Título: Principalía
Seção: The Christianized Filipino Nobles under the Spanish Crown
Background: The Principalia or noble class was the ruling and usually educated upper class in the pueblos of the Spanish Philippines, comprising the gobernadorcillo (who had functions similar to a town mayor), and the cabezas de barangay (heads of the barangays) who governed the districts. The distinction or status of being part of the principalia was a hereditary right. However, it could also be acquired, as attested by the royal decree of 20 December 1863 (signed in the name of Queen Isabella II by the Minister of the Colonies, Jose de la Concha). This distinguished upper class was exempted from tribute (tax) to the Spanish crown during the colonial period.

Conteúdo: With the recognition of the Spanish monarchs came the privilege of being addressed as Don or Dona. - a mark of esteem and distinction in Europe reserved for a person of noble or royal status during the colonial period. Other honors and high regard were also accorded to the Christianized Datus by the Spanish Empire. For example, the Gobernadorcillos (elected leader of the Cabezas de Barangay or the Christianized Datus) and Filipino officials of justice received the greatest consideration from the Spanish Crown officials. The colonial officials were under obligation to show them the honor corresponding to their respective duties. They were allowed to sit in the houses of the Spanish Provincial Governors, and in any other places. They were not left to remain standing. It was not permitted for Spanish Parish Priests to treat these Filipino nobles with less consideration.  The Gobernadorcillos exercised the command of the towns. They were Port Captains in coastal towns. They also had the rights and powers to elect assistants and several lieutenants and alguaciles, proportionate in number to the inhabitants of the town.  On the day on which the gobernadorcillo would take on government duties, his town would hold a grand celebration. A festive banquet would be offered in the municipal or city hall where he would occupy a seat, adorned by the coat of arms of Spain and with fanciful designs, if his social footing was of a respectable antiquity.  On holy days the town officials would g

user: Could you tell me something interesting about the Christianized Filipinos?

assistant: the Gobernadorcillos (elected leader of the Cabezas de Barangay or the Christianized Datus) and Filipino officials of justice received the greatest consideration from the Spanish Crown officials.

user: who were the Gebrnadorcillos?

assistant: elected leader of the Cabezas de Barangay or the Christianized Datus

user: how did they benefit from the consideration?

assistant: The colonial officials were under obligation to show them the honor corresponding to their respective duties.

user: how did they show them honor?

assistant: They were allowed to sit in the houses of the Spanish Provincial Governors, and in any other places. They were not left to remain standing.

user: what were the duties of the Gobernadorcillos?

assistant: The Gobernadorcillos exercised the command of the towns. They were Port Captains in coastal towns.

user: were they liked by the people?

assistant: On the day on which the gobernadorcillo would take on government duties, his town would hold a grand celebration.