 |
| Mayon eruption in 1814 —IMAGE COURTESY OF CARLOS MADRID/INSTITUTO CERVANTES DE MANILA |
An ancient illustration of the eruption of Mayon volcano in 1814 that wiped out the village of Cagsawa and buried 1,200 villagers should powerfully underscore the history of disastrous eruptions of the world’s most perfectly coned volcano.
The 1814 eruption of Mayon Volcano devastated Cagsawa, burying 1,200 villagers. An illustration from Franciscan archives in Spain, featured in historian Carlos Madrid’s monograph Seraphico, depicts the disaster as seen from Daraga. Created 15 years after the event, it served as both a historical record and a geographical reference for the affected areas. The eruption destroyed several villages, forcing survivors to relocate, though some eventually returned. Cagsawa was never rebuilt, and its church ruins remain a tourist attraction. The illustration and other historical documents are available for research at Casa Azul, a program by Instituto Cervantes.
Read more: http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/.../19th-century.../...
Sa Pilipinas buhay na buhay ang pag k kwento at kwentong pasa pasa o oral mythology maging sa makabagong panahon. Mga kwento ng Filipino, mitolohiya at mga kwentong bayan na ang agos ay binubuhay at pinapalakas ng mga story tellers at narrator . Lahat ng klase ng tao nakikinig ng kwento mula sa mga atla de sosyedad, mga professionals, mga normal na estudyante at maging sa mga mangagawa, magsasaka nakikinig. Sa palengke, sa Bus at maging sa personal na pakikinig sa mobile phones. Ang pakikinig at pag k kwento Parte ito ng kultura ng mga Filipino. Maging sa ibang bansa, mga partition ng mga OFW nakikinig ng sama sama. Mga ibang Nurses abroad at mga migrante na nakikinig. Ang mga kwentong ito nagbibigay ng entertaiment, tuwa, takot at maging magandang aral.
Madalas kalabanin at maliitin ng iilang mga Filipino born and raised abroad ang pag kw kwento, dahil narin siguro pinalaki silang hindi mulat sa tunay na wika at kultura ng mga Filipino. Sobrang detach sila na di nila alam ung Good Morals and Right Conduct na napupulot sa mga kwento. Paggalang sa nakakatanda, importansya sa pamilya, pag-ibig, kabaitan at respeto sa kapwa. Kapupulutan ng excitment at Aral. Kabutihang ng loob, pakikipag kapwa tao, bayanihan. atibp
Mahirap ipaliwanag sa hindi Pilipino bakit buhay na buhay ang pag k kwento sa makabagong panahon. Ang mga kwentong ito pinagbubuklod ang mga Filipino, magkakaiba pero pag nakikinig ng kwento lahat magkakasama kahit magkakalayo, lahat pantay pantay.
Ang mga storya at kwento para sa lahat, sharing is caring ika nga. pinag bubuklod ang mga tao.
Isang taas kamaong pagpupugay sa mga Story tellers and Narrators at dubbers. Maraming Salamat sa mga Story teller, kayo ang nagbibigay buhay sa mga kwento ng mga Filipino sa makabagong panahon.
Tara makinig tayo. Solid ka Yanggaw ako eh.
REMINDER
Mga kwentong Pilipino at pagkukwento ay para sa lahat...
Philippine Mythology and Story telling is for everyone—Filipinos, Filipinxs, and even foreigners! These stories are meant to be shared, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. They’re not set in stone and can have many different versions You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy them. These stories evolve with time, and everyone is welcome to listen, share, and get lost in their world. Mythology connects us all, no matter where we come from!
Yung mga taga Bicol dyan for sure alam nyo to wooh!!! dito ako unang una nakakita ng dolpin eh
For travelers, nearby resorts in Barangay Balogo, Pasacao, offer various accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to more luxurious lodgings. Renting a boat to the island costs approximately Php 500 for up to 12 people, making it an affordable adventure. Tourists are encouraged to bring tents and food to enjoy the island while practicing responsible tourism to preserve its pristine condition.
