Bicolano pantheon of gods

  Mga diyos at diyosa ng mitolohiyang Bicolano

Mga diwata ng Bikolandia

GUGURANG

Gugurang the Sumpreme deity in Bicol mythology, 

the god of the good that wields lightning, fire and light

Gugurang -  Supremo ng mga diyos, Diwata ng mga diwata, anito ng mga anito

ASUANG

Asuang the god of evil and chaos 

Asuang - Diwata ng Kasamaan at kaguluhan ang diyos ng mga Aswang 

BACUNAWA

Bakunawa the deity of the deep and guards the ocean gates to the underworld 

Bakunawa - diwata ng kailaliman at bantay ng ibabang daigdig

LANGIT

 (Languit, Languiton or Kagurangan) 

Langit is the deity of the clear blue sky and of all the flying monsters and creatures

Langit - Diwata o diyos ng kalangitan at bughaw na himpapawid at ng lahat na lumilipad na nilalang

TUBIGAN

Tubig is the deity of Water and the Celestial ocean, and of all the swimming beasts and monsters 

Tubig o Tubigan ang diwata o diyos ng tubig at ng dagat ng kaitaasan at ng malawak na balatik at ng mga lumalangoy na halimaw at nilalang

DAGA

Daga is the god of the earth, the soil, and of the winds. punished to be forgotten for his transgressions againts Languiton.

 

Daga ang diwata ng lupa, diyos ng hangin

ADLAW

Adlaw is the god of the sun, light and good harvest

Adlaw ang diwata ng araw at ng liwanag, diyos ng masaganang ani

BULAN

Bulan the god of the Moon

Bulan ang diwata ng buwan

BITUOON

Bituoon, fairest and most beautiful of the sky gods. the Only daughter of Paros and Dagat. Languitons favorite granddaughter 

Bituoon ang diwata ng mga Tala o bituin

HALIYA

Haliya the masked goddess of moonlight, the embodiment of the Halya ritual and the Archenemy of Bakunawa 

Haliya diwata ng liwanag ng buwan at tagapagtangol ni Bulan, kalaban ng Bakunawa

ONOS 

Onos the god of deluge, storms and flood water

Onos amg diwata ng Unos, kidlat at baha

DALOGDOG

Dalogdog the god of thunder and emissary and enforcer of Gugurang.  

Dalogdog diwata ng kulog at mga ulap

LINTI

Linti is the god of lightning, enforcer of Gugurang's punishment, he weilds a thousand spear to vanquish enemies. He was seduced into joining the evil side and got tricked(to give up the sacred fire) by Asuang the  deity.

Linti ang diwata ng kidlat 

KALAPITNAN

the god of bats and safe travels

Kalapitnan ang diwata ng mga paniki

SIDAPA

Sidapa the god of death

Sidapa diwata ng Kamatayan

KAN-LAON 

Kanlaon the evil god of destruction and fire 

Kan-Laon diwata ng pagkawasak at apoy

OKOT

Okot the god of forest and hunting and of birds

Okot ang diwata ng kagubatan at pangangaso

MAGINDANG 

Magindang god of the sea and patron of fishermen

Magindang ang diwata ng Dagat at ng mga mangigisda

ORYOL

Oryol the serpentine demigoddess with the magical voice to seduce and control men, women and even animals 

Oryol, kalahating diwata ng mga ahas at halimaw

Paros diyos ng hangin at ulap

Batala ang diwata o diyos na namamahala sa  mga anito

Dagat ang diwata ng karagatan

Bicol Mythology Similarities Avatar Concept in Hinduism

In Hinduism, an avatar refers to the descent of a deity from the heavens to Earth, often taking a physical form to restore cosmic order or protect humanity. gods, who manifests in various forms .The term "avatar" comes from the Sanskrit word avatāra, meaning "descent" or "coming down." 

Mga diyos o diwata na bumababa mula sa kamurayan upang mag katawang lupa.

Bicol Mythology Similarities Avatar Concept in Hinduism 

In the oral myths and folklore of Bicol the gods descending from the heavens is one of the most recuing theme. The concept of gods descending from the heavens to interact with humanity, as seen in Hinduism, is strikingly similar to Bicolano mythology, where deities like Bulan, Gugurang, and Linti come down to Earth. 

