Manuel Acuña Roxas, a pivotal figure in Philippine history, was born Manuel Roxas y Acuña on January 1, 1892. His full name, often rendered in Tagalog as [maˈnwel aˈkuɲa ˈrohajs], reflects the customary naming structure where 'y Acuña' denotes his mother's maiden surname, a common practice in Spanish-influenced cultures. His life, though cut short, saw him ascend to the highest office, becoming the fifth President of the Philippines and steering the nascent nation through its critical transition from a commonwealth to a fully independent republic.

Roxas's political career culminated in a presidency that lasted from 1946 until his death in 1948, a period marked by profound change and the dawn of a new era for the Philippines. His journey to the highest office was unique, as he first served as the third and ultimately the last president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. This Commonwealth, established in 1935, represented a transitional government under American tutelage, designed to prepare the Philippines for full sovereignty after decades of colonial rule.

His tenure as Commonwealth President began on May 28, 1946, but it was a role he would hold for a mere 37 days. The truly momentous day arrived on July 4, 1946, when the United States officially ceded its sovereignty over the Philippines. This historic event marked the formal end of American colonial administration and the birth of a truly independent nation. With this transfer of power, the Commonwealth was dissolved, and the Third Philippine Republic was proclaimed. Manuel Roxas, having presided over the Commonwealth's final moments, seamlessly transitioned to become the inaugural President of this newly sovereign and independent republic. His role thus cemented his place as a foundational leader, tasked with rebuilding a nation ravaged by World War II and charting its course on the global stage.

During his brief but impactful term, President Roxas faced the daunting challenge of post-war reconstruction. The Philippines had endured immense devastation during the war, and his administration was immediately confronted with the monumental tasks of economic recovery, agricultural revival, and the restoration of infrastructure. He also initiated the process of forging critical foreign relations, particularly with the United States, which remained a vital ally and economic partner. His untimely death on April 15, 1948, brought an abrupt end to his presidency, leaving behind a legacy of leadership during a critical juncture in Philippine nation-building.

Frequently Asked Questions about Manuel Roxas

When was Manuel Roxas born and when did he die?

Manuel Roxas was born on January 1, 1892, and he passed away on April 15, 1948, while still serving as president.

What was the significance of Manuel Roxas's presidency?

His presidency was profoundly significant as he was the last president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and, more importantly, the first president of the independent Third Philippine Republic. He oversaw the historic transition from American colonial rule to full national sovereignty on July 4, 1946, and began the challenging process of post-war reconstruction and nation-building.

How long did Manuel Roxas serve as President?

He served as President of the Philippines from May 28, 1946, until his death on April 15, 1948. This includes his brief term as Commonwealth President and his subsequent term as the first President of the independent Third Philippine Republic, totaling less than two years.

Was Manuel Roxas the first President of the Philippines?

No, he was the fifth president overall and specifically the first president of the independent Third Philippine Republic. The Philippines had previous presidents during the First Philippine Republic (Emilio Aguinaldo) and the Commonwealth era (Manuel L. Quezon, José P. Laurel, and Sergio Osmeña).

What was the Commonwealth of the Philippines?

The Commonwealth of the Philippines was a transitional administrative body established in 1935 under American colonial rule. Its primary purpose was to prepare the Philippines for full independence after a ten-year period, a process that was interrupted and eventually concluded with the granting of independence in 1946.