POST-WAR

PERIOD
IN THE PHILIPPINES (1946-1965)
MANUEL

ROXAS
1946-194 8
 INTRODUCTION
Manuel Roxas was a significant figure in Philippine
history, serving as the country's fifth president and the
first president of the independent Third Republic. Born
on January 1, 1892, in Capiz, Roxas had a
distinguished career in both the legislative and
executive branches of government before becoming
president. He played a crucial role in the transition of
the Philippines from American rule to full sovereignty.

Manuel Roxas was born into a prosperous family and

pursued a law degree at the University of the
Philippines, graduating in 1913. He began his political
career as a municipal councilor in Capiz and quickly
moved up the ranks, becoming a member of the
Philippine House of Representatives in 1922, and later
serving as Speaker of the House from 1922 to 1934.
Roxas was a key figure in the drafting of the 1935
Constitution and served as Secretary of Finance under
the Commonwealth government.
POLITICS
Roxas' administration was marked by significant political
challenges. One of the foremost issues was the Hukbalahap
(Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon) insurgency. This
communist-led rebellion originated during World War II as
a resistance movement against the Japanese occupation but
persisted post-war as a major threat to the new government.
Roxas implemented policies to suppress the Huks, but his
approach was often criticized for being too harsh and
ineffective. To stabilize the political landscape, Roxas
established close ties with the United States, resulting in the
1946 Military Bases Agreement and the 1947 Parity Rights
Amendment, which granted U.S. citizens and businesses
equal rights with Filipinos in exploiting natural resources and
operating public utilities. These measures were controversial
and faced strong opposition from nationalist sectors, but
Roxas argued they were necessary for securing economic and
military aid from the U.S.
SOCIO-CULTURAL
Roxas' term saw efforts to rebuild and unify a war-
torn society. He focused on addressing the social
dislocation caused by World War II. His
administration worked to restore infrastructure and
public services, although progress was slow and
hampered by limited resources and widespread
poverty. A significant socio-cultural issue during his
presidency was the rehabilitation of war veterans and
the reintegration of guerrilla fighters into civilian life.
Roxas also faced the challenge of addressing the
widespread devastation of educational institutions.
Efforts were made to rebuild schools and revive the
educational system, which was crucial for national
development.
ECON0MICS
Economically, Roxas inherited a country in ruins from
the war. His administration prioritized economic
recovery and received substantial aid from the United
States through the Philippine Rehabilitation Act and
the Philippine Trade Act (Bell Trade Act) of 1946.
These acts provided much-needed financial assistance
and facilitated the recovery of the agricultural sector,
which was the backbone of the economy. However, the
economic policies implemented under his
administration were met with criticism. The Bell
Trade Act, in particular, was seen as perpetuating
economic dependency on the United States. It included
provisions that restricted Philippine trade autonomy
and tied the peso to the U.S. dollar, limiting the
country's economic sovereignty. Despite these criticisms,
Roxas believed these measures were essential for
immediate recovery and long-term stability.
 PI
E IO
L D

Q UIRIN O
194 8-1953
 INTRODUCTION
“Elpidio Quirino” y Rivera was born on November 16,
1890 at Vigan city. Quirino entered in politics when he
became the representative of Ilocos sur. Elpidio Quirino
became the secretary of the interior and finance under the
cabinet of Manuel L. Quezon. After Quezon impressed by
his efficiency and intelligence reflected by his works.

After World War II, he was elected as vice-president

during the Manuel Roxas regime.
Elpidio, was notorious for his persuasive presentation of
arguments, wit and a sense of humor.
in 1948 after Roxas died in Heart attack, he immediately
became the next president.

In 1953, his term ended. When Ramon Magsaysay

succeeded him in election.
 POLITICS
Quirino's term when it comes to its political aspects
has been tainted with developments, challenges,
and controversies. Here are the key political aspects
that we may see during his regime:
To address the political problem, he was making an effort to implement the
electoral reform. It is sought to improve the reliability of the voters
registration to detect flyer voters. They were also proposed election laws that
is aim to make the election more transparesnt and accountable.

