BIKOLANDIA - TALES AND LEGENDS IN THE LAND OF GODS AND MONSTERS

 Collection of Stories and Different versions of same stories orally passed down in Ibalong and contemporary Bicol

IBALONG

In the ancient land of Ibalong, where the whispers of epic tales echoed through the lush and fertile landscapes, the Ibálong saga unfolded, handed down through generations by the Kadunung, the epic chanters of the Bikol region in the Philippines.Long ago, Ibalong emerged from the sea, its shores graced by ships carrying people led by Baltog, a leader believed to be a descendant of the gods. Clad in gold ornaments, Baltog's skin was pale, hinting at a lineage linked to the mysterious "tawong lipod" or wind people. These pioneers, settling in Tundol, faced a land teeming with both richness and peril, its soil abundant but infested with mythical creatures.

Devout worshipers of moon gods, the settlers transformed Ibalong into a thriving colony, cultivating crops and building their homes. Yet, the land's mythical denizens, including the intelligent and marauding Tandayang sa Opon, posed a constant threat to their prosperity. In a furious clash, Baltog, armed with unparalleled strength, single-handedly vanquished the formidable boar, adorning his house with its colossal jawbones.

Celebrations ensued, attracting tribes like Panikwason and Asog, who marveled at the jawbones. However, more challenges awaited Ibalong, as the arrival of Handyong marked a new chapter in the epic.Handyong and his valiant warriors, armed with bolos and unwavering determination, sought to cleanse Ibalong of mythical creatures. The battles were fierce, spanning ten months of relentless combat against monsters like the one-eyed, three-necked behemoth and the giant flying fishes, Tiburon. Undeterred, Handyong and his warriors triumphed over each adversary, enslaving even the fierce Tamaraw.As the mythical creatures of Ibalong fought back, Sarimao, giant beasts, and Buaya, humanoid crocodile creatures, faced the wrath of the moon-blessed warriors. The rivers and swamps of Ibalong ran red with the blood of these mythical beings, witnessing the purging of their ancient presence.The godly intervention of Asuang signaled the end of the monsters' reign, with the moon god Gugurang favoring mankind. Oryol, a demigoddess, emerged as a formidable adversary, using her serpentine charm and the aid of mermaids to thwart Handyong's men. However, love blossomed amidst the chaos as Handyong and Oryol engaged in a fierce but respectful battle, leading to a surprising alliance. United, they revealed the secrets of gods and beasts, bringing prosperity to Bicol.Yet, the gods' involvement did not cease, and the tragic love story of Onos, Takay, and Kamaway unfolded, causing divine upheaval. Onos, the storm god, wreaked havoc, sinking Mount Asog and creating Lake Buhi. However, the compassionate moon gods, Bulan and Haliya, transformed the remains of Takay into vibrant flowers, a symbol of love and redemption.The tale took a darker turn as Onos, spurned by mortal love, unleashed Rabot, a half-human, half-monster abomination. Bantong, a hero and friend of Handyong, confronted Rabot, exploiting its weakness and vanquishing the creature. Strangely, Handyong mourned the beast's demise, sensing the end of an era where men's actions mirrored monsters.The Ibálong, passed down by the Kadunung, painted a vivid tapestry of Ibalong's mythical past, blending the heroic and the tragic, the divine and the mortal, in a symphony of folklore that resonated through the ages.

FLAME OF IBALONG

The Tale of Asuang and Gugurang

Residing atop the desolate Mount Malinao, Asuang harbored an insatiable desire for power equal to that of Gugurang. Seeking the ability to control fire and unleash chaos, Asuang pleaded with Gugurang for this coveted gift. Gugurang, foreseeing the dire consequences, vehemently refused, cautioning Asuang about the potential calamities such power could bring.

A heated exchange unfolded between the two deities, exposing Asuang's ambitions and resentment toward Gugurang's uncontested supremacy. Undeterred, Asuang decided to rebel, gathering malevolent counselors and releasing evil spirits upon the world. This ushered in an era of immorality, lawlessness, and crime, prompting Gugurang to identify Asuang as the source of these calamities.

Despite Gugurang's omnipotence, he found himself powerless against Asuang's sudden acquisition of hidden powers. As Asuang relentlessly opposed Gugurang, spreading chaos, Gugurang safeguarded his divine fire, symbolizing his power, with the catambang as loyal guardians. However, Asuang, through guile and bribery, infiltrated the sanctum and absconded with the stolen fire, contained within a coconut shell.

As Asuang unleashed fiery devastation, Gugurang, from his celestial throne, pursued the malevolent thief. A race for supremacy unfolded, scalding the air as they hurtled towards Mount Malinao. As Asuang neared victory, Gugurang intercepted, swiftly reclaiming the stolen fire and vanishing. Asuang, robbed of invisibility, stood defeated.

Gugurang quenched the fires with relentless rain, prompting grateful people to offer atangs in penance. Enraged by Asuang's treachery, Gugurang commanded Lightning and Thunder to strike Mount Malinao, cleaving it in twain. The heavens roared, signaling the defeat of evil as Gugurang sealed Asuang deep within the earth.

MYTHICAL PRINCESSES OF IBALONG

Malinaw - the beautiful,fair and cloistered princess of Ibalong, was well-kept and the sister of Daragang Magayon. In the place where Malinao drowned, Mount Malinao appeared. She was well kept for because she is much favored by the god of the sea Magindang. For her light skin reminds the sea god of Bulan, the god of the moon. ever since Malinao was born their had always been a bountiful catch from sea, and when Malinao is sad their fisher men could not catch fish.She was killed by the demi goddess Oryol because Oryol believed Malinaw learned the secrets of the gods

Masaraga - beautiful strong-willed and industrious princess of Ibalong, prayed to the gods often and possessed beautiful golden-brown skin. Tragically, she was killed by the flying monster called Banog, following the command of the demi-goddess Oryol. In remembrance toher the Gugurang made the ground where Masaraga fell to her death, Mount Masaraga appeared.

Magayon - Most beautiful Princess in Ibalong. Depicted as often surrounded by small birds.Magayon sometimes called Mayon or daragang Magayon is the youngest sister of Masaraga and Malinao, Beautiful but proud and moody, some say she was blessed with having golden-copper  skin and copper/dark brown coloured hair. In the beginning she was stubborn and refused to make rituals and "atang" with her sisters. She fell in love with Panganoron and became humble but was forced to marry Pagtuga to save her father, Datu Makusog. She died during the fight of Pagtuga and Panganoron.  In the place where she lay the stunning Mayon volcano grew.

TATLONG BULOD

In the mystic realm of Ibalon, where gods and mortals coexisted, a tale unfolded beneath the moonlit skies, blending the haunting echoes of tragedy with the intoxicating allure of love. Ruled by Datu Makusog and his ethereal wife Diwani, their daughters, Malinao, Masaraga, and the youngest beauty, Magayon, were destined to become the loveliest maidens in the land.Masaraga, with her brown beauty and unwavering determination, sought the secrets of the gods to elevate Ibalon's prosperity. Malinao, veiled in mystery and carried in a palanquin, held a connection to lunar deities, bestowing bounty upon the sea. Magayon, adorned with golden-copper skin and copper hair, possessed a proud spirit, finding solace in the company of birds that sang to her.The enchanting melody of Magayon's avian companions formed a symphony around her.The trio, chosen for the sacred dance of ''atang,'' embarked on a destiny that intertwined divine favor and ominous omens. Masaraga's fervor to unlock the gods' secrets, however, angered Oryol, daughter of the malevolent deity Asuang. Oryol's haunting voice summoned the Banog, a monstrous being, leading to Masaraga's tragic fall from the sky.Oryol, consumed by jealousy, devised a plot against Malinao, transforming into Masaraga to lure her sister into the clutches of malevolent mermaids. The sea swallowed Malinao, extinguishing the light that radiated from her connection to the moon god.

Now, Oryol turned her attention to Magayon, a radiant but prideful beauty. Despite noble suitors, including Datu Pagtuga with his treasures from the deep sea, Magayon remained aloof. Gino Panganoron, a noble with the blood of wind people, ventured from afar, captivated by Magayon's allure. As their hearts entwined, Oryol plotted a tragic destiny at the river called Yawa.The slippery stones, orchestrated by Oryol's enchanting melody, beckoned Magayon towards the treacherous waters. Yet, it was the patient and noble Ulap, known as Gino Panganoron, who emerged as her savior, rescuing her from the clutches of drowning fate.

