storiesofregion6

[storiesofregion6]

Catalina of Dumaguete

Area: Dumaguete, Negros Occidental Synopsis: Catalina, a mysterious girl who rarely spoke, is captured by violent Moros, but escapes by walking across the sea, and defeating them sometime after with her new powers. Fun Fact: There is a municipality within Negros Oriental called Santa Catalina, which is named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria. It is unknown whether this influenced the name of the character, but it’s a pretty cool coincidence!

Illustration by Bree 

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There was once a poor tuba, or palm wine seller named Banog, who was well-known and respected by his neighbors as he made rounds through the village to sell his tuba. Alongside him was his beautiful daughter, Catalina, a strange yet hard working girl.

She was sixteen, and rarely ever spoke a word, always looking so far away, into the sky, or over the sea. Sometimes, she would clap her hands and stand straight, looking up to the sky, as if she saw something that others couldn’t. Because of her strange behavior, however, she was often met with awe and curiosity, and rumored to have mysterious powers.

One day, a band of ships landed on their shores, and out came Moros, people from Mindanao. They were ferocious and raided their village, killing many people as they pillaged and kidnapped many of their women, including Catalina. Banog was killed in the raid, stabbed by a Moro as they burned their houses down, and retreated back to their southern island.

On the boat, Catalina sat quietly among the prisoners, and never even uttered a single word as she stared up at the sky. Like she usually does, she springs up, but just as suddenly, leaps onto the waters. Instead of sinking, however, Catalina miraculously walked on the waters, and headed back towards the shores. The Moros were astounded and confused that they didn’t even try to stop her, and just let her walk free.

Back on land, she walked through the forest, and was met with her fellow villagers who hid among the trees. They were happy to see her, but Catalina paid them no mind as she walked past the burning village, still staring straight up at the sky. She walked along the path to Dalugdug, the Thunder Mountain, that was behind their village in Dumaguete.

Within Dalugdug lived a terrible creature called a Sigbin. Many people have different accounts of what it may have looked like, but according to this text, its body was that of a crow, but it had two long legs that bent like a grasshoppers; this made it so it was able to lead large distances without the need of its wings. It was monstrous and would eat anything that came near its home. Knowing this, the townspeople begged Catalina not to go up there, but she again ignored their cries. As she climbed higher and higher, so high that she was merely a speck, she stopped in her tracks and raised her hands. Just then, a loud, powerful shriek was heard, and the Sigbin rushed down the mountain, screaming in terror. It took a powerful leap up and over the townsfolk and the sea, then disappeared off into a mountain within the neighboring island of Cebu. Afterwards, the people saw no sign of Catalina anymore, and returned to fix their village back into its former beauty.

Several years passed, and the Moros decided to come back once more to take from them again. This time, the Visayans were prepared, and wanted vengeance for their fallen wives, brothers, sisters, and children. They fought enough to drive them away, but the Moros returned with more boats, and soon they were overpowered. As the Visayans fell, and they thought all hope was lost, a rainbow appeared from the sky, and from it walked down Catalina, holding a beehive in her hands.

With a wave of her hand, the bees flew out as she commanded, and with another, they transformed into little men with long, sharp spears who fought valiantly against the Moros as they ran away. As quickly as she came out, Catalina returned back into the mountains, leaving her men with the Visayans. They were fascinated by these men, but they never spoke a word to the Visayans, like Catalina, they simply looked past them, and went on to live as people in Negros. Never again did the Moros come back to Visayas, and the Visayans lived happily and prosperously.

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References:

Miller, J. M. (1904). Philippine Folklore Stories. Retrieved from https://www.sacred-texts.com/asia/pfs/pfs12.htm

[storiesofregion6]

Dung on the Bread

Area: Aklan Synopsis: This story is about the witty slave named Payo, and how he mistakenly gets dung on his master’s bread.  Fun Fact: This story is said to represent the Aklanons’ desire for the Spaniards to have a taste of their own filth.

Illustration by Janica 

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Despite the fact that Payo is quite foolish, the gobernadorcillo could not simply dismiss him. One day, the gobernadorcillo decided to bring Payo along on his hunting trip. Before they had gone too far, the gobernadorcillo stopped his horse and asked Payo if he had seen his tobacco pipe. Payo replies that he did, but did not pick it up as he assumed that the gobernadorcillo was throwing it away, to which the latter replied, “Next time you something drop from my horse, make sure to pick it up since we’re going to need it for later.” Payo agrees, and they continue on. After a while, the gobernadorcillo’s horse scattered its dung on the road, and Payo hurriedly gathers it all and places it in the bag. At noon, the two rested under the shade of a tree. The gobernadorcillo became hungry and decided that they would eat lunch there, so he asked Payo for their bread. Payo handed over the bag, and the gobernadorcillo reached inside only to find dung on the bread. The gobernadorcillo became angry and asked Payo why there was horse feces on the bread. Payo replied, “Didn’t you tell me to pick up everything that drops from your horse since it will be of use to you later?”, to which the gobernadorcillo could not find a reply to.

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Resources:

Mga Sugilanon ni Payo (Part 2). (2013, June 5). Retrieved from http://aklanianawriting.blogspot.com/2013/07/mga-sugilanon-ni-payo-part-2.html 

Excerpts from De Juan, Alexander C. “The Tongue and the Pen versus the Spanish Rule in Aklan”. In Palayag: Selected Papers from the Proceedings of the 7th Conference on West Visayan History and Culture (pp. 80-95). Iloilo City: Center for West Visayan Studies, University of the Philippines in the Visayas, 1999.

