Republic of the Philippines

DAVAO DE ORO STATE COLLEGE

Compostela, Davao de Oro
www.cvsc.edu.ph | ted.compostela@ddosc.edu.ph

HISTORICAL ODYSSEY OF CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA:

POETIC DOMINION IN VISAYAN CULTURE
______________________________

A Historical Figure Research

Presented to
REY JOHN B. REBUCAS, LPT, MAEE
Davao De Oro State College
Montevista, Davao de Oro, 8801

_______________________________

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

EEd 6: Teaching Social Studies in Primary Grades
(History and Government)

_______________________________

ABESA, DOLLY BABE D.

ADLAWAN, JINAMAE E.

ARANCES, ZYNINTH CLAIRE C.

BALMES, SHERLY S.

EXCLAMADO, ANGEL MARY CLAIRE D.

MILLANES, JOYCE S.

PATUMBON, JUSTINE LEE J.

REVILLA, RITCHIE G.

TIO, MARIBETH B.

April 10, 2024

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2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researcher of this project would like to thank first to our, Almighty God for

His enduring grace, guidance and protection that He has bestowed upon us during we

needed to get through all the difficulties of this research project. To our parents who

have continuously supported and provide financially to accomplish this study and their

parental presence.

We would also like to thank our fellow classmates and friends for the stimulating

discussion, for the sleepless night we’re working together for the deadlines, and for all

the fun we had.

Our instructor Sir Rey John B. Rebucas, LPT, MAEE, we would also like to

express our sincerest gratitude for his knowledge and patience in imparting his

expertise and unwavering dedication, enriched our learning experience about this field

of study. We are thankful for his guidance, which has led us to discover the significant

contributions of the Philippine National President. Thank you for inspiring and

empowering us to reach new heights of knowledge and skill. Furthermore, it has

increased our empathy and comprehension of our history.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Title Page i

Acknowledgement ii

Table of Contents iii

CHAPTER

1 BIOGRAPHY OF CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA 5

2 REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES/LITERATURES 7

3 ANALYSIS OF THE HISTORICAL CONTRIBUTIONS 13

OF CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA

4 INTERPRETATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS 15

5 BIBLIOGRAPHY 17

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 CHAPTER 1

BIOGRAPHY OF CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA

EARLY LIFE (NOVEMBER 4, 1896 – JUNE 14, 1971)

Garcia was born in Talibon, Bohol, Philippines on November 4, 1896, to

Policronio Garcia and Ambrosia Polestico, who were both natives of Bangued, Abra.

Garcia grew up with politics, with his father serving as a municipal mayor for four terms.

On May 24, 1933, he married Leonila Dimataga. The couple had a daughter, Linda

Garcia- Ocampos, and their three grandchildren.

He acquired his primary education in his native town Talibon, then took his

secondary education in Cebu Provincial High School, now Abellana National High

School, both at the top of his class. Initially, he pursued his college education at

Silliman University in Dumaguete City. Negros Oriental, and later studied at the

Philippine Law School, then the College of Law of National University, where he earned

his law degree in 1923 and later, where he was awarded the honorary degree Doctor of

Humanities, Honoris Causa from the National University in 1961. He also received an

honorary doctorate degree from Toyo University in Japan He was among the top ten

law students in the 1923 bar examination. Rather than practice law right away, he

worked as a teacher for two years at Bohol Provincial High School. He became famous

for his poetry in Bohol, where he earned the nickname "Prince of Visayan Poets" and

the "Bard from Bohol. Carlos Polestico Garcia entered politics in 1925, scoring an

impressive victory to become Representative of the Third District of Bohol.

