Pre-Colonial Period and Oral Tradition

What is the geographical characteristic of the Philippines that shaped its cultural variety?

Pre-colonial societies in the Philippines had uniform cultures.

What type of literature helped preserve stories and myths in pre-colonial Philippines?

The name for God in ancient Filipino beliefs varies by ______.

Who played a central role in the transmission of stories and traditions in pre-colonial societies?

Which of the following is an example of folk literature from pre-colonial Philippines?

Memorization was not important for oral transmission in pre-colonial cultures.

What replaced oral traditions over time in Filipino culture?

Pre-Colonial Period

The Pre-Colonial period lasted from 15,000-30,000 BC to 2,500 BC
The first settlers were the Aetas, excellent hunters and gathers.
The Proto-Malays introduced knowledge in seafaring, farming, and house-building.
The Deutero-Malays shared knowledge in writing, agriculture, and skills.
Indigenous Filipinos were animistic who worshipped nature and believed in spirits like anitos and diwatas.
Different regions had different names for their God (Bathala, Laon, Kabunian) and views on the world’s creation.

Oral Tradition and Storytelling

Oral literature was a crucial part of preserving and transmitting indigenous values, stories, and traditions.
Storytellers, like “bards” or “hukom”, played a significant role in remembering and reciting epics, myths, legends, and folk tales.

Forms of Oral Literature

Epics told heroic tales, like the epic “Hinilawod”.
Myths explained the origins of the world, creation myths, and the nature of humanity.
Folk tales conveyed moral lessons and values through entertaining stories.
Proverbs shared wisdom and guidance in a concise and memorable way.
Riddles tested wit and intelligence through wordplay and riddles.
Songs and dances were used for celebrations and rituals.

Explore the rich history of the Pre-Colonial Period in the Philippines, covering the first settlers, indigenous beliefs, and the importance of oral tradition. Learn about various forms of oral literature and how stories and values were preserved through generations.