Article III of the 1987 Philippine Constitution is dedicated to the Bill of Rights, which details the fundamental civil and political rights of every individual. These rights include freedom of speech, religion, assembly, the right to due process, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and many others, serving as safeguards against government abuses. Article VI deals with the Legislative Department, Article VII with the Executive Department, and Article XII with National Economy and Patrimony.

The 'Cry of Pugad Lawin' (or Balintawak, depending on historical interpretation and specific location) occurred on August 23, 1896. This event, led by Andres Bonifacio, marked the formal start of the Philippine Revolution as Katipuneros tore their cedulas (community tax certificates) as a symbol of their defiance against Spanish authority. The other dates are significant but do not correspond to the Cry of Pugad Lawin.

Republic Act No. 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, heavily promotes the '3Rs' – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – as primary strategies for waste minimization. It encourages source reduction of waste, proper segregation, composting, and recycling, rather than relying solely on landfilling or incineration (which is generally discouraged for mixed wastes). Developing new landfills is a last resort, and open dumping is prohibited.

Dr. Jose Rizal was condemned to death primarily for rebellion, sedition, and forming illegal associations. The Spanish colonial authorities considered his writings, particularly 'Noli Me Tángere' and 'El filibusterismo,' as instigating rebellion against their rule, despite Rizal's advocacy for peaceful reforms. While he was a physician and writer, these were not the charges for his execution. Treason against Spain was the overarching charge, manifested through rebellion and sedition.

This provision explicitly states that 'Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.' This is the cornerstone of popular sovereignty, meaning that the ultimate political power and authority are vested in the people. While separation of powers, federalism, and judicial review are important aspects of governance, popular sovereignty is the specific principle highlighted by the quoted text.

The most significant achievement of the Malolos Congress was the drafting and ratification of the Malolos Constitution. This constitution established the First Philippine Republic, making it the first republican constitution in Asia. While it did appoint Emilio Aguinaldo as president and declare independence, these were either prior events or consequences of the constitution's establishment. Negotiating peace with Spain was not its primary achievement; rather, it was asserting independence.

The three stars in the white triangle of the Philippine National Flag represent the three main island groups of the Philippines: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This symbolism was established during the flag's creation and remains a core aspect of its design. The other options are incorrect groupings or specific islands.

The Senate's concurrence in treaties is a classic example of checks and balances. While the Executive (President) negotiates and signs treaties, the Legislative (Senate) must concur (ratify) them for them to become valid and binding, thus checking the President's foreign policy powers. The President appointing cabinet members is an executive power. The Supreme Court declaring a law unconstitutional is also a check (judicial review), but the Senate's role in treaties is a direct legislative check on the executive. A local government unit collecting taxes is an exercise of its delegated powers, not a check on another branch.

Tinikling is a traditional Philippine folk dance that involves two or more dancers moving between and over two bamboo poles, which are clapped together in a rhythmic pattern. The dance mimics the movements of the tikling bird as it gracefully steps over traps set by farmers. Cariñosa is a courtship dance, Pandanggo sa Ilaw involves balancing oil lamps, and Singkil is a Maranao royal dance.

ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising ten Southeast Asian countries, which promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and socio-cultural integration among its members and other Asian states.

According to Article VI, Section 24 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, 'All appropriation, revenue or tariff bills, bills authorizing an increase of the public debt, bills of local application, and private bills shall originate exclusively in the House of Representatives, but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments.' This provision grants the House of Representatives the sole power to initiate these specific types of bills.

The Bataan Death March occurred in April 1942, shortly after the surrender of the main force of the Philippine and American troops in Bataan to the Japanese. The prisoners were forced to march approximately 60-69 miles (97-111 km) from Mariveles, Bataan, to Camp O'Donnell in Capas, Tarlac, under extremely harsh conditions.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is the primary government agency tasked with the overall implementation of the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 (RA 10066). It is the overall policy-making body, coordinating, and grants-giving agency for the preservation, development, and promotion of Philippine arts and culture. The National Museum is a cultural agency under NCCA, the Department of Tourism promotes tourism, and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines focuses on historical heritage.

