The "Declaration of Principles and State Policies" is a fundamental section of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which lays down the foundational ideals, goals, and commitments of the Philippine state. This section is located in Article II of the Constitution, and it expresses the guiding principles that direct the operations of government, as well as the aspirations of the country in both domestic and international contexts.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements under this area:
1. Declaration of Principles (Article II, Sections 1 to 12)
The Declaration of Principles enshrines the basic political philosophy that guides the government’s functioning and the relationship between the state and its people.
Section 1:
The Philippines is a democratic and republican state. Sovereignty resides in the people, and all government authority emanates from them.- This emphasizes that the power of the government is derived from the people, and it should serve the public interest in a democratic fashion.
Section 2:
The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy, adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the land, and adheres to a policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation, and amity with all nations.- The country upholds peace in international relations, respects international law, and promotes friendly and cooperative relations with other nations.
Section 3:
Civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is the protector of the people and the state. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the state and the integrity of the national territory.- This ensures that the military remains under civilian control and that its purpose is to defend the country and its people.
Section 4:
The prime duty of the Government is to serve and protect the people. The government may call upon the people to defend the state and, in the fulfillment of this duty, all citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal, military, or civil service.- The state exists primarily for the welfare of the people and has the authority to call upon its citizens for national defense.
Section 5:
The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment of all the people of the blessings of democracy.- Public safety and welfare are top priorities for the state.
Section 6:
The separation of Church and State shall be inviolable.- This affirms that the state and religious institutions operate independently from one another, preventing government interference in religious matters and vice versa.
Section 7:
The state shall pursue an independent foreign policy. In its relations with other states, the paramount consideration shall be national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest, and the right to self-determination.- The Philippines asserts its right to act independently in international matters, prioritizing the interests and security of the country.
Section 8:
The Philippines, consistent with the national interest, adopts and pursues a policy of freedom from nuclear weapons in its territory.- The state opposes the presence of nuclear weapons within its borders, in line with its peace-oriented foreign policy.
Section 9:
The state shall promote a just and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full employment, a rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all.- The government is committed to creating conditions for economic and social equity, aiming for prosperity and well-being for all Filipinos.
Section 10:
The state shall promote social justice in all phases of national development.- Social justice is a key principle that should inform all aspects of development and governance.
Section 11:
The state values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights.- The protection and respect of human rights are core principles that the government upholds.
Section 12:
The state recognizes the sanctity of family life and shall protect and strengthen the family as a basic autonomous social institution. It shall equally protect the life of the mother and the life of the unborn from conception. The natural right and duty of parents in rearing the youth for civic efficiency and the development of moral character shall receive the support of the government.- This affirms the state's duty to protect the family unit, both as a social institution and in terms of individual rights within the family, such as the right to life and parental authority.
2. State Policies (Article II, Sections 13 to 28)
The State Policies section outlines the specific goals and priorities of the Philippine government to promote the well-being of the people and ensure national development. These are guiding policies that inform legislation and government action.
Section 13:
The state recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs.- This highlights the importance of developing the youth for the future of the country, encouraging their civic participation.
Section 14:
The state recognizes the role of women in nation-building and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and men.- Gender equality is enshrined as a policy, promoting the role of women in all areas of national life.
Section 15:
The state shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them.- Public health is recognized as a key responsibility of the government.
Section 16:
The state shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.- Environmental protection is a central concern, recognizing the need for sustainable development.
Section 17:
The state shall give priority to education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total human liberation and development.- Education, science, culture, and sports are seen as key drivers of national progress.
Section 18:
The state affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.- Workers’ rights and the importance of labor are a priority in the state's social and economic policies.
Section 19:
The state shall develop a self-reliant and independent national economy effectively controlled by Filipinos.- Economic independence and national control over the economy are key goals.
Section 20:
The state recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector, encourages private enterprise, and provides incentives to needed investments.- The government supports private business while encouraging investment to foster national development.
Section 21:
The state shall promote comprehensive rural development and agrarian reform.- Rural development and agrarian reform are central to addressing poverty and inequality.
Section 22:
The state recognizes and promotes the rights of indigenous cultural communities within the framework of national unity and development.- The rights of indigenous peoples are recognized and protected as part of national development.
Section 23:
The state shall encourage non-governmental, community-based, or sectoral organizations that promote the welfare of the nation.- The government recognizes the value of civil society organizations in contributing to national welfare.
Section 24:
The state recognizes the vital role of communication and information in nation-building.- Free and open communication and the dissemination of information are vital for national development.
Section 25:
The state shall ensure the autonomy of local governments.- Local autonomy is recognized as crucial for decentralization and good governance.
Section 26:
The state shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.- Political participation should be open and free from entrenched political dynasties, though specific anti-dynasty legislation is yet to be passed.
Section 27:
The state shall maintain honesty and integrity in the public service and take positive and effective measures against graft and corruption.- The fight against corruption is a priority in ensuring good governance.
Section 28:
The state adopts and implements a policy of full public disclosure of all its transactions involving public interest.- Transparency in government operations is essential, particularly regarding public transactions.
Summary of Key Concepts:
Democratic Principles:
- Sovereignty belongs to the people, civilian control over the military, and the state serves and protects its citizens.
Foreign Relations:
- Peace, renunciation of war, adherence to international law, nuclear disarmament, and independent foreign policy are emphasized.
Social Justice and Human Rights:
- The government commits to social justice, equality, human dignity, and protecting family, health, and ecology.
National Development:
- The state prioritizes education, rural development, labor rights, economic independence, and private sector cooperation.
Good Governance:
- Transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption are central to maintaining public trust in government.
In summary, the Declaration of Principles and State Policies serves as a broad guide for the Philippine government’s priorities and actions, both domestically and in international relations. It reflects the commitment to democratic ideals, social justice, human rights, economic progress, and environmental sustainability.