In 1902, Macario Sakay, a prominent figure in the Philippine revolutionary movement, formally issued Presidential Order No. 1, marking a critical moment in the establishment of the Tagalog Republic. This order aimed to lay down the foundations of a government that would assert the Philippines' independence from American control after the Spanish-American War, which transferred governance of the islands to the United States. The context was characterized by widespread resistance against colonial rule, with Sakay emerging as a leader determined to rally the Filipino people around the cause of self-determination.

The order declared the objectives and structure of the Tagalog Republic, emphasizing the importance of unity among Filipinos and asserting the need for a Filipino-led government. It called for the establishment of administrative departments to manage various aspects of governance such as finance and war, reflecting Sakay's vision for a well-organized nation. The issuance of this order was part of a broader strategy to galvanize support for the Tagalog Republic and strengthen its position in the ongoing struggle against colonialism. Sakay’s leadership was vital for the morale of the Filipino revolutionaries during this turbulent period.

Despite facing overwhelming odds and the relentless pursuit by American forces to quash the insurrection, Sakay's declaration stoked the fires of nationalism and represented a bold challenge to foreign domination. In the aftermath of the declaration, Sakay continued to engage in military campaigns, solidifying his role as a national figure. The Tagalog Republic and its governance framework, even amidst defeat, became symbolic of the enduring quest for Philippine sovereignty and self-identification in the face of colonial suppression.