COMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION

RAPU-RAPU COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Poblacion, Rapu-Rapu Albay

Teaching Social Studies in Elementary Grades ( Philippine History and Government)

Activity 5: Pre-Colonial Life and Culture

Name: Kenny S. Enaje Year and Block: A-II Date:_______

1.How will you describe the pre-colonial life of early natives in the Philippines?
The pre-colonial life of early natives in the Philippines was characterized by a rich and diverse
culture and a strong sense of community. The early settlers in the Philippines were skilled
farmers, fishermen, and hunters, and they lived in close-knit villages governed by councils of
elders.
2. What is the form of government stablished at that time? Where did it originated?
The form of government established at that time in the Philippines was a decentralized system
of governance known as “barangay” or “datu” system. This system originated from the Malay
and Hindu cultural influences that existed in the Philippines prior to Spanish colonization.
3. How do people are stratified during that time?
In pre-colonial Philippines, society was stratified based on a hierarchical system that was
primarily centered around the datu or chieftain and the barangay structure.
3.1 among the Tagalog

Social Hierarchy Characteristic Role in Barangay

The highest-ranking position in traditional Highest ranking position/
Datu Tagalog society was held by the datu, who leader
served as the ruler or chief of a
community or barangay

The maharlika were the nobility or warrior Warrior

Maharlika class in Tagalog society. They were highly
respected and held positions of power and
influence. Maharlika were often involved in
military affairs and served as the datu’s
councilors or advisers.
3.1 Among the Visaya

Social Hierarchy Characteristic Role in Barangay

The timawa were the free commoners or Middle class
middle-class individuals. They owned their own
Timawa lands and were not subjected to forced labor.
Timawa had certain rights and privileges but
were not as powerful or influential as the
maharlika
The alipin were the lowest class in Bisaya Lowest class/ landless slaves
society and were divided into two categories:
Alipin alipin namamahay (household slaves) and
alipin sagigilid (landless slaves).
4.Discus the customs and traditions of the early Filipinos along the following

4.1. Trial

Evident in courtship in the Philippines is the practice of singing romantic love songs, reciting poems,
writing letters, and gift-giving. This respect extends to the Filipina’s family members. The proper rules
and standards in traditional Filipino courtship are set by Philippine society.

4.2 Mariage

A typical Filipino wedding in pre-colonial times, is held for three days, and was officiated by a babaylan, a
tribal priest or priestess. The house of the babaylan was the ritual venue for the nuptials.

4,3 clothing and ornaments

The national costume of the Philippines, the baro’t saya, is an elegant hybrid of Filipino and Spanish
clothing styles. The term itself comes from the Tagalog words “baro at saya” or “blouse and skirt,” still
the basic components of the ensemble.

4.4 houses

It is advised that doors should not face each other. The people in the north associates this with the easy
passage of a coffin through two doors that directly face each other. Most regions in the country also
avoid positioning the main gate of the lot opposite the main entrance of the house itself.