He was elected for another term in 1928 and served until 1931. He was elected

Governor of Bohol in 1933, but served only until 1941 when he successfully ran for

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Senate, but he was unable to serve due to the Japanese occupation of the Philippines

during the World War II. Carlos P. Garcia refused to cooperate with the Japanese

during the war. He did not surrender when he was placed on the wanted list with a price

on his head. He instead and took part in the guerilla activities and served as adviser in

the free government organized in Bohol. He assumed the office when Congress re-

convened in 1945 after Allied liberation and the end of the war. When he resumed

duties as senator after the war, he was chosen Senate majority floor leader. The press

consistently voted him as one of the most outstanding senators. Simultaneously, he

occupied a position in the Nacionalista Party. He presided over the Manila Conference

of 1954, which resulted in the formation of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization, and

he regularly headed the Philippine delegation to SEATO conferences. When he

became President in March, 1957, Mr. Garcia promised to continue the policies of

former President Magsaysay. He stated at the time that his two cardinal principles were

“to maintain and improve Philippine‐American relations and foster closer ties with our

Asian neighbors.” The prevalence of graft and corruption in the government,

institutional carryover from previous administrations, and U.S. disfavor of his Filipino

First Policy put Garcia on the defensive and led partly to his defeat in the 1961

elections. MANILA, June 14— Carlos P. Garcia, President of the Philippines from 1957

to 1961, died of a heart attack on 5: 57 pm at his residence in Quezon City. He was 74

years old.

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 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES/LITERATURE

CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA (1957-1961)

According to the House of Representatives (2020) which stated that President

Carlos P. Garcia, the eighth president of the Philippines, is a revered son of Bohol. His

legacy includes the "Filipino First Policy," which prioritized Filipino businessmen over

foreign investments and products. Garcia also implemented the Austerity Program to

curb corruption and promote wise spending industry, and honesty. He also shortened

the lease of US bases in the Philippines to 25 years and renewable for up to five years.

His administration emphasized cultural revival and awarded awards to Filipino writers,

artists, historians, and scientists. Born in Talibon, Bohol, Garcia served as a

Representative, Governor, Senator, Vice President, and Foreign Affairs Secretary. He

was the first layman to lie in state in Manila Cathedral and the first President to be

buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

CONDITION OF THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines agreed to numerous conditions set by the United States as a

requirement for the Philippines to receive war reconstruction assistance. The flow of

imports had greatly increased making the Philippines heavily dependent of imported

products. Imports coming from the United States were also allowed to enter the country

without tariffs, the Philippines also promised not to change its exchange rate from $1 is

to P2. The condition of the Philippines before the administration of Garcia was the

Philippines is just recovering from the after effects of World War 2, with this the

Philippines experienced several economic challenges.

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PRESIDENT CARLOS P. GARCIA'S BACKGROUND AND POLITICAL CAREER

According to Michael (2024), President Carlos P. Garcia a remarkable figure in

the history of the Philippines. Known as CPG, Garcia was not only a teacher, poet, and

orator but also a lawyer and an influential politician. Carlos Polestico Garcia began his

political journey as the representative of Bohol’s 3rd district, where he passionately

served the interests of his constituents. His dedication and commitment to public

service quickly earned him recognition, paving the way for his rise in Philippine politics.

Building upon his early success, Garcia was elected as a senator, further solidifying his

influence in the political landscape. However, his journey did not end there. Following

the tragic death of President Ramon Magsaysay, Garcia succeeded to the presidency,

exhibiting his capabilities as a leader during a challenging time in the nation’s history.

The presidential election of 1957 marked a significant milestone in Garcia’s career, as

he secured a full term as the president of the Philippines. This victory showcased not

only his electoral prowess but also garnered immense support from the Filipino people,

who believed in his ability to lead the country. “The life of a nation is secure and

blessed today, not by materialistic ambitions but by spiritual values.” – Carlos P. Garcia

Carlos P. Garcia’s political career spanned various roles and responsibilities,

demonstrating his commitment to the betterment of the Philippines. His journey from a

dedicated teacher to a revered president reflects his unwavering determination and his

enduring impact on the nation’s political landscape.

