Characterized by a continuous Filipino rebellion through its more than 300 years of colonial administration. A very short-lived republic; no significant contribution in intergovernmental relations. Filipino rebellion continued to a lesser degree; Filipinization of local government administration was initiated. Period characterized by a strong President; national unity was the primordial consideration in preparation for independence thus relegating clamor for local autonomy to the background. Pockets of sedition against the Commonwealth government existed. War period; local autonomy concept irrelevant at the time. Economic rehabilitation was the topmost priority. The Huk rebellion was in its height and political factionalism was a negating factor to local autonomy, thereby promoting more centralism.

A degree of decentralization was implemented but dualistic in character, a terminal negative effect achieving nothing insofar as the concept of local autonomy was concerned. The dualistic policy making situation prevailing during the Martial Law period continued. National security became a critically threatening problem of the national government. Public pressure against the Marcos government significantly increased. Centralism emerged as a requirement for a strong central government. The situation that worsened during the Fourth Republic triggered the establishment of a Revolutionary Government in February, 1986. Clamor for all local autonomy became more pronounced and cetnral government response increased proportionately which led Congress to consider passage of the Local Government of 1991 (RA 7160).