What type of government is in power in the Philippines?
The Philippines is a unitary presidential republic and representative democracy, inspired by the American system. The President, elected by universal suffrage for a single six-year term, serves as both head of state and head of government.
Structure of the Political System
The Philippines operates under a system of unitary presidential republic and representative democracy, directly inspired by the American model. This system places the President at the center of executive power.
The Role of the Philippine President
The President of the Philippines combines the functions of head of state and head of government. He is elected by direct universal suffrage for a single term of six years, with no possibility of re-election. This constitutional limitation aims to prevent authoritarian drift.
Other Powers
- Legislative power: Bicameral Congress composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives
- Judicial power: Independent Supreme Court
- Local governments: provinces, cities and municipalities with a certain degree of autonomy