the golden ship - Bicol folklore

 Like most Bicol mythology, the golden ship is one of those stories with multiple version and is abundant in Bicol.  

There was once a Spanish galleon that sank during a fierce storm off the coast of San Miguel Island. As the ship went down, the captain managed to grab onto a floating wooden door while clutching a casket full of gold. However, the storm continued to rage, and a massive wave hurled him into the sea. Unbeknownst to him, a giant Banog (a local eagle) swooped down, snatched the casket of gold, and flew off toward distant shores.

When the captain awoke the next morning, he found himself lying on the dead corals of Corangon Shoal. Beside him was Magindara, a local mermaid. She told him that he had drowned when the ship sank, but Magindang, the Lord of the Seas, had revived him so that he could retrieve the lost casket of gold. The Banog had carried the casket away, likely a pet of Oryol, the half-maiden, half-snake daughter of the evil god Aswang.

“For now, your soul remains in the heart of the sea with Magindang,” Magindara explained. “You can only recover it by returning the casket of gold to him. Until then, you will have no memory of who you are or where you came from. But remember this—your name is Don Diego.”

One day, Pedro brought news to Don Diego that some villagers had spotted what seemed to be golden earth around a hill in Putsan, a coastal village. However, no one could reach the area due to a lake of boiling mud that surrounded it. Intrigued, Don Diego decided to see the place for himself. Before he left, Basyon handed him a protective necklace. Accompanied by Pedro, Don Diego set off on the journey.

Upon reaching the lake, a local advised them to visit Gurang Siloy, an elder who could explain the mysterious lake.

“According to my elders,” Gurang Siloy began, “that boiling lake is the exhaust of Gagamban, the dwelling of Aswang, the Evil God. The place is known as Naglagbong because people believed something immense fell from the sky when the lake first erupted. The area is feared because those who dare approach often vanish without a trace. Many believe they were drowned by Oryol, the daughter of Aswang.”

From a distance, Don Diego saw the hill with its golden-colored clay, but the boiling lake barred their way. With no clear solution, he and Pedro returned home, their hearts heavy with disappointment.

 After the triumphant recovery of the gold, celebrations erupted in the village. In gratitude for her intercession, they held a vigil to the Nuestra Señora de Salvación. As a gesture of generosity, Don Diego gave half of the gold to the villagers. However, Basyon, the village matriarch, decided to keep half of their share, saying it was necessary to build a chapel for the Holy Mother. “This was the message of the Nuestra Señora,” she declared, and the villagers agreed.

Don Diego then addressed the crowd, “My final request is that you help me build a ship to sail the open seas.” For several full moons, the villagers worked together, crafting a magnificent ship, which they painted gold so it would shine even in the night. Before departing, Don Diego promised Basyon that he would return after reclaiming his soul from Magindang, the guardian of the seas. Soon after, a great flood swept Don Diego and his golden ship out to the open waters.

Basyon waited for a long, long time, but Don Diego never returned. Various tales about his fate began to spread. Some claimed he failed to recover his soul because Magindang refused the diminished offering of gold. Others said that after recovering his soul, Don Diego lost all memory of Basyon and the village, and sailed back to his original homeland. Still, others whispered that he was seduced by Magindara, the sea enchantress, and stayed with her in the depths. By the time he remembered his vow to return to the Taqui River, Basyon had already passed away, having waited too long.

To this day, the legend endures. Some say that when the waters of Taqui River rise after heavy rains, Don Diego’s golden ship can be seen gliding towards the sea, sometimes even smashing the Naga Bridge in its wake. It is said that as his ship sails, Don Diego scatters gold coins along the riverbanks. To this day, people search the shores of the Taqui River, hoping to find his lost treasure. And even now, the riverbanks remain scattered with gold-colored pebbles, reminding all of Don Diego’s promise and the golden ship lost to the sea.

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.

