LESSON IV

THE PHILIPPINES UNDER AMERICAN AND JAPANESE RULE

A lesson coverage in ELED.203. Teaching in Social Science in Elementary Grades

(History and Government)

Prepared By:

RUGA, Josef Ramon L.

Bachelor of Elementary Education-2

October, 2024
 LESSON CONTENT:

I. THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

II. THE AMERICAN INFLUENCES

III. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT

IV. THE PHILIPPINES UNDER JAPANESE MILITARY

OVERVIEW:

The American rule in the Philippines (1898-1946) began after Spain ceded the
archipelago to the U.S. following the Spanish-American War. This led to the Philippine-
American War (1899-1902), where Filipinos resisted U.S. colonization. Despite heavy
casualties, the U.S. established civil governance, introducing public education,
infrastructure, and democratic institutions.

During World War II, Japan occupied the Philippines (1942-1945), causing
widespread suffering through military rule and atrocities. Filipino guerrilla resistance and
U.S. military aid eventually led to liberation. The Philippines gained independence from the
U.S. in 1946, after enduring both American and Japanese occupation, shaping its path to
sovereignty.
 I. THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

The period of American rule in the Philippines (1898-1946) is rich with political, social,
and economic developments. In the context of the American government’s role in the
Philippines, subtopics in lessons might cover various aspects of governance, colonial
policies, and the lasting impacts of American influence.

The Treaty of Paris and Philippine-American War

- Treaty of Paris (1898): This treaty ended the Spanish-American War and ceded the
Philippines to the United States for $20 million.

- Philippine-American War (1899-1902): Resistance to American colonization, led by

Filipino nationalists, and the war's consequences, including the establishment of American
rule over the islands.

Establishment of American Civil Government

- Military Government (1898-1901): Initial American governance under military control

until civil government was established.

- Philippine Organic Act (1902): This act officially established civilian government, setting
up the basic governmental structure, including the Philippine Commission and eventual
legislative assembly.

- Governors-General: The powers and duties of the American Governor-General in the

Philippines. Key figures, including William Howard Taft, Leonard Wood, and Francis
Burton Harrison. Conflicts between Filipino leaders and the Governor-General over
autonomy.
Educational Reforms and Public School System

- Introduction of the public school system, the use of English as a medium of instruction,
and the establishment of higher education institutions like the University of the Philippines
(1908).

- The role of American teachers, known as the Thomasites.

Economic Policies and Development

- Free Trade Agreements: Establishment of trade policies that tied the Philippine
economy closely to the U.S. market.

- Land Ownership and Agrarian Reforms: Changes in land ownership laws, and issues
related to haciendas and peasant land rights.

Political Reforms and Progress Towards Independence

- Philippine Assembly (1907): Formation of the first Philippine legislature, with limited
Filipino participation.

- Jones Law (1916): Promised eventual independence and established an all-Filipino

legislature.

- Tydings-McDuffie Act (1934): Provided for the creation of the Commonwealth of the
Philippines and a transition period toward independence.

- Commonwealth Government (1935-1946): Led by President Manuel L. Quezon,

focusing on preparing the Philippines for self-governance.
 II. THE AMERICAN INFLUENCES

Under American rule, the Philippines underwent significant changes in multiple aspects
of society, culture, politics, and the economy.

Political and Governance Influence

- Introduction of Democracy: The establishment of democratic institutions, including

elections, a bicameral legislature (Philippine Assembly, and later, the Commonwealth
Government), and a constitution.

- Separation of Church and State: Emphasis on the separation of religion and

government affairs, a sharp contrast to the earlier Spanish colonial system.

- Local Government Reforms: Introduction of local government systems, where Filipino

leaders could participate in governance.

- Judicial System: American-influenced judicial reforms, including the establishment of

the Supreme Court of the Philippines and adoption of U.S. legal principles.

Educational System

- Public School System: Introduction of free public education, with the goal of
widespread literacy and access to basic education.

- English as the Medium of Instruction: English was promoted as the official language of
government, business, and education, making it the second language of most Filipinos.

- The Thomasites: A group of American teachers who arrived in the Philippines in 1901
to establish the educational system, leading to an increase in literacy and Western
education practices.

