Advanced Objective Questions on the Philippine Constitution

After covering the basics, it’s important to explore more in-depth aspects of the 1987 Philippine Constitution — especially for those aiming to master it for exams or civic literacy. Below are more objective questions with concise answers and explanations.

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1. Who has the exclusive power to propose amendments to the Constitution?

Answer: Congress, Constitutional Convention, or the People through Initiative

Explanation:
Article XVII outlines three modes of proposing constitutional amendments: by Congress (3/4 vote), by a Constitutional Convention, or by the people via initiative (with at least 12% of registered voters, including 3% from every legislative district).

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2. What is the minimum voting age required to participate in a People’s Initiative?

Answer: 18 years old

Explanation:
As with regular elections, suffrage in constitutional initiatives is reserved for citizens aged 18 and above (Article V).

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3. What are the Constitutional Commissions?

Answer: Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Elections (COMELEC), and Commission on Audit (COA)

Explanation:
These three independent commissions (Article IX) ensure transparency, meritocracy, and accountability in civil service, elections, and public spending.

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4. What is the constitutional basis for the Ombudsman?

Answer: Article XI – Accountability of Public Officers

Explanation:
The Office of the Ombudsman investigates complaints against public officials and promotes integrity and accountability in government service.

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5. What are the grounds for impeachment under the Constitution?

Answer: Culpable violation of the Constitution, treason, bribery, graft and corruption, other high crimes, or betrayal of public trust

Explanation:
Article XI, Section 2 specifies these grounds for impeaching high-ranking officials like the President, Vice President, Supreme Court justices, and Constitutional Commission members.

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6. What is the highest policy-making body on education?

Answer: The State

Explanation:
While the Department of Education implements policies, Article XIV affirms that the State has full authority to promote quality, accessible, and relevant education for all.

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7. What language is mandated by the Constitution to be developed and enriched on the basis of existing Philippine and regional languages?

Answer: Filipino

Explanation:
Article XIV, Section 6 identifies Filipino as the national language, which shall continue to evolve through enrichment by regional languages and other languages of the Philippines.

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8. What is the constitutional status of English and Filipino?

Answer: Official languages of communication and instruction

Explanation:
Article XIV, Section 7 states that both Filipino and English are the official languages until otherwise provided by law.

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9. What is the constitutional requirement for the ownership and management of mass media?

Answer: Must be 100% Filipino-owned

Explanation:
Article XVI, Section 11 mandates that mass media must be wholly owned and managed by Filipino citizens or corporations with 100% Filipino ownership.

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10. When may the writ of habeas corpus be suspended?

Answer: In cases of invasion or rebellion, when public safety requires it

Explanation:
Under Article VII, Section 18, the President may suspend the writ, but it is subject to review by Congress and the Supreme Court within specific time limits.

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Conclusion

Mastery of the Philippine Constitution doesn’t end with the basics. Advanced understanding helps you engage with public life more critically — whether as a civil servant, student, or citizen. Continue reviewing and deepening your grasp of constitutional principles.

More learning materials are available on brevph to help you prepare smarter, not just harder.