12/09/2024
TEENAGE FILIPINO GIRLS IN THE 1900s MEMORIES
DID YOU KNOW?
During the ancient times through the early 1900s Philippines, pursuing a romantic relationship with a Filipino woman was a complex and demanding process. In line with traditional customs, men were expected to labor for the woman's family before marriage, a custom termed servitude.
This obligation could involve arduous tasks such as chopping wood and fetching water, and it could extend for months or even years as the man endeavored to convince the woman's parents of his worthiness. Remarkably, this courtship persisted even after the wedding.
Furthermore, the man was required to provide a considerable dowry, often in the form of land, gold, or property. Particularly if the man sought the hand of a chief's daughter, the stipulated dowry amount could be quite substantial. In various regions, the dowry was customarily presented to the mother-in-law and withheld until the couple had children.
In addition to the dowry, there were other anticipated payments and offerings, including "pangmuyat" (a token of gratitude for the mother's efforts in raising the girl), "breastfeeding" (compensation for the woman who nursed the man in his infancy), and "himaraw" (reimbursement for the expenses incurred in the girl's upbringing). Moreover, in certain areas, it was customary to give a bribe known as "sambon" to the woman's relatives.
Preceding the wedding, a practice referred to as "pamulungan" or "pamalae" was observed, providing an occasion for the parents of the couple to convene, finalize arrangements, and address any financial matters.
***This information is derived from the historical account in Teodoro Agoncillo's writings on Philippine history.