Ulap's act of heroism kindled a flame of love, leading Magayon to accept his marriage proposal. Their impending union, however, stirred Oryol's wrath. Infusing wicked thoughts into Datu Pagtuga's mind, Oryol orchestrated his abduction, leading to a dire ultimatum for Magayon – marry or witness her father's demise.

On the day of their ill-fated wedding, Ulap and his men descended upon Pagtuga and his warriors, transforming festivities into a battleground. Amidst the chaos, Ulap triumphed over Pagtuga, only to face a heart-wrenching tragedy. An arrow, launched in treachery, struck Magayon, piercing the air with sorrow.

As Magayon fell, Ulap's guard dropped, allowing Linog, Pagtuga's loyal warrior, to seize the moment. A spear plunged into Ulap, sealing their destinies together in death. Datu Makusog, in grief, avenged Ulap's death, his bolo striking down Linog.

Witnessing the sorrow that befell the three sisters, the gods left their mark on the land. Mount Masaraga, where the first tragedy occurred, and Mount Malinao, where the sea claimed a maiden, emerged as eternal memorials. Yet, it was at the burial site of Magayon and Panganoron that Mount Magayon, now known as Mount Mayon, stood as a testament to love transcending mortality.

And as clouds enshrouded the summit of Mount Mayon, the people believed it to be Ulap's eternal kiss, a poignant reminder of a love story entwined with the darkness and passion that defined the enchanting saga of Tulong Bulod.

HANDIONG AND ORYOL

In a time long past, amid the enchanting landscapes of the Bicol Region, the kingdom of Ibalon flourished, its beauty echoing through the tales of its wise and gallant ruler, Handyong. Nature itself seemed to sing praises of him, from the chirping Mayas to the croaking king-frog, Maribok. The mother Kalaw, Tuktok, and even the bald rooster, Poringot, all held homage to Handyong's virtues.

Despite the adoration, a shadow lingered over Handyong's heart. Deep within the mystical forest, monsters roamed freely, led by the elusive and cunning serpent, Oryol. Oryol, once a maiden of unparalleled beauty, had been ensnared in the treacherous clutches of an evil witch, Hilang, and transformed into a serpent by day and a woman by night. The only hope for Oryol's release lay in the destruction of an enchanted pitogo seed, a vow sealed in pitogo's demise.

Haunted by the recurring attacks on his kingdom, Handyong decided to confront the monsters once and for all. Deep into the forest, he ventured, determined to rid Ibalon of its nocturnal terrors.

Meanwhile, in the heart of the forest, the monsters convened to blame each other for their previous defeat. Amidst the bickering, Oryol, the wily serpent, smiled and devised a cunning plan to destroy Handyong. As the monsters retreated to their lairs, Oryol felt an overwhelming loneliness, prompting her to reveal her human form once more.

Days passed, and as the moon waxed full, Oryol's restless spirit stirred. Bathed in the moonlight, she transformed into a captivating woman, her beauty radiant in the dimly lit forest. As she sang her enchanting song, even the night owls fell silent in awe.

Handyong, leading his followers, stealthily approached the clearing. Enchanted by Oryol's song, his men succumbed to a magical slumber. Only Handyong, resisting the enchantment, remained vigilant. Witnessing the transformation from serpent to woman, he recognized the duality within Oryol.

As Oryol approached, intending to strike, Handyong's quick reflexes captured her neck. In a surprising twist of fate, she transformed back into a beautiful woman. Torn between her vow to kill Handyong and the unexpected surge of love, Oryol found herself at the mercy of her emotions.

With a gentle touch, Handyong laid her on a bed of leaves, his heart recognizing the humanity within her. Love blossomed unexpectedly as he bent down to kiss Oryol. In this tender moment, the enchanted pitogo seed fell from her hand, accidentally crushed beneath Handyong's foot, breaking the spell.

The monsters, now weakened, stirred from their slumber, launching an attack on Handyong and his followers. The forest echoed with the clash of bare-handed men against monstrous foes. The destruction of the pitogo seed crippled the monsters, leaving Oryol in a dilemma.

Torn between her loyalty to the monsters and her newfound connection to humanity, Oryol revealed the monsters' vulnerability. The battle raged on, and Handyong's men, armed with this knowledge, strategically aimed at the monsters' hearts.

In the aftermath, Handyong approached Oryol, who stood conflicted. Realizing the monsters were never truly her friends, she wept for the loss of her home and companions. In a gesture of compassion, Handyong offered her a chance at a new life.

As they embarked on a journey back to Ibalon, the animals of the forest, from Maribok to Poringot, joined in colorful celebration. The creatures that once feared Oryol now recognized the transformation within her, as love and redemption unfolded in the heart of the enchanted kingdom.

ALAMAT NG TAKAY

LEGEND OF THE TAKAY FLOWERS

 

In the celestial realm, Onos, the Sky God of Storms, bestowed his divine gaze upon Takay, a mortal child blooming into an unparalleled maiden of extraordinary beauty. Onos, captivated by her loveliness, harbored deep affection for Takay. Unbeknownst to her, Takay, already enamored with another, remained oblivious to Onos's celestial admiration. Bulan, the benevolent god of the moon, cautioned Onos about the risky dance between a deity and a mortal, foretelling the inevitable pain and suffering such love would bring.Ignoring the cosmic warning, Onos descended from his celestial abode, the heavens quivering with anticipation. Bathed in the radiance of moonbeams, Takay stood before him, an earthly vision of enchanting loveliness. Intoxicated by love, Onos declared his affections, only to be met with the heart-wrenching revelation that Takay's heart belonged to another—Kanaway.Consumed by jealous fury, Onos pursued Kanaway, determined to erase the rival who held Takay's heart. Lightning arced through the skies as Onos hurled bolts of divine wrath, turning Kanaway into an eternal monument of stone. In vengeful frenzy, Onos unleashed his celestial might upon Mt. Asog, causing it to crumble and sink into the depths, birthing the tranquil expanse known as Lake Buhi.Undeterred by cosmic consequences,

Onos, wrapped in storm clouds and raging tempests, unleashed torrents of floodwaters upon the once-thriving colonies and minor kingdoms of Ibalong. Bulan, witnessing the devastation, dispatched his wind people in a desperate attempt to stem the celestial onslaught, but Onos's power proved insurmountable. As the celestial gods descended, their arrival marked too late to spare Ibalong from the cataclysmic fallout of divine fury. The colonies lay in ruins, the remnants of a once-bustling realm now silenced by the echoes of a celestial storm.

In the mournful night that followed, Bulan descended with a heavy heart, discovering the lifeless form of Takay tenderly cradled by water plants. Moved by compassion, Bulan, with tears shimmering like moonlight, transformed Takay into a delicate flower, the Tacay, now adorning the landscapes of Bicol in perpetual bloom. A symbol of undying love and a testament to the tragedy that unfolded, the water hyacinth stands as a floral legacy, weaving the tale of a celestial romance that defied the very fabric of divine order.

Takay flower myth

In realms celestial, Onos, the Storm God's gaze, Fell upon Takay in beauty's tender phase. Mortal child to maiden, a bloom untold, An extraordinary allure, a tale to unfold. Onos, captivated, love deep and wide, In the celestial realm, where emotions bide. Yet, Takay, oblivious to the divine flame, Her heart entwined, another's claim. Bulan, moon's benevolence, a cosmic sage, Cautioned Onos in love's perilous stage. The dance of deity and mortal foreseen, A tapestry of pain, where hearts convene. Ignoring the cosmic warning, Onos descended, Heavens quivering, anticipation suspended. Moonbeams bathed Takay in ethereal light, An earthly vision, captivating and bright. Intoxicated by love, Onos spoke his heart, A revelation met, tearing love apart. Takay's heart, bound to Kanaway's grace, An unforeseen obstacle, love to erase. Jealous fury consumed the storm-wielder's might, Bolts hurled, turning Kanaway to stone, a lifeless sight. On Mt. Asog, celestial wrath unfurled, Crumbling and sinking, birthing Lake Buhi, a watery world. Undeterred by cosmic echoes, storm clouds arrayed, Torrents unleashed, colonies in floodwaters swayed. Bulan's wind people, a futile defense, Onos's power insurmountable, no recompense. Celestial gods descended, too late their arrival, Ibalong lay silent, once-thriving, now survival. Ruins remained, kingdoms in celestial storm's wake, A once-vibrant realm silenced, its legacy to partake. In the night's embrace, mournful and deep, Bulan descended, the secrets to keep. Takay, lifeless, by water plants caressed, Moonlit tears shimmering, a transformation expressed. Bulan, with compassion, love's lament, Turned Takay to Tacay, a floral testament. In Bicol's landscapes, perpetual bloom, Undying love, tragedy's sweet perfume. A water hyacinth, a floral decree, A celestial romance, defying decree. Weaving a tale in nature's grand accord, Of love, divine order, and the storm god's sword.