He was co-establish the Liberal Partido together with Manuel Roxas and Jose
avelino in 1946. The reason it was establish is to break from the old
nacionalista party and the urgency to make a modernization in ideals to the
nacionalista political platform. It's formation greatly shift in the political
aspects in the Philippines. Liberal Party is still relevant in contemporary
Philippine politics and the oldest living party to this day.

Hukbalahap is also significant political problem during his regime. It was

originally form as an anti-japanese group during the world war II and then
later turn into a communist army that is aimed to address the social and
economic problems

The rebellion was created by the factors of landlessness, poverty, corruption,

and social inequality. Many members of the group is not contented with the
lack of meaningful land reform and economic opportunities in rural areas.

President Quirino's administration responded to the insurgency with both

military force and attempts at negotiation and amnesty programs. However,
these efforts were largely ineffective in quelling the rebellion.
 SOCIO- CULTURAL
Post war reconstruction was one of the challenges and priority during
the Quirino's regime. Infrastracture are in ruins. Many people suffer
from poverty, and the economy of the Philippines are failing. To
solve this problem, during his time, a quantity of programs and
reform has been establish.One of the goal is to rebuild the
infrastracture. This includes the, building, roads, port, utilities.

Quirino's administration created rural development programs aimed

at improving agricultural productivity and addressing rural
poverty. These programs included the promotion of agricultural
cooperatives, land reform initiatives, and infrastructure
development in rural areas.

Efforts were also made to promote Filipino culture during his

residency. This included the support of cultural events, preservation
of historical sites, and initiatives to promote Filipino arts and
literature.

Quirino's administration implemented healthcare initiatives aimed

at improving public health outcomes. This included the expansion of
healthcare infrastructure, the provision of medical services in rural
areas, and efforts to combat infectious diseases.
 ECONOMIC
During the presidency of Elpidio Quirino in the Philippines, several
economic challenges were faced, it can also affect the socio-cultural
challenges. Economy is one of his priority and his goal is to achieve
growth in economy so that he can spend for the reconstruction after
the post war

Quirino's presidency marked a significant period of progress and

optimism for the Philippines. When the Republic was established in
1946, with Quirino serving as vice-president, the Philippine economy
was in dire straits. Gross output had plummeted to only 30 percent of
the 1940 GDP, and both agriculture and industry were severely
affected, either by injury or complete devastation. However, when he
assumed the presidency in 1948, there was a notable shift towards
economic recovery. This recovery was facilitated by substantial post-
war military expenditure from the United States and rehabilitation
assistance in the form of war damage payments.

War damage payments significantly accelerated the rehabilitation

of the Philippine economy, contributing immensely to both economic
rebuilding and new development initiatives. These payments,
disbursed rapidly over three years until 1950, provided direct
income flows to recipients.

The onset of macroeconomic imbalances began during Quirino’s

administration. Tax revenues and other government receipts were
insufficient to cover the extensive expenditures on rehabilitation and
development. Foreign grants, primarily from the US, helped bridge
this gap.
 ECONOMIC
Investments and economic recovery were bolstered by significant
inflows of US assistance. Infrastructure reconstruction was swift,
with public war damage funds used to rebuild public edifices, major
roads and bridges, ports, and school buildings. Public utilities were
also restored.
Private housing and business investments were stimulated by war
damage payments. These payments assisted damaged businesses in
agriculture, industry, manufacturing, and commerce.

During Quirino’s presidency, the country continued to benefit from

US development aid and enjoyed the early benefits of special trade
relations, war damage payments, and efforts to promote domestic
industrialization.
Import and exchange controls encouraged local businessmen to
produce import-replacing products. The government promoted
industrial import substitution through laws supporting "new and
necessary industries."
The government also initiated mass housing projects for low and
middle-income earners under the People’s Housing Homesite Corp., a
precursor to the National Housing Authority. This led to housing
projects in the Metro Manila area, known as Projects 1, 2, 3, and 4,
designed for citizen amortization.

