Summary
Highlights
The pre-colonial government of the Philippines refers to the traditional political systems that existed before colonialism, based on the customs and conventions of the indigenous people. These systems were shaped by history, influencing the independence, governance, laws, and political systems adopted today.
Barangays originated as coastal settlements formed by Malaya Polynesian speakers arriving by boat. These were small communities of 30 to 100 families, totaling 100 to 500 people. The term 'barangay' comes from 'balangay,' meaning sailboat, reflecting its origin. Each barangay was led by a Datu, also known as Raha or Raja, who served as the chief executive, legislator, and judge, and was the military leader during conflicts. The Datu's authority was limited by existing traditions, and his position could be inherited or earned through strength, heroism, or beneficial leadership skills.
Barangays formed alliances or confederations, headed by a paramount ruler (Raha or Lacan), for trade, peace, and mutual protection. These alliances were formalized through the 'Sanduguan' or blood compact, a ritual involving the parties drinking a mixture of their blood. Pre-colonial societies had a three-tiered social structure: the ruling class (Raha, Lacan, Datu, Sultan, Babaylan), the middle class (Timawa, Maharika), and the slave class (Alipin Namamahay, Alipin Saguiguilid).
Laws were either customary or periodically promulgated as needed. Punishments for crimes ranged from fines to death, and some could be considered torture by modern standards. Ancient Filipinos paid tributes ('buwis') to their Datu for protection. Laws were enacted after consultation with a council of elders and announced to the village by the Umalohokan. Disputes were settled by a court comprising the Datu and elders, with trials sometimes involving ordeals to prove innocence.
Umalohokans were town criers responsible for communicating new laws and policies. Baylan (or Babaylan) were shamans, typically women or feminized men, who specialized in communicating with spirits, healing, herbalism, divination, and sorcery. The 'Code of Kalantiaw,' a legal code allegedly from 1433, is now widely considered a hoax created in 1913 by Friar Jose Maria Pavon, and its authenticity is no longer accepted by historical societies.