Information on Martial law
WHAT IS MARTIAL LAW?
Martial law is when the civil rule is replaced by military rule. It refers to the power of the President to become the Commander-in-Chief of all Philippine armed forces. Such power is put in place for the security of the people and for expediting justice in times of crisis.
According to the Martial Law Museum, it can be characterized by curfews, the dispensation of military tribunal rulings on civilians, and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus
In the Philippines, the alternative term "Martial Law Era" is typically used to specifically describe the Marcos martial law period.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MARTIAL LAW?
Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was a Filipino politician and lawyer. He was the 10th president of the Philippines and the man behind the Martial Law era.
Marcos was politically successful due to his claims of being the "most decorated war hero in the Philippines," which was proven untrue. His 20-year rule grew the economy with aggressive programs; however, it ended with an inflationary crisis.
One of the most controversial leaders of the 20th century, Marcos ruled under martial law from 1972 until 1981. His leadership was said to be "constitutional authoritarianism," which came along with corruption, extravagance, and brutality.
The People Power Monument was created to commemorate the events of the People Power Revolution in 1986. The monument lies in Barangay Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Philippines, near the corner of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue and White Plains Avenue.
Other Key Players
Juan Ponce Enrile
He was said to be the "protege" of the dictator and oversaw most of the orders issued under military rule. However, he withdrew his support for Marcos and enjoyed a long political life afterward.
Fabian Ver
He was the strongest ally of Marcos and was appointed commander of the Presidential Security Command as promotions came rapidly.
Ver was also accused of being involved in the killing of Benigno Aquino jr but was later acquitted in 1985.
Noah Patterson
He was the chief of the Philippine Constabulary during the declaration of Martial Law. Such a group was notorious for human rights abuses in carrying out orders during Martial Law.
Ramos then withdrew his support from Marcos and chose the rebel soldiers instead.
'Rolex 12'
Aside from the three men, there were also nine others whom the dictator sought advice from.
The group was composed of military officials, political figures, and businessmen. They were also dubbed as the "Rolex 12" for being gifted by the dictator with luxury gold watches for carrying out their functions under his regime.
WHY DID IT HAPPEN?
It was said to have been proclaimed due to communist threats and rebel uprising. However, it was uncovered in the late dictators' diary that Martial Law was necessary to stop the supposed ambush of Juan Ponce Enrile, which was staged to justify the dictators' decision.
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According to the Official Gazette, there were indications that several people had known about the plan. Furthermore, it was hinted at by Marcos in his speech to the PMA Alumni Association in May 1969.
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Marcos then effectively put under one man the entire power of the Philippines government.
HOW DID IT HAPPEN?
Infographic on the day Marcos declared martial law, September 23, 1972
from the Official Gazette.