Historically and culturally, political corruption in the Philippines comes from two sources. One derives from the colonial systems of Spain and America. Filipinos had to work within these, serving above all the political, economic and social interests of each "mother country." The other was brought by the native elites into each colonial system-i.e., the traditional relationship between themselves as "pinuno" (leaders) and their "sakop" (wards). The earlier meaning and value of the acquisition and management of "kaginhawahang bayan" (community "wellbeing" and welfare) was each time redefined and adjusted within both colonial regimes. They had to preserve their socio-economic stature and leadership roles in the face of foreign intrusion, first in 1588 and then from 1901 until 1946 and beyond.