Philippines Political Structure

Philippines Political Structure

While preparing for my trip to the Philippines two weeks ago, I decided to do some research on the current political structure of the Philippines and find out more about some significant political events. The current political structure is headed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and assisted by Vice President Noil De Castro, President Gloria Arroyo assumed power on 20 January 2001 when she replaced former president Joseph Estrada in the middle of his term. She won re-election in her own right in May 2004 for a six year term until 2010.

Joseph Estrada started out as an actor in Philippines, and his popularity amongst the locals encouraged him to enter politics. Initially, he cultivated himself as 'Robin Hood', committing to redistributing wealth and power. As time passed, rumours about his involvement in corruption and illegal businesses started surfacing and he admitted to having a number of children by different mistresses even though he was married. His support from the Filipinos faltered and in January 2001, they turned against him and forced him out of politics. He faced trial on counts of corruption and plunder. He was found guilty and given a life sentence in 2007. Six weeks later, his predecessor President Gloria Arroyo pardoned him and his is now a free man. It was speculated that the two parties made a secret deal, with Joseph Estrada never running for office again.