In a verbal reasoning test, you are usually provided with a passage of text followed by one or more

statements. In the example below, determine whether each statement is true or false, or whether you
cannot say, given the information in the passage:
A – True (the statement follows logically from the information or opinions contained in the passage)

B – False (the statement is logically false from the information or opinions contained in the passage)

C – Cannot say (cannot determine whether the statement is true or false without further information)
Give your answer to each question by clicking on either A, B, or C. You will be told whether or not
your answer is correct.
Example:

“Many organisations find it beneficial to employ students over the summer. Permanent staff often
wish to take their own holidays over this period. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for companies to
experience peak workloads in the summer and so require extra staff. Summer employment also
attracts students who may return as well-qualified recruits to an organisation when they have
completed their education. Ensuring that the students learn as much as possible about the
organisation encourages interest in working on a permanent basis. Organisations pay students on a
fixed rate without the usual entitlement to paid holidays or bonus schemes.”
Statement 1: It is possible that permanent staff who are on holiday can have their work carried out by
students.
Correct. This statement is true (Option A) as the passage states: “Many organisations find it
beneficial to employ students over the summer. Permanent staff often wish to take their own
holidays over this period.”

Statement 2: Students in summer employment are given the same paid holiday benefit as permanent
staff.
Correct. This statement is false (Option B) as the passage states: “Organisations pay students
on a fixed rate without the usual entitlement to paid holidays or sick leave.”

Statement 3: Students are subject to the organisation’s standard disciplinary and grievance
procedures.
Correct. We cannot say whether this statement is true or false (Option C) as the passage does
not make reference to the discipline or grievance procedures for students