Despite emerging challenges, there was significant optimism in 1953.

Economic rehabilitation had progressed well, and new development
opportunities were on the horizon. The Philippines was well-
positioned for economic success, becoming the envy of many countries
undergoing postwar reconstruction and development.
 RAMON

MA Y
GSAYS A
1953-1957
 INTRODUCTION
.On August 31, 1907, Ramon Magsaysay was born in Iba,
Zambales, Philippines. He held office as the seventh
President of the Philippines from December 30, 1953, until
his tragic passing on March 17, 1957, in a plane crash.
Because of his reputation for honesty and commitment to
public service, Magsaysay was known as the "Champion of
the Masses."

In Philippine history, Ramon Magsaysay is still regarded

as a hero for his genuine attempts to fight corruption and
enhance the lives of many Filipinos. The political and
social climate of the nation was profoundly impacted by his
leadership style and dedication to social justice. Many
people look up to his presidency as an example of wise and
kind leadership. Established in his memory, the Ramon
Magsaysay Award honors exceptional people and
institutions throughout Asia that exhibit bravery, honesty,
and community service.
POLITICS
1. MAGSAYSAY’S CREDO
The Magsaysay Credo outlines a philosophy of administration based
on service to the people, particularly the impoverished. It advocates
for a bottom-up strategy in which government exists to serve the
people, guaranteeing that those with less are protected by the law. It
emphasizes the significance of providing basic essentials such as
food, clothing, and shelter to all. The credo emphasizes the country's
resilience and potential, urging a high moral standard in all
government efforts. It emphasizes the value of a strong and stable
government headed by passionate and ethical leaders, the necessity
of constitutional processes and human rights, and the free world's
collective might against communism. It envisions a president that
demonstrates compassion, honesty, sound judgment, urgency in
addressing concerns, and a genuine love for the ordinary people.
 POLITICS
1. It is Magsaysay’s consistent embodiment of compassion, integrity, and
humility that sets him apart, that sets him as a transformational
leader for the people–the very leader we ought to have in our society.

His belief in every individual's fundamental rights, as well as his

commitment to ensuring that the government helps society's most
vulnerable members, reflect true public service values. Magsaysay's vision
was one of inclusivity and equity, in which the needs of the impoverished
are not only recognized but prioritized. His leadership style was marked
by a hands-on attitude and a thorough grasp of common persons'
struggles. He was a leader who walked among the people, listened to their
concerns, and took immediate action to resolve them.

Magsaysay's unwavering moral compass and commitment to democratic

values established a standard for administration. His government was
distinguished by transparency, accountability, and an unwavering
campaign against corruption. He believed in the ability of legal and
constitutional systems to preserve human rights and provide justice to all.

In an era where leadership is sometimes distinguished by self-interest and

disengagement from the people, Magsaysay's legacy serves as a reminder of
the significant influence of a leader who actually cares about his people.
His example motivates us to expect and strive for leaders who exemplify
the same values of compassion, integrity, and humility, leaders who are
dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those they serve.
1.
 POLITICS
1. Leading Military Reform (In 1950, Philippines President Elpidio
Quirino appointed Magsaysay secretary of defense to deal with the
threat of the Huks, whose leader, Luis Taruc, had called for the
overthrow of the government. Magsaysay reformed the army,
dismissing many officers and emphasizing mobility and adaptability
in combat operations against the Huk guerrillas—tactics that he had
learned in his own guerrilla efforts against the Japanese in World
War II.)

