Which law is commonly known as the National Defense Act of 1935?

• A. Commonwealth Act No. 578
• B. Act No. 74
• C. Commonwealth Act No. 1
• D. Act No. 2706

Answer: (C)

National Defense Act of 1935 refers to the law that organized the Armed Forces and set up the defense structure for the Philippines under the Commonwealth government. Enacted in 1935, it created the framework for national defense, including the organization of the armed forces and the establishment of the Department of National Defense, with the President serving as Commander-in-Chief. This act was part of preparing the country for independence, providing the institutional basis for the defense forces that would carry on into the Philippine Army, Navy (and later Air Force). The other laws listed address different topics, so they do not carry the same defense-organization purpose.