The White Lady of Mount Isarog: diwata in disguise

 The White Lady of Mount Isarog: Guardian of the Mountain

Ang white Lady ng Isarog

In the mystical forests of Mount Isarog, amidst the verdant trees and thick canopies, tales of a White Lady have become a central part of local folklore. Unlike the eerie, ghostly figures typically associated with White Lady legends across the Philippines, the White Lady of Mount Isarog is seen in a different light. Far from being a frightful apparition, she is regarded as a protector of the mountain, embodying beauty, grace, and a deep connection with nature.

Protector of the Mountain

Diwata nga ba? 

Locals believe that the White Lady of Mount Isarog is tasked with safeguarding the mountain’s natural resources, acting as a protector against those who seek to exploit or harm the environment. Her presence is often a warning to those with ill intentions, ensuring that Mount Isarog’s pristine beauty remains intact. She is said to appear to those who wander too deeply into the forest with destructive motives, gently guiding them back or even preventing them from causing harm to the mountain.

A Diwata in Disguise?

Many speculate that the White Lady is not merely a wandering spirit but a Diwata, a nature fairy or guardian spirit in Philippine mythology. Her ethereal beauty, her flowing white dress, and her serene demeanor have led people to connect her with the powerful Diwatas who are believed to protect the natural world. Diwatas are often depicted as beautiful beings who nurture and defend the forests, rivers, and mountains, making this association with the White Lady natural. She is described as a kind and protective figure, guiding lost travelers and ensuring that the delicate balance of the mountain ecosystem is respected.

Encounters with the White Lady

Though her legend is shrouded in mystery, several locals have claimed encounters with the White Lady. Travelers who have wandered off the beaten path or become disoriented in the dense forest have reported seeing a beautiful woman dressed in white. She is often said to be surrounded by a glow of fireflies, adding to her enchanting, otherworldly presence. Instead of invoking fear, these sightings inspire a sense of wonder and gratitude, as the White Lady is seen gently pointing them in the right direction or ensuring their safe return to familiar trails.

Some stories describe her sudden appearance on misty mornings or moonlit nights, gracefully emerging from the shadows to help those in need. Her calm and radiant presence contrasts with more sinister interpretations of White Lady folklore, making her a figure of benevolence rather than terror.

A Symbol of Respect for Nature

The White Lady’s protective role highlights an important cultural message: the need to respect nature and live in harmony with it. Her appearances are seen as reminders that Mount Isarog is not merely a resource to be exploited, but a sacred space that demands reverence and care. For the people of Bicol, she represents the mountain’s soul, a divine force watching over both its inhabitants and visitors.

puting Diwata

The White Lady of Mount Isarog is a symbol of beauty, protection, and respect for the natural world. Whether seen as a spirit, a Diwata, or a manifestation of the mountain itself, she remains a beloved figure in the folklore of the region. Her role as a guardian of Mount Isarog reflects the deep cultural values tied to environmental stewardship, teaching locals and visitors alike the importance of preserving and respecting the natural world. Through her gentle guidance and serene presence, the White Lady continues to protect the magical and sacred essence of the mountain, ensuring that it remains a sanctuary for both people and nature.

Haring Dalakitnon

 In Philippine mythology Haring Dalakitnon simply means king of the Dalaketnon. (Dalakit noon, Dalakit doon )

Haring Dalakitnon

Haring Dalakitnon

REMINDER

The orally transmitted mythology of the Philippines is intended for sharing and understanding, should not be taken literally. 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

other mythological creatures associated with water

 Philippine mythology is rich with water spirits and mythical creatures that reflect the archipelago’s deep connection with its waters. The Magindara of Bicol, a type of mermaid, and the Siyokoy of Tagalog mythology are just two examples of fascinating water-related beings. Their stories intertwine with other regional and cross-cultural myths, offering unique insights into how ancient Filipinos revered and feared the waters surrounding their islands.

SYOKOY

Siyokoy in Philippine Mythology

In Philippine mythology, the Siyokoy is a terrifying aquatic creature with humanoid features. Often depicted with scales, webbed limbs, and fins, they are considered more monstrous than the seductive mermaids (Sirena). Siyokoys are hostile, with many tales associating them with drownings and disappearances near bodies of water. They are feared as dangerous predators lurking in rivers, seas, and lakes, and unlike the alluring Sirena, the Siyokoy are more animalistic and predatory in nature.