DARAGANG MAGAYON

In the quaint town of Daraga, nestled within the Albay province of the captivating Bicol Region, a majestic beauty stood in all its glory — Mayon Volcano, the most enchanting volcano in the Philippines. The awe-inspiring landscape of Mayon became the canvas upon which the locals painted the mesmerizing legend of "Daragang Magayon" or "Dalagang Maganda" (beautiful maiden) in Tagalog.At the heart of this captivating tale was a princess, the epitome of beauty and grace, known as Daragang Magayon. Adorned with a radiant countenance, she was often surrounded by a symphony of small birds, their melodies echoing the harmonious spirit within her. Also recognized as Mayon or Daragang Magayon, she was the youngest among her sisters, Masaraga and Malinao. Blessed with a golden-copper complexion and hair of the same hue, she radiated an ethereal charm that captivated the hearts of men far and wide.

Daragang Magayon, the cherished daughter of the benevolent and wise Datu Makusog (King Makusog), was not merely a vision of physical beauty but also possessed a character as captivating as her appearance. However, her pride and occasional moodiness added a layer of complexity to her character, making her more than just a conventional princess.A peculiar habit of Daragang Magayon was her clandestine ritual of bathing in the Yawa River every morning at the break of dawn. This serene moment, shielded from the prying eyes of the world, was a sacred act she performed with an innate sense of privacy.It was during one such dawn that fate intertwined the lives of Daragang Magayon and a traveler from the distant kingdom of Laguna. A young and enchanting lad named Ulap (cloud) accidentally stumbled upon her secret, and the moment he laid eyes on the beautiful maiden, he was entranced by her unparalleled beauty.Ulap, driven by destiny, decided to reveal himself to Daragang Magayon. As their hearts connected, their love blossomed, and their union was blessed by the benevolent King Makusog. Ulap, seeking to formalize their commitment, sought permission to journey back to Laguna and gather his relatives for the pamamanhikan, the prenuptial gathering.News of the impending union spread like wildfire, reaching neighboring kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Iraya, ruled by the envious Patuga. Consumed by rage and resurrected pain from Daragang Magayon's past rejection, Patuga cunningly devised a plan to disrupt the impending nuptials.

He manipulated his people into believing that Daragang Magayon's marriage to a foreign man was an affront to their masculinity. Fanning the flames of discontent, Patuga persuaded his subjects to launch an attack against the Kingdom of Rawin, with the intention of capturing King Makusog and demanding Daragang Magayon as ransom.Amidst the joyful preparations in Rawis for the arrival of Ulap's relatives, Patuga seized the opportunity and orchestrated a surprise attack. The unsuspecting people of Rawis fell victim to the sudden assault, with King Makusog effortlessly captured.In a noble act of sacrifice, Daragang Magayon offered herself as ransom for her father's freedom, despite the internal struggle this decision caused her. As the enemies closed in, Ulap and his clan from Laguna arrived just in time to join the battle against the treacherous invaders.

Under the scorching sun and amid swirling dust, the clash of swords and bolos echoed through the air. Daragang Magayon's heart pounded with suspense as the battle unfolded. Amidst the chaos, a lifeless body fell to the ground, momentarily sending shockwaves through the maiden's heart. To her relief, the fallen figure was not Ulap but Patuga.Turning around, Daragang Magayon saw Ulap with open arms, ready to embrace her. With unbridled joy, she rushed into the waiting arms of her lover. However, in a tragic twist of fate, a deadly arrow, launched by one of the enemies, pierced their entwined bodies. The sky was shrouded in gloom as the two lovers slowly descended to the ground.

The entire Kingdom of Rawis mourned the loss of their cherished couple. King Makusog, recognizing the undying love between Daragang Magayon and Ulap, decreed that the two should be buried together. Death, he proclaimed, should not separate what true love had united.As the saying goes, true love is difficult to bury. Like a relentless current, it persists, struggling to resurface. The legend insists that Daragang Magayon's love was so potent that her grave transformed into the towering majesty of a volcano, a poignant emblem of her enduring love. Lava erupted from this sacred monument, symbolizing the overflowing passion of her affection. This majestic volcano, emerging from the resting place of Daragang Magayon, became known as the Mayon Volcano, forever immortalizing the tale of a love that defied even death. Daragang Magayon, they say, lives on as the Mayon.

Like all orally passed down mythology there are many different versions of the story here are some of the many versions

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon 

Ang pinuno ng mga Bikolano ay si Raha Makusog. Mayroon siyang kaisa-isang anak na dalaga, si Daragang Magayon na ang

ibig sabihin ay Dalagang Maganda.

Kilalang-kilala ang kagandahan ng prinsesa hanggang sa malalayong pook. Marami siyang manliligaw at isa na rito si Pagtuga, isang mayaman, bantog na mandirigma ngunit masama ang ugali pagdating sa kayamanan.

Nakarating sa katagalugan ang usap-usapan tungkol sa magandang dalaga. Nabalitaan ito ni Ginoong Alapaap na anak ng isang lakan. Maganda ang kanyang tindig, matalino at magalang. Ibig niyang mapatunayan ang kagandahan ni Daragang Magayon kung kaya’t siya ay naglakbay patungong Bikol.

Matagal na nagmasid si Alapaap sa ilog na ayon sa nagsabi sa kanya ay doon madalas maligo si Daragang Magayon. Nagbunga naman ang kanyang pagsisikap. Minsan ay naligong mag-isa si Daragang Magayon sa ilog, ngunit sa kasamaang-palad ay na dupilas ang dalaga at nahulog sa tubig na may kalaliman. Mabilis na tumalon sa tubig si Alapaap upang iligtas ang babae.

“Sino ka?” tanong ng dalaga. “Ano ang ginagawa mo rito?”

“Huwag po ninyong ikagagalit. Isa po akong hamak na Tagalog buhat pa sa malayong lugar upang masilayan lamang ang iwi mong kagandahan. Ibig ko sanang makasama ka habang-buhay,” magalang na tugon ni Alapaap.

“Baka nangangarap ka?” ang nakangiting tugon ng dalaga.

Sa maikling kuwento ay nagkaigihan ang dalawa. Nagkasundo silang pakasal. Umuwi si Alapaap upang sunduin ang kanyang mga magulang. Nabalitaan ni Pagtuga ang balak ng dalawa kaya’t gumawa siya ng paraan upang sagkaan ito. Tinipon niyang lahat ang kanyang mga tauhan at binihag si Raha Makusog. Sinabihan niya si Daragang Magayon na pakakawalan lamang ang kanyang ama kung siya ay papayag na pakasal kay Pagtuga. Napilitang sumang-ayon ang dalaga alang-alang sa kaligtasan ng ama.

Samantala, hindi ito nalingid kay Alapaap. Siya sampu ng kanyang mga tauhan ay lumusob bago naisakatuparan ang kasala nina Daragang Magayon at Pagtuga. Napatay ni Alapaap si Pagtuga ngunit sa kasamaang-palad ay tinamaan nang hindi sinasadya si Daragang Magayon. Sa pagtulong ni Alapaap kay Daragang Magayon, siya ay nahagip din ng isang saksak ng tauhan ni Pagtuga. Ang tatlo ay sabay-sabay na namatay sina Daragang Magayon, Alapaap at Pagtuga. Silang tatlo ay sabay-sabay ding inilibing sa gitna ng malawak na bukid. Lahat ng hiyas at kayamanan ni Daragang Magayon ay kasama sa hukay niya pati na ang mga regalo sa kanya ni Pagtuga.

Pagkalipas ng tatlong gabi, nagulat ang mamamayan sa lakas ng lindol sabay ng tunog ng malalakas na kulog at kidlat. Kinabukasan ay nagisnan nilang tumaas ang ipinaglibingan ni Daragang Magayon at ng dalawa niyang mangingibig. Tumaas nang tumaas ang puntod natila isang bundok. Nagkaroon ito ng magandang hugis at naging bulkan. Ayon sa pari ang magandang bulkan ay si Daragang Magayon ang maitim na usok ay ang maitim na budhi ni Pagtuga na labis ang kasakiman sa kayamanan. Naroon pa siya at gustong bawiin ang mga iniregalo kay Daragang Magayon. Maganda ang bulkan ngunit ito’y pumuputok at nag-aapoy sa galit kapag naaalala nito ang kasakiman ni Pagtuga. Unti-unting pumapayapa ito kapag nararamdaman niyang nasa piling niya si Alapaap at patuloy na nagmamahal sa kanya.

