In 1698, Chinese mestizo chiefs in the town of Bacolor, Pampanga petitioned the Spanish colonial government for relief from tribute collection duties, citing the financial burden imposed by the composición de tierras—a land regularization policy requiring payment to legalize land tenure. Their appeal triggered an investigation that revealed the complex social and economic roles of Chinese mestizos in 17th-century Pampanga. Using archival sources, particularly the composición dossier from the Archivo General de Indias, this study traces how Chinese migrants and their mestizo descendants acquired land through pioneering settlement, intermarriage with local women, inheritance, and financial instruments like the pacto de retroventa. Despite being considered as legally different from natives, the Chinese mestizos were recognized by native elites as legitimate members of the pueblos, largely due to their maternal lineage and social integration. This recognition proved crucial during the composición proceedings, helping mestizos retain their land and status. By the end of the 17th century, Chinese mestizos had emerged as landowner and creditors—roles that laid the foundation for their enduring influence in Pampanga’s colonial society.