Felip's "Bulan": A Powerful Modern Storytelling of Filipino mythology

 

Felip, a Filipino artist, has captured the essence of powerful modern storytelling with his visually stunning music video, "Bulan." This masterpiece is enriched with Filipino mythology and folklore, particularly influenced by Bicolano mythology. In this essay, we will delve into the captivating elements of the music video, exploring its incorporation of myths and legends from the past and the symbolic messages it conveys.

Felipe's "Bulan" music video beautifully combines modern storytelling with the myths and legends of Bicolano mythology. Inspired by the primordial god of the moon, Bulan, the lunar goddess Haliya, and the serpent-deity Bacunawa, the video showcases traditional stories orally passed down in Bicol. Felip's attire, reminiscent of Visayan and Bicolano clothing, adorned with Bulawan, reflects a deep connection to Philippine culture. The dancers surrounding Felipe in the video resemble the children's game "Bulan Bulan," where players protect the moon from Bacunawa, adding a playful touch. The visuals and themes are distinctly Filipino, presenting high fantasy and mythology in a captivating manner, showcasing the best of modern storytelling through visuals and words.

"Bulan" carries strong symbolic messages about hope, resilience, and overcoming negativity, particularly addressing the embodiment of negativity represented by Bacunawa. The moon, or Bulan, symbolizes hope for a brighter tomorrow, and Haliya signifies those who believe and defend, despite criticism. Felipe's message reaches out to people, urging them not to succumb to crab mentality and to hold onto hope. The music video intertwines Bicolano mythology with other Philippine mythologies, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of these tales, which are orally passed down and remain alive. Felip's "Bulan" stands as a prime example of modern storytelling of old mythologies, presented by Filipinos for both Filipinos and a global audience. The video captures the essence of Philippine mythology, emphasizing that these stories are meant to be shared and remain a dynamic part of the cultural narrative.

FELIP - 'Bulan' Official Music Video

1. Inspiration from Bicolano Mythology:

2. Felip's "Bulan" draws inspiration from Bicolano mythology, highlighting the primordial god of the moon, Bulan, lunar goddess Haliya that protects Bulan, and the serpent-deity of the deep, Bacunawa that tries to capture and devour Bulan. These mythical elements are rooted in oral traditions, in contrast to Western mythologies that are often recorded in written form. The music video beautifully weaves these elements into a modern narrative.¨

"Bulan" highlights Filipino deities and mythology of pre-colonial times. The lyrics play off this theme by mentioning figures like the moon goddess Haliya, serpent-like water dragon Bakunawa, and Felip performing as Bulan.

"A creative interpretation of our nation’s collective memory of Filipino ancient deities. Definitive resources for this aspect of our culture have been destroyed during the colonial period, hence, the goal for this release is to encourage the youth to dig deep, discuss, and to keep this aspect of our memory alive for generations to come. The song's goal is to encourage discussions around our ancient culture and revisit this aspect of our collective memory as Filipinos."

— Felip, Myx Global

Felip uses the story of Bulan as a metaphor for crab mentality. The lyrics tell us not to be consumed by others' negative reactions when we gain success in life.

Bulan

Bulan is the Primodial Moon god of the Bicolano and Philippine mythology. In orally passed down stories,The moon deity is depicted as comely with androgynous features. The luminous deity would go down from the heavens to bathe in the waters of Ibalong (Ancient Bicol) and would swim with the mermaids called Magindara. Stories say he was so luminous, comely that even the vicious mermaids and buaya (huge crocodiles) for a time being would become tamed.

Felip bathing in the waters akin to the way Bulan bathes in the waters of Ibalong

Bulan primodial god of the Moon in Bicolano mythology

Bacunawa 

Bacunawa

Bakunawa was a beautiful diwata or goddess in the sea, some say she was a naga and was the most powerful of them all. Popularly known as the enemy of Haliya. Bakunawa was a god worshipped by the Bicolanos and a demon feared by the Visayans and by the Tagalog people. The Bakunawa is one of the most prominent mythological creatures in the whole archipelago.