Article VII, Section 4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that the President shall be elected by direct vote of the people for a term of six years, which shall begin at noon on the thirtieth day of June following the day of the election and shall end at noon of the same date, six years thereafter. The President shall not be eligible for any re-election.

Ferdinand Magellan was the Portuguese explorer who led the first circumnavigation of the Earth and 'discovered' the Philippines for Spain in 1521. He was killed in the Battle of Mactan by the forces of Lapu-Lapu. Miguel López de Legazpi established the first permanent Spanish settlement. Vasco da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who reached India, and Christopher Columbus explored the Americas for Spain.

The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is indeed the largest eagle in the world in terms of length and wing surface area. It is critically endangered and is the national bird of the Philippines. The Harpy Eagle is found in Central and South America, the Steller's Sea Eagle is found in Northeast Asia, and the Golden Eagle is found across the Northern Hemisphere.

The right against self-incrimination is a fundamental right guaranteed by Article III, Section 17 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. It states that 'No person shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.' This protection prevents the government from forcing individuals to provide testimony or evidence that could lead to their own criminal conviction. The right to due process ensures fair legal proceedings, the right to speedy trial ensures timely justice, and the right to counsel ensures legal representation.

The Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934 provided for the establishment of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and mandated a 10-year transition period leading to full Philippine independence from the United States. It superseded the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Act and outlined the process for drafting a Philippine constitution. It did not grant immediate independence, establish military bases (though existing ones remained), or declare the Philippines a U.S. state.

The Sinulog Festival is a major annual festival in Cebu City, celebrated every third Sunday of January in honor of the Santo Niño (Child Jesus). It is characterized by a street parade with participants dancing to the rhythm of drums and native gongs, chanting 'Pit Señor!'. Ati-Atihan is in Aklan, Dinagyang in Iloilo, and Kadayawan in Davao.

The Philippine Senate is composed of twenty-four (24) senators who are elected at large by the qualified voters of the Philippines. Their term of office is six (6) years, and no senator shall serve for more than two consecutive terms. The House of Representatives has a different number of members and a three-year term limit.

The Edsa People Power Revolution in February 1986 led to the peaceful overthrow of President Ferdinand Marcos's authoritarian regime, which had been in power for over two decades, much of it under Martial Law. Corazon Aquino was installed as the new president. Ramon Magsaysay, Diosdado Macapagal, and Fidel Ramos were other Philippine presidents but not the one ousted by the 1986 revolution.

Article XIV, Section 7 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'For purposes of communication and instruction, the official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and, until otherwise provided by law, English.' While Spanish and Arabic have historical and cultural significance, and various regional languages are recognized, English is explicitly named as an official language for specific purposes alongside Filipino.

Julian Felipe composed the music for the Philippine National Anthem in 1898, originally titled 'Marcha Nacional Filipina,' which was an instrumental piece. Jose Palma later wrote the Spanish lyrics 'Filipinas' in 1899. The current Filipino lyrics, 'Lupang Hinirang,' were adopted much later. Francisco Santiago and Nicanor Abelardo were other renowned Filipino composers but did not compose the national anthem's music.

Article VI, Section 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution specifies the qualifications for a Senator: (1) a natural-born citizen of the Philippines; (2) at least thirty-five years of age on the day of the election; (3) able to read and write; (4) a registered voter; and (5) a resident of the Philippines for not less than two years immediately preceding the day of the election. While many senators may have a law degree, it is not a constitutional requirement for the office.

