The Maragtas History of Panay

The Maragtas: History of Panay

• Significant archaeological finds in the Tabon Cave include at least 200 jars and various artifacts, indicating advanced burial customs of early Filipinos.
• The Manunggul Jar, a notable burial vessel, illustrates the spiritual beliefs of the Aetas regarding the afterlife.
• Pedro Monteclaro published "The Maragtas," written in mixed Hiligaynon and Kin-iraya, in 1907, detailing the cultural history of Panay.
• Monteclaro served as Teniente Mayor in 1891 and Gobernadorcillo from 1892-1894, and was known for his poetic works in both vernacular and Spanish.

Arrival of the Ten Datus

• The Ten Datus from Borneo fled the tyranny of Datu Makatunaw and purchased the island of Panay from Marikudo with a solid gold hat and basin.
• Datus divided Panay into three areas: Hantik (Antique) led by Datu Sumakwel, Irong-irong (Iloilo) led by Datu Paiburong, and Aklan led by Datu Bangkaya.
• The Confederation of Madiaas united under Datu Sumakwel, recognized for his wisdom among the datus.

William Henry Scott's Verdict

• William Henry Scott authored a doctoral dissertation on historical accounts concerning the Maragtas and had an extensive missionary career in the Philippines.
• He documented the socio-political structure of early Filipino society, including the roles of nobles (Maharlika), commoners (Aliping Namamahay), and slaves (Aliping Saguiguilir).

Economic Life

• Agriculture flourished with crops such as rice, corn, bananas, coconuts, and sugarcane; combined with hunting and fishing as primary livelihood sources.
• Domestic and foreign trade thrived, linking barangays through boating and connecting with regions like Borneo, China, and Japan.
• Various crafts including shipbuilding, weaving, and mining contributed to the economy.

Language and Writing System

• Major languages included Tagalog, Ilocano, and Hiligaynon, originating from the Malayo-Polynesian language family.
• The Baybayin script consisted of 3 vowels and 14 consonants, with writing materials derived from plant leaves and tree bark.

Notable Figures

• Apolinario Mabini, a pivotal Filipino revolutionary leader, served as a legal adviser despite being disabled by polio.
• Known as the "Brains of the Revolution," Mabini played a crucial role during the Philippine Revolution and later became the First Prime Minister after the establishment of the First Philippine Republic.