ECONOMIC CHALLENGES FACED BY THE GARCIA ADMINISTRATION

The Garcia Administration faced significant economic challenges upon assuming

power. One of the main issues was an economy heavily dependent on imports, which

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posed a threat to the country’s economic stability. Additionally, there was a budget

deficit that needed to be addressed to ensure sustainable financial management. The

limited foreign exchange reserves further exacerbated the economic challenges of the

Garcia Administration. To mitigate this situation, the government implemented import

substitution policies and focused on promoting domestic industries. By encouraging the

production of goods within the country, the administration aimed to reduce reliance on

imports and create a more self-sustaining economy. Corruption was another prevalent

issue within the government during this period. Addressing this problem became crucial

in order to improve financial management and allocate resources effectively. By

tackling corruption and promoting transparency, the Garcia Administration aimed to

restore public trust and enhance economic stability. The limited foreign exchange

reserves further exacerbated the economic challenges of the Garcia Administration. To

mitigate this situation, the government implemented import substitution policies and

focused on promoting domestic industries. By encouraging the production of goods

within the country, the administration aimed to reduce reliance on imports and create a

more self-sustaining economy. Corruption was another prevalent issue within the

government during this period. Addressing this problem became crucial in order to

improve financial management and allocate resources effectively. By tackling corruption

and promoting transparency, the Garcia Administration aimed to restore public trust and

enhance economic stability.

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LAWS AND PROGRAMS

Filipino First Policy

This is the law that was passed by the Garcia administration, to give local

businessmen more priority over foreign investors. The government sector would help

local businessmen are entering industry that was filled with foreign competitors and

give them aid and sometimes financial assistance. Products of Filipino businessmen

were also preferred over foreign products (Takayagi, Y. 2014).

The people that benefitted from this policy are the businessmen of the Philippines,

they had an increase support and protection from the government. This enabled them

to help improve our economy at that time. Foreign investors were not totally ignored

they could still participate in investing in businesses in the country but there should be a

60-40 ratio of ownership within the business. The Garcia Administration, led by

President Carlos P. Garcia, implemented the Filipino First Policy and the Austerity

Program from 1957 to 1961. This period focused on prioritizing the development of

domestic industries, managing the country’s finances, and addressing corruption within

the government, Historian (2024).

Bohlen–Serrano Agreement

The Bohlen-Serrano Agreement was the law that shortened the original 99 year

lease of US bases here in the Philippines to 25 years, the agreement was renewable

for periods only up to 5 years.

Austerity Program

The Austerity Program was implemented by Garcia in order to curt the rampant

graft and corruption within the country. The program centered on wise spending,

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industry, thrift, trustworthiness, integrity and honesty. He also urged people to avoid

luxury items and to live a simple life and reminded government officials and employees’

corruption destroys the peoples trust in the government.

Republic Cultural Awards

The Garcia administration also put emphasis on cultural revival, due to the

colonization of many countries he felt that the revival of the Filipino culture was needed.

The award was given to Filipino artists, scientist, historians and writers. The main focus

of the society at the time was improving the economy.

ISSUES AND CONTROVERSIES

Garcia was criticized by foreign countries, especially the United States for his

anti-foreign policies. There was also corruption withing the Bureau of Internal Revenue

in which he had the implement the Austerity Program.

1957 Presidential Election

Incumbent President Carlos P. García won his opportunity to get a full term as

President of the Philippines after the untimely death of President Ramón Magsaysay in

a plane crash in March 1957. His running mate, Senator José Laurel, Jr. lost to

Pampanga Representative Diosdado Macapagal. This was the first time in Philippine

electoral history where a president was elected by a plurality and not majority, and in

which the president and vice president came from different parties (Philippines

Presidential History 2024).

Achievements

According to Encyclopedia of World Biography (2024), Garcia's main

achievement before he became president involved his activities as foreign policy expert

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for the government. As secretary of foreign affairs, he opened formal reparation

negotiations in an effort to end the nine-year technical state of war between Japan and

the Philippines, leading to an agreement in April 1954. During the Geneva Conference

on Korean unification and other Asian problems, Garcia as chairman of the Philippine

delegation attacked com munist promises in Asia and defended the U.S. policy in the

Far East. In a speech on May 7, 1954, the day of the fall of Dien Bien Phu, Garcia

repeated the Philippine stand for nationalism and opposition of communism.

Acted as chairman of the eight-nation Southeast Asian Security Conference held

in Manila in September 1954, which led to the development of the Southeast Asia

Treaty Organization, known as SEATO. Garcia's cardinal principles in foreign affairs, as

announced in a speech on November 30, 1957, were "to maintain and improve

Philippine-American relations" and "to foster closer ties with our Asian neighbors.