Gods Descending in Bicol Mythology

• Bulan (the moon god) descends to bathe in the waters of Bicol, a poetic depiction of divine presence descending and calming and taming monsters and beasts blending with nature.

Bulan

• Gugurang, the supreme deity, comes down in the form of either an old man or a robust man with white hair, often testing the goodness of humans. This is reminiscent of Hindu deities like Vishnu who take various forms to interact with the world.

Gugurang

• Linti, a minor lightning god, appears as a young man wielding a spear to fend off monsters, a role similar to warrior avatars in Hinduism, like Parashurama or Rama, who descend to fight evil.

Linti

Bulan, the Moon God, and the Cycle of Rebirth

Bulan

In Bicolano mythology, Bulan, the moon god, descends from the heavens to the waters of Ibalong. His descent is symbolic of spiritual purity, much like the Hindu avatars who take physical form to renew or cleanse the world. When Bulan enters the monster-infested waters, he remains untouched, a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and purity, akin to the lotus flower, which rises clean and unblemished from muddy waters.

Bulan

The lotus, like the water lilies and hyacinths associated with Bulan, symbolizes spiritual rebirth and purity. Just as the lotus rises above the mud to bloom, Bulan’s descent into the perilous waters and his subsequent rebirth as a pubescent god mirrors this process. The Bicolano people observed the lotus’ ability to emerge pristine from filth, relating it to Bulan’s ability to bathe in the chaos of the earthly realm and remain unscathed, much like an avatar of divine purity. His daily cycle of life, death, and rebirth reflects a spiritual journey, where the divine touches the earthly realm and then returns renewed, a theme common in both Bicolano and Hindu mythology.

Gugurang, the Supreme Deity, and His Tests of Humanity

Gugurang

Gugurang, the supreme deity in Bicolano mythology, embodies the Hindu avatar concept of a god descending to test and guide humanity. Gugurang frequently descends from Kamurayan (the heavens) to walk among his people, sometimes appearing as an old man or a robust figure with white hair, reflecting humility despite his immense power. He comes down to test the goodness of men, much like avatars of Vishnu, who appear in human form to restore dharma (moral order) in times of crisis.

Gugurang

One of Gugurang's key roles is to oversee the Mayon Volcano, a sacred site in Bicol, where he uses fire as both a tool of punishment and a means of salvation. When people’s hearts are filled with greed and malice, he unleashes the destructive force of the volcano, mirroring how Hindu deities might use their divine powers to cleanse the world of unrighteousness. When people are good, he calms the volcano, ensuring peace. This aspect of Gugurang’s character echoes the Hindu concept of divine justice, where gods intervene in the earthly realm to restore balance, protect the righteous, and punish the wicked.

Linti, the God of Lightning, and His Battle Against Apolaki

Linti

The warrior aspect of the avatar is mirrored in the Bicolano god Linti, the god of lightning. Much like the avatars of Vishnu who descend to battle cosmic forces of evil, Linti appears as a young man wielding a thousand silver spears, which symbolize lightning bolts. He descends to defend Ibalong from monsters, embodying the warrior archetype often seen in Hindu myths, where gods take physical form to fight evil.

Linti

One of Linti’s most famous battles is against Apolaki, a golden mountain monster in Bicolano mythology, whose brilliance is compared to the sun. Apolaki, immune to fire, terrorized the land and could not be defeated by the warriors of Ibalong. Even Linti, with all his lightning, was unable to vanquish the monster alone. However, with the help of Dalogdog, another deity, they combined their powers to seal the monstrous Apolaki inside the mountain, thus restoring peace to Ibalong. This story mirrors Hindu myths where gods, such as Rama or Krishna, descend to defeat powerful demons, using divine weapons and working alongside other divine forces to restore order.

Parallels Between Bicolano and Hindu Avatar Concepts

The similarities between the avatar concept in Hinduism and the descent of gods in Bicol mythology may stem from ancient cultural exchanges, particularly through the Hindu-Buddhist influence that spread through Southeast Asia, reaching the Philippines. Both traditions share core themes of divine intervention, cosmic balance, and the idea of gods taking human or physical form to interact with the mortal world.