Statement 4: Some companies have more work to do in the summer when students are available for
vacation work.
Correct. This statement is true (Option A) as the passage states: “Furthermore, it is not uncommon for
companies to experience peak workloads in the summer...”
NAPOLCOM Entrance Exam Reviewer
PNP LAW
RA. 6975
Section 1. Title of the Act. – This Act shall be known as the "Department of the Interior and Local
Government Act of 1990."
DILG
Section 6. Organization. – The Department shall consist of the Department Proper, the existing
bureaus and offices of the Department of Local Government, the National Police Commission, the
Philippine Public Safety College, and the following bureaus: the Philippine National Police, the
Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.
NAPOLCOM
Section 14. Powers and Functions of the Commission. – The Commission shall exercise the following
powers and functions:
(a) Exercise administrative control over the Philippine National Police;
Section 16. Term of Office. – The four (4) regular and full-time Commissioners shall be appointed by
the President upon the recommendation of the Secretary. Of the first four (4) commissioners to be
appointed, two (2) commissioners shall serve for six (6) years and the two (2) other commissioners
for four (4) years. All subsequent appointments shall be for a period of six (6) years each, without
reappointment or extension.
PNPO
Section 23. Composition. – Subject to the limitations provided for in this Act, the Philippine National
Police, hereinafter referred to as the PNP, is hereby established, initially consisting of the members of
the police forces who were integrated into the Integrated National Police (INP) pursuant to
Presidential Decree No. 765, and the officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Constabulary
(PC). For purposes of this Act, the officers and enlisted personnel of the PC shall include those
assigned with the Narcotics Command (NARCOM) or the Criminal Investigation Service (CIS); and
those of the technical services of the AFP assigned with the PC and the civilian operatives of the CIS.
The regular operatives of the abolished NAPOLCOM Inspection, Investigation and Intelligence
Branch may also be absorbed by the PNP. In addition, a PC officer or enlisted personnel may transfer
to any of the branches or services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in accordance with the
provisions of Section 85 of this Act.
In order to be qualified for transfer to the PNP units in Metropolitan Manila and in highly urbanized
cities, an individual must have completed not less than second year collegiate work or its equivalent
in training of seventy-two (72) collegiate units.
Anyone who has any pending administrative or criminal case or has been adjudged liable or
convicted of any crime pending appeal shall be allowed to join the PNP provisionally without prejudice
to final judgment by a body of competent jurisdiction.
The permanent civilian employees of the present PC, INP, Narcotics Command, CIS, and the
technical services of the AFP assigned with the PC, including NAPOLCOM hearing officers holding
regular items as such, shall be absorbed by the Department as employees thereof, subject to existing
laws and regulations.
Section 24. Powers and Functions. – The PNP shall have the following powers and functions:
(a) Enforce all laws and ordinances relative to the protection of lives and properties;
(b) Maintain peace and order and take all necessary steps to ensure public safety;
(c) Investigate and prevent crimes, effect the arrest of criminal offenders, bring offenders to justice
and assist in their prosecution;
(d) Exercise the general powers to make arrest, search and seizure in accordance with the
Constitution and pertinent laws;
(e) Detain an arrested person for a period not beyond what is prescribed by law, informing the person
so detained of all his rights under the Constitution;
(f) Issue licenses for the possession of firearms and explosives in accordance with law;
(g) Supervise and control the training and operations of security agencies and issue licenses to
operate security agencies, and to security guards and private detectives, for the practice of their
professions; and
(h) Perform such other duties and exercise all other functions as may be provided by law.
In addition, the PNP shall absorb the office of the National Action Committee on Anti-Hijacking
(NACAH) of the Department of National Defense, all the functions of the present Philippine Air Force
Security Command (PAFSECOM), as well as the police functions of the Coast Guard. In order to
perform its powers and functions efficiently and effectively, the PNP shall be provided with adequate
land, sea, and air capabilities and all necessary material means of resources.
Section 25. Organization. – The PNP shall be headed by a Chief who shall be assisted by two (2)
deputy chief, one (1) for operations and one (1) for administration, both of whom shall be appointed
by the President upon recommendation of the Commission from among the most senior and qualified
officers in the service: Provided, however, That in no case shall any officer who has retired or is
retirable within six (6) months from his compulsory retirement age be appointed as Chief of the PNP.
The PNP shall be composed of a national office, regional offices, provincial offices, district offices, city
or municipal stations.
At the national level, the PNP shall maintain its office in Metropolitan Manila which shall house the
directorial staff, service staff and special support units.
At the regional level, the PNP shall have regional offices, including that of the National Capital
Region, which may be divided into two (2) separate regions without prejudice to the pertinent
provisions of the Organic Act for the Autonomous Regions of the Cordilleras and Muslim Mindanao
relative to the creation of a regional police force in the area of autonomy. Each of these regional
offices shall be headed by a regional director for peace and order.
At the provincial level, there shall be a PNP office, each headed by a provincial director. In the case
of large provinces, police districts may be established by the Commission to be headed by a district
director.
At the city or municipal level, there shall be a PNP station, each headed by a chief of police.
The Chief of the PNP shall, within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act and in accordance
with the broad guidelines set forth herein, recommend the organizational structure and staffing
pattern of the PNP to the Commission.
Section 26. Powers, Functions and term of Office of the PNP Chief . – The command and direction of
the PNP shall be vested in the Chief of the PNP who shall have the power to direct and control
tactical as well as strategic movements, deployment, placement, utilization of the PNP or any of its
units and personnel, including its equipment, facilities and other resources. Such command and
direction of the Chief of the PNP may be delegated to subordinate officials with the respect to the
units under their respective commands, in accordance with the rules and regulation prescribed by the
Commission. The Chief of the PNP shall also have the power to issue detailed implementing policies
and instructions regarding personnel, funds, properties, records, correspondence and such other
matters as may be necessary to effectivity carry out the functions, powers and duties of the Bureau.
The Chief of the PNP shall be appointed by the President from among the senior officers down to the
rank of chief superintendent, subject to confirmation by the Commission on Appointments: Provided,
That the Chief of the PNP shall serve a term of office not to exceed four (4) years: Provided, further,
That in times of war or other national emergency declared by Congress, the President may extend
such term of office.
Section 27. Manning Levels. – On the average nationwide, the manning levels of the PNP shall be
approximately in accordance with a police-to-population ratio of one (1) policeman for every five
hundred (500) persons. The actual strength by cities and municipalities shall depend on the state of
peace and order, population density and actual demands of the service in the particular area:
Provided, That the minimum police-to-population ratio shall not be less than one (1) policeman for
every one thousand (1,000) persons: Provided, further, That urban areas shall have a higher
minimum police-to-population ratio as may be prescribed by regulations.
Section 28. Rank Classification. – For purposes of efficient administration, supervision and control,
the rank classification of the members of the PNP shall be as follows:
Commissioned Officer
1 Director General
3 Deputy Director General
11 Director
48 Chief Superintendent
Senior Superintendent
Superintendent
Chief Inspector
Senior Inspector
Inspector
Non Commissioned Officer
Senior Police Officer IV
Senior Police Officer III
Senior Police Officer II
Senior Police Officer I
Police Officer III
Police Officer II
Police Officer I
Section 29. Key Positions. – The head of the PNP with the rank director general shall have the
position title of Chief of the PNP. The second in command of the PNP with the rank of deputy director
general shall be the Deputy Chief of the PNP for Administration. The third in command with the rank
also of deputy director general shall be the Deputy Chief of the PNP for Operations.
At the national office, the head of the directorial staff with the rank of deputy director general shall be
known as Chief of the Directorial Staff of the PNP.
The heads of the various staff divisions in the directorial staff shall have the rank of director with the
position title of Director of the Directorial Staff of their respective functional divisions. The head of the
