A groundbreaking study from Ateneo de Manila University has unveiled compelling evidence that early Filipinos were among the first to master seafaring, predating other civilizations by thousands of years. This discovery not only reshapes our understanding of ancient maritime history but also highlights the ingenuity and advanced technological capabilities of early Southeast Asian societies.
The Study and Its Findings
Researchers Riczar Fuentes and Alfred Pawlik spearheaded the study, focusing on the Philippines, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste archaeological sites. Their findings revealed traces of plant processing on stone tools, indicating the extraction of fibers for crafting ropes and nets—essential components for boatbuilding and deep-sea fishing.
The study also uncovered remains of large predatory fish, such as tuna and sharks, in these sites. These species inhabit deep ocean waters and could not have been caught without advanced seafaring techniques. This evidence suggests that early Filipinos built sophisticated boats with extensive knowledge of oceanic migration routes and seasonal patterns.
Challenging Conventional Narratives
For decades, the narrative of technological progress during the Paleolithic Age has been centered on Europe and Africa. This study challenges that perspective, demonstrating that Southeast Asians were not passive sea drifters on bamboo rafts but skilled navigators with advanced tools and techniques.
The findings also shed light on prehistoric migrations across Island Southeast Asia (ISEA). These journeys were deliberate and technologically advanced, showcasing early Filipinos’ and their neighbours’ resourcefulness and adaptability.
The FLOW Project
The research is part of the “First Long-Distance Open-Sea Watercrafts” (FLOW) Project, which aims to reconstruct ancient seafaring methods. Collaborating with the University of Cebu naval architects, the team tested raw materials and created scaled-down models of ancient watercrafts. This interdisciplinary approach has provided valuable insights into the maritime capabilities of early Southeast Asians.
A Legacy of Innovation
This study not only honors the ingenuity of early Filipinos but also underscores the importance of Southeast Asia in the broader narrative of human history. By mastering the seas, these ancient pioneers laid the foundation for the rich maritime culture thriving in today’s region.
The research will be published in the April 2025 Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, marking a significant milestone in studying ancient seafaring.
This discovery is a testament to the resilience and creativity of early Filipinos, whose legacy as maritime innovators continues to inspire.