In both traditions:

• Bulan’s descent into the waters reflects the spiritual purity and transformative power seen in Hindu avatars like Krishna, who manifest in both gentle and fierce forms to guide humanity.
• Gugurang tests the morality of people, much like Vishnu tests and protects righteousness through his avatars such as Rama and Vamana.
• Linti’s battle against Apolaki resonates with tales of divine warriors like Vishnu as Narasimha (the lion-headed avatar), who descends to combat evil forces threatening cosmic order.

Gugurang

Linti

Possible Reasons for Similarities

1. Cultural Diffusion: Trade routes in Southeast Asia facilitated the spread of Hindu-Buddhist influences to the Philippines, including the Bicol region. The belief in gods descending from the heavens to intervene in human affairs likely spread through this interaction, merging with local beliefs.

2. Universal Mythical Motifs: The idea of gods taking human form to interact with the world is a common motif found in many mythologies globally. It represents the closeness of the divine to human concerns and the intervention of gods during times of need.

3. Natural Phenomena and Myth: Both traditions are shaped by their environment. Natural phenomena like storms, lightning, and lunar phases are often explained through divine intervention. For example, the moon god Bulan bathing in the waters could symbolize the reflection of the moon on the sea, just as Hindu avatars often have nature-related symbolism.

Bicolano Mythology Pantheon of Deities and Creatures gallery

ART GALLERY DEPICTING THE GODS AND GODDESSES, HEROES MONSTER OF BICOL MYTHOLOGY

Bicolano Pantheon of Deities

Bicolano Pantheon and Mythology

Bicolano mythology, deeply rooted in the Philippines, showcases a rich tapestry of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures. Set in the Bicol Region's lush landscapes, the pantheon revolves around Gugurang, the supreme deity ruling Mt. Mayon. Asuang, the lord of darkness, embodies chaos, contrasting with Gugurang's benevolence.

The epic of Ibalong narrates Handiong's heroic deeds against mythical creatures, symbolizing Bicolanos' courage. Other deities like Oryol, Kalapitnan, and Katambay contribute to this intricate mythology. Bicolano rituals, like the Pantomina festival, connect the people with mythical beings.

Challenges in preserving Bicolano mythology arise due to modernization, impacting oral transmission. Comparisons to Hinduism reveal shared threads in Southeast Asian cultures. Mythological names hold cultural significance, resisting easy translation.

Key deities include Languiton (sky), Tubigan (water), Dagat (seas), and Paros (winds). Gugurang commands light and fire, while Asuang represents darkness. Lesser gods like Batala, Linti, Dologdog, and Magindang contribute to the divine tapestry. The dynamic narrative evolves through oral transmission, distinct from Western mythologies.

Haliya, Bakunawa, Onos, Okot, Kalapitnan, Kanlaon, Nagined, Apolaki, and Anito are additional gods embodying diverse aspects of nature and existence in Bicolano mythology. Oratihon, the demigod of the sun, adds further depth to this vibrant and evolving tradition.

The orally transmitted mythology of the Philippines is intended for sharing and understanding. 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 in and out of the Philippines. Support Local story tellers and Artist that promote not only Bicol mythology but Philippine mythology.

Bicolano Pantheon of Deities

LANGUITON BICOLANO GOD OF THE SKIES, THE SKY

LANGUITON (Langit) primodial Bicolano god representing the sky.  sovereign of all the flying creatures in the skies. He associated with the clear blue skies that represent purity of soul, truth, and stability

LANGUITON

LANGIT

LANQUITON

LANGUITON

LANGUITON

ADLAO BICOLANO MYTHOLOGY GOD OF THE SUN

ADLAO

Adlao is the revered god of the sun in Bicolano mythology, associated with sunlight, heat, and good harvest. He symbolizes vitality and life-giving energy from the sun, depicted as a handsome figure with golden-brown skin. The worship of Adlao holds cultural and agricultural significance, reflecting the Bicolanos' deep connection to nature and their acknowledgment of the sun's role in sustaining life.

As a sun deity, Adlao is revered for his connection to divine and life-giving sunlight. Bicolanos may associate him with qualities like fertility, abundance, and prosperity, emphasizing his benevolent influence on agricultural endeavors.

