By: Justin 5/28/2025
This article continues our exploration of key objective questions from the 1987 Philippine Constitution — essential for anyone preparing for civil service exams, college entrance tests, or simply wanting to understand how Philippine democracy works.
Each question is followed by a clear answer and a short explanation to help with understanding and retention.
Answer: An introductory statement expressing the aspirations and guiding principles of the Filipino people.
Explanation:
The preamble declares the purpose of the Constitution — to build a just and humane society and establish a government that embodies ideals of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace.
Answer: To serve and protect the people.
Explanation:
As stated in Article II, Section 4, the government’s most basic responsibility is the welfare and safety of its citizens, including national defense.
Answer: The Philippine archipelago, its terrestrial, fluvial, and aerial domains, including its territorial sea and seabed.
Explanation:
Article I outlines the national territory, which includes all islands and waters, even those beyond the country’s borders by international law.
Answer: Those who are citizens of the Philippines from birth without having to perform any act to acquire or perfect their citizenship.
Explanation:
This includes individuals whose father or mother is a Filipino citizen at the time of their birth (Article IV, Section 2).
Answer: The authority to make, amend, and repeal laws.
Explanation:
This power is vested in the Congress of the Philippines, composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives (Article VI, Section 1).
Answer: The power to settle actual controversies involving legally demandable and enforceable rights.
Explanation:
Judicial power is vested in the Supreme Court and lower courts as established by law (Article VIII, Section 1).
Answer: The Supreme Court
Explanation:
The Supreme Court has the final authority on legal and constitutional matters and may review decisions made by lower courts.
Answer: At least 35 years old
Explanation:
Article VI, Section 3 states that a candidate for Senate must be a natural-born Filipino, at least 35, literate, and a resident for at least 2 years.
Answer: The Constitutional Commissions
Explanation:
These include the Civil Service Commission, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), and Commission on Audit (COA) — independent bodies that ensure integrity in government functions.
Answer: To allow local government units (LGUs) to govern themselves independently and efficiently.
Explanation:
Article X promotes decentralization, enabling provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays to handle local affairs without too much interference from the national government.
Understanding the Philippine Constitution equips citizens not just for exams but for civic life. The more we know about our rights and institutions, the more empowered we are to participate in building a just and democratic society.
Keep reviewing, and check out more resources from brevph to strengthen your preparation!