The Twin of Bakunawa
Daruanak is often depicted as the twin sibling of Bakunawa, a mythical goddess who later transformed into a eel-dragon. While Bakunawa ascended into divinity and became a feared yet revered eel like serpent-dragon, Daruanak chose a different path. Over time, Daruanak evolved into a behemoth turtle, so massive that its form mirrored the shape of an island. According to some versions, this gigantic turtle-like creature initially lived on land but eventually sought refuge in the sea as its immense size made land movement impossible.
A Gigantic Turtle-Like Sea Monster
In other Bicolano tales, Daruanak is described as a hairy, turtle-like sea monster, a creature of the deep that became a guardian of the waters. Unlike Bakunawa, who is associated with celestial events such as eclipses, Daruanak is seen as a terrestrial and aquatic being—a manifestation of nature’s power and mystery. Its immense size and unique appearance make it an awe-inspiring figure in Bicolano folklore.
"Daru" and "Anak"
The name “Daruanak” itself is linguistically fascinating, combining “Daru,” possibly a child’s name, and “anak,” the Filipino word for child. Possibly hinting that Daruanak was male, daru is a little boys nick name usually.
Mythology has long served as a way for cultures to explain natural phenomena, geographical features, and the mysteries of the environment. In the case of Daruanak Island, the interplay between its physical presence and its mythological counterpart reflects the Bicolanos' creative interpretation of their surroundings, blending folklore with nature.
For the modern community, the myth of Daruanak enhances the island’s significance as more than a tourist destination. It invites visitors to see the island as part of a larger cultural story, where folklore shapes the identity of the land. The story of a turtle that became an island blends seamlessly with the visual reality of Daruanak Island’s rocky formations, providing an imaginative narrative for its creation.Through mythology, Daruanak Island becomes a bridge between the physical and the mythical, offering an explanation for its existence rooted in cultural creativity. The legend transforms the island into a symbol of growth, guardianship, and connection to the natural and spiritual worlds, enriching its significance for both locals and visitors. In doing so, it reinforces the power of myths to interpret and celebrate the landscapes that define a community’s identity.
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.
REMINDER
Mga kwentong Pilipino at pagkukwento ay para sa lahat...
Philippine Mythology is for everyone—Filipinos, Filipinxs, and even foreigners! These stories are meant to be shared, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. They’re not set in stone and can have many different versions You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy them. These stories evolve with time, and everyone is welcome to listen, share, and get lost in their world. Mythology connects us all, no matter where we come from!
Calling Everything Anito: A Cultural Misunderstanding
 |
| Anito |
One of the most puzzling and often misunderstood aspects of Filipino mythology is the tendency of some foreigners, particularly those of Filipino descent born abroad or westernized, to call all mythological creatures "Anito." For Filipinos in the Philippines, the term Anito holds a very specific and deeply spiritual and religious rooted meaning. Traditionally, Anito refers to the spirits of ancestors, heroic spirits or the wooden statues that represent these spirits, which were used in ancient rituals of respect and worship. The term is not typically used as an umbrella term to describe mythological creatures or supernatural beings.
Anito this, anito that, anito.. lahat nalang anito, ano daw ????
However, many foreigners (from Canada for some reason) and even some Filipino-Americans seem to be under the impression that Anito can be applied to all manner of creatures from Filipino folklore. Whether it's a Tikbalang (the half-human, half-horse trickster), a Duwende (dwarf-like spirits of the earth), or other supernatural beings, some people outside of the Philippines call these beings Anito. This creates confusion for Filipinos back home who are used to a different understanding of the term.
lahat nalang anito tawag, pati chanak tinawag nang anito
To locals, this usage feels somewhat inaccurate. Mythological creatures like the Tikbalang, Duwende, Engkanto (spirits of nature), Aswang (shape-shifting creatures), and Lamanlupa (earth-dwelling spirits and beings) each have their own specific names and categories, which distinguish them from the concept of Anito. These beings are not seen as spirits of the dead or representations of ancestors; they have their own unique origins and roles in the folklore. The locals would rather use the terms Elemento, Lamanlupa, Engkanto, Maligno, Bantay-tubig, Tawong lipod ect...