Mula noon ang bulkan ay tinawag na Mayon. Ang bayan na kinatatayuan ng bulkan ay tinawag na Daraga bilang pag-alaala kay Daragang Magayon.

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon 

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon 

Noong unang panahon sa kaharian ng Albay ay may isang makapangyarihang Raha. Siya ay may anak na kaakit-akit. Ito ay si Daragang Magayon na ang kahuluga’y “Magandang Dalaga.”

Maraming naakit sa kanyang taglay na kagandahan kaya di mabilang na mga datu at mga ginoong tanyag ang nag-alay sa kanya ng pagmamahal. Ang isa sa mga nanligaw ay si Kauen, anak ng mayamang Raha sa kanugnog na kaharian. Naghandog ng mahalagang hiyas at ginto ang binata subalit tumanggi sa regalo ang dalaga. Si Kanuen ay nabigo subalit nagyabang pa na ang dalaga ay magiging kanya pagdating ng araw.

Mula sa malayong Katagalugan, narinig ni Gat Malaya ang nabalitang kagandahan ni Daragang Magayon. Marami siyang mga pagkakataong makaniig ang paraluman subalit nagkaroon ng mga sagabal. Minsan malapit sa munting ilog, nakita niya ang dalagang namumupol ng bulaklak. Kinamaya-maya’y ang binibini’y nagtampisaw sa batis. Ang binata’y nagparinig ng himig ng masayang awit upang matawag ang kanyang pansin. Nagkatitigan sila at ang binata’y nginitian.

Nabuhayan ng loob ang prinsipeng Tagalog at ito’y nagsalita, “Magandang Mutya, mula ako sa malayo upang ikaw ay sadyain at makita ang tangi mong kariktan!”

“Sino ka? Hindi kita kilala! Isa kang pangahas!”

“Ako’y si Gat Malaya, galing sa kahariang malapit dito. Bigyan mo ako ng isang bulaklak at ako’y masisiyahan na!”

Bantulot na ihinagis ng dalaga ang bulaklak. Dumapo sa mga palad ng binata at ito’y kagyat na idinampi sa kaliwang dibdib.

“Maaari bang kita’y makitang muli?”

At nagsimula ang maraming tipanan ng dalawa sa makasaysayang batis.

“Isang araw,” mungkahi ng lalaki, “kita’y iniibig. Tayo’y pakasal!”

“Ngunit ang Raha? Ang aking ama?” may alinlangang paliwanag. “Dapat niyang malaman!”

“Huwag kang mag-alala! Hihingin ko ang kamay mo sa kanya!”

Pumayag ang Raha. Ang batang prinsipe ay kanyang nagustuhan pagkat magalang at nakakahalina kung kumilos. Itinakda ng Raha ang kasal sa pagbibilog ng buwan, matapos ang anihan.

Nagpaalam si Gat Malaya upang ipabatid sa kanyang mga magulang ang itinakdang kasalan. Kakaunin niya ang ama’t ina at silang tatlo ay babalik sa Albay.

Nabalitaan ni Kauen (nabigong manliligaw) ang napabalitang pag-iisang dibdib. Kanyang sinamantala ang pagkakataong wala si Gat Malaya. Pinuntahan niya si Daragang Magayon.

Matigas ang pagtanggi ng dalaga sa kabila ng mga pagbabala: “Kung hindi kita makamtan, walang magkakamit sa iyo sinuman!”

Ang prinsesa ay natakot dahil sa pagbabala sa buhay niya at sa kanyang ama. Siya’y sumagot, “Ako’y magiging iyo kung si Gat Malaya ay hindi bumalik!”

Nagtumulin ang mga araw at mga linggo. Malapit na ang tag-ani ngunit wala pa si Malaya. Hindi pa siya nagbabalik. Gabi-gabi ang dalaga’y nakaupo sa duruwangawan at naghihintay.

Nang dumating ang kabilugan ng buwan napilitan nang pakasal si Daraga kay Kauen. Nagkaroon ng maringal na handaan, kainan at sayawan.

Sa gitna ng kasayahan ay dumating si Gat Malaya kasama ang mga magulang.

“Ako’y naparito upang angkinin ang aking nobya!” sabi ni Malaya.

“Hindi maaari!” tugon ni Kauen.

Nagkaroon ng sukatan ng lakas. Magugunita na si Malaya ay subok sa espada subalit si Kauen naman ay malansi at mapaglalang.

Nang ihahagis ni Kauen ang kanyang sibat, si Daragang Magayon ay tumakbo upang pumagitna at sawayin ang dalawa. Sa kasamaang-palad, ang sibat ay tumama sa dibdib ng dalaga. Niyakap ni Malaya ito ngunit pataksil na sinibat ng katunggali. Kapwa nalagutan ng hininga ang magsing-ibig.

Nagluksa ang Raha at ang buong palasyo. Ipinag-utos niya na ang dalawa’y ilagak na magkasama sa isang hukay.

Lumipas ang mga araw. Himala ng mga himala. Ang lupa sa puntod ng libing ay tumaas hanggang sa itoy maging bundok. Napakaganda at perpekto ang hugis. Tinawag itong Bundok ng Mayon, bilang alaala kay Daragang Magayon.

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon (Ver. 3)

Alamat ng Bulkang Mayon (Ver. 3)

Ang Mayon na isa sa pinakamagagandang bulkan sa Pilipinas ay ipinagmamalaki ng mga taga-Albay. Pero paano nga ba nagkaroon ng Bulkang Mayon?

Ayon sa isang matandang alamat, sa Albay ay may isang kagalang-galang na raha na sinusunod ng lahat. May anak itong dalaga na hinahangaan dahil sa taglay nito ng kagandahan at kabaitan. Daragang Magayon ang kilalang bansag sa anak ng raha. Daraga na nangangahulugang dalaga at magayon na ang ibig sabihin ay maganda.

Sapagkat ubod ng ganda, maraming binata ang dumadayo pa sa Albay makita lamang ang anak ng raha. Kabilang sa mga mangingibig ni Daragang Magayon ay mga binatang anak ng mga raha rin mula sa Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes at Sorsogon.

Bagama’t kalat na kalat sa kabikulan ang nababalitang kariktan ni Magayon, pinagtiyap lang ng pagkakataon kung bakit nalaman din ng isang binatang mula sa napakalayong lugar sa katagalugan ang kahali-halinang kagandahan. Ang binata ay si Ulap na anak ni Raha Tagalog ng Quezon. Isa siyang abenturerong manunudla ng mga hayop gubat kaya siya napadpad sa kabikulan.

Minsang nakatulog siya sa kagubatan ay ginising siya ng halakhakan ng mga kadalagahan mula sa batis ng Rawis. Nakita niyang naglulunoy sa malinaw na tubig ang magagandang dilag. Pinakamaganda rito si Daragang Magayon. Hindi nagpakilala si Ulap sa inibig na kaagad na dilag. Sapagkat nalaman ng binatang buwan-buwang naglulunoy ang magkakaibigan sa batis ay pinagsasadya niya ang nasabing lugar upang masilayan lamang ang pinakamamahal. Sa tuwing nagsisiahon ang mga dalaga sa kristal na batis ay gustung-gusto na sanang makipagkilala ni Ulap kay Magayon subalit nag-aalala siyang baka sabihing siya ay pangahas.

Minsang napansin niyang may mga binata ring nakipaligo sa bukal Rawis ay nakiligo na rin si Ulap. Sa sobrang pagmamahal kay Magayon ay sinikap niyang mapansin siya ng dalaga.

Naging madalas ang pakikilunoy ni Ulap sa mga kabinataan upang mapalapit lamang kay Daragang Magayon.

Minsang nagpapahinga na sa talampas si Ulap at paakyat na ang dalaga ay napansin ng binatang isang malaking ahas ang umuusad papalapit sa damuhang nilalakaran ng kaniyang diyosang sinasamba. Patakbo siyang sumaklolo at sa isang kisapmata ay natagpas ang ulo ng ahas na nagkikisay sa paanan ni Daragang Magayon. Laking pasasalamat ng dalaga.

