IV.

CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION

The Spanish colonial period in the Philippines brought about significant cultural changes.
The introduction of Christianity, the adoption of the Spanish language, and the implementation
of a feudal system transformed Philippine society.

➢ Language & Writings

➢ Religions & Fiestas
➢ Cuisine
➢ Arts of painting, dancings and crafts

Language & Writings

During the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, the use of Spanish language and
writing was imposed on Filipinos. This led to a decline in the use of native languages and
scripts. However, it also paved the way for the creation of a new literary tradition that blended
Spanish and indigenous elements. They introduced their language, customs, and traditions to
the Filipinos. The use of Spanish became widespread among the educated class. Baybayin, a
pre-colonial script used by the Tagalogs, was replaced by the Spanish alphabet during the
colonial period. The Spanish friars considered Baybayin as a pagan script and saw it as a threat
to their religious mission. They also believed that using the Roman alphabet would make it
easier for Filipinos to learn Spanish. Despite this, Baybayin continued to be used in some parts
of the country until the 19th century. Today, efforts are being made to revive and preserve this
ancient script as part of Filipino heritage.

Religions & Fiestas

The Philippines underwent a significant transformation in its religious and cultural

practices. The introduction of Christianity led to the establishment of various fiestas and
religious celebrations, which became an integral part of Filipino culture. These events served as
a means for Filipinos to express their faith and showcase their unique traditions. This led to the
construction of churches and other religious structures throughout the country. Festivals in the
Philippines, locally known as fiestas, originated dating back to the Spanish colonial point when
these Spaniards presented religion to this nation. Most Filipino towns and cities have the patron
God designated to each of them. Fiestas in the Philippines are either spiritual, social, or both.
These festivals are taken to honor the patron saint or to celebrate history and society and also
to promote local production and celebrate the generous harvest.

Arts of painting, dancings and crafts

The Spanish colonial period in the Philippines from 1521 to 1898 brought about
significant changes in the country's arts and culture. The introduction of Christianity and
Western influence greatly impacted the traditional arts of painting, dancing, and crafts. Painting
during this period was mainly focused on religious themes, with artists creating images of saints
and biblical scenes. The use of bright colors and intricate details were prominent features in
these works. Dancing also underwent changes as it became more formalized and structured.
Spanish dances such as the fandango were introduced, but Filipinos also incorporated their own
traditional dances into performances. Crafts flourished during this time as well, with artisans
creating intricate pieces such as furniture, pottery, and textiles. These crafts were often used to
decorate churches or homes.

Cuisine

The Spanish colonial period in the Philippines had a significant impact on the country's
cuisine. The introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques from Spain and other parts
of Europe greatly influenced Filipino cuisine. Spanish dishes such as paella, adobo, and
caldereta were adapted to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in unique Filipino versions of
these dishes. The use of vinegar as a marinade for meat also became popular during this time.
Additionally, the Spanish introduced new crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, and chili peppers
which are now staples in Filipino cuisine. The fusion of Spanish and indigenous flavors created
a rich culinary heritage that continues to be celebrated today through traditional dishes like
lechon, sinigang, and kare-kare.

Wika at Pagsulat

Sa panahon ng pananakop ng Espanyol wika at pagsulat ng Espanyol ay ipinataw sa mga

Pilipino. Nagdulot ito ng pagbabago sa paggamit ng mga katutubong wika at mga script.
Gayunpaman, naging daan din ito sa paglikha ng bagong tradisyong pampanitikan na pinaghalo
ang mga elemento ng Espanyol at katutubo. Ipinakilala nila ang kanilang wika, kaugalian, at
tradisyon sa mga Pilipino. Naging laganap ang paggamit ng Espanyol sa mga edukadong uri.
Ang Baybayin, isang pre-kolonyal na script na ginamit ng mga Tagalog, ay pinalitan ng
alpabetong Espanyol noong panahon ng kolonyal. Itinuring ng mga prayleng Espanyol ang
Baybayin bilang isang paganong script at nakita ito bilang banta sa kanilang misyon sa
relihiyon. Naniniwala rin sila na ang paggamit ng alpabetong Romano ay magiging mas madali
para sa mga Pilipino na matuto ng Espanyol. Sa kabila nito, patuloy na ginagamit ang Baybayin
sa ilang bahagi ng bansa hanggang sa ika-19 na siglo. Ngayon, ang mga pagsisikap ay
ginagawa upang buhayin at mapanatili ang sinaunang script na ito bilang bahagi ng pamana ng
Pilipino.