Reflection Points

Readings in Philippine History

Answers:
1. The British novelist L.P. Hartley writes, “The past is a foreign country:they do things differently
there.” Do you think this applies to the lesson on taxation? If yes, how?
Yes, since we have been colonized by the Spaniards and they are just following their owned
taxation system into our country. As part of the Spanish colonization, the tax system evolved,
and taxes collected on the population ranged from a annual tribute of one-gold-maiz to a tax on
the value of jewelry and gold trinkets, in addition to indirect taxes on tobacco, wine, cockpits,
burlas, and powder. Besides that, they have various forms of taxes, such as the tributo, which
was previously between 8 and 10 reales. It was the cedula, however, that they replaced the tributo
with, which benefited or permitted them to keep track of persons who were able to \spay their
taxes.
2. If your family had lived in the 19th century, during the Spanish colonial era, how much would
your household have had to pay in taxes?
If I have a family during the 19th century then I would have to pay 8 reales of tax under the
Tribute or personal taxation rate.
3. How does knowing the context of the tax system during the Spanish colonial era deepen our
understanding of the tearing of the cedula at Pugad Lawin / Balintawak in 1896?
The tearing of cedula is a sign to the Katipunero’s revolt especially to their taxation system .
They teared their cedulas in order to demonstrate their intention to revolt. Because the cedula
tax levied on each citizen was a visible sign of the Filipinos' slavery. Tearing their cedulas
denotes their declaration of independence from the Spaniards. This marks the beginning of their
struggle for liberty and independence against the Spaniards. The Katipuneros' courage in tearing
their cedulas as a symbol of their resistance to Spanish oppression.
4. What is the connection between a) our colonial experience as a whole, and b) the changes in
our taxation systems?
Numerous reforms and adjustments to the Philippine tax system have occurred over the last few
years. The Philippine tax system has undergone numerous changes over the years. Prior to the
arrival of the Spaniards, the Philippines was divided into sections known as barangays, which were
ruled by datus, or local chiefs. It requires taxation on products, crops, and other sources of revenue
in order to ensure or provide for the protection and administration of its people. Taxation is critical
to a country's survival. It is the fundamental reason for the government's existence in the first place.
These taxes were used to fund the development or construction of infrastructure that will aid the
government in its efforts to improve the standard of living for its citizens. Taxation also enables
the payment of government employees' salaries. Despite its numerous modifications, it continues
to provide numerous benefits or advantages. To begin, the tax payment process has been simplified
and made less onerous.

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