Reflection on Week 2

Based on your reading and class discussion, describe the 19th century
Philippines in your own understanding. In your conclusion, assess how the
events in the past shaped the present condition of the Philippines.

The nineteenth century is a marked revolutionary moment for the Pearl of the Orient,
the Philippines. One major factor that contributed to these monumental changes is the
continual colonization of the Philippines by the Spaniards. During this century, there
occurred note-worthy social, political, economic, cultural, and spiritual changes in the
country — which influenced in molding the Philippines that we know of today.

During the continued reign of the Spaniards in the Philippines, the Filipinos have
learned to celebrate Roman Catholicism — following the scriptures in the Bible and
spiritual practices. Aside from that, the Philippines have also adopted some Western
tradition and heritage when it comes to art, music, cuisine, and language. In terms of
economic practices, the Philippines have learned an advanced trading system of goods
and services that have significantly improved the economic state of the country. Another
major impact the Spaniards have influenced is the education system in the country that
has led to the development of proper educational institutions to cater the learning needs
of the citizens. Lastly, the Spaniards have also influenced the views and beliefs of the
Filipinos — centering and applying emphasis on family, religion, and following an
ordered structure of governance.

The condition of the nineteenth century Philippines have significantly impacted the
present day Philippines. Up to this day, the majority of Filipinos still practice Roman
Catholicism and partake in spiritual activities occasionally such as fiestas and spiritual
gatherings. Other than that, the Filipinos still practice Western tradition and heritage that
were once introduced during the colonization period of the Spaniards as evidenced by
the presence of Western music and food in the country. On another note, the
introduction of an advanced trading system and educational system have sparked the
major advancement of the Philippines as a country — keeping on par with other
developed countries in the world. Moreover, the nineteenth century beliefs of the
Filipinos have also led to current Filipinos giving priority to family, religion, and legal
principles — which sets apart the Filipino people from other nationalities. With all these
said, the nineteenth century did leave a remarkable influence on the current condition of
the Philippines.