Conversation so far:
What were the pre-colonial principalías principalities?
The barangays in some coastal places in Panay, Manila, Cebu, Jolo, and Butuan were already established principalities (Kinadatuan) before the coming of the Spaniards.
How did pre-colonial principalities affect the government?
What are some interesting aspects about the Principalia article?
The duty of the datus was to rule and govern their subjects and followers.
What did the pre-colonial chiefs of the Philippines receive?
What the chiefs received from their followers was: to be held by them in great veneration and respect.

Question: What were they serving for?
Self-contained rewrite: What were the followers in the pre-colonial Philippines serving their chiefs for?