In 1950, Philippine President Elpidio Quirino chose Ramon Magsaysay as

Secretary of Defense to combat the growing threat posed by the
Hukbalahap (Huks), a communist guerrilla movement led by Luis Taruc
that aspired to destroy the government. Magsaysay implemented extensive
military reforms, with a focus on reforming the army to effectively
confront guerrillas. He removed many executives, preferring to appoint
those who exhibited skill and integrity. Magsaysay stressed mobility and
agility in military operations, citing his personal experiences as a guerilla
fighter against the Japanese during World War II. His strategy was
crucial in diminishing the Huk movement and restoring order in the
Philippines.

This phase of military reform under Magsaysay demonstrates not just his
strategic prowess, but also his devotion to sociocultural development.
Magsaysay's reforms had a significant impact on Philippine society
because they prioritized ethical leadership in the military and adopted a
people-centered approach to administration. His acts instilled trust and
confidence in the public, bridging the gap between military and citizens.
This strategy was critical in tackling the socio-cultural issues faced by the
Huk revolt, ultimately leading to a more united and resilient nation.
 SOCIO-CULTURAL
1. Leading Military Reform (In 1950, Philippines President Elpidio
Quirino appointed Magsaysay secretary of defense to deal with the
threat of the Huks, whose leader, Luis Taruc, had called for the
overthrow of the government. Magsaysay reformed the army,
dismissing many officers and emphasizing mobility and adaptability
in combat operations against the Huk guerrillas—tactics that he had
learned in his own guerrilla efforts against the Japanese in World
War II.)

In 1950, Philippine President Elpidio Quirino chose Ramon Magsaysay as

Secretary of Defense to combat the growing threat posed by the
Hukbalahap (Huks), a communist guerrilla movement led by Luis Taruc
that aspired to destroy the government. Magsaysay implemented extensive
military reforms, with a focus on reforming the army to effectively
confront guerrillas. He removed many executives, preferring to appoint
those who exhibited skill and integrity. Magsaysay stressed mobility and
agility in military operations, citing his personal experiences as a guerilla
fighter against the Japanese during World War II. His strategy was
crucial in diminishing the Huk movement and restoring order in the
Philippines.

This phase of military reform under Magsaysay demonstrates not just his
strategic prowess, but also his devotion to sociocultural development.
Magsaysay's reforms had a significant impact on Philippine society
because they prioritized ethical leadership in the military and adopted a
people-centered approach to administration. His acts instilled trust and
confidence in the public, bridging the gap between military and citizens.
This strategy was critical in tackling the socio-cultural issues faced by the
Huk revolt, ultimately leading to a more united and resilient nation.
 ECONOMIC
Ramon Magsaysay (1953-1957) enacted the following laws:
Republic Act No. 1160 of 1954 -- Abolished the LASEDECO
and established the National Resettlement and Rehabilitation
Administration (NARRA) to resettle dissidents and landless
farmers. It was particularly aimed at rebel returnees providing
home lots and farmlands in Palawan and Mindanao.
FREE DISTRIBUTION OF AGRICULTURAL LANDS
OF THE PUBLIC DOMAIN
Republic Act No. 1199 (Agricultural Tenancy Act of 1954) --
governed the relationship between landowners and tenant farmers by
organizing share-tenancy and leasehold system. The law provided the
security of tenure of tenants. It also created the Court of Agrarian
Relations.
Agricultural Tenancy Act of the Philippines
Republic Act No. 1400 (Land Reform Act of 1955) -- Created the
Land Tenure Administration (LTA) which was responsible for the
acquisition and distribution of large tenanted rice and corn lands
over 200 hectares for individuals and 600 hectares for corporations.
Republic Act No. 821 (Creation of Agricultural Credit Cooperative
Financing Administration) -- Provided small farmers and share
tenants loans with low interest rates of six to eight percent.
CARLOS

G A R CIA
1957-1961
 INTRODUCTION
Carlos P. Garcia, the 8th President of the Philippines,
served from 1957 to 1961. Born on November 4, 1896, in
Bohol, Philippines, Garcia was a dedicated nationalist,
advocating for Filipino interests.