Inspectorate Division with the rank of chief superintendent shall assume the position title of Inspector
General. The heads of the administrative and operational support divisions shall have the rank of
chief superintendent.
The head of the NCR with the rank of director shall assume the position title of NCR Director.
The heads of the regional offices with the rank of chief superintendent shall assume the position title
of Regional Director.
The heads of the NCR district offices with the rank of chief superintendent shall have the position title
of District Director.
The heads of provincial offices with the rank of senior superintendent shall be known as Provincial
Director.
The heads of the district offices with the rank of superintendent shall have the position title of District
Director.
The heads of the municipality or city offices with the rank of chief inspector shall be known as Chief of
Police.
Section 30. General Qualifications for Appointment. – No person shall be appointed as officer or
member of the PNP unless he possesses the following minimum qualifications:
(a) A citizen of the Philippines;
(b) A person of good moral conduct;
(c) Of sound mind and body;
(d) Must possess a formal baccalaureate degree for appointment as officer and must have finished at
least second year college or the equivalent of seventy-two (72) collegiate units for appointment as
non-officer or an equivalent training or experience for those already in the service upon the effectivity
of this Act.
(e) Must be eligible in accordance with the standards set by the Commission;
(f) Must not have been dishonorably discharged from military employment or dismissed for cause
from any civilian position in the Government;
(g) Must not have been convicted be final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude;
(h) Must be at least one meter and sixty-two centimeters (1.62 m.) in height for male and one meter
and fifty-seven centimeters (1.57 m.) for female;
(i) Must weight not more or less than five kilograms (5 kg.) of the standard weight corresponding to
his or her height, age, and sex; and
(j) For a new applicant, must not be less than twenty-one (21) nor more than thirty (30) years of age.
Section 31. Appointment of PNP Officers and Members. – The appointment of the officers and
members of the PNP shall be effected in the following manner:
(a) Police Officer I to Senior Police Officer IV . – Appointed by the PNP regional director for regional
personnel or by the Chief of the PNP for the national headquarters personnel and attested by the Civil
Service Commission.
(b) Inspector to Superintendent. – Appointed by the Chief of the PNP, as recommended by their
immediate superiors, attested by the Civil Service Commission;
(c) Senior Superintendent to Deputy Director General. – Appointed by the President upon
recommendation of the chief of the PNP, with proper endorsement by the Chairman of the Civil
Service Commission and subject to confirmation by the Commission on Appointments; and
(d) Director General. – Appointed by the President from among the senior officers down to the rank of
chief superintendent in the service, subject to confirmation by the Commission on Appointments:
Provided, That the Chief of the PNP shall serve a tour of duty not to exceed four (4) years: Provided,
further, That, in times of war or other national emergency declared by Congress, the President may
extend such tour of duty.
Section 32. Examinations for Policemen. – The Civil Service Commission shall administer the
qualifying entrance examinations for policemen on the basis of the standards set by the NAPOLCOM.
Section 33. Lateral Entry of Officers into the PNP. – In general, all original appointments of
commissioned officers in the PNP shall commence with the rank of inspector, to include all those with
highly technical qualifications applying for the PNP technical services, such as dentist, optometrists,
nurses, engineers, and graduates of forensic sciences. Doctors of medicine, members of the Bar, and
chaplains shall be appointed to the rank of senior inspector in their particular technical service.
Graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) shall be automatically appointed to the
initial rank of inspector. Licensed criminologists may be appointed to the rank of inspector to fill up
any vacancy after promotions from the ranks are completed.
Section 36. Status of Members of the Philippine National Police. – The members of the PNP shall be
considered employees of the National Government and shall draw their salaries therefrom: Provided,
That PNP members assigned in Metropolitan Manila, chartered cities and first class municipalities
may be paid in additional monthly allowance by the local government unit concerned.
PNP Seal and Badge
PNP Seal Meaning and Symbolism
Lapu-Lapu Hero - The great Filipino hero of Mactan, the prototype of the best and most noble in
Filipino manhood who is the symbol and embodiment of all the genuine attributes of leadership,
courage, nationalism, self-reliance and a people-based and people powered community defense. The
benevolent and heroic warrior who derived added strength from a cohesive, determined and loyal
people is today a fitting symbol and a prototype as well of people power to preserve our values,
customs, traditions, way of life and the rule of law thru a solidly community-based police system.
Lapu-Lapu also personifies for us today civilian constitutional authority.
Laurel - Green Laurel with 14 leaves, symbolizes the 14 Regional Commands. It is also a symbol of
the honor, dignity and the privilege of being a member of a noble organization where the call to public
service is par excellence a commitment to public trust.
Shield - The symbol of the Philippine Constabulary, the first National Police by virtue of Organic Act
No. 175, enacted by the Philippine Commission on 18 July 1901. The Philippine Constabulary for the
close to 90 years of service to the nation has performed with honor, professionalism and courage.
The PC has carved out a large part of the glorious pages of Philippine history, as attested by its
proudly and deservedly garnering 86 of the 92 "Medals of Valor" the highest honor that a grateful
Filipino nation can bestow on its gallant sons in the service of the Republic. Most appropriately
therefore, the Philippine Constabulary became the nucleus of the Integrated National Police in 1975
to nurture the then embryonic concept of the nationalization of the country's local police forces.
Three Stars - Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and the 1,700 islands and the territorial integrity wherein
the National Police must enforce the law and maintain peace and order with professionalism, zeal
and dedication in keeping with the highest ideals and traditions of service to our country and people.
Service • Honor • Justice - Added distinct ideals for the officers, men and women of the PNP to insure
efficiency, integrity, cohesiveness, camaraderie and equanimity to enhance community acceptance
and support to attain its mission of peace keeping and law enforcement.
Sun - Symbolize the flowering, maturing and ultimate realization of the glorious evolution of the
PC/INP into a National Police Organization - "national in scope and civilian in character" - as
enshrined in the 1986 Constitution. The Traditional light rays which represents the fightingest
provinces whose ideals of courage and patriotism the members of the National Police must possess.
PNP Badge Meaning and Symbolism
Philippine Monkey Eating Eagle The National Bird – symbol of swiftness and ferocity, power, courage
and immortality.
PNP Shield - Symbol of protection of all citizens. Three Stars - Stands for Luzon, Visayas and
Mindanao which constitute the Republic's Territorial Integrity over which the PNP must enforce the
law and maintain peace and order with professionalism, zeal and dedication in keeping with the
highest ideals and traditions of service to God, Country and People.
Eight Sun Rays - Represents the eight (8) provinces whose ideals of courage, gallantry patriotism led
to their revolt against Spain.
Lapu – Lapu - Symbolizes the bravery of the Philippine National Police. Service, Honor, Justice -
Service is the vibrant and cogent deeds and actions in response to the needs and wants of the
people in distress: Honor could be the overriding criterion and consideration in the performance of
their entrusted task or mission: and Justice dispensed to everyone whatever is due to him without
favoritism or discrimination of any sort. Laurel Leaves - Symbolizes the competency, brilliance and
honor in the field of endeavor expected from each and every member of the PNP.
Philippine National Police - Identity of Solidarity.
PPSC
Section 66. Creation of the Philippine Public Safety College. – There is hereby created the Philippine
Public Safety College (PPSC), which shall be the premier educational institution for the training,
human resource development and continuing education of all personnel of the PNP, Fire and Jail
Bureaus.
Said College shall be under the direct supervision of a Board of Trustees composed of the Secretary
and the three (3) bureau heads.
Section 67. Composition, Powers and Functions. – The College shall consist of the present Philippine
National Police Academy (PNPA) established pursuant to Section 13 of Presidential Decree No.
1184, the Fire Service Training Center, the Philippine National Training Center (PNTC), the National
Police College, and other special training centers as may be created by the Department, whose
functions shall be as follows:
(a) Formulate and implement training programs for the personnel of the Department;
(b) Establish and maintain adequate physical training facilities;
(c) Develop and implement research and development to support educational training programs;