[storiesofregion6]

Gamahan's Favored Pet, Panigotlo

Area: Aklan Synopsis: The story revolves around a great god who favored a pet named, Panigotlo. Fun Fact: if you hear the sudden bleating of what might be a panigotlo, it is foretelling good and bad omens!

Illustration by Nagi

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In the beginning, Gamhanan was a great god, the most powerful of all gods, giver of life, security and livelihood. Along with other gods, he dwelt in Mount Daeodog, giving life and punishing mortals who do wrong.

Gamhanan would send rain and drought to those who would defy his will. those who refuse to give the proper offerings to his cave dwelling would receive the bitter taste of the god’s punishment.

Gamhanan had favored a pet, Panigotlo. Just like a ray of light, it dashed across the river like pure light. The animal was so beautiful that no one dared to harm it fully knowing the wrath Gamhana would release if so. Other than that, it could foretell omens with it’s bleating.

Days before the full moon, the panigotlo would have its last bleating, being the harbinger of good harvest and fortune. To celebrate, the people prepared a thanksgiving to the great god and his pet. 

There was light and joy, the panigotlo need not fear for it was favored by the mortals who surrounded Mount Daeodog, also having the ability to foretell favor or misfortune.

However, in the end, the majestic beast was slayed by a lowly hunter, Dagasanan. The pure white fur, stained with its own blood. Never again would the panigotlo bleats tell of abundance and purpose, never again would it warn flood and despair. 

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Resources:

Gaverza, K. (2017, September 11). Panigotlo. Retrieved from http://theunpublishables.com/panigotlo/fiction/

[storiesofregion6]

How Mount Kanlaon Came to Be

Area: Negros Synopsis: A great flood has enveloped the entire village of King Laon, but he and his magic kerchief give them just the tools they needed to escape. Fun Fact: The legend may go two ways, one from the pre-Brahman period, or one from the Brahman period, referring to an Indianized influence. This is the pre-Brahman period version of the story.

Illustration by Bree 

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There was once a great king by the name of Laon, who was benign and led their village prosperously. He was great, as the farmers worked in his fields and saw to it to share their harvests with him. One day, the good King Laon decided to visit the farmers of the field, but soon, rain trickled down from the skies. It started light, but soon became harsh and heavy, as King Laon got to the fields, he was already knee-deep in waters. Not long after, it was waist-deep. Then it reached shoulder-deep, and King Laon thought that the harvest had been ruined.

However, the king still had his people, and so they swam to call them together. King Laon asked of them to build a mound to elevate themselves,

“But we have no tools, O Kanlaon!” they cried. But King Laon took out his magic kerchief, and with a wave appeared shovels and picks in their hands.

“But we have no granite!” they cried again, “the mound must be ribbed with granite!” Yet again, King Laon provided with his magic kerchief. Soon enough, the people got to work hard, patiently working on until they made the mound 6,000 feet high in the midst of their valley. They stayed there on the mountain, which they had dubbed Mount Kanlaon, until the rain had stopped. Soon after, they got back to work, and did as the king ordered once more.

They were asked to dig a ditch into the sea in order to drain the waters that flooded their fields, and so they did. A river had formed, and they called it Bago river. The people lived prosperously once more as they returned to the fields with their king.

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Resources:

Clark, J. (2017, September 12). Legends of Mount Kanlaon, Negros Island | Negrense Mythology. Retrieved from https://www.aswangproject.com/legends-of-mount-kanlaon-negros-island-mythology/

[storiesofregion6]

Mt. Kanlaon: The Tobacco Smoking God

Area: Negros Occidental Synopsis: The story is about a deity, and how the tobacco farmers disobeyed the orders of Kan-Laon. Fun fact: To locals that are aware of this version of the story, whenever there is smoke coming out of the crater, this means that Kan-Laon is smoking tobacco. 

Illustration by Nagi

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One fine day, a couple of farmers were greeted by Kan-Laon as they reached the top of the mountain. Humbled by his presence, the deity was asked permission by one of the tobacco farmers if they could use part of the land in order to plant their crops. Fortunately, Kan-Laon was in a happy and good mood, approving their request in under the condition that they will not plant their crops near his house. To show this, he drew a line  around the mountain top to show the perimeter to the farmers. The farmers complied and returned to farm on the land.

Days passed, everything remained in order. To meditate, Kan-Laon left his home. Before setting off, Kan-Laon reminded the farmers of his condition, pointing out the line, warning them not to cross it, then disappeared.

Several years passed by, the farmers were still obediently following Kan-Laon’s rule. The crops remained growing and thrivingly until there were no longer unprohibited areas. A tobacco farmer bravely planted his crops beyond the line, not knowing when Kan-Laon would return from his meditation. Other farmers were appalled by the brave tobacco farmer’s action, maddened by the fact that the farmer disobeyed the rule of Kan-Laon. Some days pass, nothing has happened to the disobedient farmer who has crossed the line. Knowing this news, the other farmers concluded that Kan-Laon might have looked for other places and has no plans on returning. Other farmers join the disobedient farmer in planting their tobacco beyond the border. For years, they continued on planting beyond the line, not expecting Kan-Laon to come back out of the blue.

