Here's why:
* Oral Tradition: Before Spanish arrival, Filipinos had a rich oral tradition. This included epic poems (like the "Biag ni Lam-ang" and "Hudhud ni Aliguyon"), folk songs, myths, legends, and proverbs. These stories passed down through generations served as a form of entertainment, education, and cultural preservation.
* Pre-Colonial Writing: While not widespread, there is evidence of writing systems used by some indigenous groups in the Philippines prior to Spanish colonization. For example, the Baybayin script, which is believed to have been used for writing in the Tagalog region, is considered a pre-colonial script.
The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century significantly influenced Philippine literature. They introduced the Roman alphabet and the Catholic religion, leading to the development of religious literature and the use of Spanish as a language of literature. However, it is important to recognize that pre-colonial literature laid the foundation for Philippine literary traditions.
It's crucial to acknowledge the existence of rich cultural heritage that existed before the arrival of the Spanish, as it helps to fully appreciate the evolution and diversity of Philippine literature.