(d) Conduct an assessment of the training needs of all its clientele; and
(e) Perform such other related functions as may be prescribed by the Secretary.
Section 68. Organization. – The structure and staffing pattern of the College shall be prescribed by
the Secretary.
8551
Section 1. Title. – This Act shall be known as the "Philippine National Police Reform and
Reorganization Act of 1998".
THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE
A. REORGANIZATION
Section 13. Authority of the Commission to Reorganize the PNP. – Notwithstanding the provisions of
Republic Act No. 6975 on the organizational structure and rank classification of the PNP, the
Commission shall conduct a management audit, and prepare and submit to Congress a proposed
reorganization plan of the PNP not later than December 31, 1998, subject to the limitations provided
under this Act and based on the following criteria: a) increased police visibility through dispersal of
personnel from the headquarters to the field offices and by the appointment and assignment of non-
uniformed personnel to positions which are purely administrative, technical, clerical or menial in
nature and other positions which are not actually and directly related to police operation; and b)
efficient and optimized delivery of police services to the communities.
The PNP reorganization program shall be approved by Congress through a joint resolution.
B. QUALIFICATIONS UPGRADING
Section 14. Section 30 of Republic Act No. 6975 is hereby amended to read as follows:
"SEC. 30. General Qualifications for Appointment. – No person shall be appointed as officer or
member of the PNP unless he or she possesses the following minimum qualifications:
"a) A citizen of the Philippines;
"b) A person of good moral conduct;
"c) Must have passed the psychiatric/psychological, drug and physical tests to be administered by the
PNP or by any NAPOLCOM accredited government hospital for the purpose of determining physical
and mental health;
"d) Must possess a formal baccalaureate degree from a recognized institution of learning;
"e) Must be eligible in accordance with the standards set by the Commission;
"f) Must not have been dishonorably discharged from military employment or dismissed for cause
from any civilian position in the Government;
"g) Must not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude;
"h) Must be at least one meter and sixty-two centimeters (1.62 m.) in height for male and one meter
and fifty-seven centimeters (1.57 m.) for female;
"i) Must weigh not more or less than five kilograms (5 kgs.) from the standard weight corresponding to
his or her height, age, and sex; and
"j) For a new applicant, must not be less than twenty-one (21) nor more than thirty (30) years of age:
except for the last qualification, the above-enumerated qualifications shall be continuing in character
and an absence of any one of them at any given time shall be a ground for separation or retirement
from the service: Provided, That PNP members who are already in the service upon the effectivity of
this Act shall be given at least two (2) more years to obtain the minimum educational qualification and
one (1) year to satisfy the weight requirement.
"For the purpose of determining compliance with the requirements on physical and mental health, as
well as the non-use of prohibited drugs, the PNP by itself or through a NAPOLCOM accredited
government hospital shall conduct regular psychiatric, psychological drug and physical tests randomly
and without notice.
"After the lapse of the time period for the satisfaction of a specific requirement, current members of
the PNP who will fail to satisfy any of the requirements enumerated under this Section shall be
separated from the service if they are below fifty (50) years of age and have served in Government
for less than twenty (20) years or retired if they are from the age of fifty (50) and above and have
served the Government for at least twenty (20) years without prejudice in either case to the payment
of benefits they may be entitled to under existing laws."
Section 15. Waivers for Initial Appointments to the PNP. – The age, height, weight, and educational
requirements for initial appointment to the PNP may be waived only when the number of qualified
applicants fall below the minimum annual quota: Provided, That an applicant shall not be below
twenty (20) nor over thirty-five (35) years of age: Provided, further, That any applicant not meeting the
weight requirement shall be given reasonable time but not exceeding six (6) months within which to
comply with the said requirement: Provided, furthermore, That only applicants who have finished
second year college or have earned at least seventy-two (72) collegiate units leading to a bachelor's
decree shall be eligible for appointment: Provided, furthermore, That anybody who will enter the
service without a baccalaureate degree shall be given a maximum of four (4) years to obtain the
required educational qualification: Provided, finally, That a waiver for height requirement shall be
automatically granted to applicants belonging to the cultural communities.
Section 16. Selection Criteria Under the Waiver Program. – The selection of applicants under the
Waiver Program shall be subject to the following minimum criteria:
a) Applicants who possess the least disqualification shall take precedence over those who possess
more disqualifications.
b) The requirements shall be waived in the following order: (a) age, (b) height, (c) weight, and (d)
education.
The Commission shall promulgate rules and regulations to address other situations arising from the
waiver of the entry requirements.
Section 17. Nature of Appointment Under a Waiver Program. – Any PNP uniformed personnel who is
admitted due to the waiver of the educational or weight requirements shall be issued a temporary
appointment pending the satisfaction of the requirement waived. Any member who will fail to satisfy
any of the waived requirements within the specified time periods under Section 13 of this Act shall be
dismissed from the service.
Section 18. Re-application of Dismissed PNP Members Under a Waiver Program. – Any PNP
member who shall be dismissed under a waiver program shall be eligible to re-apply for appointment
to the PNP: Provided, That he or she possesses the minimum qualifications under Section 14 of this
Act and his or her reappointment is not by virtue of another waiver program.
Section 19. The Field Training Program. – All uniformed members of the PNP shall undergo a Field
Training Program for twelve (12) months involving actual experience and assignment in patrol, traffic,
and investigation as a requirement for permanency of their appointment.
Section 20. Increased Qualifications for Provincial Directors. – No person may be appointed Director
of a Provincial Police Office unless:
a) he or she holds a master's degree in public administration, sociology, criminology, criminal justice,
law enforcement, national security administration, defense studies, or other related discipline from a
recognized institution of learning; and
b) has satisfactorily passed the required training and career courses necessary for the position as
may be established by the Commission.
Any PNP personnel who is currently occupying the position but lacks any of the qualifications
mentioned above shall be given three (3) years upon the effectivity of this Act to comply with the
requirements; otherwise he or she shall be relieved from the position.
Section 21. Section 32 of Republic Act No. 6975 is hereby amended to read as follows:
"SEC. 32. Examinations of Policemen. – The National Police Commission shall administer the
entrance and promotional examinations for policemen on the basis of the standards set by the
Commission."
Section 22. Section 34 of Republic Act No. 6975 is hereby amended to read as follows:
"SEC. 34. Qualifications of Chief of City and Municipal Police Stations. – No person shall be
appointed chief of a city police station unless he/she is a graduate of Bachelor of Laws or has finished
all the required courses of a master's degree program in public administration, criminology, criminal
justice, law enforcement, national security administration, defense studies, and other related
disciplines from a recognized institution of learning. No person shall be appointed chief of a municipal
police station unless he or she has finished at least second year Bachelor of Laws or has earned at
least twelve (12) units in a master's degree program in public administration, criminology, criminal
justice, law enforcement, national security administration, and other related disciplines from a
recognized institution of learning: Provided, That members of the Bar with at least five (5) years of law
practice, licensed criminologists or graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy and who
possess the general qualifications for initial appointment to the PNP shall be qualified for appointment
as chief of a city or municipal police station: Provided, further, That the appointee has successfully
passed the required field training program and has complied with other requirements as may be
established by the Commission: Provided, furthermore, That the chief of police shall be appointed in
accordance with the provisions of Section 51, paragraph (b), subparagraph 4(i) of this Act."
Section 23. Qualifications Upgrading Program. – The Commission shall design and establish a
qualifications upgrading program for the Philippine National Police officers and members in
coordination with the Civil Service Commission, and the Commission on Higher Education through a
distance education program and/or an in-service education program or other similar programs within
ninety (90) days from the effectivity of this Act.

