Context of Christianization and Hispanization in Philippine Music

This study aims to trace the context of Christianization and hispanization in Philippine music. The annexation and inclusion of the Philippine Islands into the Spanish Empire, which lasted more than three centuries, resulted in the subsequent remaking of Philippine society through the adoption of Western social and cultural norms. Spain became the dominant force as it intervened and directed the region's political, religious, social, economic, and cultural landscape. This study will use historical research design to identify the widespread propagation of the Catholic faith and the eventual transplantation of predominantly Hispanic culture in most parts of the archipelago, bringing the prevalent cultural and musical traditions of the Western world into this part of the world. Based on the length of the Spanish colonial administration of the Philippines and the success it had in converting the population to Christianity, and given the particular importance of music in Catholic religious life, we might expect to find a treasure trove of music manuscripts, records, biographical information, and musical instruments from the Spanish colonial period, in quantities and conditions proportional to those found in Mexico, Peru, or other large Spanish colonies. The governmental and commercial sectors should continue to collaborate to promote the vocal arts to the Filipino people and ensure that they remain a diamond with a brilliance that will be appreciated forever.