The padrino system, or patronage in Filipino culture and politics, is a value system in which individuals gain favor, promotion, or political appointment through family affiliation (nepotism) or friendship (cronyism), rather than on the basis of merit. The system traces its origins to the Spanish colonial period, when Filipinos were often required to obtain the favor of a Spanish official or a wealthy Filipino, typically a friar, in order to secure a government position or improve their social or economic standing. At the center of this system is the padrino, a sponsor or influential backer who uses their power or connections to secure opportunities for others. The padrino system has also been a source of numerous controversies and is widely associated with corruption.