Here's why it's a misconception:
* Colonial Education: The Spanish colonial government established schools and universities in the Philippines. While education was not compulsory, many Filipinos did attend these schools, where Spanish was the language of instruction.
* Elite & Church Influence: The elite class in the Philippines, who often held government positions or worked closely with the Church, were primarily educated in Spanish. The Catholic Church also played a big role in spreading Spanish, particularly in areas where Filipinos were exposed to Spanish priests and missionaries.
* Official Language: Spanish was the official language of the Philippines under Spanish rule for over 300 years. This meant it was used in government, legal proceedings, and official documents.
However, it's important to note that:
* Limited Access: Access to Spanish education was limited to the elite and those who could afford it. The majority of Filipinos, especially in rural areas, did not have the opportunity to learn Spanish.
* Language Policy: While Spanish was promoted as the language of power and education, there were limitations on teaching indigenous languages. This meant that some Filipinos might have been discouraged from speaking their native tongues.
* Impact on Indigenous Languages: Despite Spanish becoming a prominent language in the Philippines, it did not fully replace indigenous languages. Many languages continue to be spoken throughout the country, and some have even experienced revivals in recent years.
In conclusion, the Spaniards did teach Spanish to Filipinos, particularly to those who had access to education. However, it's crucial to recognize that the impact of colonialism on language was complex, with both positive and negative aspects.