The origins of the Siyokoy’s name may trace back to the Chinese term "shui gui," meaning "water ghost," highlighting the historical connections between Chinese and Filipino cultures. In Chinese mythology, the Shui Gui are spirits of people who have drowned, believed to haunt the location of their deaths, dragging the living underwater to drown and replace them in the spirit world. The Siyokoy shares similar traits, reinforcing the blending of local and foreign myths over centuries of cultural exchange.

Magindara of Bicol

The Magindara are often depicted as beautiful but fierce mermaids from the Bicol region. Unlike the more widely known Sirena, Magindara have both a seductive and a vicious nature. While some versions of the myth portray them as protectors of the seas, others present them as vengeful creatures who lure sailors to their deaths. They possess enchanting voices that can either soothe or terrorize, adding complexity to their dual role as guardians and predators of the ocean.

LAKAN DANUM

Lakandanum – God of Water

In Kapampangan mythology, Lakandanum represents the god of water. He is sometimes depicted as a serpent-like mermaid or naga, showcasing similarities to Southeast Asian water deities. The Kapampangans revered Lakandanum in rituals to ensure rain and fertile lands, vital for their agricultural lifestyle. The Bayung Danum celebration, meaning "new water," was held to mark the end of the dry season and to give thanks for the arrival of the rains.

Lakandanum

Lakandanum is also seen as a collective term for multiple benevolent water spirits. Similar to naga figures in Southeast Asia, these spirits were believed to reside in bodies of water such as lakes and rivers, acting as guardians of their aquatic domains. This idea of water spirits shows the reverence ancient Filipinos had for natural water sources, vital for both sustenance and survival.

BERBEROKA

Berberoka

Berberoka

Berberoka – The Water Ogre

In the northern regions of Apayao, Abra, and Ilocos Norte, the Berberoka is a well-known water monster. Often described as a large, ogre-like creature, the Berberoka displays cunning behavior, luring humans to their doom. One of its tactics involves draining a pond, causing fish to flop helplessly on dry land. When people come to gather the stranded fish, the Berberoka suddenly releases a surge of water, capturing its victims in the process.

berberoka philippines mythology

Though Berberokas are physically strong and capable of creating powerful whirlpools, they possess a unique vulnerability: an irrational fear of crabs. This fear compels them to flee whenever they encounter these creatures. This detail adds an intriguing nuance to the myth, portraying the Berberoka as both formidable and flawed.

REDISCOVER THE ASBO IN PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY

 Aswang Asbo

Asbo

In Philippine mythology, the Asbo is a type of aswang known for turning into rabid and wild dogs. These creatures always hunt in packs and are never alone, making them particularly dangerous. If you see one Asbo, there are surely more nearby.

By day, Asbos look like ordinary people, but at night they transform into wild, fierce dogs. They have a unique craving for human intestines, which they eat with savage delight. Their pack behavior allows them to attack in a coordinated and strategic manner, making them formidable and deadly hunters.

Aswang Asbo

strength in numbers 

The Asbo, much like other aswangs, is a shape-shifter. During the day, they appear as ordinary humans, blending seamlessly into society. However, when night falls, they reveal their true nature. Transforming into fierce, rabid dogs, they roam the night in packs, their eyes glowing with a menacing hunger. The transformation is both physical and behavioral, as they adopt the ferocity and pack mentality of wild canines.

One of the most gruesome aspects of the Asbo is their diet. They have an insatiable craving for human intestines, which they devour with savage delight. This grisly preference sets them apart from other aswangs, whose dietary habits can vary widely. The Asbo’s method of hunting is coordinated and strategic, utilizing the pack’s numbers to overpower their prey. This tactic makes them formidable foes, as they can attack from multiple directions and overwhelm even the most vigilant individuals.