Baybayin is an ancient Filipino writing system that was widely used in the Philippines before and during the early part of the Spanish colonial period. It is a syllabic script, meaning each character represents a syllable. Alibata is a common but incorrect term for Baybayin. Kawi and Surat are other scripts, but Baybayin is the most recognized and widely studied pre-colonial Filipino script.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is the government agency responsible for monitoring earthquake and volcanic activity, as well as issuing warnings and advisories related to these natural phenomena. PAGASA focuses on weather and climate, NDRRMC is for disaster risk reduction and management, and DENR is for environmental and natural resources.

Article VIII, Section 4 (1) of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that 'The Supreme Court shall be composed of a Chief Justice and fourteen Associate Justices.' This makes a total of fifteen members. The Chief Justice presides over the Court, and the Associate Justices make up the rest of the bench.

The Galleon Trade, which lasted from 1565 to 1815, primarily connected Manila in the Philippines with Acapulco in New Spain (Mexico). This trade route allowed for the exchange of goods between Asia and the Americas, with Manila serving as a major entrepôt for Asian goods destined for the New World and Europe.

Adobo is widely considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines. Its distinctive flavor comes from stewing meat (most commonly pork or chicken, or a combination) in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns. Sinigang is a sour soup, Lechon is roasted pig, and Kare-Kare is a peanut-based stew.

Article IX of the 1987 Philippine Constitution establishes three independent Constitutional Commissions: the Civil Service Commission (CSC), the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), and the Commission on Audit (COA). The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is also a constitutional body but is created under Article XIII, Section 17, and is not listed among the three independent Constitutional Commissions with specific constitutional powers over various aspects of governance.

Emilio Aguinaldo was the first President of the First Philippine Republic, also known as the Malolos Republic, which was inaugurated on January 23, 1899, in Malolos, Bulacan. He had previously declared Philippine independence on June 12, 1898. Andres Bonifacio was the Supremo of the Katipunan, Jose Rizal was the national hero, and Manuel L. Quezon was the first president of the Philippine Commonwealth.

Luzon is the largest island in the Philippines, both in terms of land area and population. It is home to the capital city, Manila. Mindanao is the second largest, and Visayas is a group of islands between Luzon and Mindanao. Palawan is a large island but not the largest.

Article XIII, Section 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution guarantees the rights of workers to self-organization, collective bargaining and negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right to strike in accordance with law. It also ensures security of tenure, humane conditions of work, and a living wage. While the right to profit-sharing may be provided by law or collective bargaining agreements, it is not explicitly enumerated as a fundamental right in this specific constitutional provision, unlike the others.

Andres Bonifacio was the Supremo (Supreme Leader) of the Katipunan and led the 'First Cry of Revolution' in August 1896, which involved the tearing of cedulas. This event signaled the start of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. Emilio Aguinaldo became president later, and Jose Rizal and Apolinario Mabini were prominent figures but not the leader of the Katipunan's initial armed uprising.

The United Nations (UN) is the international organization established in 1945 after World War II with the primary goals of maintaining international peace and security, fostering friendly relations among nations, and promoting social progress, better living standards, and human rights. ASEAN is a regional organization, NATO is a military alliance, and the World Bank is a financial institution.

The primary purpose of decentralization, as mandated by the Constitution and implemented through the Local Government Code, is to empower local government units (LGUs) and enable them to be more responsive to the needs of their constituents. This means devolving powers, responsibilities, and resources from the national government to LGUs, allowing them to make decisions and provide services that are more tailored to local conditions. While it may also aim to reduce national government spending or promote federalism in a broader sense, the immediate and primary purpose is local responsiveness and accountability.

Republic Act No. 6657 is the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL), enacted in 1988 under President Corazon Aquino. It is the legal basis for the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), which aims to promote social justice and industrialization by distributing agricultural lands to landless farmers. RA 7160 is the Local Government Code, RA 8435 is the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act, and RA 9710 is the Magna Carta of Women.

