| President | Term Start | Term End |
|---|---|---|
| Emilio Aguinaldo | 1899 | 1901 |
| Manuel L. Quezon | 1935 | 1944 |
| José P. Laurel | 1943 | 1945 |
| Sergio Osmeña | 1944 | 1946 |
| Manuel Roxas | 1946 | 1948 |
| Elpidio Quirino | 1948 | 1953 |
| Ramón Magsaysay | 1953 | 1957 |
| Carlos P. Garcia | 1957 | 1961 |
| Diosdado Macapagal | 1961 | 1965 |
| Ferdinand Marcos | 1965 | 1986 |
| Corazon Aquino | 1986 | 1992 |
| Fidel V. Ramos | 1992 | 1998 |
| Joseph Estrada | 1998 | 2001 |
| Gloria Macapagal Arroyo | 2001 | 2010 |
| Benigno Aquino III | 2010 | 2016 |
| Rodrigo Duterte | 2016 | 2022 |
| Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. | 2022 | Present |
READ ALSO: Presidents That Have Ruled Indonesia Till Date
Emilio Aguinaldo: The Philippines’ First President
Emilio Aguinaldo, born on March 22, 1869, in Cavite, played a crucial role as the first President of the Philippines, serving from 1899 to 1901. He was a leader in the fight for independence from Spanish colonial rule.
Key Achievements:
- Declared Independence: Aguinaldo proclaimed Philippine independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
- Founded the First Republic: He established the First Philippine Republic, which was the first democratic republic in Asia.
Challenges:
- Captured by the U.S.: Aguinaldo was captured by American forces in 1901, ending his presidency and leading to American colonization.
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.: The Current President
Born on September 13, 1957, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is the son of former President Ferdinand Marcos. Before becoming the 17th President in 2022, he served in various government roles, including as a senator.
Key Achievements:
- Economic Recovery: Marcos Jr. has prioritized economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on infrastructure and attracting foreign investment.
- Strengthening Diplomacy: He has worked to improve the Philippines’ diplomatic relationships, particularly with Southeast Asian nations.
Challenges:
- Controversy: His presidency has faced scrutiny due to his family’s history, particularly during his father’s rule under martial law, raising concerns about human rights and transparency.
READ ALSO: Prime Ministers That Have Ruled Japan Till Date
Sara Duterte: The Current Vice President
Sara Duterte, born on May 31, 1978, is the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Before becoming Vice President in 2022, she was the mayor of Davao City.
Key Achievements:
- Educational Reforms: As Vice President, Sara Duterte has focused on improving access to quality education across the country.
- Crime Prevention: Like her father, she has been a strong advocate for tough measures against crime, especially illegal drugs.
Challenges:
- Political Dynasty Criticism: The Duterte family’s continued influence in politics has drawn criticism for promoting political dynasties, which some see as undemocratic.
Conclusion
The leadership of the Philippines has seen a wide range of figures, from revolutionary heroes like Emilio Aguinaldo to modern leaders like Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Each president has left a unique mark on the country’s history, facing both accomplishments and controversies that have influenced the nation’s direction.