Ferdinand Marcos

ModernPoliticianPhilippines1917 — 1989

President of the Philippines who ruled under martial law.

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Quick Facts

Born

1917

Died

1989

Country

Philippines

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)37

Political (20%)48

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)40

Strategy (15%)53

Total Score46.7

Ferdinand Marcos — Complete Timeline

1972 AD

Declared Martial LawPolitical Action

Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law, citing communist insurgency and Muslim rebellion. He suspended the constitution, dissolved Congress, and arrested political opponents. This began 14 years of authoritarian rule.

Martial LawAuthoritarianismPhilippines

Impact: nationaldestructive

1978 AD

New Society Movement (Kilusang Bagong Lipunan)Political Action◆ Major

Marcos established the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (New Society Movement) as his political party. It dominated elections and served as a vehicle for his continued rule, winning a majority in the Interim Batasang Pambansa.

Political PartyElectionControl

Impact: national

1983 AD

Assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.Political Action

Opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. was assassinated upon returning to the Philippines from exile. The murder sparked massive protests and eroded Marcos's legitimacy, leading to the People Power Revolution.

AssassinationOppositionProtests

Impact: nationaltragic

1986 AD

Ousted by People Power RevolutionPolitical Action

After a fraudulent snap election, millions of Filipinos protested in the People Power Revolution. Marcos fled to Hawaii, ending his 20-year rule. He died in exile in 1989.

RevolutionExileEnd of Rule

Impact: nationaltragic