Education is considered a prime leverage for upward social mobility, and its pursuit is therefore a priority among the people. The Republic of the Philippines is a constitutional democracy, with the President as Head of State and Government. The executive branch consists of the President and his Cabinet. The Senate and the House of Representatives make up the bicameral legislature. The Supreme Court heads the system of courts under the judicial branch.
Local governments are similar to the executive branch in structure and function.
The Constitution of 1987 is the fundamental law of the land. Majority of the population is of Malay origin. However, the roots of many of its traditions, practices, and gustatory preferences are not only Malay but also Spanish, American, Chinese, and Islamic. These are reflective of the 300 years of the Spanish rule, the 50 years of the American colonization, and the stream of Asian traders who have visited the country throughout its history. These diverse influences have found their way into more than 87 languages and dialects spoken in the country.