The Preamble of the 1987 Philippine Constitution stands as a powerful expression of the Filipino people’s ideals, goals, and collective aspirations. It introduces the Constitution with a solemn declaration of sovereignty and national unity. Though it consists of only a single sentence, the Preamble serves as a guiding light, providing moral and philosophical direction to the topics and provisions that follow. Its words encapsulate the intent behind the creation of the Constitution and offer insight into the identity and values of the nation. It affirms that the authority of the government is derived from the people, emphasizing democracy, justice, peace, and freedom.
Understanding the Preamble
The Preamble to the 1987 Constitution reads as follows:
We, the sovereign Filipino people, imploring the aid of Almighty God, in order to build a just and humane society and establish a Government that shall embody our ideals and aspirations, promote the common good, conserve and develop our patrimony, and secure to ourselves and our posterity the blessings of independence and democracy under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace, do ordain and promulgate this Constitution.
This declaration contains several key elements that reflect the nation’s foundational principles. Each phrase has significance and reveals the values that underpin the constitutional framework.
We, the sovereign Filipino people
This phrase affirms that the authority of the Constitution emanates from the people themselves. It reinforces the idea of popular sovereignty, where the power to govern is not vested in kings or elites but in the citizens of the Philippines. The people are the source of all political power, and the Constitution is created by and for them.
Imploring the aid of Almighty God
This expression demonstrates the spiritual and religious values of the Filipino people. It reflects the belief in divine guidance and acknowledges a higher moral authority that shapes national and individual life. It sets a tone of humility and reverence in the exercise of state power.
To build a just and humane society
Justice and humanity are central themes in the Constitution. This part of the Preamble emphasizes the importance of fairness, compassion, and the protection of human dignity. It highlights the intent to create a society where every individual is treated with respect and afforded equal rights and opportunities.
Establish a Government that shall embody our ideals and aspirations
This line explains that the government should not exist for its own sake but must reflect the collective dreams and principles of its people. These ideals include democracy, justice, equality, and national sovereignty. The phrase serves as a reminder that those in power must serve the people and uphold their values.
Promote the common good
The phrase promotes a sense of community and shared responsibility. The Constitution is not only for the benefit of the few but for the well-being of all. Promoting the common good means ensuring that public policies serve the interests of the majority and respect minority rights.
Conserve and develop our patrimony
This line addresses the protection of the country’s natural resources and cultural heritage. The term patrimony refers to the rich wealth of the nation its lands, minerals, waters, forests, and historical legacy. The Constitution aims to preserve these for the benefit of future generations.
Secure to ourselves and our posterity the blessings of independence and democracy
This clause emphasizes the importance of safeguarding freedom and democratic governance not only for the present generation but for the future. It implies that the values of liberty and self-governance must be protected, developed, and passed on to ensure a stable and sovereign nation.
Under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace
Here, the Constitution lays out the core values that must govern national life. The rule of law signifies that all citizens, including government officials, are bound by the law. Truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace are guiding virtues that should shape the character and operations of the state.
The Purpose of a Preamble
Although the Preamble is not legally enforceable on its own, it serves an important function. It sets the tone for the rest of the Constitution and can be used to interpret unclear or ambiguous provisions. Courts may refer to the Preamble when trying to understand the spirit or intent behind certain laws.
In essence, the Preamble acts like a compass. It provides direction for legislators, judges, and government officials, reminding them of the values that must guide their actions. It also helps citizens understand what their government is supposed to stand for.
Historical Context of the 1987 Constitution
The 1987 Constitution was drafted in the aftermath of the People Power Revolution of 1986, which ended the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. The previous regime had suspended civil liberties, manipulated the Constitution, and centralized power in the executive. As a response, the 1987 Constitution was created to restore democracy, decentralize power, and uphold human rights.
The inclusion of a strong, value-laden Preamble was intentional. It reflects the nation’s determination to never again allow authoritarianism to prevail. It stands as a promise to the Filipino people that their voices, rights, and freedoms will always matter in the workings of the state.
Relevance Today
Even decades after its ratification, the Preamble of the 1987 Constitution remains highly relevant. It continues to inspire legal debates, inform civic education, and guide government policies. In an ever-changing social and political landscape, the Preamble reminds citizens and leaders of the unchanging principles that should guide the nation.
When disputes arise over the limits of government power or the meaning of justice, the values enshrined in the Preamble can help determine the path forward. It speaks to the enduring aspirations of the Filipino people for peace, freedom, justice, and a better life.
The Preamble of the 1987 Philippine Constitution may be brief, but its meaning runs deep. It captures the spirit of the nation and reflects its highest ideals. From invoking divine guidance to affirming democracy and the rule of law, every phrase carries weight. While it may not have the force of law, its influence is felt across every aspect of Philippine governance. It is a reminder to every Filipino citizen and leader alike of what the country stands for and what it hopes to become.