During his term, Garcia focused on nationalistic

economic measures and anti-corruption efforts, including
his Austerity Program, which aimed to eliminate
corruption and bolster moral integrity in government.
Despite these efforts, his presidency faced challenges in
addressing corruption and political instability.

Garcia envisioned an industrialized, self-sustaining

Philippines that reduced reliance on foreign products.
However, criticism arose regarding the lack of programs
benefiting the Filipino common man. Ultimately, Garcia
lost the election to his successor, Macapagal, who
prioritized initiatives for the common Filipino citizen.
Garcia's presidency ended on December 30, 1961.
 POLITICS
During Garcias administration there was a focus on
nationalism and protecting Philippine sovereignty. He
introduced policies aimed at diminishing influence and
increasing Filipino authority over national matters. This involved
passing laws to limit activities seen as threatening to the state and
reducing the presence of military bases in the Philippines
signaling a shift towards greater independence and security.
Garcia also gained recognition, for his corruption efforts
introducing measures to promote transparency and good
governance.

Outlawing Policy Bill (Republic Act. 1700)

- The Anti-Subversion Act, signed into law by President Carlos

P. Garcia, aimed to combat subversive activities by outlawing
the Communist Party of the Philippines. This legislation
addressed issues related to subversion and membership in
subversive organizations, reflecting a political response to
maintain national security and stability. Despite pressure against
the congressional measure, President Carlos P. Garcia
courageously signed the bill into law on June 19, 1957. This
legislative piece contributed significantly to the government's
campaign for peace and order, achieving considerable progress
and success.
POLITICS
Bohlen-Serrano Agreement of 1958

- The Bohlen-Serrano Agreement, signed between the Philippines

and the United States in 1959, allowed the United States to
maintain military bases in the Philippines, affecting the country's
foreign policy and security arrangements. It aimed to address
Filipino concerns about sovereignty and control over the U.S. bases,
including provisions for reduced U.S. military presence, increased
Philippine authority over the bases, and rent payments for base
lands. This marked a significant step towards enhancing Philippine
sovereignty while maintaining the U.S.-Philippines defense
relationship.
ECONOMICS
The administration focused on improving the domestic
economy by prioritizing local industries and business. This
included measures to restrict foreign competitors in different
sectors in the market, encouraging Filipino entrepreneurs to
take the lead. Garcia’s economic policies are aimed at achieving
self-sufficiency and to reduce the dependency on foreign goods
and investments. The effort to stabilize economy included the
fiscal policies to control the spending and manage the national
budget more effectively.

Austerity Program (1957-1961)

- The Austerity Program was a fiscal policy enacted during Carlos P.

Garcia's presidency to tackle the country's financial challenges by
reducing government spending, promoting fiscal discipline, and
combating corruption. Such policies entail cutting public spending,
raising taxes, and implementing measures to enhance fiscal discipline to
restore financial stability, usually in response to a financial crisis or
economic downturn.
ECONOMICS
Filipino First Policy (1958)

- The Filipino First Policy was an economic policy implemented

during the presidency of Carlos P. Garcia. It aimed to prioritize
Filipino businesses and industries over foreign interests, promoting
economic nationalism and self-reliance. This policy heavily favored
Filipino businessmen and included changes in retail trade that
significantly affected Chinese businessmen in the country.
SOCIO-CULTURAL
Policies were introduced to promote Philippine culture,
heritage, and the Filipino language. The administration
encouraged the development of arts, literature, and education
that reflected Filipino values and traditions.

