Antonio de Morga's "Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas" (Events in the Philippine Islands) is

an important historical work that was written in the late 16th century during the
Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. In this work, Morga acknowledges the
existence of a pre-existing culture in the Philippines before the arrival of the Spaniards.
Morga's recognition of the pre-colonial culture of the Philippines can be understood in
several ways:
Indigenous Societies: Morga describes the various indigenous communities and
societies that existed in the Philippines prior to Spanish colonization. He acknowledges
the diversity of these societies, each with its own customs, languages, and ways of life.
Systems of Government: Morga provides insights into the political structures of pre-
colonial Filipino societies, which often had their own systems of governance and
leadership. These societies had their own chiefs, councils, and methods of maintaining
order and resolving disputes.
Religion and Beliefs: Morga mentions the religious beliefs and practices of the
indigenous Filipinos, including their animistic and polytheistic traditions. These beliefs
were an integral part of their culture and spirituality.
Economic Activities: The text discusses the economic activities of the indigenous people,
including agriculture, fishing, trade, and craftsmanship. It shows that they had
developed their own ways of sustaining themselves and their communities.
Social Customs and Traditions: Morga notes various social customs and traditions, such
as marriage practices, rituals, and ceremonies that were part of the pre-colonial Filipino
culture.
In essence, Morga's "Sucesos" recognizes the existence of a well-established and
complex culture in the Philippines before Spanish colonization. This acknowledgment
challenges the Eurocentric view that the indigenous people of the Philippines were
uncivilized or lacking in culture and civilization. Morga's work serves as historical
evidence that the Filipinos had a rich and diverse cultural heritage long before the
arrival of the Spanish colonizers, and it helps counteract the colonial narrative that
sought to erase or diminish the pre-colonial history of the Philippines.