To write our constitution is for the past, the present, and the future to come together all at once in one single motion, in one single heave, one single cry. For we correct the errors of the past and chart a new course for the future, based on the experience of the present.

In this quote, Ferdinand Marcos, the former president of the Philippines, reflects on the significance of writing a constitution. He views it as an act that unites the past, present, and future, where these different time periods converge to shape the country’s future direction. Marcos suggests that the process of creating a constitution is not only about acknowledging historical errors but also about making corrections and setting a new, more informed course forward for the nation.

Marcos emphasizes the idea that the constitution should be based on the experience of the present while addressing the errors of the past. This indicates that the constitution is not merely a document of laws but a living, evolving reflection of the nation’s historical context and current realities. By acknowledging past mistakes, the constitution seeks to provide justice and establish a better system for the future, creating a bridge between what has been and what is yet to come.

The phrase “one single motion” and “one single cry” conveys a sense of unity and urgency in the task of crafting the constitution. It implies that this process should be a collective, unified effort that speaks with a single voice, representing the will of the people and the nation’s aspirations for a better future. The unity of purpose between past experiences, present challenges, and future hopes is central to Marcos’ vision of constitutional reform.

Ultimately, Marcos’ words highlight the importance of a constitution as a foundational document that is both reflective of the nation’s history and responsive to its current needs, while also serving as a guide for the future. This view underscores the belief that constitutions are not static but must evolve with the times to ensure they continue to serve the people effectively.