- Higher Education: Founding of institutions like the University of the Philippines (1908),
Polytechnic University of the Philippines (1914) to provide higher education and produce
professionals.
Economic and Trade Influence

- American Free Trade Policies: Opening the Philippine market to American products
and making the U.S. a key trading partner. This strengthened economic ties but also made
the Philippines reliant on the U.S. economy.

- Agrarian Reforms and Land Ownership: Introduction of land laws that favored private
ownership, though issues of land concentration in the hands of elites remained.

- Infrastructure Development: Construction of roads, bridges, and ports to facilitate trade

and commerce. Modernization of transportation systems like railroads, which boosted
economic development.

Cultural Influences

- Americanization: Spread of American customs, values, and lifestyle, such as clothing

styles, sports (basketball and baseball), and social norms.

- English Language and Literature: Influence of American literature, the rise of English-
speaking writers, and newspapers. English became a medium for artistic and intellectual
expression.

- Mass Media and Entertainment: Introduction of cinema, radio, and Hollywood films,
which became popular among Filipinos. American music, movies, and popular culture had
a lasting impact.

- Celebration of American Holidays: Thanksgiving, Halloween, the Fourth of July

(celebrated as Independence Day until 1962), and other American holidays were
celebrated during this period.

Social Reforms

- Public Health and Sanitation: Introduction of modern public health systems, sanitation
programs, and hospitals. The fight against diseases like cholera and tuberculosis
improved life expectancy.
 - Women's Rights and Social Roles: American influence helped pave the way for
women's education and participation in public life, leading to greater gender equality over
time. Women’s suffrage was granted in 1937.

- Religious Freedom: The Americans introduced the concept of religious freedom,

allowing Filipinos to choose their religious practices without government interference. This
reduced the dominance of the Catholic Church over governance.

Legal and Constitutional Reforms

- Civil Rights and Liberties: Introduction of rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of
the press, and the right to assembly. These rights were enshrined in the legal system and
later in the Philippine Constitution.

- Penal System Reforms: Modernization of the prison and penal system, with an
emphasis on rehabilitation rather than purely punitive measures.

American Influence on Labor and Workforce

- Labor Laws: Introduction of labor standards, minimum wage laws, and improved
working conditions for Filipino workers.

- American Corporations and Industry: The presence of American businesses in the

Philippines and the development of industries such as sugar, mining, and agriculture.

Military and Defense Influences

- Philippine Scouts and Constabulary: Formation of the Philippine Scouts and

Constabulary, which laid the foundation for the modern Philippine military.

- Defense and Security: The strategic importance of the Philippines led to the
establishment of military bases, including Clark Air Base and Subic Bay Naval Base, which
influenced Philippine military practices.
Media and Press

- Newspapers and Journalism: Introduction of American-style journalism and press

freedom, which led to the establishment of English-language newspapers such as the
*Manila Times*.

- Radio and Communication: Introduction of radio broadcasting, which became a crucial

means of disseminating information and American culture.

Architecture and Urban Planning

- City Planning: The design of modern cities like Manila and Baguio followed American
urban planning principles, including wide streets, parks, and zoning regulations. The
American architect Daniel Burnham designed many key areas in Manila.

- Introduction of Western Architecture: Colonial buildings, government offices, and public

spaces were constructed in the neoclassical style, blending Filipino and Western
architectural elements.

Impact on National Identity and Filipino Resistance

- Rise of Nationalism: While the American presence introduced democratic ideals, it also
sparked a growing sense of Filipino nationalism, with intellectuals and leaders advocating
for full independence.

-Independence Movements: The tension between collaboration with American

authorities and the desire for sovereignty led to a push for independence, culminating in
the establishment of the Commonwealth and eventual independence in 1946.
 III. THE COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT

The Commonwealth Government of the Philippines (1935-1946) was an important

transitional period under American rule, created to prepare the Philippines for full
independence. This era provides many key subtopics for understanding its political, social,
and economic developments.

Establishment of the Commonwealth Government

- Tydings-McDuffie Act (1934): The U.S. law that laid the legal framework for the
creation of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. It provided for a 10-year transition period
to full independence.

- Inauguration of the Commonwealth (1935): The formal establishment of the

Commonwealth, with Manuel L. Quezon as the first president and Sergio Osmeña as vice
president. This was the beginning of self-government under American supervision.

- Goals of the Commonwealth: Focus on political preparation for independence,

development of democratic institutions, and economic stability.