Lapu-Lapu was the chieftain of Mactan who, along with his warriors, defeated the Spanish forces led by Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan on April 27, 1521. This battle resulted in Magellan's death and is celebrated as a victory for Filipino resistance. Rajah Humabon was a chieftain of Cebu who allied with Magellan, and Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo were leaders of the Philippine Revolution centuries later.

Article XVII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution outlines three modes for proposing amendments or revisions: (1) by Congress, acting as a constituent assembly; (2) by a constitutional convention; and (3) by people's initiative. A presidential decree is a legislative act of the President, which was common during Martial Law, but it is not a constitutional mode for amending or revising the Constitution itself under a democratic framework.

The Ifugao people are indigenous to the Cordillera Administrative Region in Northern Luzon and are renowned for their magnificent rice terraces, particularly the Banaue Rice Terraces, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The T'boli are from Mindanao, the Aeta are nomadic groups across various parts of Luzon, and the Maranao are from Mindanao.

Article VI, Section 7 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that 'No Member of the House of Representatives shall serve for more than three consecutive terms. Voluntary renunciation of the office for any length of time shall not be considered as an interruption in the continuity of his service for the full term for which he was elected.' This limits them to a maximum of nine consecutive years in office.

Republic Act No. 6713 outlines several norms of conduct, including Professionalism, Justness and Sincerity, Political Neutrality, Responsiveness to the Public, Nationalism and Patriotism, Commitment to Public Interest, and Simple Living. Personal enrichment at the expense of the public, preferential treatment for relatives, and excessive display of wealth are all contrary to the spirit and letter of this law, which emphasizes public interest over personal gain.

The immediate cause of the Philippine-American War was the shooting incident at the San Juan Bridge on February 4, 1899, where an American sentry fired upon Filipino soldiers. This incident escalated tensions that had been building since the Treaty of Paris, which transferred sovereignty over the Philippines from Spain to the United States, effectively denying Philippine independence. The declaration of independence by Aguinaldo came earlier, and the other options are not the immediate trigger.

Article III, Section 8 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'The right of the people to form unions, associations, or societies for purposes not contrary to law shall not be abridged.' This is a fundamental right included in the Bill of Rights. Article II is on Declaration of Principles and State Policies, Article XIII is on Social Justice and Human Rights, and Article XIV is on Education, Science and Technology, Arts, Culture, and Sports.

While various goods were traded, silver from Mexico was primarily exchanged for silk and spices from Asia, which passed through Manila. The primary commodity transported from the Philippines (acting as an entrepôt) to Mexico was silk (from China), along with other Asian luxury goods like spices and porcelain. Tobacco, sugar, and abaca were significant Philippine exports later, but not the primary commodity of the Galleon Trade from Manila to Acapulco.

Corazon C. Aquino became the first female President of the Philippines after the EDSA People Power Revolution in February 1986, which overthrew the Marcos regime. She served from 1986 to 1992. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was the second female president. Imelda Marcos was the First Lady, and Gabriela Silang was a revolutionary leader but not a president.

Article XIV, Section 2 (2) of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'The State shall establish and maintain a system of free public elementary and high school education. Without limiting the natural right of parents to rear their children, elementary education is compulsory for all children of school age.' While tertiary education in public institutions may be subsidized or free in some cases (e.g., through the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act), the Constitution explicitly mandates free elementary and high school education.

Emilio Jacinto, often called the 'Brains of the Katipunan,' was the primary author of the 'Kartilya ng Katipunan.' This document outlined the Katipunan's principles, teachings, and moral code. While Andres Bonifacio also wrote a 'Decalogue,' the 'Kartilya' by Jacinto became the official guide for Katipuneros. Apolinario Mabini was the 'Brains of the Revolution' later under Aguinaldo, and Jose Rizal was not a Katipunan member.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. It is a foundational document that sets out fundamental human rights to be universally protected. The Geneva Conventions deal with humanitarian law in armed conflict, the Rome Statute established the International Criminal Court, and the Kyoto Protocol is an environmental agreement.