SUMMARY OF GOVERNANCE

The focus of the Garcia administration focused on economic independence from

foreign interest. Garcia wanted the Philippines to be an industrialized, self- sustaining

country that would not have to heavily rely on the products of foreign companies.

Garcia also tried implanting his Austerity Program in hopes of eliminating corruption in

his administration all the while bolstering moral fiber to the government leaders and

employees. At the end of his term Garcia was criticized for his lack of program for the

Filipino common man which was the focus of the next president Macapagal that is why

he lost the elected to him.

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 CHAPTER 3

ANALYSIS OF THE HISTORICAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF CARLOS POLESTICO

GARCIA

Carlos Polestico Garcia most significant contribution was his presidency in the

Philippines from 1957 to 1961, often noted for his” Filipino First Policy”, which aimed to

prioritize Filipino business and Industries over foreign countries, this policy was

significant as it is emphasized nationalism and economic independence. In addition,

Garcias administration prioritized agrarian reform for farmers. He also pursues Austerity

Program to reduce government spending and economic discipline.

Regarded as perhaps the greatest Boholano, Carlos P. Garcia served as a great

leader and an inspiration to his people, and his many contributions to his home

province and country are commemorated in the President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial

Park in Tagbilaran City. President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park is established to

commemorate the loving memory of the greatest Boholano, Carlos Polestico Garcia.

The park is located at Tagbilaran City; it sits on a rolling site with an area of 11 hectares,

chosen by the late president himself in 1939 when he was governor of Bohol. On the

park are an exquisite monument of marble base and a life-size bronze statue of Garcia

that was created by Bohol’s famous sculptor, National Artist Napoleon Abueva (Jane

Dacumos 2012).

The 2-storey residence of former Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia, it was built

from 1953-1954 on the former residence of the Jorolan family. As Garcia spent most of

the year in Manila, the Tagbilaran house was just a vacation house. Years after

Garcia’s death, the house was rented to the Provincial Government of Bohol for use as

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a provincial museum. The collection consists of preserved local flora and fauna, small

replicas of the century-old churches, as well as artifacts sourced from different parts of

the province. On September 4, 2009, it was declared as a heritage house by the

National Historical Commission of the Philippines. On November 25, 2011, the

management of the museum was transferred, from President Carlos P. Garcia

Foundation, Inc. (PCPGFI), to the Bohol provincial government. The Bohol Provincial

Museum collection is now located in the Bohol Branch of the National Museum of the

Philippines, in the Provincial Capitol Complex. Locals refer to it as the White House

largely because of the dominant color of the house paint. On display are the president’s

memorabilia such as photographs, medals and certificates, suits, and books. Also on

display are the opulent the wardrobe of the Mrs. Garcia and their only daughter,

paintings, and furniture belonging to the Garcia family including the former president’s

bed and work desk, the chess set which Garcia played with professor friends every

night and the Yamaha grand piano given by the Embassy of Japan, Benjie Layug

(2017).

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 CHAPTER 4

INTERPRETATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

Acknowledging pre-existing problems of the country becomes more appealing

and engaging when solutions to these problems are underscored by someone who is in

the seat of power such as the president, Balog (2019). From former President Garcia

likewise addressed this issue by pertaining to the government’s aim to provide the

fundamental needs of people. This resulted from his plan to revitalize the Filipino

enterprise and commercialization, which advanced his campaign called the Filipino First

Policy that prioritized Filipino-owned businesses and products made by Filipinos in the

late 1950s. Extract 3 analogously construes the objective of giving consideration and

motivation to different industries and sectors to contribute to the economic

transformation of the country during the administration of former President Macapagal

in the early 1960s. Carlos Polestico Garcia, often referred to as Carlos P. Garcia, was

the eighth President of the Philippines, serving from 1957 to 1961. Garcia was known

for his strong advocacy of Philippine nationalism and sovereignty. During his

presidency, he promoted the "Filipino First Policy," which prioritized Filipino

entrepreneurs and businesses over foreign interests. This policy aimed to strengthen

the Philippine economy and reduce dependence on foreign powers. Garcia's economic

policies focused on promoting self-reliance and economic independence. He

encouraged agricultural development and supported industries that would enhance the

country's economic self-sufficiency. His policies were aimed at reducing economic

disparities and empowering rural communities. Garcia was widely regarded as a man

of integrity and moral character. He was known for his honesty and simplicity, which

