Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
President of the Philippines
Incumbent
Assumed office  January 20, 2001
Vice President	Teofisto Guingona Noli de Castro
Preceded by	Joseph Estrada
Vice President of the Philippines
In office June 30, 1998 – January 20, 2001
President	Joseph Estrada
Preceded by	Joseph Estrada
Succeeded by	Teofisto Guingona
Born	April 5, 1947 (1947-04-05) (age 61) San Juan, Rizal, Philippines
Political party	LDP (1992 – 1998) Lakas-CMD (1998 – present) KAMPI (1997 – present)
Spouse	Jose Miguel Arroyo
Occupation	Economist
Religion	Roman Catholic
Signature
Website	Official website

Maria Gloria Macaraeg Macapagal-Arroyo (born April 5, 1947) is the fourteenth and current president of the Philippines. The President of the Philippines is the head of state and government of the Republic of the Philippines. Events 250 - Emperor Decius begins a widespread persecution of Christians in Rome. Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. Teofisto T Guingona Jr (born July 4, 1928 in San Juan, Rizal) was the Vice President of the Philippines from 2001 to 2004 Manuel Leuterio de Castro Jr (born July 6, 1949) better known as Noli de Castro, is a Politician and former broadcast journalist in the Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines The Vice President of the Philippines is the second highest executive official of the Philippine government Events 350 - Roman usurper Nepotianus, of the Constantinian dynasty, is defeated and killed by troops of the Usurper Year 1998 ( MCMXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Thursday (link will display full 1998 Gregorian calendar) Events 250 - Emperor Decius begins a widespread persecution of Christians in Rome. Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines Teofisto T Guingona Jr (born July 4, 1928 in San Juan, Rizal) was the Vice President of the Philippines from 2001 to 2004 Events 456 - St Patrick returns to Ireland as a missionary bishop Year 1947 ( MCMXLVII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full 1947 calendar of the Gregorian calendar. For the capital city of Puerto Rico see San Juan Puerto Rico. Rizal is a province of the Philippines located in the CALABARZON region in Luzon, just 20 kilometers east of Manila. The Philippines ( Filipino: Pilipinas, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines (fil ''Republika ng Pilipinas'' RP The Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino ( Struggle of Democratic Filipinos) is a Political party in the Philippines. The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, also more popularly known as simply Lakas or Lakas-CMD is the current ruling Political party in the Philippines The Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino ( Partner of the Free Filipino, abbreviated KAMPI) formerly the Kabalikat ng Mamamayang Pilipino ( Partner Jose Miguel "Mike" Tuason Arroyo (born June 27, 1946) is the husband of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the current President of the An economist is an expert in the Social science of Economics. Events 456 - St Patrick returns to Ireland as a missionary bishop Year 1947 ( MCMXLVII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full 1947 calendar of the Gregorian calendar. The President of the Philippines is the head of state and government of the Republic of the Philippines. The Philippines ( Filipino: Pilipinas, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines (fil ''Republika ng Pilipinas'' RP She is the country's second female president, and the daughter of former President Diosdado Macapagal. For the airport see Diosdado Macapagal International Airport For the boulevard in Metro Manila, see Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard

A professor of economics, Arroyo entered government in 1987, serving as assistant secretary and undersecretary of the Department of Trade and Industry upon the invitation of President Corazon Aquino. History The Department of Trade and Industry had its beginnings on June 23, 1898 when President Emilio Aguinaldo formed three government María Corazón Cojuangco-Aquino (born María Corazón Sumulong Cojuangco on January 25, 1933) widely known as Cory Aquino, was the 11th After serving as a senator from 1992 to 1998, she was elected to the vice presidency under President Joseph Estrada, despite having run on an opposing ticket. The Vice President of the Philippines is the second highest executive official of the Philippine government Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines After Estrada was accused of corruption, she resigned her cabinet position as Secretary of Social Welfare and Development and joined the growing opposition to the president, who faced impeachment. History In 1915 the Public Welfare Board (PWB was created and was tasked to study coordinate and regulate all government and private entities engaged in social services Estrada was soon forced from office by peaceful street demonstrations, and Arroyo was subsequently sworn into the presidency on January 20, 2001. The EDSA Revolution of 2001, also called by the local media as EDSA II (pronounced as EDSA Dos or EDSA 2 or the Second People Power Revolution, is the Events 250 - Emperor Decius begins a widespread persecution of Christians in Rome. Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. She was elected to a full six-year presidential term in her own right and was sworn in June 30, 2004. Events 350 - Roman usurper Nepotianus, of the Constantinian dynasty, is defeated and killed by troops of the Usurper "MMIV" redirects here For the Modest Mouse album see " Baron von Bullshit Rides Again "

Early life

President Arroyo was born Maria Gloria Macaraeg Macapagal to politician Diosdado Macapagal and his wife, Evangelina Macaraeg Macapagal. For the airport see Diosdado Macapagal International Airport For the boulevard in Metro Manila, see Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard Dr Evangelina Macaraeg-Macapagal ( November 1, 1915 - May 16, 1999) was the second wife of Philippine President Diosdado Macapagal She is the sister of Dr. Diosdado "Boboy" Macapagal, Jr. & Cielo Macapagal-Salgado. She spent the first years of her life in Lubao, Pampanga with her two older siblings from her father's first marriage. Lubao is a 1st class municipality in the southwestern part of the province of Pampanga, Philippines. ^[1] At the age of four, she chose to live with her maternal grandmother in Iligan City. The City of Iligan ( Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Iligan; Filipino: Lungsod ng Iligan) is a Highly urbanized city ^[2] She stayed there for three years, then split her time between Mindanao and Manila until the age of 11. Mindanao is the second largest and easternmost Island in the Philippines. The City of Manila ^[2] She is fluent in English, Tagalog, Spanish and several other Philippine languages. English is a West Germanic language originating in England and is the First language for most people in the United Kingdom, the United States Tagalog is one of the major languages used in the Philippines.