Iyon ang pagkakataon upang makipagkilala na si Ulap sa dalaga. Lagi at lagi na silang nagkikita. Mga sariwang prutas lang ang inihahandog nito sa kanya. Akala ni Daragang Magayon na ordinaryong mamamayan lang si Ulap sa kanilang bayan. Wala kasi itong yabang sa katawan.

Nang masukol sa kuwentuhan ay naipagtapat niyang anak din siya ng sikat na si Raha Tagalog sa Tayabas.

Lalong humanga sa pagpapakumbaba ni Ulap si Daragang Magayon.

Naikumpara niya ang binata sa manliligaw niyang si Iriga, matandang balong pinuno ng Camarines Sur. Pawang nagkikinangang alahas ang inihahandog nito sa kaniya. Magarbong matanda si Raha Iriga na kinatatakutan ng lahat pagkat kilala ito sa kawalan ng katarungan, raha ng mga magnanakaw at puno ng kasamaan.

Nagkaibigan si Ulap at si Daragang Magayon. Upang patunayan ang pagmamahal sa dalaga ay pinagsadya niya sa kaharian ang ama nito at malakas na itinulos ang matulis na sibat bilang pagpapatunay sa masidhi niyang pagmamahal kay Daragang Magayon. Iyon ay paghamon din sa sinumang nais magpahayag ng pag-ibig kay Daragang Magayon. Humanga sa tapang ni Ulap si Raha Makusog. Nag-usap sila. Ipinagpaalam ng binatang papupuntahin ang mga magulang niya upang pormal na hingin ang kamay ni Daragang Magayon upang sila ay makasal sa lalong madaling panahon. Pumayag ang mabait na ama ni Magayon. Bago sumagot ay nagpasya na si Raha Makusog na isauli na ang lahat ng alahas na handog ng ganid na si Raha Iriga.

Nakarating kay Raha Iriga ang nalalapit na pamamanhikan at kasalan.

Habang papauwi si Ulap upang sunduin ang mga magulang ay nilusob ni Raha Iriga ang baranggay ni Raha Makusog.

Bilang benggansa, binuhay niya bilang alipin si Raha Makusog at itinakda ang kasal nila ni Magayon sa pagbibilog ng buwan. Nagpakatanggi-tanggi ang dalaga subalit tuso si Raha Iriga.

Ipapapatay daw niya ang ama kung hindi pakakasal sa kaniya ang dalaga. Kumagat sa patalim si Daragang Magayon na dasal nang dasal na sana ay dumating na ang binatang pinakamamahal.

Naghahanda na sa maringal na pamamanhikan si Ulap at ang mga magulang nang makarating sa binata ang balitang sinapit ni Magayon. Galit na galit na isinama niya kaagad ang mga kawal.

Ang paghaharap ni Ulap at Raha Iriga ay tunggalian ng lakas sa lakas. Sapagkat katarungan ang ipinakikipaglaban kaya lalong lumakas si Ulap na sa huling malakas na taga ay napatay ang Raha ng Kasamaan. Tuwang-tuwa si Daragang Magayon na patakbong yumakap sa tagapagtanggol. Sapagkat napagitna ang magkasintahan sa mga kawal na nagdidigmaan ay di napansin ni Daragang Magayon ang ligaw na sibat na tumama sa dibdib niya. Natulala si Ulap na sumapo at yumakap sa mahal niyang diyosa. Napakabilis ng pangyayari. Hindi na nakapagpaalam pa ang magandang dalaga. Sa isang kisapmata ay sinugod naman ng tagapagtanggol ni Iriga si Ulap. Tumagos sa dibdib ng binata ang may lasong sandata. Nang makita ni Raha Makusog ang katampalasanan ng alipin ay tinagpas niya ang ulo ng buhong.

Nagapi sa digmaan ang ilan sa mga tauhan ng ganid na raha. Ang karamihan na naniniwala pa rin sa katarungan, kapayapaan at pag-iibigan ay nagsiluhod at pumayag na paampon sa mga matatapat na kawal ni Raha Makusog na inalalayan ng mga mandirigma ni Ulap mula sa katagalugan.

Bagama’t nauwi sa pagdadalamhati ang kasalan ni Ulap at ni Daragang Magayon ay nagyuko na lang ng ulo si Raha Makusog bilang pag-alinsunod sa itinakda ni Bathala.

Bilang pagbibigay pahalaga ng ama sa nag-iisang anak, pinagsama niya ang bangkay ng magsing-irog sa lugar na malapit sa batis Rawis na unang pinagtagpuan ng dalawa.

Ang lugar na iyon na pinaglibingan kay Daragang Magayon ay kapansing-pansing tumataas taun-taon. Sa kinatagalan ay lumaki ito nang lumaki at naging isang bundok. Bilang pagpapahalaga sa dakilang pag-ibig na inialay kay Daragang Magayon, ito ay tinawag na Bundok ni Daragang Magayon na ngayon ay naging Mayon.

Sa panahong tila humahaplos ang maninipis na ulap sa tuktok ng bundok, sinasabi ng mga matatanda na hinahagkan ni Ulap ang pisngi ni Magayon. At kapag marahang dumadaloy ang ulan sa gilid ng bundok, iyon daw ay pagluha ni Ulap na nangungulila sa pagmamahal na hindi nabigyan ng katuparan.

May mga taga-Bicol na naniniwala pa rin sa nagngangalit na kaluluwa ni Raha Iriga. Sinasabi nilang sa pagnanais nitong makuhang muli ang mga alahas na inihandog kay Magayon ay nag-aapoy ang bulkan ng Mayon.

Iyan ang alamat ng Bulkang Mayon.

Aral:

Huwag humadlang sa dalawang taong tunay nag-iibigan. Magparaya at huwag maging matigas ang puso. Kung ayaw sa iyo ng isang tao ay tanggapin ito ng maluwag sa kalooban. Hilingin mo sa Diyos na dumating nawa ang tamang panahon na ipagkaloob niya sa iyo ang nararapat na tao sa iyong pagmamahal.

Ibalong: the Richness of Olden Bikolandia

The Bicol region, historically referred to as Ibalong, holds a treasure trove of rich colonies inhabited by peace-loving people in pre-colonial Philippines. The name "Ibalong" has various interpretations, such as "to bring to the other side," "people from the other side," or "people who are hospitable and give visitors gifts to bring home."

The Bicolano people, by nature, are deeply religious, inheriting their religiosity from their ancestors. They firmly believe in the existence of the Supreme Being and honor their gods and goddesses through relics, artifacts, and monuments found in their ancient dwelling places, caves, and personal effects. These towering monuments signify deep respect for their anitos (ancient gods), with Gugurang being the Supreme Being and Mightiest God in their Kamurawayan.

Gugurang serves as their savior and protector from calamities, life challenges, tempests, and the evil Aswang, a deity dwelling in the scorching hell known as gagamban. The Bicolanos believe they are always protected and guided by the anitos, attributing all blessings and good fortunes to God, for which they are genuinely grateful. Additionally, they trust Batala, a lesser god whose mission is to instill peace and order, ensuring that all inhabitants in his reign live harmoniously and contentedly. Other spirits like Katambay, Okot, and Magindang are also recognized for their respective roles.

The early Bicolanos had peculiar rituals for each deity, one of which was the Atang or offering through dancing to Gugurang. This ritual involved offering the best produce as a token of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. It also served as a plea for rains during drought seasons. The Baliana, main priestess, danced the taruk, quick marching steps, in honor of Gugurang, while the community participated in singing the soraque or chant. The atang ritual encompassed the entire village, starting with the pounding of the gong to invite participants and culminating in a sumptuous banquet, songs, dances, and merry-making.

Apart from the atang, the Bicolanos had other rituals like pakikimaherak, begging for God's mercy and safekeeping of farms from pests and diseases. The Tinagba Festival in Iriga City originated from Atang, evolving into a celebration with a sumptuous meal, raucous songs, dances, and often a free-for-all riot.

The people of Ibalong held beliefs in gagamban (hell), kamburagan (paradise), and kamurayan (heavens). They also believed in ''liwat na pagkamundag'' or reincarnation and rebirth. The society had a strong belief in mortals who were given powers or knowledge from the gods, including Asog (ritualist, priest/ess), Balyan (ritualist, priest/ess), Parabawi (exorcist), Parabulong (medicine administrator), Hukloban (witch doctor), Matanda (wise old ruler), Nuom (clairvoyant), Parapalad (fortuneteller), Pintakasi (defender, patron), Sunat (high priest/ess), Tagohalim (shapeshifting sorcerer), Tagolainan (sorcerer), Tuyaw (prophet).