History of PNP
RA 6975- “An Act Establishing the Philippine National Police Under e Reorganized Department of the
Department of the Interior and Local Government and for Other Purposes” ended the existence of the
Philippine Constabulary and the Integrated National Police. Amended by RA 8551.
PNP- Country’s Police Force
NAPOLCOM- The Agency that Supervise, Administer and Controlled the PNP.
8551- “PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998” Amended by RA 9708.
IAS- Internal Affairs Service, the watchdog of the PNP. It is an organization within the structure of the
PNP.
Organic Act 175- creating insular police force. “An Act providing for the organization of an insular
Constabulary and for the inspection of the Municipal police.
Cesar P. Nazareno – First Police Director General/ PNP Chief.
Raul S. Imperial - Second Police Director General/ PNP Chief.
Umberto R. Rodriguez - Third Police Director General/ PNP Chief, Appointed by President Fidel V.
Ramos.
Kempetai- Japanese police force ruled in the Philippines.
Manila Police Department (MPD) – created during the first American Occupation renamed into
“Metropolitan Constabulary” under the Bureau of Constabulary. By virtue of Act Nr. 183 of the
Philippine Commission.
Insular Police Force – established during the Filipino American War upon recommendation of the
Philippine Commission to the Secretary of War.
Insular Constabulary – created by virtue Act. Nr. 175
Capt. George Curry – US Army officer appointed by TAFT COMMISSION and the 1st CHIEF OF
POLICE of MPD.
Capt. Columbus Piatt – the Last American COP of MPD.
October 3, 1901 – Insular constabulary was changed to Philippine Constabulary by virtue of Act Nr.
225
Brig/Gen. Henry T. Allen – 1st Chief of Philippine Constabulary. Father of PC.
Brig/Gen. Rafael T. Crame – 1st Filipino COP of PC.
Col. Antonio C. Torres – 1st Filipino COP when Manila Police Department became an all Filipino
Organization
Col. Marcus Ellis Jones – a US Provost Marshall who was named MPD COP just after Manila
Liberation.
Col. Lamberto T. Javalera – 1st COP of MPD appointed by Pres. Roxas under the Republic
Government.
RA 4864 – Police Act of 1966, police commission under office of the president of the Philippines. This
law gives birth to NAPOLCOM
RA 6040 – amended certain section of RA 2260 known as the Civil Service Act of 1969.
PD 765 – PC/INP Law. Establishing and constituted the Integrated national police which shall be
composed of PC as the nucleus and the integrated police forces (fire and jail department) as
components.
PD 1184 – The Integrated National Police Personnel Professionalization Act of 1977.
Article XVI Section 6 of the Philippine Constitution – The state shall established and maintain one
police force, which shall be national in scope and civilian in character, to be administer and controlled
by the NAPOLCOM.
RA 541 – Police Pension Law
PD 1184 – Police Professionalization Law of 1977, gives birth to the PNPA.
EO 1040 – transferred the administrative control and supervision on INP from Ministry on National
Defense (MND) to the NAPOLCOM.
PHILIPPINE HISTORY
Philippines – Pearl of the Orient, comprises more than 7,100 islands.
1898 – The Spanish-American War ended.
Martial Law – imposed by President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Pearl Harbor- the Japanese surprise attack in America
Clark field in Pampanga- bombing mission of Japanese in the Philippines.
Hiroshima & Nagasaki – City in Japan wherein the American Air Force drops a Nuclear Bomb.
People Power Movement – 4 day protest in Manila, in EDSA
Ferdinand Magellan – 1st recorded European contact with the Philippine Island.
Cebu – Island of ZUGBO, Humabon in waging a battle against a rival chieftain, Lapu-Lapu of Mactan.
The Capital of the new Spanish colony.
1565 – 1st Spanish settlement in the Philippines was established on cebu by Miguel Lopez de
Legaspi.
Rajah Soliman – controlled an area of Luzon. The NEW Capital of the Spanish colony.
KKK – kataastaasan kagalang galang na katipunan ng mga anak ng bayan, KATIPUNAN, organized
by Andres Bonifacio.
Biac-na-bato – a place that in negotiated truce.
Treaty of Paris – Peace negotiation between spain and the United States.
William Howard Taft – President of United States appointed General MacArthur to rule and govern
the Philippines.
Deep-water harbor – at subic bay, major anchorage for the US naval fleet.
Jones Act – instituted an elected Philippine senate and compromised eventual independence.
Franklin D. Roosevelt – New President of US who supports the Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934
stipulated that the Philippines would become an independent republic on July 4, 1946.
HUKBALAHAPS- hukbong bayan laban sa hapon
1944 – Osmenia succeeded Quezon, who died in the US.
April 1946- Roxas became the 1st president of the new republic.
April 1948 – Roxas died and was succeeded by Vice President Quirino, who won presidency in 1949.
Luis Taruc – HUKS Leader.
1953- Magsaysay was the clear winner in the presidential election.
March 1957 – Magsaysay died in plane crash and was succeeded by his vice president Carlos
Garcia, and was elected president in his own right in November 1957.
1961 - Diosdado Macapagal win the presidency.
1965 – election gave to presidency to Ferdinand E. Marcos. The 1st president who win a second
term.
September 21, 1972 – President Ferdinand E. Marcos Proclaimed Martial Law by virtue of
Proclamation No. 1081.
EDSA – epifanio de los Santos Avenue
Mendiola Massacre – government security forces opened fire on the protester and killed 20 people.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Criminal – is a person convicted of a crime by a final judgment
Suspect – arrested for the commission of a crime and he is in the law enforcement stage.
Respondent – in the prosecution stage
Accused – in court
Criminal or Convict or Inmate – in correction
Ex-convict – in the community
Crime - is an act or omission punishable by law, forbidding or commanding it.
Felony – crime punishable by Revised Penal Code (RA.3815)
Offense – crime punishable by special penal laws.
Misdemeanor or Violation or Obstruction of Ordinance – crime punishable by municipal or city
ordinances
Justice – is the act of rendering what are due or treating persons equally.
System – is a combination of related elements organized into a complex prevention and control of
crime.
Criminal Justice System – is the machinery which the society uses in prevention and control crime.
Law Enforcement –First component and pillar of the CJS. They are called the police, conducts arrest,
search seizures, etc. The prime mover or front liner of the CJS. (also BIR) They are the one who file
complaint.
Prosecution – conducts preliminary investigation to determine the existence of probable cause. The
one who file information.
Court – conducts trial to determine whether the accused is guilty or innocent of the charge. The
arbiter of Justice. The “cornerstone” or “centerpiece” of the CJS.
Correction– reforms and rehabilitates the offenders. This is known as the weakest pillar in CJS.
Community – molds persons from birth and reintegrates offender back to their home. This is the core
of the CJS.
Teodulo Natividad – introduced CJS in the Philippines
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Public Relation – is the act of bringing about better understanding , confidence, and acceptance of an
individual or an organization.
Police Community Relation – is defined as the sum total dealings of the police with the people it
serves and whose goodwill and cooperation it craves for to insure the greatest possible efficiency in
the public service.
Police Public Relation – is the continuing process by which endeavors are made to obtain the
goodwill and cooperation of the public for the effective enforcement of the law and the
accomplishment of police purpose.
Human Relation – consists of fundamental precepts, both moral and legal which governs the
relationship among men in all aspects of life.
Crime – Desire + Opportunity (to commit a crime) over Resistance (not to commit a crime)
Arrest – is the taking of a person into custody in order that he may bound to answer for the
commission of an offense.
Warrant of Arrest – is an order in writing issued in the name of People of the Philippines, signed by
the judge and directed to a peace officer, commanding him to arrest a person or persons stated
therein and deliver them before the court.
Inflagrante Delicto – caught in the act of committing a crime
Search Warrant - is an order in writing issued in the name of People of the Philippines, signed by the
judge and directed to a peace officer, commanding him to search for personal property described
therein and deliver them before the court.
Custodial Investigation – is any questioning initiated by law enforcement officers after a person has
been taken into custody of otherwise deprived of his freedom of action in any significant way.
Miranda Rights – Miranda vs. Arizona, Constitutional Rights of persons under investigation for the
commission of an offense.
Doctrine of the Fruit of the Poisonous Tree – any evidence illegally obtained is not admissible in any
proceeding.
Confession – direct acknowledgement of guilt.
Admission - indirect acknowledgement of guilt.
RA 7438 – An Act Defining certain rights of person arrested, detained, or under custodial
investigation as well as the duties of the arresting, detaining and investigating officers, and providing
penalties for violation thereof.
PROSECUTION
Inquest Proceeding - is a proceeding done by the inquest prosecutor to determine the validity of a
warrantless arrest.
Preliminary Investigation – is an inquiry held for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not probable
cause is present.
Probable Cause – is the existence of sufficient ground to engender well founded belief that a crime
has been committed and the respondent is probably guilty thereof.
RA 9344 – Juvenile Justice Welfare Act of 2006.
Complaint – is a sworn written statement charging a person with an offense, subscribed by the
offended party, any peace officer, or other public officer charged with the enforcement of the law
violated.
Information – is an accusation in writing charging a person with an offense, subscribed by the
prosecutor and filed in court.
COURT
Judge – is an officer so named in his commission who presides in some court; a public officer,
appointed to preside to and administer the law in a court of justice.
Jurisdiction – is the power and authority to hear, try, and decide a case.
Certification Against Forum Shopping – the complainant, plaintiff, or principal party shall certify under
oath in his complaint or other initiatory pleading asserting a claim of relief.
Arraignment – is made in an open court by the judge or clerk furnishing the accused of the copy of
the complaint of information, reading the same in a language or dialect known to him, and asking him
whether he pleads guilty or not guilty.
Bail – is a security given for the release of a person in custody of the law, furnish by him or a
bondsman, to guarantee his appearance before any court as required under the conditions specified
by law.
Recognizance – is the release of the defendant on the custody of a responsible member of the
community who shall guarantee his appearance whenever required by the court.
Proof beyond Reasonable Doubt – is the degree of proof which produces conviction in an
unprejudiced mind.
Preponderance of Evidence – means that the testimony adduced by one side is more credible and
conclusive that the other.
Substantial Evidence – is the relevant evidence which the reasonable mind might accepts as
adequate to support a conclusion.
Quash – literally to put stop. It is the act of formally declaring that the law or a court’s verdict is invalid.
Trial – is the examination before a competent tribunal, according to the laws of the land, of the facts
and issue of the case, for the purpose of determining such issue.
Alibi – is an averment that the person was at another place for such a period of time that it was
impossible for him to have been at the place where the act was committed at the time of its
commission.
Judgment – is adjudication by the court that the accused is guilty or not guilty of the offense charged
and the imposition of him of the proper penalty and civil liability, if any.
Appeal – is a resort to a superior court to review the decision of an inferior court or administrative
agency.
CORRECTION
Prisoners – are those convicted by final judgment.
Detainees – are those undergoing investigation/trial, or awaiting trial/sentence.
Department of Justice – it holds the Bureau of Prisons
Old Bilibid Prison – at present Manila City Jail.
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) – administer at the city and municipal jails. It is
under the (DILG) Department of Interior and Local Government.
Provincial Jail – administer by Provincial Government
Prisons – administered by (BuCor) Bureau of Correction, deprived of their liberty for more than 3
years.
Jails – are housing persons who are deprived of their liberty for not more than 3 years.
Probation – is a disposition under which a defendant, after conviction and sentence, is released
subject to conditions imposed by the court and under the supervision of a probation officer.
Interlocutory Order – is one which does not finally determine a cause of action but only decides some
intervening matter pertaining to the cause.
Pardon – is an executive clemency granted by the President/Chief Executive. Pardoning Power of the
President
Amnesty – is an act of sovereign power granting oblivion or general pardon for a past offense usually
granted in favor of certain classes of persons who have committed crimes of political character, such
as character, such as treason, sedition, and rebellion.
Parole – is the suspension of sentence of a convict after having served the minimum sentence
imposed without granting pardon, prescribing the terms of the suspension.
Commutation – is an act of the President reducing the penalty of a convict.
Reprieve and Suspension – the temporary stay or postponement of sentence.
COMMUNITY
Community – is a group of persons living I a particular place.
Home – Cradle of human personality
Marriage – is a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman entered into in
accordance with law for the establishment of conjugal and family life. Is a social union or legal
contract between people that creates kinship.
School – is an institution or place for instruction or education.
Church – is the religious society founded and established by Jesus Christ to receive, preserve, and
propagate His doctrines and ordinances.
Government – is the organization, or agency through which a political unit exercises its authority,
controls and administers public policy, and directs and controls the actions of its members or
subjects.
*General Information
- Philippine Constitution
- Philippine History (Significant Events and Functions)
- Philippine Government (Structures and Functions)
- Laws and Jurisprudence (Functions and Empowerment)
- Five (5) Pillars of the Criminal Justice System (CJS)
- Current Events (Social Awareness and Value Judgment)

