The Ilonggo-Bisaya, one of the major ethno-linguistic groups in the Philippines, have origins that remain unclear, similar to other inhabitants of the archipelago. Historical records and folklore offer limited insights into their early distribution, culture, and ethnic origins before Spanish contact (Jocano, 2001).
When the Spaniards arrived in the mid-16th century, they observed well-populated and thriving communities in Iloilo, engaged in vibrant trade. Impressed by their sophistication, the Spaniards speculated that the Ilonggos originated from Borneo, broadly categorizing them as Malay. They referred to them as Pintados because of their elaborate tattoos, which adorned both men and women with intricate and symmetrical designs.
Spanish chroniclers such as Francisco Colin and Miguel de Loarca documented the Ilonggos’ advanced skills in boatbuilding, textile weaving, carving, and metalwork. They crafted tools, weapons, and ornaments and engaged in flourishing trade with neighboring Asian cultures, including the Chinese. Archaeological evidence reveals that they lived in permanent settlements, produced crops and crafts, and had a writing system, disproving claims of a primitive lifestyle.
Findings from Iloilo Province further highlight the antiquity of Ilonggo culture. Artifacts such as Chinese porcelain indicate extensive trade networks dating back to the 10th century. These discoveries affirm the Ilonggos’ rich heritage and cultural development long before the arrival of Spanish colonizers or the legendary ten Borneo datus.