7.

"Frailocracy" in the Philippines was a unique form of government influenced by the Spanish
union of Church and State. It earned its name because it was essentially a "government by friars."
Throughout history, friars like the Augustinians, Dominicans, and Franciscans not only controlled
religious and educational aspects of Filipino life but also gained significant political power and
wealth, particularly in the 19th century.

Under this system, known as the Polo, adult Filipino males between 16 and 60 years old were
compelled to provide forced labor for 40 days a year. Their labor was used in various construction
projects, including churches, schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, ships, and other public works.
Later, in 1883, the Royal Decree and subsequent regulations increased the minimum age for
forced labor to 60 and reduced the number of labor days to 45.

8. Spanish friars in the Philippines were the wealthiest landowners, possessing the finest
haciendas or agricultural lands.

The Guardia Civil, established through Royal Decrees in 1852 and 1888, was a symbol of Spanish
oppression. It aimed to uphold internal peace and order in the Philippines, drawing inspiration
from Spain's well-disciplined Guardia Civil.