Asbo in Bicol mythology

Feared by some people specifically in Iriga Bicol, the asbo or rabid weredog lurks and waits for it victim usually in packs in the forest waiting for lone travellers

Oral mythology 

Asbos are said to be abundant throughout the Philippines, with legends of their existence prevalent in various regions (from Katagalugan to Quezon, Bicol Samar (Western Samar) Leyte). Their presence in folklore serves as a cautionary tale, warning people to be wary of traveling alone at night. The fear of the Asbo is deeply ingrained in the cultural consciousness, and stories of their attacks are often used to explain mysterious disappearances and unexplained deaths.

Asbo in Bicol mythology and folklore

The story of Tanding a gentle giant who protected the villagers from a pack of rabid Asbo. And at the end he got killed the monsters by drowning them in the waters. Tanding perished but he turned into a whale shark. 

Visayan folklore 

Asbo stories in Visayas redudant about them attacking and abducting villagers in remote places. Some even claim to have seen and have survived being attacked by a group of Asbo 

Comparison with the Kiwig

The Asbo closely resembles and is related to another aswang variant known as the Iwig and Kiwig(dog variant with the same name) found in Aklan. Like the Asbo, the Kiwig transforms into large dogs with sloping backs and crooked tails during the night. In their human form, Kiwigs typically have a stooped posture, a reflection of their habit of prowling under elevated houses. They are known for their disturbing practice of licking sick or dying persons, which further enhances their sinister reputation.

Asbo in popular media

Asbo as portrayed in the movie My Darling kong Aswang 

Comedy horror movie features the Asbo variant of Aswang. Victor (Vic Sotto) is a single father who falls in love with Elisa (Cristine Reyes) who turns out to be an Aswang (from Asbo clan). But even so, Victor loved Elisa so much that he accepted who she is and even live with her as his second wife.

But the problem comes when the leader of the Aswang clan (Jean Garcia) finds out that Elisa and her mother (Agot Isidro) are not eating humans anymore. She sends out other Aswangs to hunt down Elisa and her mother, and also for Victor and his family.

Victor then will face the leader of the Asbo Aswang clan to save his beloved Elisa.

Asbo as portrayed in movie My Darling kong Aswang 

the Asbo is a terrifying figure in Philippine mythology, embodying the fear of the unknown and the danger that lurks in the shadows. Their ability to transform into rabid dogs and their relentless hunger for human intestines make them one of the most dreaded aswangs, ensuring their place in the rich tapestry of Filipino folklore.

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.

REDISCOVER THE AWOK IN PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY

Awok

 

The Awok in Philippine mythology is a type of aswang that transforms into a huge black boar or vicious big black pig. The Awok of the Tagalog and Bicolano folklore is different from the Visayan Awok

In Philippine mythology,specifically Tagalog and Bicol mythology the Awok is a type of aswang, a malevolent shape-shifting creature known for its appetite for human flesh and internal organs. The Awok is particularly feared for its ability to transform into a massive black pig or boar, using this fearsome form to hunt and stalk its prey. Like other aswangs, the Awok is a nocturnal predator, capable of living among humans by day and transforming into a monstrous being by night. The aswang that closely resembles the Kiwig.  

Aswang na Awok

Characteristics of the Awok

The Awok is distinguished by its ability to transform into a huge black pig or boar, a form that enhances its predatory abilities. In this animalistic shape, the Awok can move stealthily through forests and rural areas, hunting both animals and, when necessary, humans. While they have a notorious reputation for devouring human flesh and intestines, Awoks prefer to live in remote areas where they can avoid human contact and primarily hunt animals. However, they will not hesitate to prey on humans if the opportunity arises.

Servants of the Bangkilan

AWOK BILANG TAGAPAGLINGOD NG BANGKILAN

The Awoks are not just solitary hunters; they are also bound in servitude to a far more powerful and fearsome aswang known as the Bangkilan. The Bangkilan is a unique and formidable variant of the aswang, known for her ability to transform into multiple terrifying forms, including a black boar, a black dog, and even a winged demonic maiden with bat wings and long, razor-sharp claws.