Constitution of the Commonwealth (1935)

- Drafting the Constitution: The 1935 Philippine Constitution was modeled after the U.S.
Constitution, establishing a republican form of government with a separation of powers
(executive, legislative, and judiciary).

- Bill of Rights: Incorporation of civil liberties such as freedom of speech, press, and
religion, which mirrored American democratic principles.

- Bicameral Legislature: Creation of a National Assembly (later, the Congress of the

Philippines) with elected senators and representatives.
Manuel L. Quezon’s Administration

- Quezon's Presidency (1935-1944): Overview of the leadership of Manuel L. Quezon,

his policies, and his role in preparing the Philippines for independence.

- Social Justice Programs: Quezon’s advocacy for social justice reforms, including
agrarian reforms aimed at improving the plight of tenant farmers and addressing land
ownership inequalities.

- Tagalog as the National Language: Quezon’s efforts to develop and promote Tagalog
as the foundation of a national language, fostering national unity.

Economic Policies of the Commonwealth

- Economic Development Plans: The Commonwealth government focused on

developing local industries, agriculture, and infrastructure to reduce dependence on the
United States and ensure economic self-sufficiency after independence.

- Agrarian Reforms: Quezon’s push for land reforms aimed at improving the conditions of
tenant farmers, though these efforts faced resistance from large landowners and had
limited success.

- Public Works and Infrastructure: Investments in roads, bridges, and public buildings as
part of modernization efforts to boost the economy.

National Defense and Military Preparedness

- National Defense Act (1935): Establishment of a national defense policy and the
formation of a Philippine Army to prepare for eventual independence and safeguard
national security. General Douglas MacArthur served as military advisor to the
Commonwealth.

- Military Training and Defense Strategy: Focus on preparing the Philippines to defend
itself against potential threats, with the construction of military bases and training
programs for Filipino soldiers.
Social Reforms and National Identity

- Education Reforms: Expansion of public education to foster a well-educated citizenry in

preparation for full independence. English continued to be the language of instruction, but
efforts were also made to promote Filipino culture.

- Promotion of Filipino Culture and Nationalism: The Commonwealth era saw the rise of
a national identity, with increased emphasis on Filipino heritage, culture, and values, while
still influenced by American democratic ideals.

- Women’s Suffrage (1937): Women were granted the right to vote during the
Commonwealth period, marking a significant step toward gender equality.

Foreign Relations and Diplomatic Preparations

- Diplomatic Relations: The Commonwealth had limited power over foreign relations, as
the U.S. retained control. However, Filipino leaders participated in discussions about
international trade and defense.

- International Recognition of Future Independence: Efforts by Quezon to secure

international support for Philippine independence after the Commonwealth period,
including participation in global discussions during the pre-WWII era.
 IV. THE PHILIPPINES UNDER JAPANESE MILITARY

The Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II (1941-1945) was a
pivotal period marked by severe hardships, resistance, collaboration, and a struggle for
survival. Lessons about this period can be broken down into several subtopics to
understand the multifaceted impact of the Japanese military presence on Philippine
society, governance, and economy.

Invasion and Initial Occupation (1941-1942)

- Attack on the Philippines (December 8, 1941): The Japanese invasion started a day
after the attack on Pearl Harbor, with coordinated attacks on key military bases, such as
Clark Air Base and the naval base at Cavite.

- Fall of Manila (January 2, 1942): The rapid Japanese advance led to the occupation of
Manila, which was declared an "open city" to avoid destruction.

- Bataan and Corregidor Resistance (1942): Focus on the heroic defense of Bataan and
the fall of Corregidor as the last stronghold of Filipino and American forces in May 1942.

- General Douglas MacArthur’s Withdrawal: MacArthur's retreat to Australia with his

famous promise, "I shall return," marking the beginning of guerrilla resistance.

World War II and the Japanese Occupation (1941-1945)

- Japanese Invasion of the Philippines: The occupation of the Philippines by Japan

during World War II interrupted the Commonwealth government. Quezon and his cabinet
went into exile in the United States.

- Guerrilla Warfare and Filipino Resistance: During the Japanese occupation, many
Filipinos took part in guerrilla warfare against Japanese forces, aided by American
support.
 - Exiled Commonwealth Government: Quezon led a government-in-exile in Washington,
D.C., coordinating efforts with the U.S. for the eventual liberation of the Philippines.