*Verbal Reasoning
- Vocabulary, Comprehension, Grammar

*Quantitative Reasoning
- Basic Concepts , Problem-solving Skills

*Logical Reasoning
- Induction, Deduction, Synthesis
 SYNOPSIS OF PHILIPPINE HISTORY
Pre-Spanish Times
There are two theories on the origins of the first Filipinos, the inhabitants of what will later be called the
Philippine Islands and eventually the Republic of the Philippines. See the Early Inhabitants of the Philippine
Islands.
In the beginning of the 3rd century, the inhabitants of Luzon island were in contact and trading
with East Asian sea-farers and merchants including the Chinese. In the 1400's the Japanese also
established a trading post at Aparri in Northern Luzon.

In 1380, Muslim Arabs arrived at the Sulu Archipelago and established settlements which became mini-
states ruled by a Datu. They introduced Islam in the southern parts of the archipelago including some
parts of Luzon and were under the control of the Muslim sultans of Borneo. They had a significant
influence over the region for a couple of hundreds years. The Malay Muslims remained dominant in these
parts until the 16th century.

Philippine History During the Spanish Colonial Times

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer who was serving the Spanish crown, landed in Samar
Island on his voyage to circumvent the globe. He explored the islandsand named it Archipelago of San
Lazaro. Magellan was killed during a rebellion led by a Datu named Lapu Lapu in Mactan Island (adjacent
to Cebu Island). Spain continued to send expeditions to the island for financial gain and on the fourth
expedition, Commander Ruy Lopez de Villalobos, named the islands: Philippines, after Prince Philip (later
King Philip II), heir to the Spanish throne. Spain ruled the Philippines for 356 years.

