Chapter 09: Meeting and Changes

After a day filled with discussions and planning, Prince Alfonso summoned the three leaders—Emmanuel, Fernando, and Carlos—and Governor General Sergio to the grand meeting room of the Malacañang Palace. The room was adorned with exquisite Filipino artworks, symbolizing the rich culture and heritage of the nation.

As they settled into their seats, Prince Alfonso began the conversation, "Thank you all for joining me here today. Our discussions during the welcoming ceremony were enlightening, and I believe it is essential to continue our dialogue on the state of the Philippines and the plans for its future."

Governor General Sergio nodded in agreement, "Your Highness, we are grateful for your commitment to our nation. We have been working hard to address the challenges faced by our people, and your presence here brings newfound hope for the future."

Emmanuel, representing Luzon, spoke up, "Your Highness, our economy has suffered in recent years due to misgovernance and internal conflicts. We need a comprehensive plan to revive it and make the Philippines an economic powerhouse."

"I completely agree," Fernando, representing Visayas, chimed in. "Infrastructure and health care are also critical areas that need urgent attention. With modernization and investments, we can create a better future for our people."

Carlos, representing Mindanao, added, "Indeed, Your Highness. Technology plays a crucial role in transforming a nation. We must leverage advancements to improve industries and enhance the quality of life for our citizens."

Prince Alfonso nodded thoughtfully, "You have all highlighted significant areas that need attention. But before we delve into specific plans, let me share my vision for the government structure. I propose establishing a parliamentary system where I will serve as the head of state, representing the monarchy. The parliament will be elected by the people and will serve as the legislative body. We will have one prime minister, elected by the parliament, to lead the government."

Governor General Sergio was intrigued by the idea, "A parliamentary system could strengthen representation and encourage accountability. It aligns with the spirit of inclusivity we have fostered."

Emmanuel, Fernando, and Carlos expressed support for the proposal, recognizing the potential benefits it offered for the Filipino people.

"Now, let's discuss the cabinet," Prince Alfonso continued. "The cabinet members will also be elected by the parliament to ensure they truly represent the people's interests. I propose having 15 cabinet members to manage various ministries and departments."

Governor General Sergio considered the suggestion, "A lean cabinet could expedite decision-making processes and streamline governance. It ensures each member can focus on their responsibilities."

Emmanuel agreed, "A smaller cabinet will also help prevent overlapping duties and ensure efficiency in our government's operations."

Fernando added, "With 15 members, we can cover the essential sectors and prioritize development initiatives effectively."

Carlos nodded in agreement, "It is crucial to have a well-organized cabinet that reflects the diverse needs of our nation and can effectively implement policies."

With a shared understanding of the proposed government structure, the conversation shifted towards the state of the economy. Prince Alfonso took out the book he had prepared, containing his comprehensive plan for economic revival.

"As you all know," Prince Alfonso began, "our economy is facing challenges due to past mismanagement and internal conflicts. The first step towards revitalization is to listen to the people. We need to address their demands for land, representation, and improved working conditions."

Emmanuel nodded, "Indeed, giving the people a voice and ensuring their needs are met will foster a sense of ownership and pride in our nation."

"Additionally," Fernando added, "we must focus on modernizing our industries and infrastructure to make the Philippines more competitive globally."

Carlos agreed, "Innovation and technology will play a pivotal role in our economic transformation. We should introduce new technologies and improve existing ones to stimulate growth."

Prince Alfonso smiled, "You have grasped the essence of my plan. To achieve this, we will need substantial investments in infrastructures such as roads, railways, power plants, and refineries. These will create job opportunities and stimulate the economy."

Governor General Sergio was impressed, "Your Highness, your vision is comprehensive and inspiring. It encompasses the needs of our people and addresses the challenges we face."

As the conversation continued, Prince Alfonso shared his ideas for modernizing the military, addressing corruption, and utilizing his personal funds for economic development.

Governor General Sergio expressed support for rooting out corruption, "Corruption is indeed a cancer to society. As the supreme ruler, it is your responsibility to eliminate it and ensure the proper use of resources for the nation's welfare."

Emmanuel, Fernando, and Carlos were eager to support Prince Alfonso's plan to utilize his personal funds for development projects, recognizing the potential positive impact it could have on the economy.

With the discussions stretching late into the night, it was evident that the Duke of the Orient's dedication to the Philippines ran deep. His comprehensive plans, coupled with the expertise and commitment of the three leaders and Governor General Sergio, promised a bright future for the nation.

As they bid each other goodnight, Prince Alfonso was filled with hope and determination. The journey towards revitalizing the Philippines had only just begun, but with unity, representation, and a shared vision, they were ready to embrace the challenges and forge a path towards a prosperous future. The dawn of a new era was upon the Philippines, and its people stood united, ready to embark on a transformative journey under the guidance of their new Duke of the Orient.

The next morning, Prince Alfonso gathered the people and leaders once again, this time in a public square in Manila. He addressed the crowd, "My fellow Filipinos, as your Duke of the Orient, I stand here today to listen to your voices and to take action for a better future. Your grievances and demands have reached my ears, and I promise to bring about the changes we all yearn for."

With his comprehensive plan in hand, Prince Alfonso began to announce the measures against the ignorance, poverty, and oppression faced by the Filipino people:

"I. Measures against the ignorance of the Filipino people and against its lack of rights:

1. I decree the immediate freedom and return home for all those who have suffered for their political and religious convictions, for strike activity, and for peasant disorders. No longer shall the innocent be unjustly punished.

