Commonwealth of the Philippines

The Commonwealth of the Philippines was a transitional government established in 1935, which aimed to prepare the country for independence from U.S. colonial rule. It served as a semi-autonomous government with its own constitution and elected officials, including a president. The Commonwealth period focused on national development and creating local governance structures. Despite its ambitions, the Commonwealth faced challenges, particularly during World War II, when the Philippines was occupied by Japan. The Commonwealth ultimately paved the way for full independence in 1946, marking the beginning of the modern Republic of the Philippines.