On
A Free Society

Even before the arrival of the Spaniards in the Philippines in the 16th Century, there existed a vibrant, sprawling, and prosperous society at the mouth of the Pasig River under the rule of the rajahs.


The most prominent of them all was Rajah Soliman. This settlement is known as “Maynila” because of the mangrove, known as “Nila,” on its beaches. “Maynila” because “may” (there is) “Nila” here.


You may want to read:

  • Tagalog Society: Pre-Colonial Manila