- Douglas MacArthur and the Liberation of the Philippines: The role of the U.S. military,
led by General MacArthur, in liberating the Philippines from Japanese occupation in 1945.

Japanese Military Administration

- Establishment of the Japanese Puppet Government: The Japanese established a

"Philippine Executive Commission" in 1942, composed of Filipino officials who
collaborated with the Japanese in running civil affairs.

- Jose P. Laurel and the Second Philippine Republic: The establishment of the puppet
republic in 1943, with Jose P. Laurel as president under Japanese guidance.

- Role of the Kempeitai (Japanese Military Police): The Kempeitai's role in maintaining
order through brutal methods, including the suppression of dissent, imprisonment, torture,
and executions.

Collaboration and Filipino Leaders

- Prominent Collaborators: Key figures such as Jose P. Laurel, Benigno Aquino Sr., and
Jorge Vargas who cooperated with the Japanese to form the puppet government.

- Reasons for Collaboration: Exploration of why some Filipino elites collaborated with the
Japanese, including survival, pragmatic reasons, or genuine belief in the Japanese
"Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere."

- Consequences of Collaboration: The impact on post-war politics and reputations of

collaborators, who were often seen as traitors, though some claimed they acted out of
necessity.
Filipino Resistance and Guerrilla Warfare

- Guerrilla Movements: The rise of various guerrilla forces, including both Filipino and
American soldiers who refused to surrender and formed resistance units across the
country.

- Notable Guerrilla Leaders: Figures like Ramon Magsaysay, who later became
president of the Philippines, led resistance movements in different regions.

- Hukbalahap (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon): The Hukbalahap was a communist-led

guerrilla group that fought against Japanese forces and collaborated with some American
units. They became significant players in post-war politics.

- The Role of Women in the Resistance: Many Filipino women played active roles as
spies, messengers, and fighters in the guerrilla movement.

Life Under Japanese Occupation

- Hardships and Scarcity: The Japanese occupation caused widespread food shortages,
rampant inflation, and economic decline. The rationing of goods and scarcity of essentials
like rice, clothing, and medicine led to widespread suffering.

- Cultural Suppression and Propaganda: The Japanese promoted a propaganda

campaign advocating for the "Asia for Asians" philosophy. The use of the Japanese
language in schools, the promotion of Japanese culture, and censorship were key parts of
this effort.

- Forced Labor (Odon): Many Filipinos were forced into labor for the Japanese war effort,
including the construction of infrastructure and military fortifications.

- Atrocities Committed by the Japanese: Massacres, rape, and brutality were common
during the occupation, including incidents like the “Rape of Manila” and the”Massacre of
civilians in Lipa” and other towns.
Economic Impact of Japanese Occupation

- Japanese Control of Resources: Japanese forces took control of the Philippine

economy, seizing key resources like rice, sugar, and other agricultural products to support
their war effort.

- War Economy: The Filipino economy was redirected to serve the needs of the
Japanese military, leading to severe economic downturns, hyperinflation, and the collapse
of industries.

- Black Market: With official supplies running low, a black market economy thrived,
providing essential goods at exorbitant prices.

Educational Propaganda

- Japanese Educational Policies: The introduction of Japanese language and culture in

schools, with the goal of reshaping Filipino identity to align with Japanese imperial ideals.

- Propaganda Films and Media: The Japanese used cinema, radio, and print media to
promote their "Co-Prosperity Sphere" and portray the United States as the oppressor,
while promoting Japan as a liberator.

World War II Events Impacting the Philippines

- Role of the Philippines in the Pacific Theater: The Philippines was a crucial
battleground in the wider Pacific campaign of World War II, strategically important to both
Japan and the Allies.

- Impact of the War on the Filipino People: The war disrupted daily life, with bombings,
military operations, and guerrilla warfare taking a heavy toll on civilians. Entire cities were
destroyed, including Manila, which was one of the most devastated cities during the war.
Allied Liberation of the Philippines (1944-1945)

- Return of General MacArthur: The landing of American forces in Leyte on October 20,
1944, marked the beginning of the liberation of the Philippines.

- Battle of Leyte Gulf (1944): One of the largest naval battles in history, which played a
crucial role in weakening the Japanese military's hold on the Philippines.

- Battle of Manila (1945): The brutal urban battle that led to the liberation of the city but
resulted in massive civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The infamous "Rape of
Manila" saw Japanese forces commit atrocities against civilians.

