Conversation so far:
What were the pre-colonial princibalities?
From the beginning of the colonial period in the Philippine, the Spanish government built on the traditional pre-conquest socio-political organization of the barangay.
How did this affect the government?
In other regions, even though the majority of these barangays were not large settlements, yet they had organized societies.
What are some interesting aspects about this article?
The duty of the datus was to rule and govern their subjects and followers, and to assist them in their interests and necessities.
What the chiefs received.
What did the chiefs recieve?
the chiefs received from their followers was: to be held by them in great veneration and respect; and they were served in their.

Question: What were they serving for?
Self-contained rewrite: What were the barangay chiefs serving for?