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earned him the nickname "The Prince of Visayan Poets." His leadership style was

characterized by his commitment to ethical governance and public service. Foreign

policy was marked by efforts to assert Philippine independence while maintaining

friendly relations with other nations. He pursued a policy of "Genuine Nationalism in

Foreign Relations," advocating for a balanced approach that safeguarded Philippine

interests without alienating key allies. Carlos Polestico Garcia presidency is often

viewed as a period of stability and modest progress for the Philippines. While his tenure

was relatively short, his emphasis on nationalism and economic development laid the

groundwork for subsequent administrations to continue pursuing these goals. His

policies continue to influence Philippine governance and economic strategies to some

extent. Like any leader, Garcia faced criticism and controversy during his presidency.

Some critics argue that his policies, such as the "Filipino First Policy," may have

hindered foreign investment and economic growth. Additionally, there were allegations

of corruption within his administration, although these claims remain subject to debate

and interpretation. Carlos Polestico Garcia's presidency left a mixed legacy, with

interpretations ranging from praise for his nationalist policies and ethical leadership to

criticism of his economic strategies and allegations of corruption. Ultimately, his impact

on Philippine history and politics reflects the complexities and challenges of leadership

in a developing nation striving for independence and progress.

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 CHAPTER 5

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Balog, J. (2019). Nationalism and Economic Development: The Filipino First Policy and

the Macapagal and Garcia Administrations. Philippine Studies: Historical

and Ethnographic Viewpoints, 67(1), 3-32.

Carlos P. Garcia. (n.d.). Retrieved March 18, 2024, from Encyclopedia.com:

https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-

transcripts-and-maps/carlos-p-garcia

Carlos P. Garcia. (n.d.). Retrieved April 5, 2024, from Encyclopedia Britannica:

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Carlos-P-Garcia

Carlos P. Garcia, Fourth State of the Nation Address, January 23, 1961. (1961, January

23). Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines.

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1961/01/23/carlos-p-garcia-fourth-

state-of-the nation-address-january-23-1961/

Carlos P. Garcia: The architect of economic nationalism. Emmanuel Dooc. (2020,

November 5). BusinessMirror.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2020/11/05/carlos-p-garcia-the-architect-

of-economic-nationalism/

Garcia, C. P. (2024, April 5). Philippines. Encyclopedia Britannica.

https://www.britannica.com/place/Philippines

Gonzales, R. (2020, December 10). Journey of the Barong Tagalog, 20th Century

Philippines Part 9: President Carlos P. Garcia. Pineapple Industries.

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 https://pineappleind.com/blogs/about-us/journey-of-the-barong-tagalog-

20th-century-philippines-part-9-president-carlos-p-garcia

Takagi, Y. (2014). The "Filipino First" Policy and the Central Bank, 1958-1961 Island of

State Strength and Economic Decolonization. Philippine Studies:

Historical & Ethnographic Viewpoints, 62(2), 233-261.

"Carlos P. Garcia." (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://enacademic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/459594

"Carlos P. Garcia, Ex-President Of the Philippines, Dead at 74." (1971, June 15). The

New York Times.

https://www.nytimes.com/1971/06/15/archives/carlospgarcia-

expresident-l-of-the-philippines-dead-at-741-head-of.html

"President Carlos P. Garcia, President of the Republic of the Philippines, 1957-1961."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/people/767/president-carlos-p-garcia

Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, the Boholano who married a Cebuana." Clarence Paul Oaminal.

(2016, July 20). The Freeman.

https://www.philstar.com/thefreeman/opinion/2016/07/20/1604689/pre-

carlos-p-garcia-boholano-who-married-cebuana

"Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (March 18, 1957-December 30, 1961)." Scribd.

https://www.scribd.com/document/681222985/Document-6

"President Carlos P. Garcia’s Background and Political Career." (n.d.). Retrieved from

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"The Garcia Administration: The Filipino First Policy and the Austerity Program (1957-

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1961)." Sinaunang Panahon. https://sinaunangpanahon.com/the-garcia

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program19571961/#google_vignette

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