2. I proclaim the freedom and inviolability of every person in the Philippines, granting the rights of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and freedom of conscience in matters of religion. Your voices shall be heard, and your beliefs respected.

3. To secure a brighter future for our nation, I shall establish universal and compulsory public education, providing access to knowledge and learning for all our citizens at the state's expense.

4. Accountability of government ministers to the people shall be ensured, and a guarantee of lawful administration shall be upheld. Corruption shall find no place within our government.

5. Equality shall be the cornerstone of our society. I affirm the principle that all citizens, regardless of their station, shall stand equal before the law.

6. We shall uphold the separation of church and state, ensuring that the affairs of governance and religion remain distinct and independent.

II. Measures against the poverty of the people:

1. Indirect taxes shall be abolished, and in their place, a direct, progressive income tax shall be implemented, relieving the burden on the common people.

2. I shall decree the abolition

of redemption payments and the gradual transfer of land to the people, empowering them with ownership and control over their destinies.

3. Naval Ministry contracts shall henceforth be filled within the Philippines, supporting local industries and fostering economic growth.

II. Measures against the oppression of labor by capital:

1. The office of factory inspector shall be abolished, and instead, we shall establish permanent commissions in factories and plants, elected by the workers. These commissions, in collaboration with the administration, shall address the grievances of individual workers, ensuring their rights and fair treatment.

2. I hereby grant freedom to form producer-consumer cooperatives and workers' trade unions, empowering the labor force to protect their interests and secure fair working conditions.

3. The implementation of an eight-hour working day shall be mandated, and overtime work shall be regulated, ensuring a balance between work and rest.

4. The freedom for labor to struggle with capital shall be protected, allowing workers to negotiate their wages and benefits.

5. Wage regulation shall be implemented to guarantee fair compensation for the labor of our citizens.

6. Representatives of the working classes shall have guaranteed participation in drafting a law on state insurance for workers, securing their welfare and protection.

These are the measures I pledge to enact for the prosperity and happiness of our beloved Philippines. As your Duke of the Orient, I promise to lead with dedication, humility, and a heart devoted to the welfare of the Filipino people."

The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, their hope rekindled by the Duke's promises. The three leaders and Governor General Sergio stood beside Prince Alfonso, their support unwavering, as they embarked on a journey of transformation and progress for the nation.

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Thirty minutes had passed since Prince Alfonso was left alone in his office, determined to draft a new constitution for the Philippines, taking inspiration from the United States. Fortunately, his photographic memory served him well, allowing him to recall every detail he had read and studied. His mind was like a vast library, filled with information waiting to be accessed.

However, despite his extraordinary memory, Prince Alfonso acknowledged that he lacked extensive knowledge in politics and governance. He knew that even with the best of intentions, there might be loopholes and pitfalls in his proposed constitution that his closest advisers could help identify and address. This realization left him feeling a mixture of determination and frustration.

The afternoon sun bathed the office in a warm, orange glow, casting long shadows across the room. Prince Alfonso stood in the midst of the sunlight, trying to organize his thoughts and formulate a plan for the future legislative body of the Philippines. It was a daunting task, and he felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders.

"I must get this right," he muttered to himself. "The people deserve a constitution that will protect their rights and uphold democratic principles."

However, the task was proving more challenging than he had anticipated. Hours passed, and he found himself going in circles, struggling to put his ideas into coherent words on paper. The stress of the situation made him feel like he was working tirelessly, one task after another, since assuming the role of the Duke of the Orient.

"Why must it be so difficult?" he sighed inwardly, feeling the pressure mount. He longed for a moment of respite, a chance to clear his mind and regain focus.

In a brief moment of self-reflection, Prince Alfonso pondered the circumstances that brought him to this position of power. "Why did destiny choose this path for me?" he wondered. "I could have been born in a country with little internal conflict, or perhaps in a simple family with no grand responsibilities."

The weight of his role as a leader was indeed immense, but he understood that he had to confront the challenges head-on. As the Duke of the Orient, he had the unique opportunity to steer the Philippines towards a brighter future, and he was determined to make the most of it.

As he continued to struggle with his draft, an idea struck him. "What if I adopt the Empire of Britannia's constitution?" he mused. "After all, it places the executive power in the hands of the King, which aligns with my position as the Duke of the Orient."

His hand paused for a moment, considering the idea further. However, he quickly realized that the governance system of the Empire of Britannia might not be directly applicable to the Philippines, given its unique history, culture, and aspirations for democracy.

With a sense of frustration, Prince Alfonso crumpled the papers he had initially written, tossing them into the nearby trash can. He decided to take a break, recognizing that he needed time to clear his mind and seek counsel from those who possessed expertise in constitutional matters.

"I cannot do this alone," he admitted to himself. "I need the wisdom and guidance of those who understand the complexities of governance and the aspirations of our people."

Leaning back in his chair, Prince Alfonso felt a renewed sense of determination. He knew that he couldn't carry the burden of governance solely on his shoulders. He needed a team of experts and advisers from diverse fields to help him shape the future of the Philippines.

With this realization, he resolved to seek out the counsel of knowledgeable individuals who could provide valuable insights and assist him in crafting a constitution that truly reflected the hopes and dreams of the Filipino people. For Prince Alfonso, the journey towards a new era for the Philippines had just begun, and he was eager to embrace it with humility and an open mind.