This shape-shifting ability sets the Bangkilan apart from other aswangs, but what truly makes her exceptional is her internal power. Unlike typical aswangs, who possess a single black stone that they must pass on to a successor before they die, the Bangkilan has multiple black pearls and chicks within her body. These black pearls and chicks are sources of her dark power, allowing her to create more black stones and new aswangs without facing the threat of death that comes with passing on her power.

AWOK IN TAGALOG AND BICOL MYTHOLOGY

the Awok in both Tagalog and Bicol mythology is a land Aswang that turns into a huge black pig or boar while the Awok in the Visayan mythology sharing the same name is very different that it can fly and has bath wings

AWOK IN VISAYAN MYTHOLOGY

The Awok in Visayan mythology is different from the Bicolano mythology Awok. The Visayan Awok has batwings while the Bicolano Awok is more pig or boar-like 

AWOK CONFUSED WITH THE KIWIG

The Awok and the Kiwig greately resemble each other with the difference is that the Kiwig is bigger and the territory is different. 

AWOK CONFUSED WITH MOTOG

because they both change into huge black boars they are often confused and interachanged with one another in oral stories 

AWOK CONFUSED WITH THE BANGKILAN

The Awok and the Bangkilan are two distinct types of aswang. While both can transform into a black boar, they are often confused due to this shared ability. The Awok specifically transforms into a huge black pig or boar. In contrast, the Bangkilan is far stronger and more formidable. Unlike the Awok, the Bangkilan can also transform into various other creatures of the night, including a large black bird, a black dog, and even a monstrous maiden with bat wings and long, razor-sharp claws.

Bangkilan's Role and Power

The Bangkilan's ability to produce multiple black stones and chicks gives her an unparalleled ability to perpetuate her kind. She can create new aswangs by passing these stones and chicks to others, effectively turning ordinary humans into aswangs. This power makes her not only a leader among her kind but also a feared figure, as she has the potential to spread the aswang curse far and wide.

The Awoks, in their role as servants of the Bangkilan, are loyal followers who praise her and carry out her bidding. They may act as enforcers, protectors, or recruiters, bringing new victims or potential aswangs into the Bangkilan's fold. The relationship between the Awok and the Bangkilan highlights the hierarchical nature of aswang communities in Philippine folklore, where different types of aswangs have specific roles and levels of power.

Cultural Significance

The mythology of the Awok and the Bangkilan serves as a potent narrative in the regions where these stories are told, particularly in rural areas where the fear of aswangs is deeply rooted in local culture. The Awok's preference for remote living and its connection to the powerful Bangkilan reflects a broader cultural fear of the unknown and the dangers that lie beyond the safety of the village.

The Bangkilan, with her ability to create more aswangs and her immunity to the death that other aswangs face, represents an ever-present threat that is both physical and spiritual. She embodies the fear of corruption and the spread of evil, a theme that resonates deeply in communities where these myths are a part of everyday life.

AWOK IN POPULAR MEDIA

Ang Lihim ni Annasandra (International title: The Secret of Annasandra) is a Philippine television drama fantasy series aired by GMA Network. Directed by Albert Langitan, the show stars Andrea Torres in the title role. The series, which features the awok type of aswang, premiered on October 6, 2014,

Annasandra is the daughter of Belinda and Carlos. Circumstances lead to Annasandra being cursed to become an "awok." To protect her from being misjudged and to prevent her from hurting others, her loved ones keep her true identity a secret.

the Awok is featured in the tv series Lihim ni Anasandra

Ang mga Baboyramong Aswang na mga Awok

The Awok and other aswangs  integral figure in Philippine aswang mythology, representing the dark forces that lurk in the shadows of human society. The Awok, with its terrifying ability to transform into a massive black boar, serves the powerful and nearly immortal Bangkilan, who stands out as a unique and formidable aswang capable of creating new monsters without facing her own demise. Together with the other aswangs they embody the deep-seated fears of the unknown and the supernatural that continue to influence the cultural landscape of the Philippines.

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.

