Social Roles:
* Strong Family Roles: Women were key figures in family life. They were responsible for managing the household, raising children, and participating in farming and other economic activities.
* Political Influence: While not holding formal political positions, women wielded considerable influence within their communities. They were advisors and decision-makers in family and community matters.
* Religious Leaders: Some pre-colonial societies had women priests or spiritual leaders. For instance, in the "Babaylan" system, women held significant roles in rituals, healing, and community governance.
* Economic Contributions: Women were active participants in the economy, engaging in farming, fishing, weaving, and pottery making. Some even owned land and managed their own businesses.
Social Status:
* Respect and Dignity: Filipino women were generally respected for their roles and contributions to society.
* Freedom of Choice: Women had some control over their lives, including the choice of marriage partners and the right to divorce.
* Property Ownership: Women could own land and inherit property, which was a rare right for women in other societies at the time.
Changes After Spanish Colonization:
* Shifting Gender Roles: Spanish colonization led to a significant shift in gender roles, relegating women to a subordinate position.
* Limited Education: Access to education was restricted for women, limiting their opportunities for advancement.
* Patriarchal System: Spanish law and culture established a patriarchal system that favored men in areas like inheritance, property ownership, and political participation.
* Loss of Economic Power: Women lost much of their economic autonomy as the Spanish system favored men in commerce and agriculture.
Important Note: The pre-colonial period was diverse, and the status of women varied across different indigenous groups. However, the general trend suggests that women in the Philippines prior to Spanish colonization held a more prominent and respected position in society.