On this day, November 15, 1935, a significant chapter unfolded in Filipino history as the Commonwealth of the Philippines was officially inaugurated. The mantle of leadership fell upon Manuel L. Quezon, with Sergio Osmena Sr. assuming the role of vice president.
The Commonwealth materialized in accordance with the Philippine Independence Act, more commonly known as the Tydings-McDuffie Act. This legislation outlined a 10-year transitional government, paving the way for the eventual independence of the Philippines.
The establishment of the Commonwealth Government marked a pivotal moment for Filipinos, embodying their aspirations to self-governance and control their destiny. Notably, this period witnessed the first Filipino occupant of Malacanang, the nation’s seat of power.
In the 1935 presidential race, Manuel L. Quezon emerged victorious over formidable opponents, General Emilio Aguinaldo and Bishop Gregorio Aglipay. However, Quezon approached his triumph with a sense of solemnity, cautioning the nation in his inaugural address:
“… we have taken one more step forward in our onward march to the realization of our national ideal … In this solemn moment, let there be no exultation of victory. Let it be the moment of consecration.”
The Commonwealth, boasting its own Constitution, featured a robust executive branch, a unicameral National Assembly, and a Supreme Court comprised entirely of Filipinos – a departure from the preceding era since 1901. Notably, while the Philippines managed internal affairs independently, foreign policy and military matters remained under the purview of the United States. Moreover, specific legislation required the approval of the American president.
The journey toward full sovereignty continued, and the United States officially recognized Philippine independence on July 4, 1946, as per the predetermined schedule.
(Source: Philippine News Agency archives; Photo credit: Philippine President Museum and Library)