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The Nacionalista Party is the oldest political party in the Philippines today responsible for leading the country throughout the majority of the 20th century since 1907. The party began as the country's vehicle for independence, through the building of a modern nation-state, and through the advocacy of efficient self rule. By the second half of the century the party was one of the main political contenders for leadership in the country, in competition with the Liberals and the Progressives, during the decades between the devastation of World War II and the violent suppression of partisan politics of the Marcos dictatorship. Eventually, the party was revived during the 1990's and is now being reborn by the likes of Sen. Richard Gordon, Sen. Ralph Recto, and party president Sen. Manuel Villar.
The Nacionalista Party was also known as the NP. The Nacionalistas are currently an ally of the recently elected Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and her ruling coalition that controls both the executive branch of the government as well as both houses of the legislature.
Notable Nacionalistas
Past
Many of the country's great politicians, statesmen, and leaders were Nacionalista thoughout their careers in whole or in part. Such people include Manuel Briones, Carlos P. Garcia, Jose P. Laurel, Salvador Laurel, Fernando Lopez, Ramon Magsaysay, Emmanuel Pelaez, Claro M. Recto, Eulogio Rodriguez, Elpidio Quirino, Manuel A. Roxas, and finally, the founding fathers Manuel L. Quezon and Sergio Osmeña. The controversial dictator Ferdinand Marcos was once a Nacionalista before he succumbed to the temptations of absolute rule. They among many portray a rich past filled with a strong political tradition that can never be matched even with the recent decline of the party.
Current
Members of the House of Representatives include:
- Eduardo R. Gullas, Cebu
- Gilbert C. Remulla, Cavite
- Jesus C. Remulla, Cavite
- Emmylou Taliño-Santos, North Cotabato
- Cynthia Villar, Las Pinas
Members of the Senate of the Philippines include:
Platfrom
Structure
History
See also
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