Out of fear, the farmers knelt down and begged for Kan-Laon’s forgiveness. Kan-Laon accepted their apology. The farmers asked Kan-Laon for another chance to plant their crops on the mountain. Once again, Kan-Laon agreed with the condition that the farmers can only plant again once he is done smoking the tobacco bundles. A crater appeared at the area where he drew the line, in the blink of an eye.  Kan-Laon retreated into the crater with the tobacco bundle, never to be seen again.

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Resources:

Piccio, B. (2015, December 9). The Legend of Kanlaon: A Visayan God Who Smokes Tobacco. Retrieved from https://www.choosephilippines.com/go/mountains-and-volcanoes/3829/active-volcano-visayas-kanlaon

[storiesofregion6]

Payo and the Boat

Area: Aklan Synopsis: This story is about the witty slave named Payo, and how he mistakenly gets dung on his master’s bread. Fun Fact: This story is said to represent the Aklanons’ desire for the Spaniards to have a taste of their own filth.

Illustration by Janica 

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One day, the gobernadorcillo from the town of Ibajay, Aklan told Payo to find a boat for some guests who were coming from across the river. Payo went off to the river and found a large boat. He pulled it ashore and turned it upside down in order to dry. Payo decided to lay down underneath the boat and ended up falling asleep.

When the visitors arrived, they called for a boat but Payo ignored them. The guests fired their guns while still calling for a boat, but Payo continued to doze off. The people in town were in dismay because of the gun firing across the river, so the gobernadorcillo decided to check on the problem. He found the visitors on the other side of the river, as well as the boat that lay on the banks, upside down, with Payo still sleeping underneath it. The gobernadorcillo woke Payo in a rude manner and reprimanded him for what he had done, but the boy simply asked him, “Did you not tell me to find a boat for our guests? Whoever told me to transport them across?” The gobernadorcillo calmed down once he realized his mistake when it comes to giving clearer instructions.

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References:

AKLANON FOLKTALES: Mga Sugilanon ni Payo (Part 1). (2013, June 3). Retrieved from http://aklanianawriting.blogspot.com/2013/06/aklanon-folktales-mga-sugilanon-ni-payo.html

Barrios, John, Melchor Cichon and Dominador Ilio. The Katipunan in Aklan. A research presented to the Sub-commission for Cultural Dissemination, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, 1993. (Later published in 1997)

De la Cruz, Beato A. Contributions of the Aklan Mind to Philippine Literature. Rizal: Kalantiao Press, 1958.

Magos, Alicia, Henry Funtecha and Emmeline Cabalum. “Culture, Mass Media and National Development.” In Danyag, Journal of Studies in the Humanities, Education and the Sciences. Iloilo City: U.P. in the Visayas, June 1989.

[storiesofregion6]

The Ants and the Storm God

Area: Panay Synopsis: This story is about the Storm God’s venture to challenge the animals of the earth against his powers Fun Fact: Saragangka Bagyo, the Storm God, is described as a god of awesome appearance, large physique, and multiple wings that can cause clouds and winds to mix, creating chaotic phenomenons like typhoons and tornadoes!

Illustration by Tricia 

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There once was a storm god named Saragangka Bagyo who was known to be wild, uncontrollable, and unpredictable. One day, he got bored in his heavenly home and thought of flying down to the earth. When he passed by a forest looking for something to pass time with, he saw a group of wild boars and asked them what the strongest animals in the forest are, saying that the ones who can endure his test would be rewarded. To this, the boars agreed, and the storm god blew them all away when he unleashed his fury, dropping dead to the ground. Then, he came upon a group of eagles and told them the same premise. The eagles accepted the challenge and huddled themselves on a big tree. The storm god turned himself into a giant bird, and with one flap of his wings, the tree separated from the soil and fell down to the ground, crushing the eagles. After that, he stumbled upon a school of fish by the stream and, again, told them about the challenge. The fish obliged and hid under the rocks. The storm god turned once again into a giant bird and with another flap of his wings, he sent all of the water blowing out of the stream, leaving the fish flopping helplessly in the emptied river. The storm god feasted on the fish.

None of the animals the storm god had encountered survived his challenge, and now the animals were starting to flee as to avoid coming across him. Still, the god was met with a colony of ants living in a mound under a mango tree. He challenged them as well, to which the ants accepted, the queen knowing of the storm god’s antics. Firstly, the storm god summoned strong winds, to which the ant queen commanded her children to go inside of the mound where they were unharmed. Then, the god changed once again into a bird and tried to peck and claw them out of the mound. He couldn’t reach them as the ant queen commanded her children to descend deeper into the earth. The god now starting to become angry and impatient, he summoned storm clouds and started creating heavy rain which flooded the forest. The god initially thought that he had finally killed them, but to his surprise the ants were floating in the flood aided by leaves, crawling up the nearest tree or plant. The god finally admitted defeat, praising the ants and giving them the reward that he had promised to them in the beginning. The ants started to feel something growing on their heads. The god had rewarded them with antennae. The storm god told the ant queen that the ants have earned his respect, and in turn, he gave them antennae that would help them tell if there is a storm brewing far away so that they have enough time to find ways to protect themselves.