In 1961, when Arroyo was just 14 years' old, her father was elected as president. She moved with her family into Malacañang Palace in Manila. Malacañan Palace, colloquially the Malacañang Palace, is the Official residence of the President of the Philippines. A municipality was named in her honor, Gloria, Oriental Mindoro. Gloria is a 4th class municipality in the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. She attended Assumption Convent for her elementary and high school education, graduating valedictorian in 1964. The Assumption College is a private Catholic Women's college in Makati City, Philippines established in 1959 providing education from pre-school to Primary education is the first stage of Compulsory education. Australia See also Education Valedictorian is an academic title typically conferred upon the highest ranked student among those being graduated from an educational institution Arroyo then studied for two years at Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service in Washington, D.C. where she was a classmate of future United States President Bill Clinton and achieved consistent Dean's list status. Georgetown University is a Jesuit Private university located in Georgetown Washington D The Edmund A Walsh School of Foreign Service (commonly abbreviated SFS) is a school within Georgetown University in Washington D Washington DC ( formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington, the District, or simply D The United States of America —commonly referred to as the The President of the United States is the Head of state and Head of government of the United States and is the highest political official in United States by William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton (born William Jefferson Blythe III, August 19 1946 served as the forty-second President of the United States ^[3] She then earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Assumption College, graduating magna cum laude in 1968. The Assumption College is a private Catholic Women's college in Makati City, Philippines established in 1959 providing education from pre-school to Latin honors are Latin phrases used to indicate the level of academic distinction with which an Academic degree was earned

In 1968, Arroyo married lawyer and businessman Jose Miguel Arroyo of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, whom she had met while still a teenager. Jose Miguel "Mike" Tuason Arroyo (born June 27, 1946) is the husband of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the current President of the Binalbagan is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. ^[1] They had three children, Juan Miguel (born 1969), Evangelina Lourdes (born 1971) and Diosdado Ignacio Jose Maria (born in 1974). She pursued a Master's Degree in Economics from the Ateneo de Manila University (1978) and a Doctorate Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines (1985). The Ateneo de Manila University (also called " Ateneo de Manila " or simply "the Ateneo " is a private University run A doctorate is an Academic degree that indicates the highest level of academic achievement Economics is the social science that studies the production distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The University of the Philippines (or Unibersidad ng Pilipinas in Filipino and commonly abbreviated as U ^[4] From 1977 to 1987, she held teaching positions in different schools, notably the University of the Philippines and the Ateneo de Manila University. The University of the Philippines (or Unibersidad ng Pilipinas in Filipino and commonly abbreviated as U The Ateneo de Manila University (also called " Ateneo de Manila " or simply "the Ateneo " is a private University run She became chairperson of the Economics Department at Assumption College. The Assumption College is a private Catholic Women's college in Makati City, Philippines established in 1959 providing education from pre-school to

In 1987 she was invited by President Corazon Aquino to join the government as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry. María Corazón Cojuangco-Aquino (born María Corazón Sumulong Cojuangco on January 25, 1933) widely known as Cory Aquino, was the 11th History The Department of Trade and Industry had its beginnings on June 23, 1898 when President Emilio Aguinaldo formed three government She was promoted to Undersecretary two years later. In her concurrent position as Executive Director of the Garments and Textile Export Board, Arroyo oversaw the rapid growth of the garment industry in the late 1980s.

The young Gloria Macapagal (far right) and her family; when this picture was taken, her father Diosdado was the President of the Philippines.

Senator

Arroyo entered politics in the 1992 election, running for senator. Presidential elections, legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 11, 1992. The Senate of the Philippines ( Filipino: Senádo ng Pilipínas) is the upper chamber of the bicameral Legislature of the Philippines, the At the first general election under the 1987 Constitution, the top twelve vote-getting senatorial candidates would win a six-year term, and the next twelve candidates would win a three-year term. ^[5] Arroyo ranked 13th in the elections, earning a three-year term. She was re-elected in 1995, topping the senatorial elections with nearly 16 million votes.

As a legislator, Arroyo filed over 400 bills and authored or sponsored 55 laws during her tenure as senator, including the Anti-Sexual Harassment Law, the Indigenous People's Rights Law, and the Export Development Act. ^[1]

The 1995 Mining Act, which allows 100% foreign ownership of Philippine mines, has come under fire from left-wing political groups.

Vice Presidency

Arroyo considered a run for the presidency in the 1998 election, but was persuaded by President Fidel V. Ramos and leaders of the administration party Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats to instead seek the vice-presidency as the running mate of its presidential candidate, House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr.^[6] Though the latter lost to popular former actor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Arroyo won the vice presidency by a large margin, garnering more than twice the votes of her closest opponent, Estrada's running mate Senator Edgardo Angara. Presidential elections, legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 11, 1998. Fidel Valdez Ramos (born March 18, 1928) was the 12th President of the Philippines. The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, also more popularly known as simply Lakas or Lakas-CMD is the current ruling Political party in the Philippines Early life and career De Venecia was born in Dagupan to Judge Jose R Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines For other uses please see Angara (disambiguation. Edgardo Javier Angara (born September 24, 1934) is a politician in ^[7]

Arroyo began her term as Vice President on June 30, 1998. Events 350 - Roman usurper Nepotianus, of the Constantinian dynasty, is defeated and killed by troops of the Usurper Year 1998 ( MCMXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Thursday (link will display full 1998 Gregorian calendar) She was appointed by Estrada to a concurrent position in the cabinet as Secretary of Social Welfare and Development. History In 1915 the Public Welfare Board (PWB was created and was tasked to study coordinate and regulate all government and private entities engaged in social services ^[6]

Arroyo resigned from the cabinet in October 2000, distancing herself from President Estrada, who was accused of corruption by a former political supporter, Chavit Singson, Governor from Ilocos Sur. Background Family History The Singsons started to put down roots in Vigan in the 17th century ^[8] She had initially resisted pressure from allies to speak out against Estrada^[9], but eventually joined calls for Estrada's resignation. ^[8]

Presidency

Succession

Main article: EDSA II

The EDSA II Revolution that catapulted Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to power is depicted on the 200-peso bill. The EDSA Revolution of 2001, also called by the local media as EDSA II (pronounced as EDSA Dos or EDSA 2 or the Second People Power Revolution, is the The EDSA Revolution of 2001, also called by the local media as EDSA II (pronounced as EDSA Dos or EDSA 2 or the Second People Power Revolution, is the Banknotes of the Philippine peso and piso are issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines for circulation in the Philippines.

