What Is 1935 Constitution plebiscite, 1935

Overview

The 1935 Philippine Constitution plebiscite was a landmark democratic event that paved the way for self-governance in the Philippines. Held on May 14, 1935, it allowed Filipino voters to ratify a new constitution that would establish the Commonwealth of the Philippines, a transitional government leading to full independence.

This plebiscite was conducted under the provisions of the Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934, which promised independence after a 10-year transition period. The overwhelming approval of the constitution reflected strong public support for autonomy and democratic reform.

• 1.3 million Filipinos participated in the plebiscite, with nearly unanimous support for the new constitution, demonstrating broad public endorsement of self-rule.
• The constitution was drafted by the 1934 Constitutional Convention, composed of 202 elected delegates who finalized the document in February 1935.
• The plebiscite was supervised by the U.S. government, ensuring transparency and legitimacy under the colonial administration.
• Approval of the constitution led directly to the inauguration of the Commonwealth on November 15, 1935, with Manuel L. Quezon as president.
• The 1935 Constitution established a presidential system with three branches of government, modeled after the U.S. system but adapted to Philippine needs.

How It Works

The plebiscite process was designed to legitimize the new constitution through direct democratic participation, setting a precedent for future governance in the Philippines.

• Term: The 1935 Constitution established a single six-year presidential term for the first president, Manuel L. Quezon, to stabilize the new government. This was later amended to allow re-election.
• The plebiscite followed a nationwide campaign led by pro-independence leaders, including Quezon and Sergio Osmeña, who advocated for ratification.
• Voting was limited to qualified Filipino male citizens over 21, as women did not yet have full suffrage under the existing electoral laws.
• The constitution required a simple majority for ratification, and results showed overwhelming support, with over 90% voting in favor.
• After ratification, the U.S. President had to certify the results, which Franklin D. Roosevelt did on June 1, 1935, formalizing the Commonwealth’s creation.
• The new government structure included a unicameral National Assembly, which later became bicameral under amendments in 1940.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of key features between the 1935 Constitution and previous and subsequent Philippine charters.

The 1935 Constitution served as a critical bridge between colonial rule and full independence. Unlike earlier frameworks, it allowed for elected Filipino leadership and a defined path to sovereignty, distinguishing it from both its predecessor and later constitutions.

Why It Matters

The 1935 Constitution plebiscite was a foundational moment in Philippine history, symbolizing the shift from colonial dependency to democratic self-determination. Its legacy endures in the nation’s ongoing constitutional framework and democratic institutions.

• The plebiscite marked the first nationwide democratic exercise in Philippine history, setting a precedent for future constitutional reforms.
• It established a transitional government that prepared the country for full independence, including building administrative and military institutions.
• The 1935 Constitution introduced universal male suffrage and laid the groundwork for expanded civil rights in later years.
• Its adoption demonstrated the effectiveness of peaceful, legal reform over revolutionary action in achieving national goals.
• The Commonwealth period allowed the Philippines to develop its own foreign policy and economic planning under U.S. oversight.
• The constitution remained in force, with amendments, until 1973, influencing all subsequent governance structures.

The 1935 plebiscite remains a benchmark for democratic legitimacy in the Philippines, illustrating how constitutional processes can drive national transformation.