Catholicism's Complex Influence on Filipino Society

Photo Source/ Credit: First Mass in the Philippines by Carlos “Botong” Francisco 

Spanish colonization in the Philippines brought not only political, economic, and cultural control but also an inexorable push for religious conversion. Catholicism was used by Spanish conquistadors to seize and control the beliefs of the people, disrupting indigenous belief systems and imposing foreign practices.

In pre-colonial times, our people had a rich culture and animistic beliefs, like worshiping spirits and nature. Spanish missionaries viewed these practices as blasphemous devil worship and actively suppressed them. They suppressed the beliefs and practices of the people, and the celebration for ancient deities were replaced by fiestas dedicated to Christian saints. They required the people to destroy their own symbols of spirituality and labeled the spiritual healers as witches and devils.  

Beyond Catholicism, Philippine culture encompasses a diverse variety of religious beliefs, including Islam, Indigenous Animism, and other Christian denominations. The dominance of Catholicism has marginalized and suppressed these beliefs through various means such as forced conversion, discrimination, and cultural erasure. The Spanish colonial period witnessed violent and coercive methods to convert the indigenous populations to Catholicism. Indigenous and minority religious groups often face discrimination and stereotyping, which excludes them from society and limits their access to resources and opportunities. 

Our ancestors were taught to obey the word of God, or they would suffer eternal damnation. They were taught that if they commit good deeds, they will go to heaven after death, or they will suffer in hell if not. Conversion methods often relied on coercion, violence and destruction of sacred objects. Religious instruction became mandatory, and churches were very influential to colonial control. 

They also perpetuated a patriarchal and feudal society. Catholic teachings emphasized male dominance as God-ordained, which subjugated women who in pre-colonial society were viewed equally. This limited their access to education, work, and leadership roles. 

Many older generations hold onto Catholic values and traditions with deep devotion. Especially those who were raised in a strict Catholic environment, many hold onto these practices without questioning their colonial origins. Practices like frequently attending processions, church every Sunday, or revering saints become a beacon of having “proper” faith. 

In the Philippines, many see Catholicism as a source of comfort and morality, an integral part of their identity. They may not be aware of the historical context of Catholicism, simply believing that it was brought by the Spaniards to the Philippines, not imposed or forced. Furthermore, the patriarchal values of the Church often align with the hierarchical structures within Filipino families. Situations like questioning religious doctrines may be seen as disrespecting and going against religion and authority.

Globalization, with the rise of social media and access to information, is allowing the younger generations to be more exposed and aware of the wider world. The exposure to diverse religions, practices and cultures, sate the curiosity of those who question the rigid doctrines of Catholicism, which in turn results in critical discussions. This creates skepticism around the established truths and morals that were passed through generations. 

Concepts such as gender equality, LGBTQIA+ rights, and divorce often raise eyebrows among conservatives and within the Catholic Church, particularly among older generations. These groups typically adhere to traditional gender roles, which conflict with the beliefs of many younger people who advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all genders. Same-sex marriage and LGBTQIA+ rights are frequently viewed as sinful and contrary to conservative beliefs. The traditional family structure, based on heterosexual marriage and procreation, is deeply ingrained in culture and tradition. Challenging these norms can lead to conflict, especially within families where the emphasis on unity is strong. Additionally, due to the Catholic Church’s stance on the sanctity of marriage, divorce is often seen as a threat to family stability and a social taboo. To this day, the Philippines remains the last country in Asia to legalize divorce.

The Church as an Avenue for Mobilization

White it was initially imposed as a tool of colonial control, it has also served as a vehicle for resistance and the liberation struggle. Filipinos adapted and reinterpreted the teachings of Christ in fighting against poverty, imperialism, and injustices.

The juxtaposition of the colonizers’ opulent lifestyle and the impoverished masses created a big contrast that many Filipinos found conflicting with the Catholic Church’s message of equality and compassion. It fueled a sense of discontent and laid the groundwork for resistance movements. 

Photo Credit: Pete Reyes, Manila Times

During periods of peril, such as the Martial Law, church people courageously stood up against the dictatorship, offering sanctuary and advocating for human rights. The EDSA People Power movement marked a watershed moment in Philippine history, with the church people playing a pivotal role in mobilizing the masses. 

Photo credit: Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News

Moreover, the Catholic Church has been a vocal critic of Duterte’s war on drugs, condemning the extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses that have occurred. Church leaders, such as Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, have called for compassion, advocating for the protection of life and due process rather than violence. Parishes like San Roque Cathedral in Caloocan have provided support and sanctuary to the families of victims, with some churches even holding memorials for those killed in the drug war. Through public statements, community outreach, and initiatives like the "Huwag Kang Papatay" (Thou Shall Not Kill) campaign, the Church continues to challenge the government's approach and push for more humane solutions.

Reimagining the Filipino Faith through Decolonization

The intergenerational conflicts arising from decolonizing Filipino spirituality have broad implications for Filipino society. The discord between traditional and progressive values can create a divide between generations, leading to conflicts that also impact politics, policy-making, and governance.

Spirituality is a fundamental human right, and everyone should have the freedom to explore and practice their beliefs without coercion or discrimination. This freedom is essential for personal growth, well-being, and the development of diverse cultures and societies. It is equally important to view spirituality through a critical lens. Many belief systems, particularly those dominant in various cultures, have historical and cultural contexts deeply rooted in oppression, control, and colonization. By critically examining our beliefs, we empower ourselves to make informed and thoughtful choices about our spirituality and practices. Here are some ways to approach this through a decolonial lens:

1. Healing through open communication and respect within families to resolve conflicts arising from differing beliefs and values. Open communication fosters understanding among family members, especially those with diverse beliefs. Acknowledging and respecting everyone’s beliefs creates a healthy environment where all members feel valued and heard. Conflicts about beliefs can also present opportunities for growth and learning, provided they are addressed with respect and understanding.
2. Engage in education and resources that explore the pre-colonial history of Philippine religion and culture to educate across generations. By studying pre-colonial history, we rediscover our rich cultural heritage and traditions. Understanding our past helps us develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. Reflecting on pre-colonial history encourages critical thinking and analysis of historical narratives, which can challenge colonial mentalities and foster a deeper connection to our cultural roots. You may start your journey with resources such as the Philippine Folklore Series by University of the Philippines Press.
3. Support organizations that advocate for social justice, human rights, and Indigenous peoples' rights to address the root causes of injustices. Supporting these organizations helps tackle poverty, inequality, and discrimination while promoting solidarity among different sectors of society. Support the campaigns and initiatives of Indigenous Peoples’ organizations and networks such as the Cordillera People’s Alliance, SANDUGO Movement of Moro and Indigenous Peoples for Self-Determination, and the Save Our Schools Network.