In 1565, King Philip II appointed Miguel Lopez de Legazpi as the first Governor-
General of the Philippines. Legazpi chose Manila to be it's capital because of it's
natural harbor. Spain's legacy was the conversion of the people to Catholicism and
the creation of the privileged landed class. Because of abusesand suppression of the
Spaniards, a Propaganda Movement emerged with the aims for equality between
Filipinos and Spaniards. The arrest of propagandist Dr. Jose Rizal and execution in
1896 gave fresh momentum to Filipino rebels to fight against Spain.

The secret society of the Katipunan, founded by Andres Bonifacio attacked the
Spanish Garrison in San Juan with little success, while Katipuneros in Cavite
Province headed by Emilio Aguinaldo defeated the Guardia Civil in Cavite.
Aguinaldo's victories lead him to be elected as head of the Katipunan. The factions
of Bonifacio & Aguinaldo fought and lead to the trial and execution of Bonifacio on Aguinaldo's orders.
Aguinaldo later drafted a constitution and established the Republic of Biak-na-Bato in Bulacan province. In
1897, an impasse between the Spanish government and Aguinaldo arose. After negotiations between the
two sides, Aguinaldo accepted an amnesty from the Spaniards and US$ 800,000.00 in exchange for his
exile to Hong Kong with his government.

Philippine History During the American Era

The Spanish-American war which started in Cuba, changed the history of the Philippines. On May 1, 1898,
the Americans led by U.S. Navy Admiral George Dewey, in participation of Emilio Aguinaldo, attacked the
Spanish Navy in Manila Bay. Faced with defeat, the Philippines was ceded to the United States by Spain in
1898 after a payment of US$ 20 million to Spain in accordance with the "Treaty of Paris" ending the
Spanish-American War. On June 12, 1898, Filipinos led by Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence. This
declaration was opposed by the U.S. who had plans of taking over the colony. And this led to a guerrilla
war against the Americans. In 1901, Aguinaldo was captured and declared allegiance to the United States.
On the same year, William Howard Taft was appointed as the first U.S. governor of the Philippines. The
U.S. passed the Jones Law in 1916 establishing an elected Filipino legislature with a House of
representatives & Senate. In 1934, the Tydings-McDuffie Act was passed by the U.S. Congress,
established the Commonwealth of the Philippines and promised Philippine independence by 1946. The law
also provided for the position of President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. On the May 14, 1935
elections, Manuel L. Quezon won the position of President of the Philippine Commonwealth.

In accordance with the Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934, The Philippines was given
independence on July 4, 1946 and the Republic of the Philippines was born.

Philippine History During the Japanese Occupation

On December 8, 1941, the Japanese invades the Philippines hours after bombing Pear
Harbor in Hawaii. While the forces of Gen. Douglas MacArthur retreated to Bataan, the
Commonwealth government of President Quezon moved to Corregidor Island. Manila
was declared an open city to prevent further destruction. After the fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942 and
Corregidor, In March 1942, MacArthur & Quezon fled the country and by invitation of President Roosevelt,
the Commonwealth government went into exile to Washington D.C. American and Filipino forces
surrendered in May 6, 1942. Soon a guerrilla war against the Japanese was fought by the Philippine
& American Armies while Filipinos were enduring the cruelty of the Japanese military against civilians.

Prior to Quezon's exile, he advised Dr. Jose P. Laurel to head and cooperate with the Japanese civilian
government in the hope that the collaboration will lead to a less brutality of the Japanese towards the
Filipinos. Rightly or wrongly, President Laurel and his war time government was largely detested by the
Filipinos.

In October 1944, Gen. MacArthur with President Sergio Osmeña (who assumed the presidency after
Quezon died on August 1, 1944 in exile in Saranac Lake, New York) returned and liberated the Philippines
from the Japanese.

The Philippine Republic

On July 4, 1946, Manuel Roxas of the Nationalista Party was inaugurated as the first President of the
Republic of the Philippines. Roxas died in April 1948. He was succeeded by Elpidio Quirino. Both Roxas &
Quirino had to deal with the Hukbalahap, a large anti-Japanese guerrilla organization which became a
militant group that discredited the ruling elite. The group was eventually put down by Pres. Quirino's
Secretary of Defense, Ramon Magsaysay.

Magsaysay defeated Quirino in the 1953 elections. He was a popular president and largely loved by the
people. Magsaysay died in an airplane crash on March 17, 1957 and was succeeded by Carlos Garcia.
Diosdado Macapagal won the 1961 presidential elections and soon after he changed history by declaring
June 12 as independence day - the day Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence in Cavite from Spain in
1898. Aguinaldo was the guest of honour during the fist Independence Day celebrations in 1962.

Philippine History During the Martial Law Regime

Ferdinand E. Marcos won the presidency in 1965 and was the first president to be re-
elected for a second term in office. Marcos He embarked on an ambitious public works
program and maintained his popularity through his first term. His popularity started to
decline after his re-election due to perceived dishonesty in the 1969 campaign, the
decline in economic growth, government corruption and the worsening peace & order.
He declared Martial Law in 1972 near the end of his second & final term in office.
Staunch oppositionist, Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino (later went on self exile to the
U.S.) & Senator Jose Diokno were one of the first to be arrested. During the Martial
Law years, Marcos held an iron grip on the nation with the support of the military.
Opposition leaders we imprisoned and the legislature was abolished. Marcos ruled by presidential decrees.

Post Martial Law up to the Present Time

The 21-year dictatorial rule of Marcos with wife Imelda ended in 1986 following a
popular uprising that forced them to exile to Hawaii. Corazon "Cory" Aquino, the wife
of exiled and murdered opposition leader Benigno Aquino who was perceived to have
won a just concluded snap election was installed as president. Aquino restored civil
liberties, initiated the formation of a new constitution and the restoration of Congress.

On September 16, 1991, despite the lobbying of Aquino, the Senate rejected a new
treaty that would allow a 10-year extension of the US military bases in the country.

In the1992 elections, Pres. Aquino endorsed Secretary of Defense Fidel Ramos as her
successor, which Ramos won with a slight margin over his rival, Miriam Defensor-Santiago. During the
Ramos presidency, he advocated "National Reconciliation" and laid the ground work for the resolution of
the secessionist Muslim rebels in the southern Philippine Island of Mindanao. The Moro National Liberation
Front (MNLF) led by Nur Misuari, signed a peace agreement with the government. However a splinter
group, The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by Hashim Salamat continued to fight for an Islamic
state. Ramos worked for the economic stability of the country and the improvement of the infrastructure
facilities like telecommunications, energy and transportation.

