Notes on the Preamble of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines

Key Themes and Ideas

• Sovereignty and National Identity

  • The preamble begins with an assertion of sovereignty: "We, the sovereign Filipino people."
  • Highlights the national identity and unity of the Filipino people.

• Invocation of Divine Guidance

  • The Filipino people seek help from "Almighty God," indicating a reliance on divine guidance in governance.

• Goals of the Constitution

  • Just and Humane Society: Aspires to create a society that is just and humane.
  • Governmental Ideals: Establish a government that embodies the ideals and aspirations of the people.
  • Promotion of the Common Good: Focus on promoting the common welfare of all citizens.
  • Conservation and Development of Patrimony: Emphasis on conserving and developing the nation's heritage and resources.

• Core Values and Principles

  • Independence and Democracy: Secure the blessings of independence and democratic governance.
  • Rule of Law: Operate under a system governed by law.
  • Regime of Truth, Justice, Freedom, Love, Equality, and Peace: Commitment to these core principles as fundamental to the society.

• Ordinance and Promulgation

  • The constitution is ordained and promulgated by the collective will of the people, indicating a participatory process in its creation.