PANDIBULAN

 Pandibulan or ablution refers to the ceremonial act of washing oneself or certain parts of the body, symbolizing spiritual purification. (Akin to Bicol folklore of the Lunar deity bathing in the waters of Bicol)

Filipino or Bicolano culture, there's no single direct term, but concepts of purification and cleansing with water are integral to rituals and practices. In indigenous traditions, it may involve sacred water rituals for spiritual cleansing, though a specific term might vary by region or practice.

 In Bicolano mythology, Pandibulan is associated with the lunar god Bulan. In these myths, Bulan is a god of the moon, often depicted as a beautiful androgynous and gentle deity. The myth goes that Bulan descended from the heavens, illuminating the night with his radiance. His presence brought tranquility and peace, often calming the creatures of the earth and the sea.

In some stories, Bulan's descent to earth is linked with other deities and significant events in Bicolano cosmology. He is sometimes portrayed as the younger brother of Haliya, the goddess of the moon and a warrior deity, who is often depicted as protecting Bulan from evil spirits. Bulan’s descent is seen as a symbol of the moon’s gentle influence on the earth, bringing light in the darkness and maintaining a balance in nature.

Pandibulan in Filipino folklore and culture

It refers to a supernatural creature or being associated with the moon (buwan in Tagalog). The name Pandibulan can be broken down into "Pandi" (potentially a form of the word "pangdi" meaning "for" or "of") and "bulan" (meaning "moon"). 

Felip in Bulan music video

Pandibulan in Bicol mythology

Pandibulan also means to bathe under the moon, bathing by moonlight 

a spiritual bath is  "ritual cleansing" or "ablution" in various spiritual and religious contexts. It refers to the act of washing or bathing for purification or spiritual renewal rather than just physical cleanliness.

In Bicolano oral mythology, the practice of bathing by moonlight, particularly under the light of the full moon, is believed to be associated with beauty, youth, and rejuvenation. cleaning the spirit. This almost unknown tradition is closely connected to the lunar deity Bulan, who embodies purity, beauty, and tranquility.

According to the myth, those who bathe under the light of Bulan are said to be blessed with his ethereal beauty and ageless youth. The moonlight is believed to have a mystical power that can cleanse and rejuvenate, preserving one's physical appearance and vitality. This practice is often linked to the goddess Haliya as well, who is known for her beauty and strength. Some versions of the myth suggest that she herself bathes in the light of her brother Bulan to maintain her allure and power.

Orally passed mythologies and stories

In some tales, Pandibulan is a guardian or personification of the moon, while in others, it is the descend of Bulan, the luminous lunar god to the waters of Bicol. it may be a mythical being with powers tied to the lunar cycles. The term is not as widely recognized as other Filipino mythological figures, so interpretations and details may differ depending on local traditions and storytelling.

some Bicolano girls who would bathe under the moon are believed to become more youthful and radiant, absorbing the luminous glow of the moonlight.

Haliya and Bulan bathing in the waters of Bicol  "ritual cleansing" or "ablution"

Haliya bathing

In the Bicol Region, the northernmost part is Camarines Norte, which is located at the northern tip of the Bicol Peninsula. There is a folklore about the Moon Goddess Haliya

 oral folklore tells about the beautiful luminous goddess Haliya descended to bathe in the fresh waters. a young man see her and they fall in love. She can not fly back for the weigh of love keeps her earthbound. She marries the man and they live happy. She becomes pregnant and she went back to water where she first descended. beautiful music and singing can be heard. the water remembers her as a goddess and her brother send celestial music to soothe her while in labour. 

The myth of Bulan and Haliya and his descent is a part of the rich  Bicolano folklore, reflecting the cultural importance of celestial bodies and their influence on the world.

MANDURUGO

  

MANDURUGO

Mandurugo

The mandurugo in Bicol mythology are beautiful vampiric creatures with faces of beautiful women but the body of large bird of prey.

In Philippine oral mythology, the Mandurugo is a mythical being akin to a vampire. The Mandurugo is  a type of Aswang, a Filipino shapeshifter. This creature, with harpy-like features, appears as a young and beautiful woman during the day. However, at night, it transforms, developing wings and long, sharp tongues. These tongues are used either to make cuts on a man's neck or to prick the inside of his mouth while kissing, extracting blood.