- Filipino and American Cooperation in Liberation: The collaboration between Filipino

guerrillas and returning U.S. forces in expelling the Japanese.

Aftermath of the Japanese Occupation

- Destruction and Reconstruction: The Philippines was left devastated after the war, with
cities in ruins and the economy in shambles. The task of rebuilding the nation after such
widespread destruction was monumental.

- Post-War Retribution: Trials of Japanese war criminals in the Philippines, including

high-ranking military officers held accountable for atrocities committed during the
occupation.

- Impact on Filipino Politics and Society: The legacy of collaboration and resistance
during the Japanese occupation influenced post-war political dynamics, as many
collaborators faced trials and public scrutiny.

- The U.S. Role in Post-War Reconstruction: The U.S. provided assistance to help
rebuild the Philippines, but the long-term economic effects of the war lingered.
Legacy of the Japanese Occupation

- Memorialization and War Crimes: The legacy of the Japanese occupation is

remembered through monuments and memorials, with continued discussions about the
atrocities committed during the occupation.

- Filipino-Japanese Relations Post-War: How relations between the Philippines and

Japan evolved after the war, including reparations and the normalization of diplomatic ties.

Impact on Filipino Nationalism

- Strengthening of Filipino National Identity: The Japanese occupation, and the suffering
it brought, reinforced the desire for independence and shaped Filipino nationalism,
influencing post-war leadership.

- Role in Independence: The experience under Japanese rule, and the eventual
liberation by the Allies, helped strengthen the resolve for full independence, which was
granted on July 4, 1946, by the United States.

Post-War Reconstruction

- Return of the Commonwealth (1945-1946): After the liberation, the Commonwealth

government was re-established under President Sergio Osmeña, with a focus on
rebuilding the nation after the destruction of World War II.

- Rehabilitation Programs: Efforts to rebuild war-torn cities and towns, restore

infrastructure, and rehabilitate the economy.

- Filipino-American Relations: The strengthening of ties between the Philippines and the
U.S., with the U.S. providing financial assistance for reconstruction.
The Road to Full Independence (1946)

- Philippine Independence Act: The steps leading up to the formal recognition of

Philippine independence on July 4, 1946.

- Treaty of Manila (1946): Officially ended American sovereignty over the Philippines and
recognized the Philippines as an independent nation.

- Impact of American Influence: The legacy of American governance, political

institutions, and economic ties as the Philippines transitioned to full independence.

The Role of Sergio Osmeña and Post-War Leadership

- Sergio Osmeña’s Presidency (1944-1946): Focus on his leadership after Quezon’s

death and during the transition period following World War II, including his efforts to unite
the country and lead reconstruction efforts.

- Preparations for Independence: Osmeña's efforts to finalize preparations for the

independence of the Philippines, with a focus on political stability, economic recovery, and
continued U.S.-Philippine relations.

Challenges of Transitioning to Independence

- Political Divisions: Internal political challenges during the Commonwealth period,

including rivalries between leaders like Manuel Roxas and Sergio Osmeña.

- Economic Dependence on the U.S.: The economic challenges faced by the Philippines
due to its dependence on the U.S. market and the need for post-war reconstruction.

- Filipino Nationalism and Sovereignty: The growing sense of nationalism and the desire
for full sovereignty among Filipinos, leading to independence in 1946.
GROUP 2 DIVISION LIST:

UNIT I- THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

1. Marimon, Honey Jane

2. Merle, Jerome Loyd
3. Rosellosa, Kathlene
4. Taopo, Liezykim
5. Gega, Clezell Ann.

UNIT II- THE AMERICAN INFLUENCES

1. Zulueta, Louielyn
2. Pastoral, Princess Aizy
3. Tumulak, Kurt Russel
4. Presas, Lheyniel Mae
5. Pardilla, Analiza

UNIT III- COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT

1. Pillarda, Eunice Carla

2. San Agustin, Rosalie
3. Lucegro, Jemellyn
4. Lim, Bea Joyce
5. Lubay, Jamaica Micaela

UNIT IV- THE PHILIPPINES UNDER JAPANESE MILITARY

1. Ramos, Justin
2. Ruga, Josef Ramon
3. Gabata, Jomar
4. Regio, Dan Melton
5. Zoleta, Daesyrie Ann