Bakunawa was a naga born in the depths of the sea, she was born with a turtle as her twin (Daruwanak) as time passed Bakunawa became more beautiful and powerful. She and the other Naga guarded the rift in the ocean floor that leads to the underworld. They keep beings from going in or out of the passage. Bakunawa ascended and transformed into a goddess, while her twin Daruwanak became big as an island.  

Bicolano mythology

Bakunawa in Bicol Myths

In Bicolano myths, the Bakunawa was a goddess punished for her arrogance and greed for coveting the moon or  moons. She was punished to lose her beauty and forever remain into a dragon-like being that guards the gates to the underworld. Legend tell that Bulan androgynous lunar god would come down from the heavens to bathe in the fresh waters of old Bicol where the Bacunawa saw him. She coveted the god of the moon Bulan. stories tell that Bulan was so comely that even vicious mermaids would turn docile in his presence. Bakunawa who fell in love with the lunar god but was neglected due to the lunar god busy playing and swimming with the mermaids. She swore to claim Bulan from the sky. thus making Haliya (Bulan´s sister and protector) her enemy.

Bulan and Haliya

Bakunawa and Haliya in Bicol mythology

According to Bicolano myths, Bakunawa was punished for her arrogance and greed for desiring the moon or moons. She lost her beauty and transformed into a dragon-like being guarding the underworld gates. Bakunawa fell in love with Bulan, the god of the moon, but he neglected her. In her pursuit to claim Bulan from the sky, she made an enemy out of Haliya, the moon god's sister and protector.

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2. Cultural Symbolism:

3. Felip pays attention to cultural details by wearing clothing reminiscent of Visayan and Bicolano attire from ancient times. Adorned with Bulawan, a symbol of regalia in Philippine culture, Felip visually connects to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

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6. Children's Game Reference - Bulan Bulan:

7. The dancers surrounding Felip in the video symbolize the children's game "Bulan Bulan" or "Buwan-buwan," where players must protect the moon from being devoured by Bacunawa. This incorporation of a traditional game adds a playful and nostalgic touch to the narrative.

'Di na mahalaga kung sino yung nauna

'Di na magiging patas 'tong laro

Kita mo 'pag ako na ang sumali

Noo'y nasa baba

Ngayon ay nasa tuktok ng kamurayan

Tinitingala

Ako ang Bulan

''It doesn't matter who was first

the game wouldn't be fair anymore

you'll see when i join

before (i) was under

now i am at the top of the heavens

looked up upon

I am The Moon''

 

Bulan

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2. Iconic Line - "Ako ang Bulan": The line "Ako ang Bulan (I am Bulan)" becomes iconic and will forever be associated with Felip. This showcases Felip's role as an ambassador of Filipino culture, bringing ancient Philippine mythology to the forefront both nationally and internationally.

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5. Musical References to Mythology:

6. The music itself, co-produced by Felip and Joshua Daniel Nase, aligns with the myth of Bakunawa, the sea serpent that attempts to devour the moon. The heavy beats in the music, reminiscent of metal and rock, symbolize the loud noises made by people to scare Bakunawa away during lunar eclipses

Kung manalangin 'kala mo santo

Patahimikin 'tong hipokrito

O Haliya!

Ibukas ang mata

Prays as if like a saint

Make the hypocrite be Silent

Oh ´Haliya

Open your eyes

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3. Symbolic Messages in the Lyrics:

4. The lyrics of "Bulan" convey powerful messages about hope, resilience, and overcoming negativity. The Bacunawa in the music video represents those who attempt to bring others down with crab mentality, contrasting the luminous and shining Bulan, symbolizing hope for a better tomorrow.

1. Lalamunin ka na niya

   'Wag magpa-api sa Bakunawa

   Sa himpapawid ang Agila'y sumilip

   
   

   It is going to devour you now

   Dont let The BAKUNAWA opress you

   In the skies the Eagle is watching

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2. Metaphor for Cancel Culture:

Wag magpapaapi sa Bakunawa!

