Salvador Laurel, Filipino lawyer and politician, 10th Vice President of the Philippines (b. 1928)

Salvador Roman Hidalgo Laurel, KGCR (Knight Grand Cross of Rizal), affectionately known as "Doy Laurel," was a distinguished Filipino lawyer, politician, and a pivotal figure in the Philippines' return to democracy. Born on November 18, 1928, and passing away on January 27, 2004, his career was marked by significant contributions during a transformative era in the nation's history.

A Statesman's Journey: Vice President and Last Prime Minister

Doy Laurel's most notable national roles included serving as the Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992, under President Corazon C. Aquino. This period was immediately following the momentous 1986 People Power Revolution, a time dedicated to rebuilding democratic institutions and fostering national reconciliation after years of authoritarian rule.

Prior to his Vice Presidency, Laurel briefly held the unique distinction of being the last Prime Minister of the Philippines. His term as Prime Minister lasted from February 25 to March 25, 1986. This office, which had been established under the 1973 Constitution during the martial law era of President Ferdinand Marcos, was abolished with the promulgation and ratification of the new 1987 Constitution. The new constitution re-established a presidential form of government, thus making Laurel the final occupant of that position in Philippine history.

Instrumental Role in the People Power Revolution

Laurel's political legacy is inextricably linked with the efforts to dismantle the authoritarian regime of President Ferdinand E. Marcos. He was a major and influential leader of the United Nationalist Democratic Organization (UNIDO), a broad coalition of opposition groups. UNIDO played a critical role in unifying various anti-Marcos factions, providing a formidable political platform for change and advocating for a return to democratic governance.

During the highly contested snap presidential election of 1986, Salvador Laurel initially intended to run for president himself. However, in a strategic move that proved crucial for the anti-dictatorship movement, he ultimately yielded his presidential candidacy and instead ran as Vice President alongside Corazon Aquino, who became the unified opposition's presidential standard-bearer. This joint ticket became a powerful symbol of national unity and a rallying point against the Marcos regime.

The widespread allegations of fraud during the 1986 snap elections culminated in the non-violent 1986 People Power Revolution (also known as the EDSA Revolution). UNIDO, under Laurel's leadership, was instrumental in mobilizing public support and political will that contributed significantly to this historic uprising, leading to the peaceful ouster of the Marcos dictatorship and the re-establishment of a democratic government in the Philippines.

Understanding Salvador Laurel's Legacy: FAQs

What was Salvador Laurel's full title?

Salvador Roman Hidalgo Laurel, KGCR. KGCR stands for Knight Grand Cross of Rizal, the highest rank of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, a national order recognizing individuals who embody the ideals of the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal.

When did Salvador Laurel serve as Vice President?

He served as the Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992, during the administration of President Corazon C. Aquino, following the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Why was Salvador Laurel the "last prime minister" of the Philippines?

Laurel briefly held the position of Prime Minister from February 25 to March 25, 1986. The office of Prime Minister, which was part of the parliamentary system under the 1973 Constitution, was subsequently abolished when the Philippines ratified its new 1987 Constitution, which re-established a presidential system of government. This constitutional change meant no one held the position after him.

What was UNIDO and what was its significance?

UNIDO stands for the United Nationalist Democratic Organization. It was a major political party and coalition led by Salvador Laurel that played a crucial role in uniting various opposition groups against the dictatorship of President Ferdinand Marcos. UNIDO's efforts were instrumental in paving the way for the 1986 People Power Revolution, which ultimately led to the restoration of democracy in the Philippines.