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References:

Saragangka Bagyo . (2013, May 21). Retrieved from http://vizayanmyths.blogspot.com/2013/05/saragangka-bagyo-profile.html

[storiesofregion6]

The Arrival of the Bornean Kings

Area: Aklan Synopsis: This story is about the connection made between two different groups of people and how they started the traditional Ati-atihan festival in Aklan. Fun Fact: The Ati-atihan Festival is also a celebration dedicated to the Santo Nino and is known as the mother of all Philippine festivals.

Illustration by Janica 

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Back in the 13th century, there were ten Bornean datus along with their families were escaping from the rule of the oppressive Bornean king, Sultan Makatunaw

In search of a new place to call home, the escapees sailed away in fleets of ships, away from the shores of Borneo and towards the north. In 1250, they arrived at the Sirwakan River, which was near the town of San Joaquin, Iloilo. The leader, Datu Puti, immediately met with the aborigines of Panay Island, known as the Atis. They were  welcomed by the Ati king, Marikudo and the Ati queen, Maniwangtiwang. Datu Puti asked the king if his people would be fine with moving into the mountains and hinterlands to accommodate the newcomers.

The people came to a consensus; the land would come at a cost of a gold saduk (wide-brimmed helmet), a gold necklace, clothes, decorated arms, and other extravagant ornaments. They sealed the deal with a celebration; both the Atis and the Borneans feasted, danced, and sang. This occurrence was called The Barter of Panay, and the celebration is commemorated each year, during the season of the mangoes-- around the time the deal was sealed. This celebration is said to be the catalyst for the traditional Ati-atihan Festival.

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References:

Historical Background. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://aklan.gov.ph/profile/historical-background/

Myths and Legends That Will Make You Want to Travel to Aklan! (1970, June 28). Retrieved from https://altavistadeboracay.com.ph/blog/aklan-myths-legends

[storiesofregion6]

The Legend of Mambukal

Area: Mambukal, Negros Occidental Synopsis: A dry spell is brought upon the villagers near Mount Kanlaon, and to appease the volcano they worship, they appoint a girl named Kudyapa to give offerings to it everyday. However, things change when a boy stumbles upon her, and they fall in love. Fun Fact: The name ‘Kudyapa’ is also the colloquial name for a plant commonly found in the Philippines, Aramanthus viridis, or slender/green aramanth.

Illustration by Bree 

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This story is told in a uniquely commendable style in a first person perspective of Kudyapa, and I personally recommend giving the original a read!

Long ago, the people who lived near the foot of Mount Kanlaon had no river or lake to drink or bathe in, they only had the rain. Every rainy season, the plants and animals had a drink, the people could bathe, and everyone lived prosperously as they drank from the rain they collected. It even cultivated the lands, filled with the vegetables and herbs they had planted. People often prayed to Kanlaon, looking up to the sky in hopes for the water they desired. Rain was their salvation, but it seemed this season was different. As two rainy seasons passed, it did not rain. Plants were shriveled and dry, animals were dying of thirst, and people of the village had to search far and wide in order to find water. The people prayed as hard as they could to Kanlaon, but it seemed to fall onto deaf ears.

The elders of the village then gathered together to discuss what they must do to fix this situation, since their prayers were no longer working. Soon enough, they devised a solution,

“Our beloved Kanlaon,” they spoke, “fulfill our one wish, and we shall never forget to give you offerings!”

And their offering was Kudyapa, an obedient girl who would do whatever the elders asked of her. She loved her fellow people, and never wanted to disappoint them despite her doubts of her own worth; and so she dedicated her life from then on to offering to Kanlaon. Every day she would bring to the foot of the volcano an offering of flowers, and stoke or care of the fire they lit as a symbol for their love of Kanlaon. Ever since then, the rain had returned to their village, and the people rejoiced as their old lifestyle had gone back to normal. As many months passed, her practice had improved, and so did her offerings.

On one particularly unexpected day, Kudyapa was making her regular offerings, when an attractive young man who looked to be a hunter stumbled upon her. They stared at each other for a moment. Flustered and nervous, Kudyapa quickly ran to her usual altar for Kanlaon to walk away from him. However, the next day, he returned to introduce himself to her. He made her smile with his soft voice and glowing gaze as they both fell in love with each other. He accompanied her to the altar as she placed down the flowers. He had even brought a wild boar he had just caught for the altar to help. They both prayed, and grew closer together.

Her relatives were amazed at Kudyapa’s strong dedication to the offerings as she grew older, believing Kanlaon truly hears her prayers as rain often came. The trees grew taller, the people’s crops grew prosperously, and she was happy, meeting her newfound lover the hunter.

However, a day Kudyapa dreaded would come had finally shown itself.

“Kudyapa,” her lover said, “come with me. Let’s elope together. I wish to marry you!”

Kudyapa stood quietly, she didn’t know what to do. She was torn between offering flowers and caring for the fire of Kanlaon, and the man sacrificing his life to live a dream they both want. She couldn’t reject him, she thought, she was already of marrying age. He squeezed her palms, and she returned to him with a tight embrace. As they exited the altar, the earth beneath them shook and rumbled. The quake was terrifying and the whole village trembled as the tall trees fell to the ground. The two lovers ran together as lightning came from the sky, and the ground soon opened and created a mist, gusts of wind violently whipping by.