On January 20, 2001, after days of political turmoil and popular revolt, the Supreme Court declared the presidency vacant. Events 250 - Emperor Decius begins a widespread persecution of Christians in Rome. Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. The military and the national police had earlier withdrawn their support for Estrada. At noon, Arroyo was sworn in as President of the Philippines by Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr.^[8] Coincidentally, Arroyo assumed office the same day as US President George W. Bush. The Chief Justice of the Philippine Supreme Court presides over the Supreme Court of the Philippines and is the highest judicial officer of the government of the Hilario G Davide Jr is the current Ambassador - Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Philippines to the United The President of the United States is the Head of state and Head of government of the United States and is the highest political official in United States by George Walker Bush ( born July 6 1946 is the forty-third and current President of the United States.

Weeks later, Estrada filed a lawsuit challenging the legal basis of the Arroyo presidency and insisting he remained the lawful president, though adding he would not try to reclaim his post. ^[10] The Supreme Court issued its decision on March 2, 2001, asserting that Estrada had resigned the presidency and relinquished his post. The Supreme Court of the Philippines ( Filipino: Kataas-taasang Hukuman ng Pilipinas or Korte Suprema) is the country's highest judicial court as well Events 986 - Louis V becomes King of the Franks. 1127 - Assassination of Charles the Good Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. ^[8] The court unanimously voted to dismiss Estrada's petition, reaffirming the legitimacy of Arroyo's presidency. ^[8]

EDSA III uprising

Main article: EDSA III

On May 1, 2001, a week after Estrada was arrested on charges of plunder, an estimated 40,000 protesters sympathetic to Estrada degenerated into violence and stormed the presidential palace in an attempt to force Arroyo from office. EDSA III (pronounced EDSA Tres was a Protest sparked by the Arrest in April 2001 of newly deposed President Joseph Estrada of the Philippines Events 305 - Diocletian and Maximian retire from the office of Roman Emperor. Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. Malacañan Palace, colloquially the Malacañang Palace, is the Official residence of the President of the Philippines. ^[11] Four people died, including two policemen, and more than 100 were wounded in clashes between security forces and rioters. ^[11][12] After being dispersed the crowd had looted stores and burned cars. ^[11] Arroyo declared a 'state of rebellion' in Manila and ordered the arrests of opposition leaders who lead the uprising and conspired to topple the government. The City of Manila ^[11] The state of rebellion was lifted one week later with Arroyo declaring "the disorder has subsided". ^[12]

Support for the opposition and Estrada subsequently dwindled after the victory of administration allied candidates in the midterm elections that was held later that month. Legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 14, 2001. Arroyo outlined her vision for the country as "building a strong republic" throughout her tenure. Her agenda consists of building up a strong bureaucracy, lowering crime rates, increasing tax collection, improving economic growth, and intensifying counter-terrorism efforts.

Oakwood mutiny

Main article: Oakwood mutiny

The Oakwood mutiny occurred in the Philippines on July 27, 2003. The Oakwood mutiny occurred in the Philippines on July 27, 2003. The Philippines ( Filipino: Pilipinas, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines (fil ''Republika ng Pilipinas'' RP Events 1214 - Battle of Bouvines: In France, Philip II of France defeats John of England. Year 2003 ( MMIII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. A group of 321 armed soldiers who called themselves "Bagong Katipuneros"^[13] led by Army Capt. Gerardo Gambala and Lt. Antonio Trillanes IV of the Philippine Navy took over the Oakwood Premier Ayala Center (now Ascott Makati) serviced apartment tower in Makati City to show the Filipino people the alleged corruption of the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo administration. Lieutenant (abbreviated Lt or Lieut) is a Military, Naval, Paramilitary, Fire service, Emergency medical services Antonio Fuentes Trillanes IV (born August 6, 1971 in Manila, Philippines) is a currently detained Senator of the Republic of the Philippines The Philippine Navy ( PN) is the naval arm of the Armed Forces of the Philippines ( AFP) The City of Makati, or simply Filipinos or the Filipino people are the citizens of the Philippines. They also stated that they saw signs suggesting that the President was going to declare martial law. Martial law is the system of rules that takes effect when the military takes control of the normal administration of justice

Jose Pidal controversy

In August 18, 2003, Senator Panfilo Lacson accused Jose Miguel Arroyo, the president's husband, of siphoning campaign funds into a bank account under the fictitious name "Jose Pidal". Events 293 BC - The oldest known Roman temple to Venus is founded starting the institution of Vinalia Rustica. Year 2003 ( MMIII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. Panfilo Morena "Ping" Lacson (born June 1, 1948) is a retired Director-General of the Philippine National Police, and is currently a member of The accusations were never legally substantiated. ^[14]

The 2004 election and subsequent rigging allegations

Main article: Hello Garci scandal

Arroyo taking her Oath of Office in Cebu City on June 30, 2004. The Hello Garci scandal (2005—present (or just Hello Garci) is a Political scandal and electoral crisis in the Philippines. The City of Cebu ( Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo, Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu) is the capital of Events 350 - Roman usurper Nepotianus, of the Constantinian dynasty, is defeated and killed by troops of the Usurper "MMIV" redirects here For the Modest Mouse album see " Baron von Bullshit Rides Again "

Although the Philippine Constitution bars a president from reelection, it allows for the election of a person who has succeeded as president and has served for not more than four years. The Constitution of the Philippines ( Saligang Batas ng Pilipinas in Filipino) is the supreme Law of the Philippines ^[15] In December 2002, Arroyo made the surprise announcement that she would not seek a new term in the Philippine general election, 2004. Presidential elections, legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 10, 2004. ^[6] Ten months later, however, she reversed her position and declared her intention to seek a direct mandate from the people, saying "there is a higher cause to change society. . . in a way that nourishes our future". ^[16]

