FR.
FRANCISCO
COLIN’S S.J.
LABOR
EVANGELICA
by: Group 5
Fr. Francisco Colin S.J.
BACKGROUND OF
THE WRITER
Fr. Francisco Colin S.J. (1592 - 1660)
one of the most prominent Jesuit missionary and historian of the
early colonial period.
author of posthumously-published work Labor Evangelica.
BACKGROUND OF
THE WORK
The "Labor Evangelica"
by Francisco Colin, S.J.,
was written to fulfill a royal request from King
Philip IV of Spain.
Describes evangelization efforts, including:
Establishment of missions, schools , and churches.
Challenges faced by missionaries, including:
Revolts - Natural disasters - Resistance from locals
LABOR
EVANGELICA’S
CONTENT
Labor Evangelica: A Jesuit's Account of Pre-Colonial
Philippines
Labor Evangelica is a historical work written by Jesuit missionary Fr.
Francisco Colin in the 17th century. It provides a detailed account of
pre-colonial Filipino society, focusing on their customs, traditions, and
social structures.
BARANGAY SOCIETY
RELIGION AND
BELIEFS
SOCIAL HIERARCHY
ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
LAWS AND CUSTOMS
Barangay Society
Datu (Chieftain): The datu was the highest-ranking member of the barangay,
possessing both political and social power. They were responsible for leading the
community, making decisions, and administering justice. They were often wealthy and
owned land, slaves, and other resources.
Timauas or Maharlika (Freemen): This class consisted of freeborn Filipinos who were
not slaves. They had a range of roles within the barangay, including warriors, farmers,
and artisans. They typically owned their own land and had some degree of autonomy.
Oripuen or Alipin (Slaves): Slaves were the lowest social class. They were often
prisoners of war, debtors, or those born into slavery. They worked for the datu or other
freemen, typically as farmers, laborers, or household servants.
Key Points about Social Hierarchy:
- Inheritance and Status: Social status was often inherited, meaning a person's
position in society was largely determined by their family background.
Social Mobility: While social mobility was possible, it was limited. A slave could gain
freedom through service or marriage, but becoming a datu was rare.
Respect for Hierarchy: Filipino society emphasized respect for elders and those of
higher social standing. This respect was ingrained in their customs and traditions.
- Datu as Judge and Lawmaker: The datu, with the assistance of elders, acted
as the judge and lawmaker within the barangay.
\
- Penalties: Penalties for offenses ranged from fines to exile, depending on the
severity of the crime and the social status of the individuals involved.
- Respect for Elders: Respect for parents and elders was paramount,
highlighting the importance of social hierarchy and family ties.
Religion and Beliefs
Spirits of Nature:
They believed in spirits inhabiting trees, mountains, rivers, and other
natural features. These spirits were often associated with specific
places or activities.
Divination and Magic:
Practices like divination (seeking guidance from spirits) and magic
were common, used for healing, protection, and fortune-telling.
Rituals and Offerings:
They performed various rituals and offered sacrifices
to appease spirits and seek their favor. These rituals
often involved food, animals, or other valuable items.
ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
Agriculture: The primary economic activity was
agriculture, with rice being the staple crop. They also
cultivated other crops like corn, fruits, and vegetables.
Fishing: Fishing was a significant source of food and
income, particularly in coastal communities.
Trade: Filipinos engaged in trade within their
communities and with other islands. They traded
goods like rice, fish, gold, and other local products.
Craftsmanship: They were skilled craftspeople,
producing items like textiles, pottery, jewelry, and
tools.
Labor Evangelica is considered a valuable primary
source for understanding pre-colonial Philippine
society. It offers insights into their social structures,
political systems, cultural practices, and religious
beliefs, contributing to our knowledge of pre-colonial
Philippine history.
THANK YOU!