Kanlaon was angry, and Kudyapa’s apostasy was made clear. She called out to her lover, but she could not speak. She tried to run further, but her legs could not move, and her feet had turned white. She tried to reach out to her lover, but her hands simply passed through him. Somehow, her body was changing, but she could not feel it. Kudyapa was turning into water, the very water her people needed to survive. Her lover called out her name in grief as he watched her change into a large, flooding stream of water. Lightning and thunder echoed throughout the sky, and soon, her lover had changed too. He had become stone, large boulders and rocks that surrounded her watery being.

Kanlaon was still gracious and giving, as it had not separated them or their fate together. Her lover had become the rocks that guide the showers of water that Kudyapa has become within Mambukal. Together, they show their love in the forms of fresh rivers and waterfalls. And now, whenever people come and go to explore their waters, they simply swim along the waters or bathe in it, thanks to the two lovers.

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References:

Añonuevo, R. (2018, October 4). Alamat ng Mambukal. Retrieved from https://dakilapinoy.com/2018/10/04/alamat-ng-mambukal/

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The Legend of Panay

Area: Panay Synopsis: This story tells us about the creation of Panay through a kind and hardworking man and nature. Fun Fact: Panay is the home of many folklore such as Mantiw, Tungkung Langit and Alunsina, The Ants and the Storm God, and many more!

Illustration by Tricia 

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One day, there was a young man who lived on a big island. He lived off fresh fruits and vegetables that the island offered. There was a time that an old man asked if he could come into his home, making the young man smile because he finally had a companion. The young man was very helpful and generous towards others and he treated the old man who resided with him the same way.

The old man thanked the young man for his kindness. He also noticed that there were a lot of birds and fishes on this island, then suggesting to the young man that they should catch some for a delicious dinner. The young man only refused because he saw the animals as his friends. The clothes that the young man wore were all from the farmers who he had helped in planting and harvesting crops. The old man’s respect and adoration for the young man grew even more because of the kindness he showed to everybody.

The young man learned a lot from the old man as the man would teach him life lessons such as “What you reap is what you sow.”. From then on, the young man started to become creative. Because of his kindness to the creations of god, he was referred to as Irog, a very endearing name. Irog benefited a lot from the teachings of his elder. With hard work, he started building things out of materials he saw around him. He had made himself ropes out of vines, a bahay-kubo in the middle of the river, and a bed to sleep in made of water lilies.

In the middle of the night, he didn’t notice that his bahay-kubo was moving in the water as if he was being pushed by the fishes. Surrounding him were birds that were peacefully singing. The sun was already high up in the sky when Irog awoke, his morning welcomed by fruit and vegetables served to him by the birds. He had drifted far in his kubo, arriving at a batis that looked like a paradise.

One morning, Irog saw a group of beautiful women bathing in the batis. These women had wings that were discarded on the ground. Irog was tempted to pick up a pair and so he did, so when the women were finished bathing and returned to their wings, one of them was left without her wings. It saddened the woman for she cannot fly without her wings, crying when the others flew off without her. When she spotted Irog, she was surprised.

Irog apologized for what he had done out of curiosity. He introduced himself as a young orphan man who had no one, then telling the woman that he can love her and serve her for eternity. It didn��t take long for the woman to agree, but she gave him one condition. Once Irog brought home an animal that could fly fast, the woman would disappear from his life. From now on, Irog referred to the woman as Giliw. Irog was happy about Giliw’s fondness for animals, just like his. They got along very well and eventually, they were blessed with two children named Tagumpay and Ligaya.

One day, Tagumpay was resting under a tree when a bird suddenly flew to his shoulder. Tagumpay was surprised but decided to capture it because he knew that his father loved animals, taking the multi-colored bird home. Tagumpay and Ligaya immediately showed it to their mother. “That’s Panay, our god.”, Giliw said, in tears.

Giliw quickly bolted to her room, putting on her wings, and flying away from their home. When Irog found out about Giliw’s departure, he was devastated and started to become gloomy. He always went to the batis, hoping that Giliw would come back. This batis was the reason for such great love, giving Panay or Iloilo its name.

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References:

Lloyd, J. (2017, November 17). Ang Alamat ng Panay (Ang Alamat ng Iloilo). Retrieved from https://buklat.blogspot.com/2017/11/ang-alamat-ng-panay-ang-alamat-ng-iloilo.html

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The Legend of the Aswang

Area: Capiz Synopsis: This is the story of two twins and how they were separated due to their uncle’s fears. Fun Fact: There are many kinds of aswangs due to the different descriptions in different regions in the Philippines, but they can be categorized into 5 types: The Vampire, The Viscera Sucker, The Witch, The Weredog, and The Ghoul!

Illustration by Tricia 

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In the beginning of time, there had only been five humans in the world. One of these humans was Lam-eng, a child, accompanied by his uncle, Samuel. They also had two servants, Inas Dilim and Amir-ika Sinag. Every night, Lam-eng dreams of a man that looks exactly just like him, living in the mountain. Getting bothered by it, Lam-eng decided to ask his uncle Samuel about his dream.

Samuel told him that he was born with a twin, their mother the Supremong Bathala. Lam-eng was told to live in the patag with his uncle whereas his twin brother, Asuw-eng was told to live in the mountain by himself. Samuel stopped midway of talking, realizing that if Lam-eng and Asuw-eng met, their combined power and strength would overthrow him, then starting to talk about how wild and dangerous this man with wings and big sharp teeth was. He also said that the reason why Asuw-eng was in the mountain was that so he can hunt for animal flesh for food. According to Samuel, if ever Lam-eng would approach Asuw-eng, he would only just get pounced on and attacked.