This specific power is known as the power of judicial review, as defined in Article VIII, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. It states that judicial power 'includes the duty of the courts of justice to settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally demandable and enforceable, and to determine whether or not there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part of any branch or instrumentality of the Government.' Original jurisdiction refers to the power to hear a case for the first time, appellate jurisdiction refers to reviewing decisions of lower courts, and advisory opinion is providing non-binding legal advice (which Philippine courts generally do not issue).

The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, officially ended the Spanish-American War. Its primary outcome for the Philippines was the transfer of sovereignty over the Philippines from Spain to the United States for the sum of twenty million U.S. dollars. This effectively ended Spanish colonial rule but initiated American colonial rule, leading to the Philippine-American War. It did not grant independence to Cuba, establish a U.S. protectorate over the Philippines (it was a direct cession), or immediately grant independence to the Philippines.

Noli Me Tángere, published in 1887, is Dr. Jose Rizal's first novel. It is a powerful and controversial work that exposed the injustices, corruption, and abuses of the Spanish friars and the colonial government. Its sequel, 'El filibusterismo,' was published in 1891. 'Mi Último Adiós' is a poem, and 'La Solidaridad' was a newspaper, not a novel by Rizal.

The concept of 'archipelagic waters' specifically refers to the waters around, between, and connecting the islands of an archipelago, regardless of their breadth or dimension. These waters are considered internal waters of the archipelagic state (like the Philippines). Territorial sea is a belt of coastal waters extending at most 12 nautical miles from the baseline, and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends up to 200 nautical miles, where a state has special rights over exploration and use of marine resources. Internal waters are generally waters within the landmass, but archipelagic waters are unique to archipelagic states.

The 'padrino system' refers to a system where influence, favors, or appointments are granted based on personal connections, kinship, or patronage rather than merit or qualifications. It undermines meritocracy and good governance by prioritizing personal relationships over rules and fairness. It is distinct from advocating for policies, promoting community engagement, or implementing a merit-based system.

The Philippines celebrates its Independence Day on June 12, commemorating the declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule by Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite, in 1898. While July 4 was celebrated as Independence Day during the American period (commemorating independence from the U.S.), June 12 is the current and historically recognized date for independence from Spain.

Manuel L. Quezon was the first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines, serving from 1935 until his death in 1944. The Commonwealth was established under the Tydings-McDuffie Act as a 10-year transition period before full independence. Sergio Osmeña succeeded him, and Emilio Aguinaldo was the first President of the First Philippine Republic. Jose P. Laurel was President during the Japanese-sponsored Second Philippine Republic.

The right to information on matters of public concern, enshrined in the Constitution, serves to promote transparency and accountability in government. By allowing citizens access to official records and decisions, it ensures that government actions are open to public scrutiny, thereby preventing corruption and fostering good governance. While it indirectly supports public participation and informed decision-making, its core purpose is transparency and accountability.

The 'Bayanihan' spirit embodies communal unity, cooperation, and mutual assistance, traditionally seen in communities helping each other, such as moving a house (bahay kubo) or assisting in times of need. Neighbors collectively helping a family rebuild their home after a fire perfectly illustrates this collective effort and community support. The other options describe individual achievements, political rallies, or personal business ventures, which do not capture the essence of 'Bayanihan'.

General Antonio Luna was a brilliant and aggressive military strategist during the Philippine-American War. He was known for his discipline and innovative tactics, earning him the moniker 'Young General' due to his relatively young age and dynamic leadership. Emilio Aguinaldo was the President, and Gregorio del Pilar was another young general known for his defense of Tirad Pass, but Luna was the most recognized for his strategic prowess. Miguel Malvar was a general who continued resistance after Aguinaldo's capture.

The statement 'Public office is a public trust' and the subsequent enumeration of virtues like accountability, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency strongly emphasize the principle of public accountability. It underscores that public servants hold their positions not for personal gain but as trustees of the public, answerable for their actions. While meritocracy, federalism, and judicial independence are important, public accountability is the direct focus of this constitutional provision.

