Sean Ashley M.

Go BS Psychology-2 02/20/24 Understanding Local Politics

STATE, PATRONAGE, AND LOCAL ELITES ASSIGNMENT

Explain the patron-client relationship as a specific form of power arrangement.

In the Philippine context, the patron-client relationship is a prominent form of power

arrangement deeply embedded in the political and social fabric of the country. This
dynamic is characterized by an informal linkage between a political leader (the patron)
and their followers or supporters (the clients).

The patron-client relationship is conceived as a specific form of power

arrangement which involves the informal linkage between a political leader
(patron) who is able to provide material goods and services for his political
followers (clients) who, in return for benefits received from the former,
reciprocate by rendering personal support and loyalty to their patron.

Essentially, it's a mutually beneficial relationship where the patron provides resources,
and the clients offer allegiance and assistance in return. This form of association is
often characterized by informal ties rather than formal contracts or legal arrangements.

What is factionalism?

Factionalism is a notable outcome of patron-client relationships in the Philippines.

Political factions emerge as various patrons compete for influence and support. These
factions can be based on regional, familial, or other shared characteristics.

Factionalism is seen to be a major component of political systems dominated by

patron-client relationships. In the specific case of the Philippines, it has been
argued by Lande that local alliances are shaped in large measure by kinship or
clan affiliations.

In such a system, loyalty and support are influenced not only by political
considerations, but also by familial relationships, adding to the complex interplay of
politics and personal connections in the Philippine political landscape.
What is colonialism?

Colonial patronage refers to a system of power and influence established during the
period of colonialism, where a colonial power exercises control and authority over a
territory or region. In the Philippine context, colonial patronage primarily refers to the
system of power and influence established during the period of Spanish colonization,
which lasted for more than three centuries (1565-1898). The Spanish colonial rulers
employed a patronage system to maintain control over the archipelago.

Spain established colonial rule over the Philippines in the 16th century. The Spanish
crown exercised control over the political, economic, and social aspects of Philippine
society.

With the entry of Spanish colonialism in the 16th century, a pattern of local
politics which was closely patterned after Mexico (another Spanish colony during
the period) was introduced in the country.

The Spanish colonial administration often collaborated with local elites, datu (local
leaders), and noble families. These local intermediaries were granted privileges and
authority in exchange for their support in implementing Spanish policies, collecting
taxes, and maintaining order.

Under Spanish colonial rule, the datus or cabezas were constituted into a
privileged political class called principalia. They were tasked to collect tribute for
the colonial administration. Just like the Latin American caciques, they were
exempted from paying the tribute as well as from rendering forced labor.

After the defeat of Spanish forces by the United States in 1898, the Philippines
transitioned to American colonial rule. While there were changes in the colonial
administration, aspects of patronage persisted as the U.S. adapted certain existing
structures.

With the transfer of the reins of colonial rulership from the Spaniards to the
Americans at the turn of the century, the vast hectares of land owned by the
Spanish religious orders, amounting to some 400,000 acres, were expropriated
by the American local authorities and auctioned off to the public.
 Like the Spaniards, the American colonizers were just as interested in gaining the
goodwill and support of the Philippine local elite. Hence, the first Philippine
elections held in 1902 for municipal positions called for qualifications which only
the educated Filipinos – surely a rare species at the time – could possibly meet.

Understanding colonial patronage in the Philippine context is crucial for

comprehending the historical foundations of socio-economic disparities and power
dynamics within the country. The legacies of colonial patronage continue to shape
aspects of Philippine society today.