But even after knowing all this, Lam-eng still wanted to meet his twin brother. He wasn’t allowed by his uncle so his uncle just sent out their two servants to climb the mountain and bring Asuw-eng to them. They would start their journey the next morning.

The night before the two servants were supposed to climb the mountain, Samuel secretly called Amir-ika, one of the servants. Samuel gave Amir-ika two big needles, ordering the servant to pierce those two needled in Inas’ neck before they reach the top of the mountain. In addition, Amir-ika was also ordered to wound Inas as if she was attacked by a wild animal.

The two servants went up the mountain and Samuel’s plan was put into motion. Amir-ika went down the mountain carrying Inas’ body, telling Lam-eng that they were attacked by a man with wings and big sharp teeth, scaring him. Lam-eng started to believe that his twin brother was truly a monster.

There were two angels who were tasked to give the two twin brothers children. One angel went to Lam-eng and the other one went to Asuw-eng.

When Lam-eng finally had a child of his own, he advised it to never go to the mountain for there was a monster residing on it. The story about Asuw-eng carried on for future generations, the narrative being twisted and changed as the years went by. From Asuw-eng, people had started calling him Asuwang, then settling on Aswang

Asuw-eng had children, too. One of them with a body that can part from the middle, referred to as a manananggal, and the other was a tall and elegant, referred to as a kapre.

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References:

Lloyd, J. (2017, November 17). Ang Alamat ng Aswang. Retrieved from https://buklat.blogspot.com/2017/11/ang-alamat-ng-aswang.html

The Aswang in Western Visayas. (2015, December 25). Retrieved from https://erwinc09.wordpress.com/tag/capiz/

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The Legend of the Coconut

Area: Bago, Negros Occidental Synopsis: This tells the story of the speculated tale of origin of the coconut involving a couple and their sweet daughter. Fun Fact: There are several of these alamats or origin stories for the coconut, and most of them include being made from a female!

Illustration by Bree 

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This story was said to have taken place in Bago, Negros Occidental, within the land of two wealthy fruit farmers, and their sweet daughter. This little girl was said to be the sweetest and kindest, most beautiful girl, always cheery and smiling. However, this doesn't mean she was immune from tantrums, far from it. She was spoiled incessantly by her parents, and gave her whatever she wanted.

The parents were one day tending to their orchard, inspecting the harvest of their fruit trees. The father was inspecting the Spanish plums, when his daughter approached him, asking if she could have a ‘coconut.’ Confused by this new word, he assumed she wanted a Spanish plum, and picked one right off the tree, handing it to her. The girl threw a fit, and angrily demanded,

“Not that! I want a coconut!”

The father, still confused, assumed it must have been a new fruit that his wife had planted, and asked her to ask her mother instead. The girl stomped angrily, looking for her mother. She found her among the guava trees, looking for the ripe ones. Already fuming from her tantrum, the girl demanded,

“Ma! I want a coconut!”

The mother, clearly confused, grabbed the biggest, most ripe guava she could find, and offered it to her daughter. The girl throws this guava away, repeatedly demanding that she be given a coconut. The mother tried to calm her down, offering various other fruits, but to no avail.

“That’s not a coconut! I want a coconut!” she complains.

The mother, now worried, “I don’t know what a coconut is!”

The father overhears the screams and complaints from his daughter, and walks over to see the commotion. The girl doesn’t stop, continuously screaming and demanding for these so called coconuts. Now fed up, the mother complains,

“God Almighty! If you want a coconut, you’d better get the fruit yourself!”

Just then, the sky rumbled with thunder and lightning. The sky turned dark as night as the earth shook beneath them. Then just as suddenly, their daughter vanished from where she stood.

The couple was in shock and grief, and looked everywhere for her: around the field, within the house, all over their land, but they could never find her. They searched and searched, but their efforts were in vain. After a long and tiring night, they decided to go look for her in the morning. The next day however, to their surprise, a sprout of a plant was where she stood; and to honor her and cope with their grief, they decided to take good care of it.

As years of tending to this plant passed, it grew up to twenty feet tall, and bore fruit which had sweet, white meat, and water like tears inside. It had two holes that resembled eyes, and a third one a mouth. In honor of their daughter, they named this fruit the coconut.

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References:

Morton, J. (2013, May 18). The Legend of Coconut (Alamat Ng Niyog). Retrieved from https://www.globalgranary.life/2013/05/18/the-legend-of-coconut/

[storiesofregion6]

The Legend of the Female Centaur and Barangaw

Area: Western Visayas  Synopsis: This story also is about a vain women fancied by a Barangaw. However, a deity turns her into a centaur. The Barangaw helps the woman regain her dignity. Fun Fact: Angga is believed to be the first ever female centaur in the Philippines!

Illustration by Nagi

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Once, there was a beautiful girl, a datu’s descendant who was punished by the Lubay Lubyok ni Mahuyokhuyokan which then turned her in the first “Taiho '' or Centaur. She went by the name Angga, meaning Love in Visayan. Though beautiful, Angga was vain and selfish. Blinded by this, the god Barangaw fancies her and his rainbow appears wherever she goes. Angga also fancied jewelry and shiny things, but did not like them too much to steal to adorn her milky white body. On one faithful day, she coincidentally came across a sacred grove of Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan and noticed her servants, dwarves who were carrying sacks of gold, and followed them. Angga asked who owned the bulawan, they answered “Only to the fairest of the Earth’s children, Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan”. Hearing this information, Angga grew envious and arrogant, claiming to them that she is the fairest of the Earth’s children. She hurried back home and immediately demanded the villagers to build her a throne covered in jewels and gold, using it to carry her back to the shrine of Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan. Fury and arrogance resulted in her shouting, “Nothing and no one is more fairer than me, only I deserve those earthly treasures!”

