Jose P. Laurel Delivers A Speech For Jap Occupation Anniversary

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

DECEMBER 9, 1942

Jose P. Laurel, the Commissioner of the Interior during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines delivered a speech entitled “The Birth of a New Philippines” which was aired on Station KZRH. 

His speech, which was in connection with the first anniversary of the Greater East Asia War mentioned that Japan “was not at war with the Filipino people, that we are her friends, that we should look up to her as an elder brother, guiding us to the path of freedom and self-respect. How well Japan has lived up to these promises is amply demonstrated by her acts.”     

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: opac.filipinaslibrary.org.ph

Jose P. Laurel Takes Oath As President

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

OCTOBER 14, 1943

The Japanese-sponsored Philippine Republic was inaugurated. 

Supreme Court Chief Justice Jose Yulo administered the oath of office to Jose P. Laurel, who was sworn in as President of the Republic of the Philippines. 

The Philippine flag, which was used during the Philippine-American War, was hoisted by former President Emilio Aguinaldo and Gen. Artemio Ricarte. 

Later in the afternoon, Laurel signed the Japan-Philippines Pact of Alliance which provided political, economic and military cooperation between the two countries. 

 (Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: malacanang.gov.ph

The Preparatory Committee For Philippine Independence

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JUNE 18, 1943

The Japanese High Command gave an order to create a Preparatory Committee for Philippine Independence with the aim of making a constitution. 

The task was given to the KALIBAPI (Kapisanan sa Paglilingkod sa Bagong PiIipinas), a political party created by the Philippine Executive Commision headed by Jorge Vargas. 

After the constitution was finished and ratified, an election was held for the members of the unicameral National Assembly. Benigno S. Aquino Sr. became the speaker. Jose P. Laurel was elected president of the 2nd Philippine Republic.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan Uy)

Photo credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/