Like other pre-colonial colonies and minor kingdoms in the Philippines, the Bicolanos' belief system and prayers revolved around rituals and godspeakers who communicated with ancestor spirits and gods. Palihon, paliyon, or polion encompassed rituals, beliefs, and taboos, preserving their cultural heritage. Rituals were dedicated to anitos, gugurang, and tawong-lipod. Anitos were ancestor spirits found in nature, while gugurang represented ancestor spirits of households. Batala served as guardian angels for villages or clans, and tawong-lipod were spirits of the wind and clouds, believed to be servants of lunar gods Haliya and Bulan.

The Bicolanos also believed in the power of spells, charms, and talismans, such as anting (physical charm or talisman) and munay (general ointment). They used aguatiempo (potion), hinaw (charm for identifying thieves), huklob (root for witch doctors), kabal (amulet for invulnerability), laaw (root charm for causing sickness), lumay (love potion), mutya (pearl or precious stone), and many others.

 The people of Olden Bikolandia, or Ibalong, had a deep-rooted connection with their spirituality, rituals, and ancestral beliefs. Their unwavering faith in the Supreme Being, gods, and spirits shaped their daily lives, celebrations, and interactions within their communities. The richness of their cultural heritage, preserved through rituals and practices, paints a vivid picture of the profound religiosity and communal spirit that defined Ibalong in pre-colonial 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.

Olden Bikolandia

IBALONG 

          by nature are deeply religious persons and that they inherited their religiosity from their ancestors. They firmly believe that the Supreme Being truly exists. They honor their gods and goddesses as a means of acknowledging their greatness as seen in the relics, artifacts and monuments found in their ancient dwelling places, caves, and personal effects. These erected monuments were mostly tall and mighty signifying their high regard and deep respect to their anitos (ancient gods). Their forebears worshiped Gugurang, their Supreme Being and Mightiest God in their Kamurawayan. Gugurang is their savior and protector from calamities, life challenges, tempest, and evil. He is also their defender against  Aswang  an evil deity who dwells in the gagamban (scorching hell). Native Bicolanos subscribed to the idea that they are always protected and guided by the anitos. They considered that all of their blessings and good fortunes came from God for which they were truly grateful. They also trusted Batala, a lesser god whose mission is to instill peace and order and that all the inhabitants in his reign are living harmoniously and contentedly. They also recognized the other spirits like Katambay, the guardian angels; Okot, god of the forest and hunters-keeper, such that by merely whistling he guided the hunter to a productive hunt. On the hand, the Bicolanos also trusted Magindang, their goddess of the sea which aided the fishermen for an abundant catch through his magical sounds and signals

The early Bicolanos have also peculiar rituals for each deity they are worshiping, one of which is called Atang, or offering through dancing to Gugurang. They are offering their best produce as a thanksgiving token for a bountiful harvest. This rite is also being done to ask God for rains during drought season so they could plant. The ritual is done in their gulang-gulangan or thatch hut serving as prayer room. Their best harvest or himoloan is being offered on the table they called salangat. The ritual is done by means of dancing and singing. Asog, the main priest, dances the taruk, or quick marching steps to worship Gugurang. Sometimes, the baliana would do the dancing in honor of their moon gods(Haliya and Bulan). While singing and dancing, the baliana together with the women are singing the soraque or chant. The group is roaming around the whole community enticing everybody to participate because pag-aatang or atang involves the entire village. The atang ritual starts with the pounding of the gong or patong to invite all the participants and get ready for the ceremony. Then the baliana followed by all the tribesmen marches towards the gulang-gulangan. Next, the baliana and the tribeswomen sing the soraque, the chant for atang to implore for Gugurang’s mercy and compassion. This is followed by a sumptuous banquet, and eventually a merry-making of songs and dances ensue
After the ritual, all the tribesmen and participants become tired and weary as they retreat to the altar and pray There are other earlier studies depicting the ancient rites of the early Bicolanos. Just like the atang or offering, this ritual is also a plea for protection from harm of the evil spirits. The farmers are also doing the ritual of pakikimaherak, to beg for God’s mercy and safekeeping of their farms from pests and diseases. Through their incantations, the natives are also literally begging the pests and other predators to be kind and not to harm their rice fields. According to Reyes, the Tinagba Festival or Pintakasi in Iriga City (a city in Bicol), originated from Atang or thanksgiving to Gugurang. It is led by an effeminate priest called Asog assisted by a baliana. The Atang ceremony ends with a sumptuous meal, raucous songs and dances, drinking spree and oftentimes in a free-for-all rio

The people of Ibalong believed in the gagamban or hell, also kamburagan: paradise and in the kamurayan or heavens. They also believed in  ''liwat na pagkamundag'': reincarnation, rebirth
pagkamundag uli: reincarnation, rebirth. They also have a strong belief in mortals who were given powers or knowledge from the gods

asog: ritualist, priest/ess (feminine male assigned at to be a godspeaker and healer)

balyan: ritualist, priest/ess 

parabawi: an exorcist, referring to anyone who drives evil spirits out of the body so that good spirits may return

parabulong: anyone who administers medicine

hukloban/hokloban/hodoban: witch doctor, malicious sorcerer who killed men and animals, and demolished houses

matanda: a wise old ruler

nuom: clairvoyant; seeing in mind’s eye/imagining something that comes true

parapalad: fortuneteller

pintakasi: defender, patron, patron saint

sunat: a high priest/ess responsible for ordaining the asog and the balyan

tagohalim/tagohalin/taguhalin: shapeshifting sorcerer

tagolainan: a sorcerer.

tuyaw: magtuyaw/tuyawon: to prophesy, paratuyaw: a prophet

Like any of the old colonies and kingdoms in the pre-colonial Philippines, their belief system and prayers revolve around rituals and godspeakers who commune with ancestor spirits and the gods themselves.

Palihon/paliyon/polion is the general term for rituals, beliefs, and taboos, and their preservation.

Rituals are done for the anito and/or gugurang, and sometimes for the tawong-lipod.
Anito/diwata are generally ancestor spirits out in nature.
Gugurang are generally ancestor spirits of the household that come along with a person, namesake for the single supreme deity inside Mount Mayon.

Batala/bathala are a set of special gods/spirits that watch over a village or clan, similar to guardian angels.
The tawong-lipod are spirits of the wind and clouds, believed to be servants of the lunar gods Haliya and Bulan.

The people of old ibalong also believed in the power of spells and charms and certain talismans that hold power and protection

An anting is the name of a physical charm or talisman. Munay is a general ointment.

aguatiempo: a potion which replaces drinking water of sick people in the belief that it will hasten the effect of medicine which has been administered
barat: the wind from the west; bolt; a needle-like wooden or metal peg which is an accessory to a small idol in human shape possessing movable joints and having many holes; if the barat is inserted into a chosen spot on the idol; after an incantation mumbled by the mambabarat the victim is supposed to suffer at the spot pierced by the peg; mambabarat a sorcerer who uses a barat

hinaw: a charm created by the balyan capable of identifying a thief; maghinaw to divine by using such a charm; maghinaw/hinawon to suspect of thievery by such divination
huklob: root (used by witch doctors in their ceremonies); maghuklob / huklobon to enchant, bewitch; hukloban witch doctor

kabal: an amulet which has the power of making its possessor invulnerable to the bolo and the spear, rendering these weapons dull, or suspending them in air upon attack; generally a circular piece of copper with a hole in the center, or a bit of shell roughly carved into the shape of anito noted for particularly admired exploits

laaw: root used as a charm which if brought into contact with an enemy can cause sickness or inflammation maglaaw /laawan to charm or bewitch with this root

lumay: love potion, maglumay / lumayon to give someone a love potion so that he or she will fall in love with you; makalumay/malumay to be affected by a love potion
mutya: pearl, jewel, gem, precious stone, anything someone holds dear, something beloved

himara/maghimara: to predict the future by observing external movements, such as that of a wheel moving slowly, or a dager hanging by a rope like a depndulum fast, etc.



hula: prediction; maghula / hulaan to augur, forecast, foresee, foretell, predict

pamaghat: a medicinal mixture of tree roots and alcohol, given to nursing mothers

pato: a root or charm which causes someone to who steals from you to fall ill or die

tagalpo: a herb carried by hunters and used to charm wild game so that they will not flee; a magic formula which, if thought of mentally, can turn a hostile attitude into cordiality, or an enemy into a friend; a type of hypnotism

tagohalim/tagohalin/taguhalin: Someone who makes charms/spells through shapeshifting or saying words; a root that was used in spells to aid in flying or shapeshifting into animals (cats or dogs); a plant from which an extract is derived enabling a man to fly, or to change himself into a dog or cat or other animal
tagohopa/tagahupa/tagolmay/tagulmay: A species of grass from whose roots may be prepared a brew capable of depriving a man of his will-power.

tagulipod: a plant possessing roots which, when eaten, may render a man invisible at will

tambal: antidote, snake medicine, tambalan: one proficient in such treatment

tauac/tawak: A charm which can be protect someone from a poisonous insect or snake bite; the charm is affected by pricking the person with something serving as an antivenom

Collection of Stories and Different versions of same stories orally passed down in Ibalong and contemporary Bicol

IBALONG

In the ancient land of Ibalong, where the whispers of epic tales echoed through the lush and fertile landscapes, the Ibálong saga unfolded, handed down through generations by the Kadunung, the epic chanters of the Bikol region in the Philippines.Long ago, Ibalong emerged from the sea, its shores graced by ships carrying people led by Baltog, a leader believed to be a descendant of the gods. Clad in gold ornaments, Baltog's skin was pale, hinting at a lineage linked to the mysterious "tawong lipod" or wind people. These pioneers, settling in Tundol, faced a land teeming with both richness and peril, its soil abundant but infested with mythical creatures.