Upon the statement, Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulwan appeared before Angga. Before the townspeople had the chance to flee, they were turned into yellow field mice, Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan then stepped on Angga’s toes, causing them to turn into golden hooves. She then hit Angga in the forehead with golden slippers and an ivory horn grew. With this, Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan cursed Angga for declaring to be higher than the deity, making her into the image of her lusty datu ancestor, half-woman, half horse. The image alone made everyone flee, terrified. Pitying Angga, Barangaw offered her good looks back, however the horn still on her forehead and remains as a half horse. Barangaw gave Angga the power to ride the rainbow as well and reside at the end of it. To this day, natives of Western Visayas believe that when there is a rainbow, an Anggitay is at the end of it, continuously looking for Burigadang Pada Sinaklang Bulawan’s  gold.

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References:

Barangaw. (2013, May 23). Retrieved from https://vizayanmyths.blogspot.com/2013/05/barangaw.html?fbclid=IwAR0KhB-zFuLDyox6xGWVJD4vE8nR0z9y54Os-ckyGacOvIaegl74TQ6rmgc

[storiesofregion6]

The Legend of the Gabi Plant

Area: Aklan Synopsis: This story narrates the tale of a beautiful yet vain woman who have rejected a river god, then was cursed to turn into a gabi plant.  Fun fact: The gabi plant today is used in many Filipino dishes. One of the more famous dishes you can see the gabi being used in is ‘Sinigang’.

Illustration by Tricia 

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There was once a tale about the legend of the Gabi Plant stating that there was once a girl who went by the name, Matahumon Gab-i, which meant Beautiful Night. Despite the girl’s beauty, she had a distasteful attitude, being stubborn, disrespectful and as well as vain. As much as the people were amused by her beautiful features, they would distance themselves from her and even her house due to her being infamous for being an ill-tempered girl who would throw stones and mud to those who would come near her property. Matahumon Gab-i was bathing one morning when a river god happend to pass by. The god was smitten by her beauty at first sight. At once, the river god wanted to marry Matahumon Gab-i, disguising himself as a handsome young man. He approached Matahumon Gab-i, however he was rejected because she preferred rich and famous mature gentlemen. The river god did not give up, and came back in the form that she described. Though upon seeing him, she was not impressed at all, shouting at him to go away. 

The river god begged for her kindness, asking her if she could at least let him in for a glass of water. Furious, Matahumon Gab-i threw a bowl of muddy water to the river god’s face, instead of giving him a glass of water. She threatened to throw stones at him if he would not leave her alone. Alas, the god finally snapped and revealed his true form to Matahumon Gab-i, telling her that she does not deserve to have a beautiful name, but instead just Gab-i because her heart was as dark as the night; cursing her. Realizing her actions, she begged for forgiveness by kneeling down. However, as she opened her mouth, a gush of muddy water from the river flowed into her house and drowning Matahumon Gab-i and her home. 

The next day, her house was nowhere to be seen, as well as her body. Despite digging where her house once was, nothing was really left behind. The people still felt sympathy towards her even though she was cruel and disrespectful towards them. Just as they were about to leave, a plant grew from the ground. The people studied the plant and discovered that the leaves were waxy and rough just like Matahumon Gab-i’s heart. One tasted the leaf and said that it was stinging and not edible, similar to Matahumon’s attitude. One woman decides to bring the plant home in order to take care of it, multiplying them in her backyard near the river. The woman named the plant Gabi even as it sprought during the night time while they mourned for her. 

A day came where the woman’s family was starving, with nothing to cook, the woman grew desperate. She heard a voice which sounded like Matahumon Gab-i from where her Gabi plants grew. The woman went to her Gabi patch and the plant taught her how to prepare the root and the leaves in order to feed her family. The woman was thankful to Matahumon and therefore prayed for her and spread the word to the others that Matahumon has repented on her past ill-behaviors and has brought them Gabi in return for her repentance.

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References:

Legend of the Gabi Plant. (2013, May 26). Retrieved from https://vizayanmyths.blogspot.com/2013/05/kasaraysarayan-sa-silgan.html

[storiesofregion6]

The Legend of the Mango

Area: Aklan Synopsis: This story talks about the origin of the mango fruit, which came to be due to a daughter’s undesired arranged marriage.  Fun Fact: The mango is known as “The Fruit of the Gods” because of its sweetness and shape, which closely resembles the human heart. 

Illustration by Janica 

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Once upon a time, a man named Daeogdog lived in a small village in the Aklan province. The villagers would describe him as swift, easily frustrated, and someone who always got what he wanted. It was to no one’s surprise when Daeogdog forced his beautiful daughter, Aganhon, into an arranged marriage with a man named Maeopig. Aganhon begged her father not to push through her marriage with the said-to-be argumentative and arrogant Maeopig, but he refused and assured her that he knew what was best. 

