Philippine Constitution and Legal Framework: Structure and Safeguards
Architecture
The 1987 Constitution opens with the Bill of Rights (Article III), which protects due process, equal protection, freedom of speech, and security against unreasonable searches. Know the three branches: legislative (Congress: Senate and House of Representatives), executive (President, Vice President, Cabinet), and judicial (courts, with the Supreme Court as final arbiter). Review separation of powers, checks and balances, and judicial review.
Key Provisions
Understand Article IX (Constitutional Commissions: CSC, COMELEC, COA), Article X (local governments), and Article XI (accountability of public officers). Memorize key numbers: 24 senators, three consecutive terms for representatives, six-year presidential term with no re-election, and the three-term limit for local officials. Know the impeachment process and the Ombudsman's powers.
Traps
Questions confuse bill of rights guarantees with state policies (Article II, which are generally non-self-executing). They also misstate term limits (applies to consecutive terms and to the same office), or swap the Commission on Appointments with the Judicial and Bar Council. Watch for options claiming a right is absolute; most constitutional rights are subject to regulation.
Rule of Thumb
For any constitutional question, identify the provision, the branch or body involved, and whether the rule is self-executing or requires legislation.
Worked example: A mayor seeks a fourth consecutive term. The three-term limit bars re-election to the same local office; running for a different office is not barred.