The stories about Mandurugo, prevalent among Tagalog and Bicol speakers, have diverse variations. In some accounts, Mandurugo deceives unsuspecting men by marrying them to prey upon them. Alternatively, she may choose a single husband, using him as a cover for her blood-drinking activities, flying to other villages to feed. In Bicolano stories, Mandurugo is portrayed as large birds of prey with the faces of beautiful maidens hunting for blood.

madurugo

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

The transformation and synchronization of the Kinari into a Mandurugo

On the other hand, the Kinnara, mythical creature in Philippine mythology, has almost faded from memory. These beings are depicted as beautiful androgynous winged creatures with slender bodies and bird-like lower parts. Originating from Hindu-Buddhist traditions around 200 to 300 CE, the Kinnara symbolized divine beauty and devotion in pre-colonial times. However, during Spanish colonization, they were distorted into blood-drinking harpy-like monsters, reflecting the clash between indigenous beliefs and external influences.

In contemporary  stories the Kinari turns into a Mandurugo. The kinari is loyal and subservient as it is beautiful and will love a mortal with all its heart but when the mortal's love is not pure. the Kinari will turn into a harpy-like blood thristy Mandurugo. 

KINARI

Despite the distortions imposed by colonization, the original essence of the Kinnara persists in historical artifacts and stories, underscoring the resilience of mythologies in the face of cultural change. One popular tale, "The Girl With Many Loves," narrates a woman's successive marriages resulting in the demise of her husbands. The story culminates in a husband defending himself from the creature, leading to the discovery of the wife's demise with a knife wound in her chest.

MADURUGO as portayed in the Animeted series Blade

MANDURUGO

Transformation into a Monstrous Entity:

Foreign and Colonial Distortion

However, with the arrival of Spanish colonizers, the narratives surrounding the Kinnara underwent a drastic transformation. The Spanish, unable to comprehend the depth of love and devotion embedded in Filipino culture, sought to impose their own values and perceptions. Consequently, the once benevolent and ethereal Kinnara was transformed into a blood-drinking monster, a manifestation of lust, seduction, and horror.

Mandurugo

kinari statue in Thailand

Transformation into Mandurugo

Foreign brainwaishing

The Kinnari's transformation into the Mandurugo, a blood-sucking creature with harpy-like characteristics, epitomizes the distortion imposed by external forces. The narrative shifted from a creature of love and beauty to a night-stalking horror. The Spanish colonial lens projected notions of lust, seduction, and blood-drinking onto the Kinnari, culminating in the creation of the Mandurugo. This transformation not only reflected the clash of cultural perceptions but also showcased the power dynamics inherent in the process of colonization.

The evolution of the Kinnari into the Mandurugo serves as a poignant example of how cultural narratives can be manipulated during times of colonization. The clash between indigenous beliefs and external influences, driven by religious and cultural differences, reshaped the once benevolent and beautiful Kinnara into a monstrous entity. This transformation underscores the resilience of mythologies in the face of external pressures, while also highlighting the profound impact of colonial forces on the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore.

MANDURUGO

Mandurugo

Mandurugo in Blade animeted series

The journey of the Kinnara from a divine symbol of beauty and devotion to a monstrous entity encapsulates the complex interplay between cultural influences, colonization, and the reshaping of indigenous narratives. Despite the distortion imposed by external forces, the original essence of the Kinnara remains embedded in the historical artifacts and stories, serving as a reminder of the resilience of mythologies in the face of cultural change. The tale of the Kinnara stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of folklore and the intricate dance between tradition and adaptation in the rich tapestry of Philippine mythology.

MANDURUGO

Mandurugo

mandurugo

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO ASWANG 

MANDURUGO

'

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

Mandurugo Aswang

MANDURUGO

REMINDER

The orally transmitted mythology of the Philippines is intended for sharing and understanding, should not be taken literally. 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