Arroyo faced a tough election campaign in early 2004 against Estrada friend and popular actor Fernando Poe, Jr., senator and former police general Panfilo Lacson, former senator Raul Roco, and Christian evangelist Eddie Villanueva. Ronald Allan Kelley Poe ( August 20, 1939 &ndash December 14, 2004) better known as Fernando Poe Jr Panfilo Morena "Ping" Lacson (born June 1, 1948) is a retired Director-General of the Philippine National Police, and is currently a member of Early life & education Raúl Roco was born in Naga City in the Philippine province of Camarines Sur, the son of farmer Sulpicio Azuela Roco and Eduardo Villanueva (born October 6, 1946) is a religious and political leader in the Philippines. Her campaign platform centered on a shift to a parliamentary and federal form of government, job creation, universal health insurance, anti-illegal drugs, and anti-terrorism. ^[6]

Arroyo lagged behind Poe in the polls prior to the campaign season, but her popularity steadily climbed to surpass Poe's. ^[17] As predicted by pre-election surveys and exit polls, she won the election by a margin of over a million votes against her closest rival, Fernando Poe, Jr. An exit poll is a poll of voters taken immediately after they have exited the polling stations ^[7] She took her oath of office on June 30, 2004. Events 350 - Roman usurper Nepotianus, of the Constantinian dynasty, is defeated and killed by troops of the Usurper "MMIV" redirects here For the Modest Mouse album see " Baron von Bullshit Rides Again " In a break with tradition, She chose to first deliver her inaugural address at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila before departing to Cebu City for her oath taking, the first time a Philippine president took the oath of office outside of Luzon. Rizal Park is situated in the heart of the city of Manila, Philippines. The City of Cebu ( Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo, Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu) is the capital of Luzon is the largest and most economically and politically important Island in the Philippines and one of the three island groups in the country with Visayas ^[6]

In the middle of 2005, Samuel Ong who is a former deputy director of the country's National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) claimed to have audio tapes of wiretapped conversations between President Arroyo and an official of the Commission on Elections. Samuel Ong is a former deputy director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI of the Philippines and is a Whistleblower, declaring that the Functions of the Commission Under the Constitution the Commission on Elections is independent of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches of the Philippine According to Ong, the contents of the tape prove that the 2004 national election was rigged by Arroyo in order to win by around one million votes. Presidential elections, legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 10, 2004. On June 27, Arroyo admitted to inappropriately speaking to a Comelec official, claiming it was a "lapse in judgement", but denied influencing the outcome of the election. Events 1358 - Republic of Dubrovnik is founded 1709 - Peter the Great defeats Charles XII of Sweden Virgilio Olivar Garcillano (born c 1948 also known as Garci, is a former official of the Philippine Commission on Elections who allegedly Attempts to impeach Arroyo failed later that year.

Two witnesses, Antonio Rasalan and Clinton Colcol, stepped forward in August 2006, claiming involvement in an alleged plot to alter the results for the May 2004 elections. Rasalan claimed that he was fully convinced that the election returns presented at the House of Representatives were manufactured and had replaced the original documents.

Colcol, a tabulator for the Commission on Elections (Comelec), said that Arroyo only received 1,445 votes, while Poe received 2,141 in South Upi, Maguindanao during the May 2004 elections. See also Unit record equipment The tabulating machine was a machine designed to assist in Tabulations. Functions of the Commission Under the Constitution the Commission on Elections is independent of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches of the Philippine ^[18][19]

On January 25, 2008, Pulse Asia survey (commissioned by Genuine Opposition (GO) per former Senator Sergio Osmeña III) stated that 58% percent of Filipinos in Mindanao believed that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo cheated in the Philippine general election, 2004. Events 41 - After a night of negotiation Claudius is accepted as Roman Emperor by the Senate 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common Pulse Asia Inc is a Public opinion Polling body in the Philippines. Statistical surveys are used to collect quantitative information about items in a population Genuine Opposition (GO is the umbrella political coalition of the parties' senatorial line-up for the 2007 Philippine midterm elections, which is in opposition to President Early life and career Osmeña was born on December 13, 1943 in Manila to Sergio Osmeña Jr Mindanao is the second largest and easternmost Island in the Philippines. Presidential elections, legislative elections and local elections were held in the Philippines on May 10, 2004. 70% also "believed that because of recurring allegations of election fraud, the credibility of the balloting process in Mindanao was at a record low. "^[20]

State of Emergency

Main article: 2006 state of emergency in the Philippines

On Friday, February 24, 2006, an alleged coup d'état plot was uncovered in the Philippines, headed by Brig. The Philippines was under a State of emergency, announced by presidential spokesperson Ignacio Bunye on the morning of February 24 Events 303 - Galerius, Roman Emperor, publishes his edict that begins the persecution of Christians in his portion of the Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Gen. Danilo Lim.

The declaration of Proclamation No. 1017 gave Gloria Macapagal Arroyo the power to issue warrantless (and until then unconstitutional) arrests and to take over private institutions that run public utilities. Proclamation Number 1017 was delivered by Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on February 24, 2006 in the

The President, through the Department of Education, suspended classes in elementary and high school levels. In response, colleges and universities suspended classes. By virtue of PP 1017, she declared a State of Emergency for the whole country in an attempt to quell rebellion as her grip on power began to slip, stop lawless violence and promote peace and stability. A state of emergency is a governmental declaration that may suspend certain normal functions of government alert citizens to alter their normal behaviors or order government agencies The government's first move after the declaration was to disperse demonstrators, particularly the groups picketing along EDSA. Epifanio de los Santos Avenue ( EDSA) is the main circumferential road and Highway of Metro Manila in the Philippines. Former Philippine president Corazon Aquino was among those that protested, along with leftist and extreme right activists. María Corazón Cojuangco-Aquino (born María Corazón Sumulong Cojuangco on January 25, 1933) widely known as Cory Aquino, was the 11th A number of public figures were reported to have been arrested.

