"Our noble aspirations for nationhood, long cherished and
ardously contended for by our people, will be realized."
Last President Philippine Commonwealth May 28, 1946 - July 4, 1946
First President Third Philippine Republic July 4, 1946 - April 15, 1948
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Manuel Roxas was born on January 1, 1892 in Capiz province.He finished his primary education
in his hometown and his secondary education in Manila High School. He graduated with a Bachelor
of Laws in the University of the Philippines previously named as YMCA law school and topped the
bar exams.
Before he started his political career, he worked for Chief Justice Cayetano Arellano as his private
secretary and taught law in the Philippine Law School. He had held positions such as municipal
councilor, governor, congressman, senator and senate president, and a cabinet member.
Approximately 27 years had passed since he started serving the government before he became
president. He was the only president of Ilonggo ethnicity.
As House Speaker, he, together with Sergio Osmena, was responsible for securing the
Hare-Hawes-Cutting Law from the United States which states the granting of Philippine
Independence for ten years. During his time World War II broke out and he joined the army. He
was assistant to General Douglas MacArthur. After the war, he ran for president and won.
Among the major decisions he made as president were the approval of United States of
America-Republic of the Philippines Military Assistance Pact for U.S. continued control over
Philippine armed forces thru JUSMAG, and the passing of the Agricultural Tenancy Act.
His administration lasted for only two years. He died of heart attack at Clark Field, Pampanga in
April 15, 1948.