Devout worshipers of moon gods, the settlers transformed Ibalong into a thriving colony, cultivating crops and building their homes. Yet, the land's mythical denizens, including the intelligent and marauding Tandayang sa Opon, posed a constant threat to their prosperity. In a furious clash, Baltog, armed with unparalleled strength, single-handedly vanquished the formidable boar, adorning his house with its colossal jawbones.

Celebrations ensued, attracting tribes like Panikwason and Asog, who marveled at the jawbones. However, more challenges awaited Ibalong, as the arrival of Handyong marked a new chapter in the epic.Handyong and his valiant warriors, armed with bolos and unwavering determination, sought to cleanse Ibalong of mythical creatures. The battles were fierce, spanning ten months of relentless combat against monsters like the one-eyed, three-necked behemoth and the giant flying fishes, Tiburon. Undeterred, Handyong and his warriors triumphed over each adversary, enslaving even the fierce Tamaraw.As the mythical creatures of Ibalong fought back, Sarimao, giant beasts, and Buaya, humanoid crocodile creatures, faced the wrath of the moon-blessed warriors. The rivers and swamps of Ibalong ran red with the blood of these mythical beings, witnessing the purging of their ancient presence.The godly intervention of Asuang signaled the end of the monsters' reign, with the moon god Gugurang favoring mankind. Oryol, a demigoddess, emerged as a formidable adversary, using her serpentine charm and the aid of mermaids to thwart Handyong's men. However, love blossomed amidst the chaos as Handyong and Oryol engaged in a fierce but respectful battle, leading to a surprising alliance. United, they revealed the secrets of gods and beasts, bringing prosperity to Bicol.Yet, the gods' involvement did not cease, and the tragic love story of Onos, Takay, and Kamaway unfolded, causing divine upheaval. Onos, the storm god, wreaked havoc, sinking Mount Asog and creating Lake Buhi. However, the compassionate moon gods, Bulan and Haliya, transformed the remains of Takay into vibrant flowers, a symbol of love and redemption.The tale took a darker turn as Onos, spurned by mortal love, unleashed Rabot, a half-human, half-monster abomination. Bantong, a hero and friend of Handyong, confronted Rabot, exploiting its weakness and vanquishing the creature. Strangely, Handyong mourned the beast's demise, sensing the end of an era where men's actions mirrored monsters.The Ibálong, passed down by the Kadunung, painted a vivid tapestry of Ibalong's mythical past, blending the heroic and the tragic, the divine and the mortal, in a symphony of folklore that resonated through the ages.

TATLONG BULOD

In the mystic realm of Ibalon, where gods and mortals coexisted, a tale unfolded beneath the moonlit skies, blending the haunting echoes of tragedy with the intoxicating allure of love. Ruled by Datu Makusog and his ethereal wife Diwani, their daughters, Malinao, Masaraga, and the youngest beauty, Magayon, were destined to become the loveliest maidens in the land.Masaraga, with her brown beauty and unwavering determination, sought the secrets of the gods to elevate Ibalon's prosperity. Malinao, veiled in mystery and carried in a palanquin, held a connection to lunar deities, bestowing bounty upon the sea. Magayon, adorned with golden-copper skin and copper hair, possessed a proud spirit, finding solace in the company of birds that sang to her.The enchanting melody of Magayon's avian companions formed a symphony around her.The trio, chosen for the sacred dance of ''atang,'' embarked on a destiny that intertwined divine favor and ominous omens. Masaraga's fervor to unlock the gods' secrets, however, angered Oryol, daughter of the malevolent deity Asuang. Oryol's haunting voice summoned the Banog, a monstrous being, leading to Masaraga's tragic fall from the sky.Oryol, consumed by jealousy, devised a plot against Malinao, transforming into Masaraga to lure her sister into the clutches of malevolent mermaids. The sea swallowed Malinao, extinguishing the light that radiated from her connection to the moon god.

Now, Oryol turned her attention to Magayon, a radiant but prideful beauty. Despite noble suitors, including Datu Pagtuga with his treasures from the deep sea, Magayon remained aloof. Gino Panganoron, a noble with the blood of wind people, ventured from afar, captivated by Magayon's allure. As their hearts entwined, Oryol plotted a tragic destiny at the river called Yawa.The slippery stones, orchestrated by Oryol's enchanting melody, beckoned Magayon towards the treacherous waters. Yet, it was the patient and noble Ulap, known as Gino Panganoron, who emerged as her savior, rescuing her from the clutches of drowning fate.

Ulap's act of heroism kindled a flame of love, leading Magayon to accept his marriage proposal. Their impending union, however, stirred Oryol's wrath. Infusing wicked thoughts into Datu Pagtuga's mind, Oryol orchestrated his abduction, leading to a dire ultimatum for Magayon – marry or witness her father's demise.

On the day of their ill-fated wedding, Ulap and his men descended upon Pagtuga and his warriors, transforming festivities into a battleground. Amidst the chaos, Ulap triumphed over Pagtuga, only to face a heart-wrenching tragedy. An arrow, launched in treachery, struck Magayon, piercing the air with sorrow.

As Magayon fell, Ulap's guard dropped, allowing Linog, Pagtuga's loyal warrior, to seize the moment. A spear plunged into Ulap, sealing their destinies together in death. Datu Makusog, in grief, avenged Ulap's death, his bolo striking down Linog.

Witnessing the sorrow that befell the three sisters, the gods left their mark on the land. Mount Masaraga, where the first tragedy occurred, and Mount Malinao, where the sea claimed a maiden, emerged as eternal memorials. Yet, it was at the burial site of Magayon and Panganoron that Mount Magayon, now known as Mount Mayon, stood as a testament to love transcending mortality.

And as clouds enshrouded the summit of Mount Mayon, the people believed it to be Ulap's eternal kiss, a poignant reminder of a love story entwined with the darkness and passion that defined the enchanting saga of Tulong Bulod.

HANDIONG AND ORYOL

In a time long past, amid the enchanting landscapes of the Bicol Region, the kingdom of Ibalon flourished, its beauty echoing through the tales of its wise and gallant ruler, Handyong. Nature itself seemed to sing praises of him, from the chirping Mayas to the croaking king-frog, Maribok. The mother Kalaw, Tuktok, and even the bald rooster, Poringot, all held homage to Handyong's virtues.

Despite the adoration, a shadow lingered over Handyong's heart. Deep within the mystical forest, monsters roamed freely, led by the elusive and cunning serpent, Oryol. Oryol, once a maiden of unparalleled beauty, had been ensnared in the treacherous clutches of an evil witch, Hilang, and transformed into a serpent by day and a woman by night. The only hope for Oryol's release lay in the destruction of an enchanted pitogo seed, a vow sealed in pitogo's demise.

Haunted by the recurring attacks on his kingdom, Handyong decided to confront the monsters once and for all. Deep into the forest, he ventured, determined to rid Ibalon of its nocturnal terrors.

Meanwhile, in the heart of the forest, the monsters convened to blame each other for their previous defeat. Amidst the bickering, Oryol, the wily serpent, smiled and devised a cunning plan to destroy Handyong. As the monsters retreated to their lairs, Oryol felt an overwhelming loneliness, prompting her to reveal her human form once more.