Republic Cultural Awards

- The Garcia administration emphasized cultural revival in response

to the colonization experienced by many countries, recognizing the need
to revive Filipino culture. Awards were given to Filipino artists,
scientists, historians, and writers, allowing them to receive recognition
for their previously overlooked works. While the main focus of society
at the time was improving the economy, attention was also given to
cultural development.
 DIOSDADO

MA L
CAPA GA
1961-1965
 INTRODUCTION
Diosdado Macapagal was a reformist president of the
Philippines from 1961 to 1965. He was born in Lubao,
Philippines, on September 28, 1910, and passed away in Makati
on April 21, 1997. In 1936, Macapagal obtained his law degree
and was admitted to the bar. In addition to practicing law in
Manila during World War II, he supported the anti-Japanese
resistance. He worked at a law business during the war and was
the second secretary of the Philippine Embassy in Washington,
D.C., in 1948. The following year he was elected to a seat in the
Philippine House of Representatives, serving until 1956. During
this time he was Philippine representative to the United Nations
General Assembly three times. From 1957 to 1961 Macapagal
was a member of the Liberal Party and vice president under
Nacionalista Pres. Carlos Garcia. In the 1961 elections,
however, he ran against Garcia, forging a coalition of the
Liberal and Progressive parties and making a crusade against
political corruption a principal element of his platform. He was
elected by a wide margin.

In 1972 he chaired the convention that drafted the 1973

constitution, but in 1981 he questioned the validity of its
ratification. In 1979 he organized the National Union for
Liberation as an opposition party to the Marcos regime.
 POLITICAL
Before the period of his office ended, he also approved the
agricultural land reform law or the Republic Law no. 344 which
includes the code, on august 8, 1963. This law intended to make
farmers the owners of the land they farm. As the government's
contribution to supporting them, the government has been active
in building infrastructure such as roads, ports and airports.
Macapagal has also created policies to attract more investors
through the government serving as an endorser of activities that
allow for businesses that need large capital to be started in the
country.,
Jose P. Laurel's regime had not been recognized by post-World
War II Filipino governments as having held any legal status
whatsoever. Then, Macapagal made the decision to recognize
Laurel, who was made President of the Philippines by the
Japanese occupation forces, as having been an official President.
Macapagal was able to push for the US Congress’ approval of
the $73 million war damage claims, which authorized payments
of the balance of the war damage reparations for some 88,000
claimants. United States made its final rejection in 1962
 ECONOMIC
1963 - First Agricultural Land Reform Code or Republic Act no.
3844; allowing the purchase of private agricultural lands to be
subdivided and distributed to the landless. It reduced the
holding limit from 300 to 75 hectares. One of the main
objectives of the law is to establish owner-cultivatorship and the
family-sized farm economy as the basis of Philippine agriculture
and as a result, to divert the landowner's capital from
agriculture towards industrial development. This is to make
small farmers more independent, self-reliant and responsible
citizens, and to bring real strength to our democratic society.
Established Loans and Investments Council’s. Secured a more
effective negotiation process with foreign governments and
banks: Approval of the $62.3 million loan by the United States
Export-Import Bank to the Iligan Steel Mills. Supply the
economy with 520,000 tons of steel products annually and reduce
steel importations by 80%
Allowed the Philippine peso to float on the free currency
exchange market. America also increased the Philippine Sugar
Quota, which resulted in “higher export earnings
Macapagal secured assistance from America for his various
modernization initiatives. nationwide electrification program
modernization and improvement of the Manila International
Airport
Secured the conclusion of a Tax Treaty for the Avoidance of
Double Taxation and the prevention of Tax Evasion
Bilateral Cotton-Textile Agreement between the Philippines and
the United States which raised the quota for manufactured and
processed textiles of the Philippines entering the United States
 SOCIO-CULTURAL
Signed Malacañang Republic Act No. 4166 which changed the
official celebration of Independence Day from July 4 (the date
in 1946 that United States granted independence) to June 12
(the date in 1898 that Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence
from Spain).
Signed IRR Republic Act No. 2260, also known as the Civil
Service Act of 1959. Security of tenure employees also gave the
civil service the stability and continuity considered necessary
during a political change. The career executives and employees at
and below the level of undersecretary remained in office since the
general practice was for the bureaucracy to be neutral and to
serve "whoever is in power."