On the day of the wedding, Aganhon was nowhere to be found. People looked for her everywhere until eventually, someone located her body near a stream. Aganhon’s motionless body had a dagger sticking out of her chest, suggesting that she rather end her own life than give her heart to somebody she did not love. 

On the night of her funeral, the grief-stricken Daeogdog had a dream of Aganhon leading her father to a tree that stood on the spot where her body was found. The moment he woke up, he ran over to the stream and found the exact same tree in his dream. It’s branches were heavy with heart-shaped yellow fruits. He tasted it and found it to be as sweet and soft as the heart of his daughter. He thought back to the time when he ignored his daughter’s requests to cancel the marriage, and his heart filled with regret. Daeogdog decided to call the new fruit “mango” or “mangga”, meaning “heart-shaped” in their ancient tongue.

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References:

The Legend of Mango - Ang Alamat ng Manga. (2019, April 8). Retrieved from https://www.philippinature.com/the-legend-of-mango-ang-alamat-ng-manga/

Sta. Romana-Cruz, N. (1993). Why The Piña Has A Hundred Eyes And Other Philippine Folk Tales About Fruits. Makati, Philippines: Ilaw ng Tahanan Publishing.

[storiesofregion6]

The Legend of the Mariners and the Four Aswangs of Capiz

Area: Capiz Synopsis: This story talks about a group of mariners and their encounter with four beautiful women who all turned out to be aswangs.  Fun fact: There are different types of aswangs. One type is known to target pregnant women in order to eat the fetus. 

Illustration by Nagi

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On a small boat, there was a commandant, a captain and six sailors who landed on the island of Capiz. Upon arrival, they sought refuge in a house owned by a widow and her three beautiful daughters. The four women were very accomdationg, giving the mariners a meal filled with gay talks and laughter. The meals were splendid. The sailors were delighted by such hospitality!

This lasted until one of the sailors noticed the human hand shaped fork. Shocked, the sailor called the attention of the others and prompted them to end the meal. They grew suspicious of the true nature of the women who have invited them into their abode. To avoid mishaps, they decided to watch out for strange occurences during their stay in Capiz.

Curious, the sailors were drawn to investigate the lower rooms of the house. Behold! In Front of them, they have discovered the three lower halves of the bodies of the women. The upper half seemingly simply broke away and gone. Giving away the temptation and fear, they smeared ashes on the top parts of the lower halves of the bodies, even changing their positions. This was to prevent the lower and upper halves from joining together.

Hours pass by as the night darkens, the upper halves of the bodies return to join with their lower, only to find them defiled. The three women cried. Alarmed, the captain of the mariners rushes only to find out that the weeping is coming from the three daughters of the widow, who are all cut in half - in the form of flying night-creatures, or aswangs. The aswangs continued to weep and beg the captain to wash away the ashes from the lower half of their bodies. Moved, the captain complied to the request of the aswangs, cleaning the lower halves with a piece of cloth and water. Fortunately, the aswangs were able to rejoin with their lower halves before daylight. If the captain did not help, the aswangs would’ve died a horrible death. The aswangs were grateful towards the captain for helping them, but were angered by the three mischievous sailors who have covered their lower halves with ashes.

The captain tried to confront the three sailors about the aswangs but before he even could, they had run away. Through perseverance, the aswangs continuously hunted for them, threatening to kill them unless they atoned for their crime by marriage. Eventually, the three sailors submitted themselves to their fate and returned to Capiz to become the spouses of the aswangs.

The aswangs were good wives. The three sailors eventually settled in and became happy. Meanwhile, the captain and the commandant stayed in Capiz for quite a long period of time.

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References:

The Mariners and the Four Asuangs of Capiz. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.philsites.net/folklore/stories/supernatural1.html

[storiesofregion6]

The Mantiw

Area: Iloilo, Panay Synopsis: A very tall whistling forest spirit who seems offended when you whistle along with it; as well as a tale of a young man being taught why he shouldn’t stay out late at night. Fun Fact: There are several variations of this creature that go as far as Malaysia, calling it a Hantu Tinggi!

Illustration by Bree 

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The Mantiw is a large and tall forest spirit, spanning about the height of a coconut tree, usually thirty feet tall. People have described it as fair skinned, having broad shoulders, and a hooked nose. You can hear them coming as they whistle along the forest. They’re relatively harmless creatures, and are usually peaceful. However, if a human were to whistle along with the Mantiw, it will take offense to this, and grab the human, placing it on top of the tallest tree it can find, usually a coconut tree, and leave them stranded there.

One such tale of a Mantiw tells of a young man who would always stay out late at night to serenade his lover out by her house. His parents were wary, and always told him not to stay out for so long serenading, but he did not listen.

On a particular night, he went out at about eleven o’ clock, and serenaded to his lover at the steps of her house like usual. However, as he sang, an incredibly tall creature hears him, and curiously picks him up to as high as its shoulders. The young man was frightened, but tried not to scream as he held his guitar tightly, and strummed even louder and faster. The tall creature was frightened by this noise, and was presumably oriented as the young man fell down. He stands up to run away and climbs a tall buri palm tree, hiding there all night.

The next day came, and as his parents searched for him, he called out to them for help atop the buri palm. They placed two ladders on top of each other to get him down, and from then on, the young man learned never to go out so late at night.

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References:

Clark, J. (2017, May 15). MANTIW: Thirty foot forest spirits in Iloilo, Panay. Retrieved from https://www.aswangproject.com/mantiw/