Carlos P. Garcia - Presidents of the Philippines

Carlos P. Garcia

On March 18, 1957, the day after Magsaysay's death, vice -President Carlos P. Garcia took his oath as President of the Republic of the Philippines. He served the unexpired term of his predecessor. Pres. Garcia's administration was anchored on three basic policies. These were austerity, Filipino First Policy and cultural revival.

"AUSTERITY PROGRAM"

In his sincere desire to curb graft and corruption in the government, Pres. Garcia inaugurated an austerity program. He urged the people to lead simple lives and do away with luxurious lifestyles. He emphasized the values wise spending, industry, thrift, trustworthiness, integrity and honesty. Government officials and employees were reminded that a public office is a public trust and that graft and corruption destroy the people's trust in government.

Pres. Garcia was not very successful in his austerity program. Graft and corruption was not totally eliminated but his efforts were timely in strengthening the people's faith and confidence in the democratic process of the government.

"THE FILIPINO FIRST POLICY"

The Garcia administration sustained the economic growth of the country by giving full support to agriculture. The other industries were also promoted. Transportation and infrastructure were maintained in support of the economy.

It was Pres. Garcia who popularized economic nationalism through the Filipino First Policy. The Filipino First Policy gave priority or preference to Filipinos over all other foreigners in the acquisition of land and capital and in the operation of business, trade and industry. This encouraged Filipino businessman and entrepreneurs to engage activity in all economic activities in the country. The policy did not exclude foreigners were also allowed under the 60-40 percent equity. This meant that foreigners could invest capital up to 40 percent in any business or industry while the 60 percent were owned by Filipino citizens.

The Filipino First policy also aimed to encourage the people to patronize Philippine-made products and to promote Filipino labor.

"CULTURAL REVIVAL"

Because of the long years of colonial occupation many Filipinos had adopted some of the ways of the Spaniards and the Americans. Pres. Garcia felt that some of the cultural traditions of the Filipinos should be revived. He sponsored the annual Republic Cultural Awards to Filipino artists, scientists, historians, and writers. He encouraged the world tours of the Bayanihan Dance Troupe and other folkdance groups. He also continued the wearing of the barong Tagalog during special occasions.

Pres. Garcia also strengthened friendship with other countries particularly those of Southeast Asia.