The new Philippine Constitution was ratified in early 1987, signalling the country's return to democracy.
Executive Branch
Chief of state:
President Gloria MACAPAGAL-ARROYO and Vice President Noli de Castro; note: the president is both the chief of state and head of government
Cabinet:
Cabinet appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission on Appointments
Elections: president and vice president elected on separate tickets for six-year terms; election last held 10 May 2004.
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Congress or Kongreso consists of the Senate or Senado (24 seats - one-half elected every three years; members elected to serve six-year terms) and the House of Representatives or Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan ( members elected to serve three-year terms; note: additional members may be appointed by the president but the Constitution prohibits the House of Representatives from having more than 250 members)
Elections: Senate - last held 10 May 2004; House of Representatives - last held 10 May 2004.
Supreme Court (justices are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council and serve until 70 years of age)
