The Adolescent and the Political Climate

in the Philippines“Wealth and power do not bring true blessings. True

blessings come from service especially for the poor and

the needy.”

Politics- A system of government

which has to do with the structure, organization

and administration of the State. (Aristotle)

Three Branches of Government

1.Legislative- Makes the laws- Made up of the

Senate and the Congress

Three Branches of Government

2. Judiciary- Interprets the laws- Made up of the Judges

with the Supreme Court as the highest agency

Three Branches of Government

3. Executive- Implements the laws- Headed by the President of

the country and composed of his/ her Cabinet Secretaries and local government units

• Each of those branches is supposedly co- equal with one another and independent.

• The true meaning and purpose of politics is services to the people of different political units for smooth administration of government.

• They are leaders at the same time servants of the people for their wages and the salaries come from the taxes collected from the people.

CIVIL AUTHORITY- the civil government (the state) with legitimate authority

SOLIDARITY- unity or oneness. The active and responsible participation of all in public life.

The Involvement of the Church in Politics

Principles that must guide Filipino Catholic’s participation in political

life1. Pursuit of the common good;2. Defence and promotion of justice;3. The spirit of service;4. Love and preference for the poor;5. Empowering people both as a

person process and as a goal of political activity.

Politics and Morality

• As Christians, we must first of all obey the laws of God, and as citizens, we must obey the laws of society.

Civil law- We are bound to obey all

laws which conform to God’s laws.

Patriotism- deep love for one’s country which prompts us to dedicate ourselves to promote those things which are good for our country and its citizens.

Treason- betrayal of one’s country. The opposite of patriotism.

Duties of Citizens

1. Support the government through the payment of taxes

2. Be willing to depend our country against aggression

3. Pray for our leader and our country