The subjugation of nations was the epitome of strength and power in the early times of civilization. The oppression of mankind was a passing process uplifted by those seeking for more – land, spices, and “discoveries” – and this, in turn, led the authenticity of cultures to destruction, and a hierarchy among races and economic status impelled the segregation of people – specifically the Filipinos from their own nation.
The Philippines is no stranger to the oppression brought by colonization. During the Spanish era, changes were made – from clothing to religion to lifestyle. The culture was greatly affected as language, alphabet, and literature were altered into Spanish ideals, thus, the indigenous practices were demolished under the colonizer’s regime.
For over 300 years, the Spaniards embraced their power and the Filipinos adapted to their culture and despite the grim, unjust, and racially discriminative oppression, new beginnings were conformed – language acquisition and education helped the Filipinos prosper.
The adaptation of the oppressor’s culture was vital for the Filipinos’ survival and eventually, it became part of the Philippine culture. The scars brought by the colonizers became exactly what they are – a part of civilization, an element of overcoming tribulations. The replacement of native traditions into Spanish ideals is present even in today’s time, some of which are known as pasyon, awit, korido, komedia, zarzuela, and moro-moro.
Pasyon is a Philippine epic narrative revolving around Roman Catholicism, centered on the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ – specifically the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. As Christianity was introduced to the Philippines under Spanish rule, the pasyon was adapted. A variety of renditions circulated during the colonization period but the first ever Tagalog version “Ang Mahal na Pasyon ni Jesu Christong Panginoon Natin na Tola” emerged in 1703, written by Filipino layman, Gaspar Aquino de Belen. Despite gaining inspiration from the 17th century Spanish passion model, de Belen’s version is rooted in local tradition. “Casaysayan ng Pasyong Mahal ni Jesucristong Panginoon Natin na Sucat Ipag-alab ng Puso nang Sinumang Babasa” also known as “Pasyong Genesis” is the most popular rendition of the pasyon. “Pabasa” is the recitation of the Pasyon and Pasyons were traditionally sung and chanted in homes and Churches during Lenten seasons but now, they are only sung and chanted during the Holy Week. It is also present within cultural theaters and it is specifically known as Pasyon Plays or Senakulo. They are performed and celebrated by Christians during Lenten season/Holy Week through reenactments of the most important parts of Christ’s life.
Awit, which is Tagalog for “song,” is a kind of metrical romances and a type of Filipino poem that consists of a 12 syllabic quatrain/verse called “plosa” and follows a mono rhyme scheme (AAAA, BBBB, CCCC…). Although it is in the context of poetry, it is closer to the narrative. It is composed of 4 lines/stanzas full of figurative language, and complete grammatically-correct sentences. Authors usually remain anonymous but the most famous influential work in the form of awit is Francisco Balagtas’ “Florante at Laura.”
Korido, which is the Tagalog version of the Spanish culture’s “Corrido,” is also a kind of metrical romances that is an extended narrative about life, events, and adventures. It is sung and accompanied by instruments such as guitars (specifically in fandango style) and is consisted of an 8 syllabic quatrain/verse called “hakira.”
Komedia is a Tagalog version of the Spanish golden age tradition’s “Comedia.” It is a type of theater in Christianized Philippines with a plot revolving around conflicts between Muslims and Christians with regards to social, economic, and religious issues. This is usually performed during festivals and church celebrations, and is also known as “Komedya de Santo” as it is centered on the life of Jesus Christ or any saint. The performers ear extravagant clothing, beautiful props, move in a stylized manner, and move in an elaborative choreography during war/fight scenes.
Sarswela, which is the Tagalog version of the Spanish culture’s “Zarzuela,” is a theatrical play of songs and dances typically written in prose. It contains one to five acts, depicting the eccentricity of romance/love among Filipino characters, and often incorporating contemporary political, social, economic, or cultural issues.
Moro-moro is a type of folk drama usually performed during fiestas. Villages and cities do not bear parallel plots but they are always centered on melodrama and romance. The linchpin of moro-moros is to remind Christians of their faith and religion as the theme is always focused on the conflicts of Moors and Christians.
(An interview with one of the oldest Filipino inhabitants in my hometown)
“When the Spaniards came, they took advantage of the Filipino’s hospitality and the language barrier. Lands were traded with cigarette holders (“hunsuy” in Bisaya) and the Filipinos who were the rightful owners, became the tenants as the Spaniards became the landlords.
From what I heard from the stories of the elders during my younger years, I learned that everything is consisted of good and bad. I would say the greatest contribution the Spanish regime has influenced our country is Christianity and education. I am a firm believer and a devotee of Christ and I believe that everything happens for a reason. May it be intentional or by accident.
The colonization did not only bring Filipinos closer to God, it also helped our heroes become heroes. Despite hundreds of years of being under the colonizer’s power, our ancestors learned to adapt and fight back. Although my knowledge with regards to the education system during the pre-Spanish period is minimal, I do know that Jose Rizal graduated from his secondary education within our country and that he pursued college overseas.
If the Spaniards did not implement education, Rizal wouldn’t have become a doctor, Mabini wouldn’t have become a lawyer, and Luna was not only a great leader, he was also knowledgeable and proficient in chemistry and science, and he wouldn’t have found such interests and passion if it weren’t for the education system that was introduced by the colonizers. Civilizations have always been like this and the colonized always adapt in order to survive.
Even our language is a mixture of native, Spanish, and even English. Your history books are focused on the tribulations, sacrifices, and achievements of our ancestors and that has become the lectures and topics of schools – the lives of our heroes have not gone into vain if we remember and celebrate their courage and love for our country.
Taken that we didn’t experience the same fate as our ancestors, what I have now is awareness. You, the younger generations bear both awareness and knowledge since you witness stories through reenactments, documentaries, and books which are instruments that tell tales of real-life events. It creates impacts that help cultivate the people’s view on courage, bravery, nationalism, and faith – that everything is consisted of good and bad. ”
