Before the arrival of foreign colonizers and the widespread adoption of Abrahamic religions, the diverse peoples of the Philippine archipelago held intricate and deeply ingrained beliefs about what happens after death. These ancient Filipino perspectives on the afterlife were not monolithic; they varied significantly across different ethnolinguistic groups, reflecting the unique environments, social structures, and…
Step back in time, long before the Spanish galleons arrived on the shores of the archipelago we now call the Philippines. Imagine a vibrant tapestry of independent communities, coastal kingdoms, and highland settlements, each with its own intricate social fabric. At the apex of many of these societies, particularly within Tagalog Society, stood the Maginoo…
Step into a world woven from ancient chants and vibrant Ilocano literature, a realm where courage clashes with destiny, and magic intertwines with the mundane. We embark on a journey to unravel the epic tale of Biag ni Lam-ang, a cornerstone of Filipino epic poem tradition and a profound reflection of the archipelago’s rich cultural…
The tapestry of Philippine history is woven with threads of faith, conquest, resilience, and intellectual pursuit. Within this complex narrative, few figures cast as long a shadow as Miguel de Benavides y Añoza, O.P. His name is inextricably linked with the establishment of one of Asia’s most venerable institutions, yet his influence extends far beyond…
The Philippines boasts a rich and complex social fabric, woven with threads of tradition, resilience, and community spirit. Central to maintaining harmony and security within this dynamic society are various figures and concepts embodying protection, guardianship, and mutual support. Among these, Sandig, Kawal, and Tanods stand out, each representing distinct yet interconnected facets of community…
Step into a world long past, a realm woven from the mists of oral tradition and echoing with the exploits of gods and heroes. Journey with us as we explore Hinilawod, an epic tale deeply embedded in the tapestry of Filipino heritage. More than just a story, the Hinilawod is a cultural treasure, a vibrant…
Echoes of the Ancestors Imagine a world pulsating with unseen forces, where the veil between the living and the dead is thin, and the spirits of those who came before walk alongside their descendants, offering guidance, protection, and sometimes, demanding appeasement. This was the reality for the diverse peoples inhabiting the islands we now call…
Did you know that the Philippines has a rich history of property rights that dates back centuries? Long before modern legal frameworks, ancient Filipino societies had their own systems for managing valuable assets. These systems were deeply rooted in cultural practices and community values. In traditional Filipino communities, property was not just about land or…
Did you know that pre-colonial Philippine societies had literacy rates so high that even Spanish chroniclers were amazed? This fact highlights the advanced social structures that existed long before foreign influence. Social customs and etiquette played a pivotal role in shaping these early communities, serving as the backbone of both ceremonial and economic activities. In…
Did you know that the Laguna Copperplate Inscription, dating back to 900 A.D., reveals an advanced understanding of timekeeping in ancient Filipino society? This artifact, among others, highlights how early Filipinos measured existence through events and natural cycles. In ancient Filipino culture, time was not just a linear concept but deeply tied to nature and…