Political Leader and first President of the Independent Republic of the Philippines, Manuel Roxas was born on January 1, 1892, in Capiz, which is now known as Roxas City. His parents were Gerardo Roxas Sr. and Rosario Acuna. He took up Law in the University of the Philippines and graduated in 1913.

Manuel Roxas began his political career as a member of the municipal council of his hometown Capiz. He soon became governor and was then elected to the Philippines House of Representative, subsequently serving as Speaker of the House and member of the Council of State.

After World War II, Roxas was elected president of the commonwealth and was the last for independence was soon declaired (July 4, 1946).

Although Roxas was successful in getting rehabilitation funds from the United States (The country was then in shambles), he was forced to concede military bases, trade resttrictions for Philippines citizens, and special privilages for U.S. property owner and investor. His administration was marred by graft and corruption; moreover, the abuses of the provincial military police contributed to the rise of the left-wing Hukbalahap(Huks) movement in the countryside. His heavy handed attempts to crush the Huks led to wide-spread peasant disaffection.

Roxas did not stay long in office due to a heartattack in April 15, 1948.

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