1. Felip cleverly uses the myth of Bakunawa and the moon deity, Haliya,. Akin to the way Bacunawa wants to drag Bulan down as a metaphor for cancel culture and crabmentality in Philippines. The lyrics encourage individuals to let their light shine despite the hate and jealousy around them.

2. Haliya as symbolic for people who are willing to protect their loved ones like Haliya protect's Bulan.

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6. Collaborative Project: "Bulan" is a collaborative effort, featuring Stell Ajero's ethereal chants and co-producer Josue's contribution. The choreography, influenced by Krumping, adds raw emotion to the performance, effectively combining modern dance with traditional themes.

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10. Preservation of Heritage: Felip, inspired by stories from his grandmother in Mindanao, strives to keep his cultural heritage alive through storytelling. He acknowledges the responsibility of representing Filipino culture with respect and authenticity, combining myths and adapting costumes in a thoughtful manner.

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13. Ambassador of Filipino Culture:

14. With "Bulan," Felip acts as an ambassador, sharing the collective mythology of his homeland with the world. He carries on the legacy of storytellers before him, ensuring that his tales will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Felip's "Bulan" stands as a testament to the power of modern storytelling, seamlessly blending visual and auditory elements with rich Filipino mythology. As an ambassador of Filipino culture, Felip successfully brings ancient tales to a global audience, inspiring discussions about Philippine mythology and folklore. Through his artistry, Felip ensures the preservation and continuation of his cultural heritage, promising more captivating stories in the future.

Philippine mythology is always changing and alive because it's passed down orally. The stories adapt to different cultures, historical events, and local beliefs. With a diverse history and influences, Filipino myths are dynamic, reflecting the country's unique cultural tapestry. Unlike Western mythologies, which can be seen as more fixed, Philippine mythology remains fluid and connected to present-day experiences. The stories are not stagnant but continuously evolve through storytelling, making them an integral and vibrant part of Filipino culture.

Bulan lyrics English Translation

[Intro: Stell] Oh-oh-oh-ohh Oh-oh-ahh, oh-oh-ahh Ooh-ahh-ahh, ooh-ahh [Verse 1] It doesn't matter who came first This game would no longer be even Once you see me join in Started from the bottom Now at the top of the heavens Admired, I am Bulan You've only just begun While I'm already on my way back Too late, the fire in me can no longer be put out Always moving forward, never turning back Go against me, and you'll fall With or without the world on my side I will keep running [Chorus] I am all I need and nothing else As the night falls, I am Bulan in the East This is no sprinkle of rain, but a downpour Marching, I walk with dignity Keep this in mind, next verse [Verse 2] You should really be nеrvous (Nervous) You who pretends to bе some star, now what? (Yah, yah) Keep talking about how you'd silence me While I'm already seated on my throne Are you dumb? Huh? Well, I'm used to it But we should break away from this Scorch it, burn it, those who act and pray like saints Silence these hypocrites [Bridge] Oh, Haliya, open your eyes Or it will devour you Don't let your light be swallowed by the Bakunawa In the skies, the eagle sets its sights Its vision, broad and wide My destiny has been etched from the beginning [Chorus] I am all I need and nothing else As the night falls, I am Bulan in the East This is no sprinkle of rain, but a downpour Marching, I walk with dignity Keep this in mind, next verse

REMINDER

The orally transmitted mythology of the Philippines is intended for sharing and understanding, not for appropriation, commercial exploitation, or the promotion of foreigners and foreign products. It is a dynamic narrative tradition that evolves over time, distinct from the standardized mythologies found in Western and European cultures. Unlike these established mythologies, the Philippine government has not mandated standardized versions of stories and legends. 

Orally transmitted stories undergo variations and evolve over time, resulting in numerous different versions. There are many different version told by Filipinos,and retold by Filipinos. Support Local Story Tellers