The South China Sea (also known as the West Philippine Sea in the Philippines) is the body of water located between the Philippines and mainland Asia. It is renowned for its vast marine biodiversity, rich fishing grounds, and potential oil and gas reserves, but it is also a flashpoint for complex territorial disputes involving several countries, including the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The Pacific Ocean is east of the Philippines, the Sulu Sea is to the southwest, and the Philippine Sea is to the east.

La Liga Filipina, founded by Jose Rizal in 1892, aimed to unite the entire archipelago into a compact, vigorous, and homogenous body; provide mutual protection in every necessity and want; defend against all violence and injustice; encourage education, agriculture, and commerce; and study and apply reforms. Its primary goal was to unite Filipinos for peaceful reforms and mutual aid, not to seek immediate armed revolution or independence, nor to advocate for statehood or to promote Catholicism.

Article XII, Section 9 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'The Congress shall establish an independent central monetary authority, which shall provide policy direction in the areas of money, banking, and credit. It shall have supervision over the operations of banks and exercise such regulatory powers as may be provided by law over the operations of finance companies and other institutions performing similar functions.' This refers to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). However, the question asks for the 'independent planning agency.' While the NEDA is the country's premier socio-economic planning body, and the Constitution mandates for an independent central monetary authority, it does not explicitly create an 'independent planning agency' in the same manner as the BSP. It mentions that 'The Congress shall establish a National Economic and Development Authority, which shall serve as an independent planning agency of the government' in Section 9 of Article XII. So, NEDA is the correct answer. The Department of Finance is an executive department, and the Bureau of Treasury is under DOF.

General Gregorio del Pilar, often referred to as the 'Hero of Tirad Pass,' led a rear guard action against American forces in Tirad Pass on December 2, 1899. His small contingent of 60 men held off 300 American soldiers, allowing President Emilio Aguinaldo and his party to escape. Del Pilar died in the battle. Antonio Luna was another general but not at Tirad Pass, and Miguel Malvar and Macario Sakay continued the resistance after Aguinaldo's capture.

Article II, Section 13 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'The State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs.' This provision directly addresses the importance and protection of the youth. The others are general principles not specifically about the youth.

Carlos P. Romulo was a distinguished Filipino diplomat, statesman, and soldier. He served as the President of the Fourth Session of the United Nations General Assembly from 1949-1950. He also served as the Philippine Ambassador to the United States and was a signatory to the UN Charter. Jose P. Laurel was President during the Japanese occupation, Diosdado Macapagal was a President of the Philippines, and Claro M. Recto was a prominent nationalist and statesman but did not hold this specific UN position.

Nick Joaquin, whose pen name was Quijano de Manila, was conferred the National Artist for Literature in 1976. He is celebrated for his profound and versatile literary works, including the novel 'The Woman Who Had Two Navels' and the play 'A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino.' F. Sionil Jose is also a National Artist for Literature, but these specific works are Joaquin's. Lino Brocka was for Film, and Levi Celerio for Music.

Article IX-C, Section 1 (2) of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: 'The Commission on Elections shall be composed of a Chairman and six Commissioners, who shall meet en banc.' This means there are a total of seven members. They are appointed by the President with the consent of the Commission on Appointments for a term of seven years without reappointment.

The Tydings-McDuffie Act (1934) mandated a 10-year transitional period, establishing the Commonwealth of the Philippines, before full independence would be granted. This period began with the inauguration of the Commonwealth government in 1935 and was supposed to end in 1946, though interrupted by World War II.

The Narra tree (Pterocarpus indicus) is officially the national tree of the Philippines. It is highly valued for its beautiful, durable hardwood and its majestic appearance. The Anahaw is a palm, the Mango is the national fruit, and the Coconut is a widely cultivated palm but not the national tree.