Philippine Government

		The new Philippine Constitution was ratified in early 1987, signalling the country's return to democracy. Executive Branch Chief of state: President Gloria MACAPAGAL-ARROYO and Vice President Noli de Castro; note: the president is both the chief of state and head of government Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission on Appointments Elections: president and vice president elected on separate tickets for six-year terms; election last held 10 May 2004. Legislative Branch Bicameral Congress or Kongreso consists of the Senate or Senado (24 seats - one-half elected every three years; members elected to serve six-year terms) and the House of Representatives or Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan ( members elected to serve three-year terms; note: additional members may be appointed by the president but the Constitution prohibits the House of Representatives from having more than 250 members) Elections: Senate - last held 10 May 2004; House of Representatives - last held 10 May 2004. Judicial Branch Supreme Court (justices are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council and serve until 70 years of age)