Title: Government Structure
Course: Philippines Political Structure > Section: Module 1: Government Structure

Government Structure

The political structure of the Philippines is divided into three separate branches: the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judicial branches. These branches function independently yet interdependently, ensuring a system of checks and balances within the government.

Executive Branch

The Executive Branch is headed by the President, who serves as both the head of state and the head of government[1][2]. The President is elected by direct popular vote and serves a term of six years without the possibility of re-election[2]. As the chief executive, the President carries out and enforces laws, leads the national government, and is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines[1][3]. The Executive Branch also includes the Vice President, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent agencies, boards, and commissions[2].

Legislative Branch

The Legislative Branch is responsible for enacting legislation, confirming or rejecting presidential appointments, and holds the authority to declare war[2][3]. This branch is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives[1][3]. The Senate is the upper chamber, while the House of Representatives is the lower chamber[3]. Senators are elected at-large from the entire country, while members of the House of Representatives are elected from legislative districts and through a party-list system intended to ensure proportional representation[4][5]. The Commission on Appointments, a constitutional body, plays a crucial role in confirming presidential appointees[6][7].

Judicial Branch

The Judicial Branch interprets laws and determines their constitutionality, applying them to individual cases[8][9]. It is led by the Supreme Court, which consists of a Chief Justice and 14 Associate Justices appointed by the President from a list prepared by the Judicial and Bar Council[10][11]. The Supreme Court has the authority to review, revise, reverse, modify, or affirm final judgments and orders of lower courts[12]. The judiciary ensures that laws do not violate the Constitution, playing a crucial role in maintaining legal and constitutional integrity[8][13].