Philippines flagPolitics & Government Guide · Philippines

Politics & Government Guide in Philippines

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions

The Philippines operates as a presidential republic under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., elected in 2022, facing political tensions over 2024 constitutional reform efforts between the House and Senate. Dynastic politics and oligarchic structures persist, with a flawed democracy classification and moderate stability. Key focuses include budget expansion, security alliances, and economic reforms.

Political Stability

Poor

Corruption Index

Below Average

Democracy Index

Moderate

Government Type

Presidential republic

Legal System

Civil law system

Head of State

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.(since 2022)

Head of Government

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.(Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)since 2022

Political Indicators

Political Stability
-0.25Rank #88

Scale: -2.5 to 2.5

Moderate

World Bank (2024)

Corruption Index
34Rank #116

Scale: 0-100

Transparency International (2024)

Press Freedom
62.5Rank #132

Scale: 0-100

Reporters Without Borders (2024)

Democracy Index
6.44Rank #54

Scale: 0-10

Flawed democracy

Economist Intelligence Unit (2023)

Legislature

Type:bicameral
Upper House:Senate (24 seats)
Lower House:House of Representatives (316 seats)

Major Political Parties

Partido Federal ng Pilipinas(PFP)

Center-right

224 seats
Lakas-CMD(Lakas)

Center-right

30 seats
Nacionalista Party(NP)

Center

31 seats

Voting Rights

Citizens aged 18 and above have full voting rights in national and local elections

Recent Developments

  • Ongoing constitutional reform attempts in 2024 led by President Marcos and House allies, opposed by Senate
  • Approval of PHP 5.768 trillion national budget for 2024 focusing on economic recovery
  • Enhanced US-Philippines defense cooperation amid South China Sea tensions in 2024
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal
Constitution1987
Provinces and cities82