After the foiling of the plot and the dispersal of the rallies, PP 1017 continued for a week on threats of military plots (such as the military stand-off of February 26 at Fort Bonifacio headed by Col. Events 747 BC - Epoch (origin of Ptolemy 's Nabonassar Era 364 - Valentinian I is proclaimed Ariel Querubin), violence, illegal rallies and public disturbance.

Six leftist representatives - Satur Ocampo, Teodoro Casiño, and Joel Virador of Bayan Muna, Liza Maza of GABRIELA, and Crispin Beltran and Rafael Mariano of Anakpawis - were charged with rebellion. Satur C Ocampo (born April 7, 1939) is a Filipino partylist representative journalist and writer Teodoro A Casiño (born 15 November, 1968) is a Filipino partylist representative writer and journalist Joel G Virador (born 5 March, 1967) was a Filipino partylist representative for Bayan Muna in the 13th Congress of the Philippines Bayan Muna ( English: Nation First is a progressive political party in the Philippines Liza Maza (born 8 September, 1957) is a Filipino activist and development worker GABRIELA is a Leftist Filipino organization that advocates for women's issues Crispin 'Ka Bel' Beltran ( January 7, 1933 &ndash May 20, 2008) was a Filipino politician and a labor leader Rafael Marques Mariano is a Brazilian footballer born in Brazil who currently plays for Vestel Manisaspor. Anakpawis is a party-list in the Philippines. The party-list is the electoral wing of the radical Trade union movement Kilusang Mayo Uno Crispin Beltran of Anakpawis was arrested on February 25 on charges of inciting to sedition and rebellion. Events 138 - The Emperor Hadrian adopts Antoninus Pius, effectively making him his successor To avoid further arrest, the other five found shelter at the Batasan Complex. The Batasang Pambansa ( English: National Legislature) also known by its nickname the Batasan, was the former Parliament of the Philippines

On Saturday, February 25, the office of the Daily Tribune, a newspaper known as a hard-hitting critic of the Arroyo administration, was raided. Events 138 - The Emperor Hadrian adopts Antoninus Pius, effectively making him his successor After the raid, an issuance of Journalism Guideline followed, authored by the government in order to cope with the "present abnormal situation", according to then Chief of Staff Michael Defensor. The move to suppress freedom of the press against the Daily Tribune was criticized by Reporters Without Borders. Freedom Constitutional or statutory protections pertaining to freedom of the press ^[21]

The decree was lifted on March 3, 2006. Events 1284 - Statute of Rhuddlan incorporated the Principality of Wales into England 1575 - Indian Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. However the opposition, lawyers, and concerned citizens filed a complaint in the Supreme Court contesting the constitutionality of PP 1017. The court, on May 4, declared the proclamation constitutional, but said it was illegal to issue warrantless arrests and seize private institutions. Events 1256 - The Augustinian monastic order is constituted at the Lecceto Monastery when Pope Alexander IV

The Manila Peninsula Rebellion

Main article: Manila Peninsula rebellion

The Peninsula Manila Rebellion was a rebellion in the Philippines on November 29, 2007. The Manila Peninsula rebellion occurred on November 29, 2007 at The Peninsula The Philippines ( Filipino: Pilipinas, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines (fil ''Republika ng Pilipinas'' RP Events 1777 - San Jose California, is founded as el Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Detained Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, General Lim and other Magdalo officials walked out of their trial and marched through the streets of Makati City, called for the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and seized the second floor of The Peninsula Manila Hotel along Ayala Avenue. Antonio Fuentes Trillanes IV (born August 6, 1971 in Manila, Philippines) is a currently detained Senator of the Republic of the Philippines Magdalo was the name of two military organizations in the Philippines: A faction of the Katipunan chapter in Cavite, mostly made The City of Makati, or simply The Peninsula Manila (colloquially The Manila Peninsula) is a hotel in the Philippines. Ayala Avenue is an Avenue in Makati City in the Philippines. It is one of the busiest thoroughfares in Metro Manila, crossing through the heart Former Vice-President Teofisto Guingona also joined the march to the hotel. Teofisto T Guingona Jr (born July 4, 1928 in San Juan, Rizal) was the Vice President of the Philippines from 2001 to 2004

Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Brigadier Gen. Danilo Lim surrendered to authorities after an armored personnel carrier rammed into the lobby of the hotel. ^[22] Director Geary Barias declared that the standoff at the Manila Peninsula Hotel is over as Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim along with other junior officers agreed to leave the hotel and surrender to Barias after the 6 hour siege. ^[23] There was difficulty getting out for a while due to the tear gas that was covering the area where they were hiding.

Days after the mutiny, the Makati City Regional Trial Court dismissed the rebellion charges against all the 14 civilians involved in the siege, and ordered their release.

National Broadband Network Scandal

Main article: Philippine National Broadband Network controversy

The Philippine National Broadband Network controversy is a political affair that centers upon allegations of corruption primarily involving Former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman Benjamin Abalos, First Gentleman Mike Arroyo and President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regarding the proposed government-managed National Broadband Network (NBN) for the Philippines and the awarding of its construction to the Chinese firm Zhong Xing Telecommunication Equipment Company Limited (ZTE), a telecommunications and networking equipment provider. The Philippine National Broadband Network controversy (or the NBN/ZTE deal NBN/ZTE mess) is a political affair that centers upon allegations of corruption primarily The Philippine National Broadband Network controversy (or the NBN/ZTE deal NBN/ZTE mess) is a political affair that centers upon allegations of corruption primarily Functions of the Commission Under the Constitution the Commission on Elections is independent of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches of the Philippine Benjamin Abalos is a politician and was a former chairman of the Philippine Commission on Election. Jose Miguel "Mike" Tuason Arroyo (born June 27, 1946) is the husband of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the current President of the ZTE (Chinese：中兴通讯 ( Z hong Xing T elecommunication E quipment Company Limited is a global provider of telecommunications equipment and network

