The Philippines is home to a wealth of ancient technologies that have been passed down through

generations. These technologies are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Filipino people, who
have utilized their natural resources to create a wide range of tools and techniques. One such example is
the intricate weaving techniques used by indigenous tribes to create textiles with vibrant colors and
intricate patterns. The weaving process involves the use of a backstrap loom, which is a simple yet
effective tool that has been used for centuries. Another example of ancient technology in the Philippines
is the rice terraces, which are an impressive feat of engineering. The terraces are made up of a series of
stepped fields that have been carved into the mountainside, allowing for the cultivation of rice in areas
that would otherwise be unusable. The creation of the rice terraces required the use of sophisticated
irrigation systems and the careful management of water resources. The ancient technology of the
Philippines extends beyond textiles and agriculture, however. The country is also known for its
traditional boats, such as the banca and the vinta, which have been used for fishing and transportation
for centuries. These boats are made using techniques that have been passed down through generations,
and are still in use today. Overall, the ancient technology of the Philippines is a rich and varied topic,
encompassing a wide range of tools, techniques, and practices that have been developed over centuries.
These technologies are a testament to the creativity, resourcefulness, and skill of the Filipino people,
and provide a fascinating glimpse into the country's past and cultural identity.

STONE AGE

The Old Stone Age, also known as the Paleolithic era, is a prehistoric period that dates back to around
2.6 million years ago and lasted until about 10,000 BCE. During this period, early humans relied on stone
tools and weapons to survive and thrive.

Early Filipinos in Palawan were known to be cave dwellers, food gatherers, and hunters. They lived a
simple yet difficult life, relying on the natural resources found in their environment for survival. They
hunted wild animals and gathered fruits, roots, and other edible plants for food. They also utilized the
caves as shelter and for protection against the elements and predators. The early Filipinos in Palawan
had a deep connection with nature and relied on it for their daily needs. Their way of life may have been
primitive by modern standards, but their resilience and adaptability allowed them to thrive in their
environment.

Early Filipinos in Palawan were skilled in manufacturing and using flake tools made from stones that
were abundant in the area. They had a deep understanding of the different types of stones and how to
fashion them into tools that could be used for various purposes such as hunting, cutting, and scraping.

Archaeologists have discovered charcoal fragments in Palawan, which suggest that early Filipinos in the
area used cooking fires. Charcoal is a residue of burned wood and is a clear indicator of human activity.
The discovery of charcoal fragments implies that early Filipinos in Palawan had the knowledge and
ability to start and maintain fires for cooking and warmth. This finding provides insight into the daily
lives and practices of early humans in the area

Archaeological findings indicate that modern humans from the Asian mainland first migrated by land
across narrow channels to settle in Batangas and Palawan around 48,000 B.C. Subsequently, they
established settlements in various other regions in the Philippines, including Sulu, Davao, Zamboanga,
Samar, Negros, Batangas, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, and Cagayan. These early settlers in the Philippines
were skilled in hunting, gathering, and agriculture, and they developed their own unique cultures and
traditions. The presence of early humans in the Philippines is a testament to the resilience and
adaptability of our species and provides insight into our shared history.

Duyong Cave in Palawan is an archaeological site that contains numerous artifacts from early humans
who lived in the area. Among the artifacts found at the site are a Tabon incised-style pot, stone tools, a
pendant, an adze, and a base for making adze. These artifacts provide valuable information about the
technology, art, and daily lives of early Filipinos in Palawan.

Seminoho Rock Shelter in Cotabato contains several artifacts that provide insight into the culture and
practices of early humans in the area. Among these are charm boxes and assemblages, which provide
valuable information about their beliefs and social structures.

BRONZE AGE
During the Bronze Age, humans started using bronze for tools, weapons, and other items. In the
Philippines, the Bronze Age is believed to have started around 2000 BCE, and evidence of this
period can be found in various archaeological sites throughout the country. Additionally, during this
period, the Neolithic material culture was enriched by the addition of items made of copper and
copper alloys. Lingling-o and other ornamental objects, shell, and stone beads also made an
appearance during this period, reflecting a shift towards more sophisticated and complex societies.
These artifacts offer valuable insights into the customs and traditions of early humans in the region
and provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and social practices of the time.

The Iron Age, which lasted from around 1200 BCE to 500 CE, was a significant period in human
history characterized by the widespread use of iron for tools, weapons, and other items. During this
period, humans developed new techniques for extracting and working with iron, which allowed for
the production of more durable and versatile tools and weapons. This technological advancement
also had a significant impact on agriculture, as iron tools made farming more efficient and
productive. In the Philippines, the Iron Age is believed to have started around 500 BCE, and
evidence of this period can be found in various archaeological sites throughout the country. The Iron
Age in the Philippines is marked by significant changes in the material culture of the region, including
the production of iron tools and weapons, as well as other artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and
religious objects. These artifacts offer valuable insights into the customs and traditions of early
humans in the region and provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and social practices of the
time. One notable artifact from this period is the "Kudyapi," a stringed instrument that is still used in
some parts of the Philippines today. Other important artifacts from the Iron Age in the Philippines
include iron knives, swords, and spears, as well as pottery vessels decorated with intricate patterns
and designs. These artifacts reflect the sophistication and complexity of the societies that existed
during this period and offer a glimpse into their economic, religious, and social practices. Overall, the
Iron Age was a period of significant technological and cultural development in the Philippines and
around the world. The artifacts and structures from this period continue to fascinate and intrigue
archaeologists and historians, providing valuable insights into the lives and customs of our
ancestors.