Introduction and Thesis
"The Philippine electorate craves efficient and honest government and
increasingly feels it does not get it. There is a generalized condition of
discontent and lawlessness in the Philippines that is fed by several basic and
interrelated factors: widespread rural poverty; deep social and economic
cleavage between upper and lower classes; extensive unemployment and
enderemployment; widespread graft, corruption, and favoritism in government and
in business. In the cities, especially among the youth, there is frustration
over the lack of political and economic
opportunity..."
Central Intelligence Agency Memorandum, "Philippine Elections", October 28, 1965, qtd. in "Marcos File" pg. 118
This quote explained what the political situation in the Philippines was during the election of 1965. Filipinos wanted a new leader. One of the most powerful leaders would emerge from this election - Ferdinand Marcos. The citizens were hoping for a new start. Instead, they got more than 20 years of corruption, bribery, and dictatorship.
From February 22 to 25, 1986, the protestors in the Manila area united and rebelled against President Marcos and his military force. This proved to be a vital turning point in the Philippine's history as it overthrew a corrupt, authoritarian leader, restored democracy to the people, and it created the impetus for reforms that are still going on today.
Joshua Ancheta
Senior Division