Philippine Politics

Report Outline
Special Focus

Overview

In announcing the plebiscite on Feb. 2 that would fundamentally reshape the Philippine political system elections commission Chairman Ramon Felipe Jr., said: “The fate of the nation is now in the people's hands. May the Lord enlighten all in their hour of decision.”

Over the next eight hours, the Filipino people appeared to be answering his call—showing up at thousands of schoolhouse polling places around the Pacific archipelago in record numbers to approve overwhelmingly a new constitution for the former U.S. colony. Their support also officially endorses a six-year presidential term for Corazon C. Aquino, a 54-year-old former suburban housewife and widow of slain opposition leader Benigno S. Aquino Jr.

The plebiscite also confirmed a six-year term for Vice President Salvador Laurel and put in place a U.S.-style democracy with a strong president whose power is checked by a bicameral legislature and an independent judiciary.