Joseph Ejercito Estrada, a popular actor, succeeded Ramos in 1998 with Gloria Macapagal-
Arroyo (daughter of former President Diosdado Macapagal) as his Vice-President. Estrada's lack of
economic & management skills plunged the economy deeper as unemployment increased and the budget
deficit ballooned. In October 2000, Estrada's close friend Luis "Chavit" Singson accused Estrada of
receiving millions of pesos from "Jueteng", an illegal numbers game. Soon after, Congress impeached
Estrada on grounds of bribery, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the
constitution. His impeachment trial at the Senate was however blocked by his political allies in the Senate.
Shortly after the evidence against Estrada was blocked at the Senate, thousands of people rallied up at
the EDSA Shrine, site of the People Power Revolution which ousted Marcos in 1986.

In January 2001, the Supreme Court declared Joseph Estrada unable to rule in view of mass resignations
from his government and declared Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as his constitutional successor.
To this date, Estrada remains detained facing graft charges before the Sandigan Bayan, the Anti-graft
court.

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, completed the remaining term of Estrada and run for re-
election against Fernando Poe, Jr., another popular actor and a friend of Estrada in
May 2004. Arroyo with her running mate Noli de Castro was eventually proclaimed the
winners of the Presidential & Vice-Presidential elections. She has been advocating a
change from a Presidential form of government to a Parliamentary form of
government.

Arroyo's husband & son has been rumored to be receiving money from gambling lords
and this has tainted her reputation. A tape recording of Arroyo talking with a
commissioner on elections surfaced establishing impropriety by Arroyo and suggesting
that she might have influenced the outcome of the last elections. Demonstrations followed in June 2005
calling for Arroyo to resign.

On the eve of the anniversary of the "People Power Revolution" on February 24, 2006, the government
took pre-emptive measures to quash alleged plots to unseat Arroyo through massive rallies and a coup.
Arroyo declared a "State of Emergency" the next day mobilizing the police and the military averting any
destabilization moves. Note: Arroyo is has been under hospital arrest since 2011 for charges of electoral
sabotage and misuse of public funds. She is detained at the Veterans Memorial Hospital in Quezon City,
Metro Manila.

May 14, 2007 - National Elections for Senators, Congressmen, Governors, Mayors and local officials.
Although there are instances of violence and allegations of cheating specially in Mindanao, this elections is
considered by many as one of the most peaceful elections conducted in Philippines.

September 12, 2007 - Former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada is convicted of plunder
by the Sandiganbayan, the anti-graft court and is sentenced to 40 years imprisonment.
He is the first former president ever convicted of any crime in Philippine history. Six
weeks later, on October 26, Estrada was pardoned by President Arroyo. Because of the
pardon, Estrada was able to run for Mayor of Manila and won. He is presently the city
mayor of Manila.

Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III, affectionately called "Noynoy" and "Pnoy", a
former senator is the son of former President Corazon C. Aquino and the late Senator
Benigno Aquino. He won the May 10, 2010 presidential elections and was proclaimed

president on June 30, 2010 at Rizal Park in Manila. Former President Gloria Arroyo, was
elected congresswoman for the second district of Pampanga. This was the first
computerized national elections in Philippine history. Aquino is generally perceived as
honest with high public satisfaction ratings. Under his presidency, the Chief Justice of
the Supreme Court, Renato Corona was impeached in 2011 for non-declaration of
assets and prominent politicians like Senators and Congressmen is being charged of
corruption. Aquino continues his anti-corruption crusade. Under the present
constitution, Aquino cannot run for a second term. Presidential elections were held in
May 9, 2016. Strong candidates were Mary Grace Sonora Poe-Llamanzares, Rodrigo
Roa Duterte, Manuel "Mar" Araneta Roxas II and Jejomar Cabauatan Binay.
The Philippines is a republic with a presidential form of government wherein power is equally divided among

its three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The government seeks to act in the best interests of its

citizens through this system of check and balance.

One basic corollary in a presidential system of government is the principle of separation of powers wherein

legislation belongs to Congress, execution to the Executive, and settlement of legal controversies to the

Judiciary.

The Legislative branch is authorized to make laws, alter, and repeal them through the power vested in the

Philippine Congress. This institution is divided into the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The Legislative Branch enacts legislation, confirms or rejects Presidential appointments, and has the authority

to declare war. This branch includes Congress (the Senate and House of Representatives) and several

agencies that provide support services to Congress.

The Senate is composed of 24 Senators who are elected at large by the qualified voters of the Philippines.

The House of Representatives is composed of about 250 members elected from legislative districts in the

provinces, cities, and municipalities, and representatives elected through a party-list system of registered

national, regional, and sectoral parties or organizations.

The party-list representatives shall constitute twenty per cent of the total number of representatives including

those under the party list. For three consecutive terms after the ratification of this Constitution, one-half of the

seats allocated to party-list representatives shall be filled, as provided by law, by selection or election from the

labor, peasant, urban poor, indigenous cultural communities, women, youth, and such other sectors as may be

provided by law, except the religious sector.

The Executive branch is composed of the President and the Vice President who are elected by direct popular

vote and serve a term of six years. The Constitution grants the President authority to appoint his Cabinet. These

departments form a large portion of the country’s bureaucracy.

The executive branch carries out and enforces laws. It includes the President, Vice President, the Cabinet,

executive departments, independent agencies, boards, commissions, and committees.

The President leads the country. He or she is the head of state, leader of the national government, and

Commander-in-Chief of all armed forces of the Philippines. The President serves a six-year term and cannot be

re-elected.

The Vice President supports the President. If the President is unable to serve, the Vice President becomes

President. He or she also serves a six-year term.

Cabinet members serve as advisors to the President. They include the Vice President and the heads of

executive departments. Cabinet members are nominated by the President and must be confirmed by the

Commission of Appointments.
The Judicial branch holds the power to settle controversies involving rights that are legally demandable and

enforceable. This branch determines whether or not there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to

lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part and instrumentality of the government. It is made up of a Supreme

Court and lower courts.

The judicial branch interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to individual cases, and decides if laws violate

the Constitution. The judicial power shall be vested in one Supreme Court and in such lower courts as may be

established by law.

Judicial power includes the duty of the courts of justice to settle actual controversies involving rights, which are

legally demandable and enforceable, and to determine whether or not there has been a grave abuse of

discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part of any branch or instrumentality of the

Government. The judicial branch interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to individual cases, and decides if

laws violate the Constitution.

Each branch of government can change acts of the other branches as follows:

 The President can veto laws passed by Congress.

 Congress confirms or rejects the President's appointments and can remove the President from

office in exceptional circumstances.

 The Justices of the Supreme Court, who can overturn unconstitutional laws, are appointed by the

President and confirmed by the Senate.

The Constitution expressly grants the Supreme Court the power of Judicial Review as the power to declare a

treaty, international or executive agreement, law, presidential decree, proclamation, order, instruction,

ordinance or regulation unconstitutional.