your geography - regions, landmarks, and features.
Congratulations!
You've completed all PUPCET study notes. You're now ready to ace the exam!