 The concept of ancient barangays in the pre-colonial era

- Origin: The term "barangay" is derived from the Malay word "balangay," which refers to a
kind of boat used by the early Malays who migrated to the Philippines.
- Community Basis: Barangays were small, self-sufficient communities usually composed of 30
to 100 families. Each barangay was led by a chieftain known as a "datu" or "rajah," who was
the political, religious, and economic leader of the community.

 How can one become a Datu?

- Becoming a Datu in pre-colonial Philippines was often hereditary, passing within specific
families or clans. However, exceptional leadership in warfare, economic success, and gaining
community respect could elevate one's status. Recognition from the community and
participation in specific ceremonies solidified the transition to the esteemed role of Datu.

 Powers of the Datu

- n pre-colonial Philippines, a Datu held significant power and influence within the barangay.
Their powers included making political decisions, maintaining order, resolving disputes,
leading in warfare, overseeing economic activities, and acting as a religious leader. The Datu's
authority was derived from the community's recognition and respect, and their role
encompassed political, social, economic, and spiritual responsibilities, shaping the overall
well-being of the barangay.

 Social classes in the pre-colonial era

- Datu: The Datu was the chieftain or leader of the barangay. They held political, economic,
and religious power, often ruling as hereditary leaders. The Datu's family belonged to the
nobility and enjoyed privileges and authority within the community.

- Maharlika: The Maharlika were the freemen and warriors of the society. They served as the
Datu's councilors and soldiers, responsible for maintaining peace and defending the
barangay from external threats. Maharlika had their land and were considered the middle
class in ancient Filipino society.

- Timawa: The Timawa were commoners who worked the land and provided agricultural
produce to the Datu and the Maharlika in exchange for protection. They had some personal
freedom but were not as privileged as the Maharlika.

- Alipin: The Alipin were slaves or serfs who were considered property rather than free
individuals. They served the Datu, Maharlika, or Timawa in various capacities, such as
agricultural laborers, house servants, or even soldiers. Alipin had limited rights and were
bound to their masters.

 Religious beliefs and practices of the pre-colonial natives in the Philippines

- Animism: Pre-colonial Filipinos practiced animism, believing that spirits inhabited natural
objects like trees, mountains, rivers, and animals. These spirits, called anitos, were revered
and offered offerings to for protection and favor. Ancestral spirits were also highly respected
and venerated.
- Believed in the immortality of the soul and in life after death
- Also believed in the existence of a number of gods whom they worship and make offerings
to according to rank for example bathala
- They also adores idols called anitos or diwatas to whom they made offerings. Some anitos were
considered bad however they made offerings to them too in order to appese them or placate
their anger. Babaylan/baylana acted as mediums to communicate with these spirits