Objective Questions on the Philippine Constitution with Answers and Explanations
By: Justin 5/26/2025
This article presents key questions based on the 1987 Philippine Constitution, ideal for those preparing for civil service, board, or entrance exams. Each question is followed by a direct answer and a brief explanation.
1. What type of government does the Philippines have?
Answer: Unitary, Presidential, and Democratic
Explanation:
The Philippines has a unitary form of government, meaning power is centralized in the national government. It is also presidential, with separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The country is democratic and republican, as affirmed in Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution.
2. What is the supreme law of the land?
Answer: The 1987 Philippine Constitution
Explanation:
All laws and government actions must conform to the Constitution. It is the highest legal authority in the country and overrides all conflicting statutes and policies.
3. Who has the authority to declare martial law?
Answer: The President of the Philippines
Explanation:
Under Article VII, Section 18, the President may declare martial law in case of invasion or rebellion, when public safety requires it. However, Congress and the Supreme Court have oversight and may review or revoke the declaration.
4. What are the three co-equal branches of government?
Answer: Executive, Legislative, and Judicial
Explanation:
These three branches ensure separation of powers and checks and balances. The Executive enforces laws, the Legislative creates laws, and the Judicial interprets laws.
5. How long is the term of the President?
Answer: Six years without re-election
Explanation:
The President serves a single six-year term (Article VII, Section 4). Re-election is not allowed to avoid abuse of power and ensure democratic succession.
6. What age must a candidate for President be at least?
Answer: 35 years old
Explanation:
According to Article VII, Section 2, a presidential candidate must be a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, literate, and a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years.
7. What document guarantees the rights and freedoms of every Filipino?
Answer: The Bill of Rights
Explanation:
Found in Article III of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights protects civil liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, due process, and equal protection under the law.
8. Who has the sole power to initiate impeachment?
Answer: The House of Representatives
Explanation:
The Constitution gives the House of Representatives the exclusive power to initiate impeachment complaints (Article XI, Section 3). The Senate acts as the trial court for impeachment cases.
9. How many Senators are elected in the Philippines?
Answer: 24 Senators
Explanation:
Article VI, Section 2 provides that the Senate is composed of 24 members, elected at large by qualified voters. Each Senator serves a six-year term.
10. What is the minimum voting age in the Philippines?
Answer: 18 years old
Explanation:
As provided by the Constitution and the Omnibus Election Code, a citizen who is 18 years old or older and meets residency requirements is eligible to vote in elections.
Final Thoughts
Mastering these key facts is essential for any Filipino preparing for government service or simply exercising responsible citizenship. A strong grasp of the Constitution strengthens one’s understanding of governance, rights, and national identity.