Philippine Constitution Simplified for Reviewees
By: Jillian Marie 4/2/2025
The 1987 Philippine Constitution is a recurring topic in the Civil Service Exam, board exams, and other government-related tests. While it can be intimidating at first, the key is to understand its basic structure, principles, and key provisions.
This guide simplifies the Constitution so you can review smarter and remember better.
🇵🇭 What Is the Philippine Constitution?
The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It outlines the structure of the government, the rights of the people, and the limits of state power.
The current version was ratified in 1987, following the EDSA People Power Revolution.
📚 Structure of the 1987 Constitution
The Constitution is divided into 18 Articles. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
📜 Preamble
Introduces the Constitution and its purpose: to build a just and humane society, establish a government, and promote the common good.
🏛 Article I: National Territory
Defines the territory of the Philippines, including land, water, airspace, and maritime zones.
👥 Article II: Declaration of Principles and State Policies
Outlines the core values and guiding principles of the state:
- Sovereignty resides in the people
- Civilian supremacy over the military
- Separation of Church and State
- Promotion of social justice and human rights
⚖️ Article III: Bill of Rights
This article protects the fundamental rights and freedoms of every Filipino. Here are the most commonly tested rights:
- Right to due process of law – The government must follow legal procedures before depriving anyone of life, liberty, or property.
- Right to equal protection of the laws – Everyone is entitled to equal treatment under the law, regardless of background.
- Freedom of speech, expression, and the press – You are free to voice your opinion and share information without fear of punishment.
- Freedom of religion – You can practice any religion, or none at all.
- Right against unreasonable searches and seizures – Authorities must have a warrant before they can search your home or belongings, except in certain urgent cases.
- Right to privacy – You are protected from unwarranted intrusions into your personal life.
- Right to a speedy, impartial, and public trial – Legal cases must be resolved within a reasonable time.
- Right against self-incrimination – You cannot be forced to testify against yourself.
- Right to assemble and petition the government – You can join peaceful protests and express grievances.
These rights aim to protect individuals from abuse of power by the state.
🏛 Article VI: Legislative Department
Describes the Congress, composed of:
- Senate (24 senators, 6-year terms)
- House of Representatives (district and party-list reps, 3-year terms)
Their role is to make laws, approve the budget, and check the actions of the Executive branch.
👩⚖️ Article VII: Executive Department
Focuses on the President and Vice President:
- The President is elected for a 6-year term with no re-election.
- Acts as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
- Implements laws and oversees the operation of the government.
⚖️ Article VIII: Judicial Department
Covers the Supreme Court and lower courts:
- Interprets the laws and Constitution
- Ensures justice is served
- Headed by the Chief Justice
🧠 Quick Facts for Easy Recall
- The Constitution has 18 Articles
- Ratified on February 2, 1987
- The President serves a 6-year term with no re-election
- Congress is bicameral: Senate and House of Representatives
- Supreme Court has 15 justices
📌 Tips for Exam Day
- Memorize the structure and purpose of each article
- Focus on Articles II, III, VI, VII, and VIII
- Practice identifying violations of constitutional rights in sample questions
- Review current events related to government or civil rights — they may appear in situational questions
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to memorize every line of the Constitution. What matters is understanding how it protects people, how the government is structured, and how each branch checks the other.
Use this simplified review as your foundation — and keep practicing with Brevph to master the essentials.
🇵🇭 Master the Constitution. Pass with confidence.