Days passed, and as the moon waxed full, Oryol's restless spirit stirred. Bathed in the moonlight, she transformed into a captivating woman, her beauty radiant in the dimly lit forest. As she sang her enchanting song, even the night owls fell silent in awe.

Handyong, leading his followers, stealthily approached the clearing. Enchanted by Oryol's song, his men succumbed to a magical slumber. Only Handyong, resisting the enchantment, remained vigilant. Witnessing the transformation from serpent to woman, he recognized the duality within Oryol.

As Oryol approached, intending to strike, Handyong's quick reflexes captured her neck. In a surprising twist of fate, she transformed back into a beautiful woman. Torn between her vow to kill Handyong and the unexpected surge of love, Oryol found herself at the mercy of her emotions.

With a gentle touch, Handyong laid her on a bed of leaves, his heart recognizing the humanity within her. Love blossomed unexpectedly as he bent down to kiss Oryol. In this tender moment, the enchanted pitogo seed fell from her hand, accidentally crushed beneath Handyong's foot, breaking the spell.

The monsters, now weakened, stirred from their slumber, launching an attack on Handyong and his followers. The forest echoed with the clash of bare-handed men against monstrous foes. The destruction of the pitogo seed crippled the monsters, leaving Oryol in a dilemma.

Torn between her loyalty to the monsters and her newfound connection to humanity, Oryol revealed the monsters' vulnerability. The battle raged on, and Handyong's men, armed with this knowledge, strategically aimed at the monsters' hearts.

In the aftermath, Handyong approached Oryol, who stood conflicted. Realizing the monsters were never truly her friends, she wept for the loss of her home and companions. In a gesture of compassion, Handyong offered her a chance at a new life.

As they embarked on a journey back to Ibalon, the animals of the forest, from Maribok to Poringot, joined in colorful celebration. The creatures that once feared Oryol now recognized the transformation within her, as love and redemption unfolded in the heart of the enchanted kingdom.

ALAMAT NG TAKAY

LEGEND OF THE TAKAY FLOWERS

In the ethereal realm of divine affairs, the legend unfolds like a romantic tragedy, a celestial ballet choreographed by the gods. Onos, the Sky God of Storms, cast his celestial gaze upon a child named Takay, watching her blossom into a maiden of unparalleled beauty. The tale, whispered in hallowed tones, tells of a love destined for heartbreak.Bulan, the benevolent god of the moon, forewarned Onos about the perilous dance between a deity and a mortal. A cosmic warning echoed through the heavens, cautioning that such love would inevitably birth pain and suffering. Yet, ensnared in the enchanting allure of Takay, Onos defiantly spurned the celestial counsel, allowing his heart to be captivated by mortal beauty.Onos descended from his celestial abode, the heavens quivering with anticipation. With the radiance of moonbeams bathing her, Takay stood before him, a vision of earthly loveliness. Onos, intoxicated by love, declared his affections to the fair maiden, only to be met with the heart-wrenching revelation that Takay's heart was already entwined with another—Kanaway.

Fueled by jealous fury, Onos soared in pursuit of Kanaway, determined to erase the rival who held Takay's heart. Lightning arced through the skies as Onos hurled bolts of divine wrath, turning Kanaway into an eternal monument of stone. In a vengeful frenzy, Onos unleashed his celestial might upon Mt. Asog, causing it to crumble and sink into the depths, birthing the tranquil expanse known as Lake Buhi.Undeterred by the cosmic consequences, Onos, wrapped in storm clouds and raging tempests, unleashed torrents of floodwaters upon the once-thriving colonies and minor kingdoms of Ibalong. Bulan, witnessing the devastation, dispatched his wind people in a desperate attempt to stem the celestial onslaught, but Onos's power proved insurmountable.As the celestial gods descended, their arrival marked too late to spare Ibalong from the cataclysmic fallout of divine fury. The colonies lay in ruins, the remnants of a once-bustling realm now silenced by the echoes of a celestial storm.

In the mournful night that followed, Bulan descended with a heavy heart, discovering the lifeless form of Takay tenderly cradled by water plants. Moved by compassion, Bulan, with tears that shimmered like moonlight, transformed Takay into a delicate flower, the Tacay, now adorning the landscapes of Bicol in perpetual bloom. A symbol of undying love and a testament to the tragedy that unfolded, the water hyacinth stands as a floral legacy, weaving the tale of a celestial romance that defied the very fabric of divine order.

DARAGANG MAGAYON

In the quaint town of Daraga, nestled within the Albay province of the captivating Bicol Region, a majestic beauty stood in all its glory — Mayon Volcano, the most enchanting volcano in the Philippines. The awe-inspiring landscape of Mayon became the canvas upon which the locals painted the mesmerizing legend of "Daragang Magayon" or "Dalagang Maganda" (beautiful maiden) in Tagalog.At the heart of this captivating tale was a princess, the epitome of beauty and grace, known as Daragang Magayon. Adorned with a radiant countenance, she was often surrounded by a symphony of small birds, their melodies echoing the harmonious spirit within her. Also recognized as Mayon or Daragang Magayon, she was the youngest among her sisters, Masaraga and Malinao. Blessed with a golden-copper complexion and hair of the same hue, she radiated an ethereal charm that captivated the hearts of men far and wide.

Daragang Magayon, the cherished daughter of the benevolent and wise Datu Makusog (King Makusog), was not merely a vision of physical beauty but also possessed a character as captivating as her appearance. However, her pride and occasional moodiness added a layer of complexity to her character, making her more than just a conventional princess.A peculiar habit of Daragang Magayon was her clandestine ritual of bathing in the Yawa River every morning at the break of dawn. This serene moment, shielded from the prying eyes of the world, was a sacred act she performed with an innate sense of privacy.It was during one such dawn that fate intertwined the lives of Daragang Magayon and a traveler from the distant kingdom of Laguna. A young and enchanting lad named Ulap (cloud) accidentally stumbled upon her secret, and the moment he laid eyes on the beautiful maiden, he was entranced by her unparalleled beauty.Ulap, driven by destiny, decided to reveal himself to Daragang Magayon. As their hearts connected, their love blossomed, and their union was blessed by the benevolent King Makusog. Ulap, seeking to formalize their commitment, sought permission to journey back to Laguna and gather his relatives for the pamamanhikan, the prenuptial gathering.News of the impending union spread like wildfire, reaching neighboring kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Iraya, ruled by the envious Patuga. Consumed by rage and resurrected pain from Daragang Magayon's past rejection, Patuga cunningly devised a plan to disrupt the impending nuptials.

He manipulated his people into believing that Daragang Magayon's marriage to a foreign man was an affront to their masculinity. Fanning the flames of discontent, Patuga persuaded his subjects to launch an attack against the Kingdom of Rawin, with the intention of capturing King Makusog and demanding Daragang Magayon as ransom.Amidst the joyful preparations in Rawis for the arrival of Ulap's relatives, Patuga seized the opportunity and orchestrated a surprise attack. The unsuspecting people of Rawis fell victim to the sudden assault, with King Makusog effortlessly captured.In a noble act of sacrifice, Daragang Magayon offered herself as ransom for her father's freedom, despite the internal struggle this decision caused her. As the enemies closed in, Ulap and his clan from Laguna arrived just in time to join the battle against the treacherous invaders.

Under the scorching sun and amid swirling dust, the clash of swords and bolos echoed through the air. Daragang Magayon's heart pounded with suspense as the battle unfolded. Amidst the chaos, a lifeless body fell to the ground, momentarily sending shockwaves through the maiden's heart. To her relief, the fallen figure was not Ulap but Patuga.Turning around, Daragang Magayon saw Ulap with open arms, ready to embrace her. With unbridled joy, she rushed into the waiting arms of her lover. However, in a tragic twist of fate, a deadly arrow, launched by one of the enemies, pierced their entwined bodies. The sky was shrouded in gloom as the two lovers slowly descended to the ground.

The entire Kingdom of Rawis mourned the loss of their cherished couple. King Makusog, recognizing the undying love between Daragang Magayon and Ulap, decreed that the two should be buried together. Death, he proclaimed, should not separate what true love had united.As the saying goes, true love is difficult to bury. Like a relentless current, it persists, struggling to resurface. The legend insists that Daragang Magayon's love was so potent that her grave transformed into the towering majesty of a volcano, a poignant emblem of her enduring love. Lava erupted from this sacred monument, symbolizing the overflowing passion of her affection. This majestic volcano, emerging from the resting place of Daragang Magayon, became known as the Mayon Volcano, forever immortalizing the tale of a love that defied even death. Daragang Magayon, they say, lives on as the Mayon.