Adlao's cultural significance extends to rituals and festivals woven into the Bicolano agricultural calendar. These celebrations seek blessings for bountiful harvests, expressing gratitude to Adlao for the prosperity he brings.

The story of Adlao in Bicolano mythology adds complexity to the impact of Spanish colonization, highlighting the clash of cultural beliefs. Despite attempts to distort Adlao's image, his legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity.

In another narrative, Adlao's son, the unnamed sun demigod, fell in love with a mortal named Rosa. His fiery presence accidentally caused the destruction of Rosa's village, leaving only hot springs as a reminder of their tragic love story.

It's essential to respect the dynamic nature of Philippine mythology, recognizing variations in the retelling of stories and the importance of understanding rather than appropriating these cultural narratives.

Bicolano god of the Sun ADLAO

ADLAO

 Gugurang - the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology, stands as a symbol of justice, fairness, and power.

 Gugurang the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology

 Gugurang the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology

Gugurang is the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology, known for his fairness and justice. Described as muscular and tall with silver hair, he commands obedience and is associated with the fire that warms Mount Mayon. Originating from the divine embodiment of winds, Gugurang asserted dominance over his brothers and became the ruler of the heavens.

Gugurang's fire, both literal and symbolic, represents knowledge and power. His subordinates, Lightning (Linti) and Thunder (Dalogdog), symbolize punishment. Gugurang also commands winged guardians, the Katambay, and the Katambang, half-man half-bird creatures.

The narrative unfolds with Gugurang facing challenges from Asuang, an opposing force seeking to defy Gugurang's authority. The clash involves stolen fire, battles, and Gugurang's eventual triumph with the help of his winged guardians.

In another story, Gugurang interacts with Bulan, the lunar deity, showcasing a harmonious relationship between the supreme god and the gentle, playful Bulan. Overall, Gugurang's role in maintaining order and justice, coupled with his interactions with various mythological beings, contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of Bikolano mythology.

GUGURANG

 Gugurang the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology

GUGURANG

GUGURANG

 Gugurang the supreme deity in Bikolano mythology

OKOT

OKOT


In Bicolano mythology, Okot is revered as the god of forests, birds, and the hunt. Associated with astuteness, wisdom, and craftiness in hunting, Okot was originally depicted as a tall, muscular man with brown skin, adorned with beautiful leaves and skilled in using a bow and arrow. However, the arrival of the Spanish colonizers led to the distortion of Okot's image. The Spaniards, pushing their puritanical ideology, portrayed Okot as a small and puny forest spirit, attempting to belittle this once towering deity. Despite these efforts, Okot remains a symbol of resilience in Bicolano mythology, highlighting the enduring power of cultural identity and the complex interplay between indigenous beliefs and external influences.

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

OKOT

Haliya - Moon goddess, goddess of Moonlight

Haliya

Haliya

Haliya is a goddess worshipped in Bicol, known as the warrior goddess of moonlight and the arch-enemy of the dragon Bakunawa. She is the sister or daughter of Bulan, the god of the pale moon, and they are both revered for their radiant beauty. Haliya is depicted as strong and adamant, wearing a mask to hide her beauty.

Masked goddess of the Moonlight. Haliya is most known as the masked goddess of the Moon and archenemy of the Bacunawa

Haliya in the legends she was worshipped by cults of women and symbolizes strength

Haliya's most notable conflict is with Bakunawa, a dragon who sought to devour the moon. The battle between Haliya and Bakunawa is a recurring theme in Bicolano mythology, resulting in Bakunawa being punished and trapped in dragon form.

The celestial gods, including Haliya and Bulan, are associated with flowers like the water hyacinth and lotus in Bicol. The legend of the Takay flowers tells the story of a maiden turned into flowers by Haliya and Bulan. The lotus flowers are associated with Bulan dipping into monster-infested waters and symbolize spiritual enlightenment and rebirth.