The issue has captivated Filipino politics since it erupted in Philippine media around August 2007, largely through the articles of newspaper columnist Jarius Bondoc of the Philippine Star. The Philippine Star is a daily broadsheet circulated nationwide in the Philippines. It has also taken an interesting turn of events, including the resignation of Abalos as COMELEC chairman, the alleged bribery of congressmen and provincial governors (dubbed as "Bribery in the Palace"), the unseating of Jose de Venecia, Jr. as House Speaker, and the alleged "kidnapping" of designated National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) consultant-turned-NBN/ZTE witness Rodolfo Noel "Jun" Lozada, Jr. Early life and career De Venecia was born in Dagupan to Judge Jose R

The Spratly Islands Joint Exploration Agreement

Main article: Policies, activities and history of the Philippines in Spratly Islands#JMSU Controversy

In connection to the Philippine National Broadband Network controversy, The Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU) is a tripartite agreement between the Philippines, China and Vietnam to conduct seismic exploration in an area spanning 142,886 square kilometers west of Palawan. This article discusses the policies activities and history of the Republic of the Philippines in the Spratly Islands. The Philippine National Broadband Network controversy (or the NBN/ZTE deal NBN/ZTE mess) is a political affair that centers upon allegations of corruption primarily Palawan is an Island province of the Philippines located in the MIMAROPA region. More specifically it is an agreement between Philippine National Oil Company -Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC), China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) and Vietnam Oil and Gas Corporation (PetroVietnam), that was signed in September 2004 and took effect in July 2005. Philippine National Oil Company, owners of 40% stake in Petron, is a Philippine state owned company China National Offshore Oil Corporation ( CNOOC,,, Chinese: 中国海洋石油总公司 Pinyin: Zhōngguó Háiyáng Shíyóu Zǒnggōngsī ^[24] JMSU has already finished the first phase of the seismic exploration which lasted from September 1 to November 16, 2006, covering 11,000 line kilometers. Events 462 - Possible start of first Byzantine indiction cycle. Events 534 - A second and final revision of the Codex Justinianus is published Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. A Chinese vessel conducted the survey, Vietnam processed the data gathered and this was interpreted by PNOC-EC in Manila. The City of Manila The second phase started in October 2007, covering 11,800 line kilometers. It was supposedly to end January 2008.

Economy

President Arroyo, President Bush and other state leaders at the 2004 APEC Trade Summit

Arroyo, a practicing economist, has made the economy the focus of her presidency. Early in her presidency, Arroyo implemented a controversial policy of holiday economics, adjusting holidays to form longer weekends with the purpose of boosting domestic tourism and allowing Filipinos more time with their families. ^[25] Economic growth in terms of gross domestic product has averaged 4. 6% during the Arroyo presidency from 2001 up to the end of 2005. This is higher than previous recent presidents when compared to the 3. 8% average of Aquino, the 3. María Corazón Cojuangco-Aquino (born María Corazón Sumulong Cojuangco on January 25, 1933) widely known as Cory Aquino, was the 11th 7% average of Ramos, and the 2. Fidel Valdez Ramos (born March 18, 1928) was the 12th President of the Philippines. 8% average of Joseph Estrada. Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines Inflation during the Arroyo presidency has been the lowest since 1986, averaging 2. 5%. ^[26]

Arroyo's handling of the economy has earned praise from observers including former US President Bill Clinton, who praised Arroyo for making "tough decisions" that put the Philippine economy back in shape. William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton (born William Jefferson Blythe III, August 19 1946 served as the forty-second President of the United States ^[27]

There has been growing concern among experts, however, about inconsistencies in official statistics on growth, income and poverty, which raise doubts about the reliability of the economic growth data. ^[28] The managing director of the World Bank, Juan Jose Daboub, criticized the administration for not doing enough to curb corruption. ^[29][30]

It was once reported that a series of 100-peso bills misspelling her name as "Arrovo" were released during the early part of her presidency. Most of these bills were withdrawn from circulation.

A controversial expanded value added tax (e-VAT) law, considered the centerpiece of the Arroyo administration's economic reform agenda^[31], was implemented in November 2005, aiming to complement revenue-raising efforts that could plug the country's large budget deficit. Value added tax ( VAT) or goods and services tax ( GST) is a consumption Tax levied on value added. The tax measure boosted confidence in the government's fiscal capacity and helped to strengthen the Philippine peso, making it East Asia's best performing currency in 2005-06. The peso ( Filipino: piso) ( sign: ₱; code: PHP) is the currency of the Philippines. ^[32] The peso strengthened by nearly 20% in 2007, making it by far Asia's best performing currency for the year, a fact attributed to a combination of increased remittances from overseas Filipino workers and a strong domestic economy. An Overseas Filipino is a person of Philippine origin who lives outside of the Philippines. ^[33]

International relations

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with George W. Bush during the latter's state visit to the Philippines in 2003.

The Arroyo administration has forged a strong relationship with the United States. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Arroyo was one of the first world leaders who expressed support for the US-led coalition against global terrorism in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, and remains one of its closest allies in the war on terror. The War on Terrorism (also known as the War on Terror) is the common term for the military political and legal, and ideological conflict and specifically for U ^[34] Following the US-led invasion of Iraq, in July 2003 the Philippines sent a small humanitarian contingent which included medics and engineers. The Iraq War, also known as the Second Gulf War, the Occupation of Iraq, or the War in Iraq, is an ongoing Military campaign These troops were recalled in July 2004 in response to the kidnapping of Filipino truck driver Angelo de la Cruz. ^[34] With the hostage takers demands met, the hostage was released. ^[34] The force was previously due to leave Iraq the following month. ^[34] The early pullout drew international condemnation, with the United States protesting against the action, saying giving in to terrorist demands should not be an option. ^[34]

Arroyo's foreign policy is anchored on building strong ties with the United States, East Asian and Southeast Asian nations, and countries where overseas Filipino workers work and live. An Overseas Filipino is a person of Philippine origin who lives outside of the Philippines. ^[35] In 2007, the Philippines was host to the 12th ASEAN Summit in Cebu City. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN holds annual meetings in relation to economic and cultural development of Southeast Asian countries The City of Cebu ( Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo, Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu) is the capital of

