Reclaiming the Lost Archive of San Agustin Library

The document addresses the causes of the ruin and destruction of the indigenous people, focusing on issues not commonly discussed. It criticizes the construction of large and lavish churches and convents by religious orders, which heavily tax the resources of the local indigenous communities. Such constructions often cost thousands of pesos, which are indirectly funded by the impoverished indigenous people rather than the community leaders. This strains their resources, as the payments often come from goods or cash owed to them by the colonial government. Furthermore, many indigenous people are overworked and flee due to the excessive labor demands. Additionally, the document discusses the financial burdens imposed by ministers on indigenous people related to burial fees and the handling of estates. Ministers often set exorbitant fees for funerals, which heavily indebts the families of the deceased. This practice disrupts families financially, as much of their property ends up in the hands of these ministers. This text is in the volume with the title "Varios Informes" / Collection of documents concerned chiefly with the welfare of the natives of the Philippine Islands in the seventeenth century. Comprises 117 leaves, exclusive of blanks; some of the leaves are regular folio size, some slightly shorter, and some quarto. Original vellum binding with the above title inscribed on the spine.