The Bicolano myth also tells of Bakunawa's initial admiration for Bulan, leading to a transformation into a colossal fish-dragon in an attempt to claim him. Haliya, convinced by wind nymphs, descends to the waters of Bicol, initiating Bulan's nightly descends from the heavens. The ongoing cosmic struggle between Haliya, Bulan, and Bakunawa is depicted in celestial phenomena like lunar eclipses. This mythical tale explores themes of love, jealousy, and the eternal battle between light and darkness.

HALIYA

HALIYA MOON GODDESS

HALIYA

HALIYA AND BULAN

HALIYA AND BULAN

HALIYA AND BULAN

BULAN AND HALIYA

HALIYA

BULAN AND HALIYA

HALIYA AND BULAN

HALIYA

HALIYA

HALIYA masked goddess of Moonlight

HALIYA MOON GODDESS

DAGAT

dagat

Dagat, the Bicolano goddess of the sea, symbolizes the delicate balance between the elements in a cosmic dance. Born from the union of Laguit (goddess of water) and Paros (the wind), Dagat ruled over the seas with her divine partner. Their love, so profound, led to the birth of four children, each embodying aspects of the natural world. 

DAGAT

dagat

dagat

ONOS

ONOS 

ONOS

ONOS -  Onos the deity in Bicol mythology that freed the great flood, the Bikolano god of storms and deluge, was both venerated and feared in Pre-colonial Bicol. Described as a tall and muscular deity with an ill-tempered and childlike demeanor, Onos commanded the winds and brought destructive floods. Revered as a protector against invaders, Onos played a pivotal role in the mythology of Ibalong, unleashing his wrath upon those who dared to approach. His tragic love story with Takay, a mortal maiden, led to catastrophic events, including the sinking of Mt. Asog and the flooding of colonies. The tale concludes with the creation of the Takay flower, a symbol of undying love and a testament to the cosmic forces that shaped the destiny of gods and mortals. Additionally, Onos' impact on the monster Rabot further illustrates the intricate interplay between divine beings and the natural world in Pre-colonial Bicol.

ONOS

ONOS

ONOS

BULAN

Bulan, the primordial god of the moon in Pre-Hispanic Bicolano mythology, is known for his androgynous beauty and luminous presence. Revered as the sibling of Haliya, the goddess of moonlight, Bulan is described as fair-skinned with dark eyes and hair, captivating even the vicious mermaids and beasts. Worshiped alongside Asuang by the baylan, he played a role in various myths, including a feud with Adlao, the sun god, symbolizing the eternal cycle of day and night.

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

The legend of the Takay flower is associated with Bulan, emphasizing its spiritual symbolism and connection to the rebirth of the moon. Additionally, Bulan's inadvertent creation of water nymphs, Tawong Lipod, showcases the dual nature of these spirits—some benevolent, others malevolent.

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

BULAN

The cosmic chase between brothers Bulan and Adlao symbolizes the perpetual cycle of day and night, with Adlao pursuing Bulan across the sky. The myth also delves into the complex relationships between Bulan, Haliya, and Bakunawa, where unrequited love and jealousy lead to a cosmic conflict played out in the night sky.

LINTI AND DOLOGDOG

LINTI AND DOLOGDOG

In Bicolano mythology, Linti and Dologdog, divine enforcers of Gugurang, the god of Mount Mayon, play crucial roles in maintaining cosmic balance. Linti, representing lightning, appears as a handsome young man with a thousand silver spears, symbolizing his control over lightning. Dologdog embodies thunder, riding a storm cloud with fierce expressions. Together, they serve in enforcing divine justice.

LINTI AND DOLOGDOG

LINTI

LINTI

DOLOGDOG

DOLOGDOG in Bicol mythology the deity that weilds Thunder, has the booming voice

LINTI AND DALOGDOG

In a conflict against the malevolent deity Asuang, who attempts to steal sacred fire, Linti and Dologdog are dispatched by Gugurang. Despite Asuang initially succeeding, a cosmic clash marked by thunder and lightning ensues. The divine brothers eventually assist Gugurang in reclaiming the stolen fire, defeating Asuang and restoring cosmic order.

Another tale involves Linti confronting the mighty mountain beast Apolaki, immune to fire. With the combined efforts of Linti and Dologdog, they successfully defeat Apolaki and seal it inside a mountain, ending its reign of terror.

LINTI