On August 21, 2007, Gloria's administration asked the Senate of the Philippines to ratify a $4bn (£2bn) trade deal with Japan (signed on 2006 with the former Japanese prime minister Junichiro Koizumi), which would create more than 300,000 jobs (by specifically increasing local exports such as shrimp to Japan). Events 1192 - Minamoto Yoritomo becomes Seii Tai Shōgun and the De facto ruler of Japan. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The Senate of the Philippines ( Filipino: Senádo ng Pilipínas) is the upper chamber of the bicameral Legislature of the Philippines, the For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Japan topics. is a Japanese politician who served as Prime Minister of Japan from 2001 to 2006 True shrimp are swimming decapod Crustaceans classified in the Infraorder Caridea, found widely around the world in both fresh Japan also promised to hire at least 1,000 Philippine nurses. The opposition-dominated senate objected on the ground that toxic wastes would be sent to the Philippines; the government denied this due to the diplomatic notes which stated that it would not be accepting Japanese waste in exchange for economic concessions. ^[36]

Domestic policies

Charter change

In 2005, Arroyo initiated a movement for an overhaul of the constitution to transform the present presidential-bicameral republic into a federal parliamentary-unicameral form of government. ^[37] At her 2005 State of the Nation Address, she claimed "The system clearly needs fundamental change, and the sooner the better. It's time to start the great debate on Charter Change". ^[38]

In late 2006, the House of Representatives shelved a plan to revise the constitution through constituent assembly. The House of Representatives of the Philippines ( Filipino: Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan ng Pilipinas) is the lower chamber of the Congress of the Philippines A constituent assembly is a body elected with the purpose of drafting and in some cases adopting a Constitution. ^[39]

Executive Order No. 464 and calibrated preemptive response

How the House of Representatives voted in favor (green) and against (blue) in impeaching Arroyo

In late September 2005, Arroyo issued an executive order stating that demonstrations without permits would be pre-emptively stopped. Then members of the military testified in Congressional hearings that they were defying a direct order not to testify about their knowledge of the election scandal. There is the issuance of Executive Order No. 464 forbidding government officials under the executive department from appearing in congressional inquiries without President Arroyo's prior consent. Executive Order No 464 (popularly known as EO 464) is a controversial executive order issued in the Philippines on September 26, 2005 by [1] These measures were challenged before the Supreme Court, which apparently declared some sections as unconstitutional. The Supreme Court of the Philippines ( Filipino: Kataas-taasang Hukuman ng Pilipinas or Korte Suprema) is the country's highest judicial court as well Constitutionality is the status of a law, a procedure or an act's accordance with the laws or guidelines set forth in the applicable Constitution.

Human rights

Gloria Arroyo flanked by United States Marines.

A May 2006 Amnesty International report expressed concern over the sharp rise in vigilante killings of militant activists and community workers in the Philippines. Amnesty International (commonly known as Amnesty or AI) is a Western based international Non-governmental organization which defines its mission as "to ^[40] Task Force Usig, a special police unit tasked to probe reported extra-judicial killings, by state run death squads counts 115 murders and says most of these are the result of an internal purge by communist rebels. For extrajudicial executions see also Assassination Extra-judicial killings are the illegal killing of leading political trades union dissidents A death squad is an armed Squad that kills civilians terrorists or guerillas Communism is a Socioeconomic structure that promotes the establishment of an egalitarian, classless, stateless Society based ^[41] Human rights groups put the number as high as 830.

These violations were alleged to have been committed against left-leaning organizations and party-list groups including BAYAN, Bayan Muna and Anakpawis. Bayan Muna ( English: Nation First is a progressive political party in the Philippines Anakpawis is a party-list in the Philippines. The party-list is the electoral wing of the radical Trade union movement Kilusang Mayo Uno These organizations accuse the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines for the deaths of these political opponents. The Philippine National Police ( PNP) ( Filipino: Pambansang Pulisya ng Pilipinas) is the National police force of the Republic of the Philippines The Armed Forces of the Philippines ( AFP) ( Filipino: Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas) is composed of the Philippine Army, Philippine Arroyo has condemned political killings "in the harshest possible terms" and urged witnesses to come forward. "The report, which Melo submitted to Arroyo last month, reportedly linked state security forces to the murder of militants and recommended that military officials, notably retired major general Jovito Palparan, be held liable under the principle of command responsibility for killings in their areas of assignment. "^{[42] [43] [44] [45] [46]}

General Palparan who retired September 11, 2006 has been appointed by President Arroyo to be part of the Security Council. Events 9 - The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest ends 506 - The Bishops of Visigothic Gaul Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. This has alarmed left-leaning political parties about the potential for human rights violations. ^[47]

An independent commission was assembled in August 2006 to investigate the killings. Headed by former Supreme Court Justice Jose Melo, the group known as the Melo Commission concluded that most of the killings were instigated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, but found no proof linking the murder of activists to a "national policy" as claimed by the left-wing groups. Jose AR Melo (born May 30, 1932) is a Filipino lawyer and jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines The Armed Forces of the Philippines ( AFP) ( Filipino: Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas) is composed of the Philippine Army, Philippine On the other hand the report "linked state security forces to the murder of militants and recommended that military officials, notably retired major general Jovito Palparan, be held liable under the principle of command responsibility for killings in their areas of assignment. "^[41] Stricter anti-terror laws have also caused some concern in recent years.

