Customs of the Tagalogs

• What is the title of the document written by Juan de Plasencia?

  Customs of the Tagalogs
• In what language was the original document written?

  Spanish
• Who translated the document into English?

  Frederic W. Morrison
• What was the birth year and place of Juan de Plasencia?

  1520, Plasencia, Spain
• When did Juan de Plasencia die and at what age?

  1590, at the age of 70
• What role did Juan de Plasencia have in the Luzon area?

  He was a friar responsible for founding different towns.
• What was one of Juan de Plasencia's roles regarding the natives?

  He was a defender of the natives.
• What was the purpose of Juan de Plasencia writing the document?

  To learn more about the natives and settle disputes for spreading Christianity.
• What significant historical event was occurring around the time the document was written?

  The Treaty of Nonsuch was established, threatening Spanish rule.
• Who was the intended audience for the document?

  Scholars, lawmakers, and government officials.
• What role did Santiago de Vera play in relation to the document?

  He was the chief justice of the Royal Audiencia and the 6th Spanish Governor General.
• What are the three main topics covered in the document along with a specific rule for each?

  1. SOCIAL STRUCTURE

  • Datos (Chiefs) govern the people and lead in wars.

  1. ALLOCATION OF PROPERTY

  • Lands are divided among the barangay, especially irrigated portions.

  1. MARRIAGE

  • Children’s status is determined by the odd/even rule based on parents' status.
• What is the status of the maharlica in the social structure?

  They are nobles who do not pay taxes but must accompany the dato in war.
• What is the role of Aliping Namamahay in the social structure?

  They are commoners who serve their master and are lords of their property.
• What distinguishes Aliping sa guiguilir from other social classes?

  They serve their master in the house and on cultivated lands and may be sold.
• How is land ownership structured in the barangay?

  Land is divided among the barangay, especially irrigated portions, while mountain-ridge lands are owned in common.
• What happens if a person of different social status marries a maharlica?

  Children's status is determined by whether their birth order is odd or even.