History 101

Customs
of
Tagalogs
Fr. Juan de Plasencia
• was the author of Customs of Tagalogs
• a Spanish friar of the Franciscan Order
• He was among the first group of Franciscan missionaries
who arrived in the Islands on July 2, 1578.
Fr. Juan de Plasencia
• He spent most of his missionary life in the Philippines, where he
founded numerous towns in the provinces of Bulacan, Laguna, and
Rizal.
• He authored several religious and linguistic books:
• Doctrina Cristiana (Christian Doctrine)- the first book ever printed in
the Philippines.
• He died in Liliw, Laguna, in the year 1590.
Historical Background of the Document

Juan de Plasencia, a Franciscan friar who arrived in the

Philippines in 1578, authored the text "Customs of the
Tagalog" as a component of Spain's mission to convert the
native Tagalog people to Christianity. Recognizing the
importance of comprehending and integrating Tagalog culture,
Plasencia meticulously recorded various aspects of their
society, including social structures, language, religious beliefs,
and more.
Historical Background of the Document

This approach exemplified the broader strategy of cultural

amalgamation, where indigenous customs were fused with
Christianity. "Customs of the Tagalog" remains a crucial
historical source, shedding light on the early interactions of
Spanish colonizers and the complexities of cultural exchange
during Spanish rule in the late 16th century Philippines.
 Analysis of the Important Historical Information Found in
the Document
• This narrative of Juan de Plasencia supports the concept that Filipinos had their own set of traditions,
rituals, and behaviors before the Spaniards occupied the Philippines.
• He supplied facts that can help today's generations comprehend our history and learn about traditions that
are no longer performed.
• Even today, some 16th-century practices are still practiced by some ethnic groups in the Philippines:
• The Bagobo system- which requires the bride-to-father be's to make a return present equal to one-half of
whatever is agreed upon as dowry.
• There are still people, particularly the elders, who believe in the existence of tikbalang and tiyanak.
 More traditions the Tagalog practice:

• Barangay
• Social Classes (Datu, Maharlica, Aliping
Namamahay, Aliping Saguguilid)
• Administration of Justice
• Loans
• Worship (Pandot, Simbahan, Sibi)
• Bathala
 Contribution and Relevance of the Document in Understanding the Grand
Narrative of the Philippine History

• "Tagalog Customs" revealed how our forefathers survived without the support of large Western
governments.
• Our forefathers had their own way of ruling over a group of people known as Barangays.
• They are already doing business with neighboring countries.
• The study of the ancient lifestyles of the people who lived in central Luzon was made possible by the
"Customs of Tagalog".
The text's contents produced vivid pictures, enabling comparisons with other narratives of earlier eras and
crucial moments in Philippine history as well as additional examination of the ancient Tagalogs' customs.
 Relevance of the Document

The document "Customs of Tagalogs," composed by Juan de Plasencia, holds significance for
several key reasons. Firstly, it provides invaluable historical insights into the culture and traditions of
the Tagalog people during the late 16th century, contributing to our understanding of indigenous
society during the early stages of Spanish colonization in the Philippines. Secondly, it underscores
the process of cultural blending, where indigenous customs melded with Christianity, offering a
distinctive perspective on the mechanisms of cultural exchange during this era. \
 Relevance of the Document

Moreover, the document serves as a precious ethnographic resource, enabling the study of
Tagalog social structures, language, and religious beliefs. Overall, "Customs of the Tagalog"
plays a vital role in preserving Philippine cultural heritage and deepening our comprehension
of the intricate dynamics of early colonial encounters in the region.
Ok na. Bye. Tnx.