The Igorot:
* Geographical advantage: The Igorot, who lived in the mountainous regions of northern Luzon, used their terrain to their advantage. The rugged mountains made it difficult for the Spanish to reach and conquer their settlements.
* Guerilla warfare: The Igorot employed effective guerrilla tactics, using their knowledge of the terrain and their skills in archery and spear-throwing to ambush and harass Spanish forces.
* Strong cultural identity: The Igorot had a strong sense of community and a distinct cultural identity, which helped them resist assimilation and maintain their independence.
However:
* Spanish influence: Despite their resistance, the Igorot were not entirely isolated. They traded with the lowlands and were exposed to Spanish culture and religion.
* Limited access to resources: The Spanish controlled the lowlands and access to important resources, which put pressure on the Igorot.
* Spanish subjugation of some communities: The Spanish were able to establish settlements and exert control over some Igorot communities, particularly in the lowlands.
The Muslims:
* Strong political organization: The Muslim communities in the southern Philippines had well-established political structures and sultanates, which facilitated resistance against the Spanish.
* Military prowess: Muslim Filipinos were skilled warriors and used effective tactics, including seafaring and naval combat, to defend their territories.
* Religious conviction: Their Islamic faith provided a strong sense of identity and resistance against Spanish attempts to convert them to Christianity.
However:
* Spanish colonization of some areas: The Spanish were able to establish settlements and control some areas in the south, including Manila.
* Internal divisions: Internal conflict between different Muslim groups weakened their resistance against the Spanish.
* Spanish tactics: The Spanish employed divide-and-conquer tactics, fostering alliances with some Muslim groups and weakening others.
In conclusion:
While both the Igorot and Muslims in the Philippines fought fiercely against Spanish colonization and maintained their independence for a significant period, they were not completely "unconquered." The Spanish had a degree of influence and control over certain areas, and ultimately, they were able to establish a colonial presence in the Philippines for over three centuries.