Filipino Pre-Colonial History Reviewer

A set of flashcards covering key terms, figures, and concepts from Filipino pre-colonial history.

Mayi / Ma-i

Land of Gold; the name used by the Chinese to refer to a prosperous place in Mindoro, noted for its abundance of gold and active trade.

Las Islas de San Lázaro

Islands of St. Lazarus; the first name given to the Philippines by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 in honor of St. Lazarus.

Ferdinand Magellan

A Portuguese explorer who sailed for Spain seeking the Spice Islands; arrived in the Philippines on March 16, 1521.

Ruy López de Villalobos

A Spanish explorer who first referred to the archipelago as "Las Islas Filipinas" in 1543, in honor of King Philip of Spain.

Luzon

Derived from the word 'lusong', which refers to a large pestle used for grinding rice, one of the main trade centers before the arrival of the Spaniards.

Ginto

it was the main standard of exchange in pre-colonial Philippine economy.

Kaingin System

A method of farming involving cutting and burning forests to create agricultural land.

Negritos/Aeta

Considered one of the first ethnic groups in the Philippines; known as hunter-gatherers who consume wild fruits and plants.

Babaylan/Catalonan

Priest, healer, and mediator who served the deities and the community in pre-colonial Philippine society.

Sanduguan (Blood Compact)

A ceremony of friendship and agreement between two leaders in pre-colonial Philippines.

Datu

The leader of a barangay, responsible for governance and protection.

Timawa

Free commoners or workers who lacked noble lineage within the social structure.

Aliping Namamahay

Type of slave who has their own house and certain rights.

Aliping Sagigilid

Type of slave who lives in the master's house and has no property rights.

Sinaunang Tao sa Pilipinas

Refers to ancient humans in the Philippines, including individuals like Tabon Man and Callao Man.

Pangangaso at Pangingisda

Hunting and fishing, common livelihoods among native males in pre-colonial society.