Ceremonial Hall, Malacañan Palace
February 8, 2023

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the commemoration of Philippine Constitution Day where he honored the supreme law of the land and urged every Filipino to take to heart that the Constitution is also a social contract where they have bestowed their sovereign powers to the state for the common good.

“More than establishing a democratic system of government – ensuring a separation of powers among the legislative, executive and judicial branches – it also guarantees the fundamental rights and freedom of every Filipino,” the President stated in his keynote speech at Malacañan Palace.

He deemed it imperative for the government to promote the significance of the nation’s laws and Constitution to the minds and hearts of every Filipino to instill fervent love of country and contribute to building a just and equitable society.

“It is indeed noteworthy that our Supreme Law remains a dynamic and flexible expression of our collective will, capable of adapting to the changing times and circumstances of our nation. For this reason, we let the challenges that come our way demand our continued commitment to the principles of our Constitution, as well as our drive to recalibrate the Philippine society for generations to come and in the face of the challenges of the day and of the age,” he added.

The Chief Executive lauded the efforts of the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA) – a non-stock and nonpartisan organization founded on 26 September 1961 committed to defend, preserve and protect the Constitution — for safeguarding the supreme law of the land, promoting obedience and spreading its indispensable importance.

“I would like to furthermore implore you to continue supporting the government in its efforts to ensure that its plans and programs remain compliant with the tenets of the Constitution and the laws of the land,” the President underscored in his message.

During the program, President Marcos Jr. gave the posthumous award to Justice Manuel M. Lazaro, a long-time PHILCONSA President and Chairman, for espousing constitutionalism and establishing PHILCONSA as the premier and most revered institution in questioning laws eroding the non-negotiable precepts of the Constitution.

The Philippines has had six (6) constitutions since the proclamation of independence on June 12, 1898. For every adoption of a new Constitution, a corresponding Proclamation was issued in order to celebrate the date that each charter came into full force and effect.

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