Dayaw sa Bilog na Buwan - Bicolanos Reclaim Their Mythology

Bulan and Adlao

Based from Bicol Oral mythology ....  Bicolano mythology as told and Retold by Bicolanos

Bicolanos Reclaim Their Mythology: 'Dayaw sa Bilog na Bulan' and the Power of Local Storytelling

In the southern coastal town of Bulan, Bicol, a vibrant community is embracing its rich history and folklore through local art. The Balud Theatre Co., a group of passionate performers, is reimagining their hometown’s origin in their second musical, Dayaw sa Bilog na Bulan, written by Janjan Mohametano.

The play retells the legend of the Bulan, Adlao, Haliya  and the Bacunawa, a mythical serpent that swallows the moon, with a fresh perspective. Using the Waray-Sorsoganon language, the performance not only celebrates Bicol’s unique cultural identity but also empowers the local community to take control of their own stories. By retelling these myths in their native tongue, Bicolanos preserve their heritage while also making it their own, ensuring that their folklore continues to thrive in modern times.

This effort to reclaim and celebrate their mythology shows how Bicolanos are taking ownership of their history, retelling these old stories with pride and relevance for future generations.

Bulan

Adlao

Haliya goddess of Moonlight

Nagined Arapayan Makbarubak

Bakunawa

Bulan god of the Pale Moon

Reminder

Avoiding Foreign Manipulation: Weaponizing myths and stories and using them as an excuse to attack, harass and even stalk storytellers or communities risks distorting their purpose. Myths are meant to unify, educate, or entertain, not to create division or hostility among Filipinos.

Filipino mythology belongs to everyone—Filipinos, Filipinix, and even foreigners. These stories are meant to unite, inspire hope, and empower. They are for all, ever-evolving yet forever a cultural treasure.

Both oral and written mythology in the Philippines are valid because they serve different but equally important roles in preserving Filipino heritage. What is truly harmful is when foreigners manipulate these discussions for personal gain, attempting to invalidate one aspect of Filipino mythology to cause division. Instead of falling for such tactics, Filipinos should embrace the richness and diversity of their own stories, ensuring that both oral and written traditions continue to thrive.

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

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