Under Arroyo's government, the Philippines has become second only to Iraq as the world's riskiest place to report the news, with 23 journalists killed since 2003^[48]

In her July 23, 2007 State of the Nation Address, Arroyo has set out her agenda for her last three years in office, and called for legislation to deal with a spate of political killings that have brought international criticism to her presidency. Events 1632 - Three hundred colonists bound for New France depart from Dieppe France. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The State of the Nation Address ( Filipino: Talumpati sa Kalagayan ng Bansa, abbreviated SONA) is an annual event in the Republic of the Philippines She promised to bring peace to the troubled south, and also defended a controversial new anti-terrorism legislation. Arroyo told the joint session of Congress that "I would rather be right than popular. "^[49] Lawmakers and lawyers, however, were dismayed by the SONA's failure to highlight and address this major hindrance to human rights. Specifically, the Alternative Law Groups (ALG) echoed the lawmakers’ position that Mrs Arroyo failed to take responsibility for the problem. ^[50]

In 2007, incidences of extrajudicial killings dropped 87%, with the decline attributed to the creation of a special task force to handle the killings. ^[51]

Amnesty proclamation

On September 5, 2007, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Amnesty Proclamation 1377 for members of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army; other communist rebel groups; and their umbrella organization, the National Democratic Front. Events 1590 - Alexander Farnese 's army forces Henry IV of France to raise the siege of Paris. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The Communist Party of the Philippines (in Filipino: Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas) is the leading Communist party in the Philippines. The New People's Army ( NPA) is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines. The amnesty will cover the crime of rebellion and all other crimes "in pursuit of political beliefs," but not including crimes against chastity, rape, torture, kidnapping for ransom, use and trafficking of illegal drugs and other crimes for personal ends and violations of international law or convention and protocols "even if alleged to have been committed in pursuit of political beliefs. Amnesty (from the Greek amnestia, oblivion is a legislative or executive act by which a state restores those who may have been guilty of an offense against it to " The National Committee on Social Integration (NCSI) will issue a Certificate of Amnesty to qualified applicants. Implementing rules and regulations are being drafted and the decree will be submitted to the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives for their concurrence. The Senate of the Philippines ( Filipino: Senádo ng Pilipínas) is the upper chamber of the bicameral Legislature of the Philippines, the The House of Representatives of the Philippines ( Filipino: Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan ng Pilipinas) is the lower chamber of the Congress of the Philippines The proclamation becomes effective only after Congress has concurred. ^[52]

Estrada pardon

On October 25, 2007, Arroyo granted pardon to Joseph Estrada based on the recommendation by the Department of Justice. Events 1147 - The Portuguese, under Afonso I, and Crusaders from England and Flanders conquer Lisbon after a Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. A pardon is the forgiveness of a crime and the penalty associated with it Jose Marcelo Ejercito (born on April 19, 1937) better known as Joseph Ejercito Estrada, or Erap, is a Film actor in the Philippines Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye quoted the signed Order: "In view hereof in pursuant of the authority conferred upon me by the Constitution, I hereby grant Executive clemency to Joseph Ejercito Estrada, convicted by the Sandiganbayan of plunder and imposed a penalty of reclusion perpetua. He is hereby restored to his civil and political rights. " Bunye noted that Estrada committed in his application not to seek public office, and he would be free from his Tanay resthouse on October 26, noon. ^[53][54][55]

The Sumilao Farmers' March

On December 3, 2007, 55 farmers of the Higaonon tribe from Sumilao, Bukidnon arrived in Metro Manila, 2 months after their march through 13 provinces from Mindanao to ask the government to stop the conversion of the land they are claiming into a hog farm. Events 1800 - War of the Second Coalition: Battle of Hohenlinden, French Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Sumilao is a 4th class municipality in the province of Bukidnon, Philippines. Metropolitan Manila ( Filipino: Kalakhang Maynila, Kamaynilaan) or the National Capital Region (NCR ( Filipino: Pambansang Mindanao is the second largest and easternmost Island in the Philippines. The farmers petitioned the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to issue a cease-and-desist order (CDO) on the contested 144-hectare property in Barangay (village) San Vicente, Sumilao which San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) converted into a hog farm. The Supreme Court of the Philippines had earlier dismissed the farmers' rights lack of legal standing. The Supreme Court of the Philippines ( Filipino: Kataas-taasang Hukuman ng Pilipinas or Korte Suprema) is the country's highest judicial court as well Farmer Tuminhay stated that: “Our titles were cancelled because Norberto Quisumbing was allowed to convert his land on condition that he would implement a five-year development plan. Since he did not implement the plan, it is only proper that DAR renew the CARP process and give us back our titles. ” Quisumbing's development plan for the property included the establishment of a development academy, a cultural center, an institute for livelihood science, a museum, library, golf course, a sports development complex, an agro-industrial park, forest development and support facilities, and construction of a 360-room hotel, restaurant, housing projects, inter alia. ^[56] On December 17, 2007, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo revoked the conversion order on the disputed 144-hectare lot in Sumilao, Bukidnon, resulting to the return of the land ownership to the 55 members of the Higaonon tribe farmers who marched 1,700 kilometers for 2 months from Mindanao to Metro Manila. Events 546 - Gothic War (535–554: The Ostrogoths of King Totila Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Sumilao is a 4th class municipality in the province of Bukidnon, Philippines. Mindanao is the second largest and easternmost Island in the Philippines. Metropolitan Manila ( Filipino: Kalakhang Maynila, Kamaynilaan) or the National Capital Region (NCR ( Filipino: Pambansang The order, signed by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, reads: “Wherefore premises considered and as recommended by DAR, the petition for cancellation and/or revocation of the conversion order covering 144 hectares of land. Eduardo R Ermita, the current Executive Secretary of the Philippines, and spokesperson for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo . . is hereby granted. ” San Miguel Foods as landowner must be paid the current value of the property before the land can be distributed to the farmers. ^[57]

Criticism and public perception

According to a survey conducted by Pulse Asia from October 20 to 31, a pluralty of Filipinos (at 42%, beating former president and strongman Ferdinand Marcos by 7%) consider Arroyo the "most corrupt (president) in the history of the Philippines". Pulse Asia Inc is a Public opinion Polling body in the Philippines. Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralín Marcos ( September 11, 1917 &ndash September 28, 1989) was President of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986 ^[58] A November 30 - December 3, 2007 Social Weather Stations survey found Arroyo's net satisfaction rating at -16 (32% satisfied minus 48% dissatisfied). This article incorporates Public domain text from the library of the Http//www ^[59]

Appendix

Arroyo is both Chief Scout of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and Chief Girl Scout of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. This article is about the youth movement For the article on the military unit please see Philippine Scouts. The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP is the national Guiding association for girls and young women of the Philippines. ^[60][61]

References

External links

• Office of the President of the Philippines
• President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo official website
• Reporter's Notebook: Ang Palasyo Reporter's Notebook Special, 12/04/2007