.jpeg) |
| Kapre |
For example, the Tikbalang is known as a trickster who can confuse travelers, and the Duwende is believed to live in the earth or inside trees, sometimes causing mischief or granting wishes. The Aswang, infamous for (eating humans) its monstrous shape-shifting abilities, is feared for its predatory nature, while the Engkanto is a spirit tied to the natural world, often invisible to humans, and may interact with people in strange or mystical ways.
.jpeg) |
| Tikbalang |
In contrast, Anito has a more spiritual connotation, traditionally linked to the worship of ancestors and the veneration of ancestors, spirits that protect or guide the living. The Anito was honored through rituals, offerings, and statues placed in sacred spaces, not as supernatural creatures roaming the earth or forests. The mix-up of these terms can blur the lines between the specific roles and powers each mythical being holds in Filipino culture and history.
.jpeg) |
| Anito |
What Anito in Folk Religion and in mythology is for Filipinos in the Philippines
Anito in Mythology: In myths, Anito are portrayed as spirits of the dead, heroic spirts, some as evil spirits and dark gods. In many contemporary tales and horror stories often depict them in dramatic roles, such as being worshipped by malevolent beings like the Aswang or serving as antagonists in moral conflicts. This narrative function allows mythology to explore themes of good, evil, and the supernatural.
 |
| Anito ng mga Aswang |
 |
| Anito ng mga Aswang |
Anito in Folk Religion: Here, Anito are venerated as ancestor spirits or heroic spirits who protect and guide their descendants. They are honored through offerings and ceremonies, forming a bridge between the living and the spiritual realm.
.jpg) |
| Anito Tao-tao |
The distinction between mythology and folk religion is not about division but clarity. It helps us respect the Anito both as powerful figures in mythology and as sacred ancestral spirits in folk religion. Recognizing these differences enriches our understanding of Filipino culture, ensuring that myths are celebrated as stories and folk religion is honored as faith. Mixing the two isn't inherently bad, but preserving their distinctions allows us to appreciate the unique contributions of each to the Filipino identity.
 |
| Anito or Ancestor effigies in Magayon Festival 2015 |
Aggressive Western way VS the passive Local Voices
it is also an unfortunate trend where Filipino voices, particularly local storytellers, are overshadowed. and even antagonized.
The tension is exacerbated when Westernized Filipinos and non-Filipino white foreigners take aggressive actions , especially those who are more vocal or assertive in promoting their interpretation of these terms, begin to antagonize Filipinos born in the Philippines. These overseas Filipinos, who may not have grown up immersed in the traditional practices and understandings of Filipino folklore, often exhibit an air of superiority or arrogance in trying to redefine these cultural concepts. Their approach can sometimes come across as dismissive of the rich oral traditions and lived experiences of Filipinos in the homeland.
Filipino, Dapat magkakampi, hindi magkakaaway, ang pag ku kwento hindi labanan, hindi kompetisyon. Ang pag kukwento at mitolohiya at kwentong bayan dapat pinag sasaluhan.
Instead of allowing this tension to grow, the middle way is a better approach. There needs to be mutual understanding and respect between Filipinos living abroad and those in the Philippines. Both groups have valuable perspectives on Filipino culture, and instead of battling over the definitions and interpretations, they should work together to share and preserve these rich traditions.
Filipinos abroad often seek to reconnect with their heritage, while Filipinos in the Philippines hold the authentic, lived experiences of these stories. Bridging this gap can enrich both sides, making Filipino folklore and culture even more vibrant and meaningful. The goal should be unity, not division—creating a space for all voices, whether from within the Philippines or abroad, to contribute to the preservation and evolution of Filipino mythology.
Many foreign individuals, especially those from Western cultures, are raised in environments where their own cultural perspectives are often considered "universal" or "superior." This mindset can lead them to dismiss or misunderstand other cultures, including Filipino culture and mythology. When they encounter something different from their own, such as local mythological creatures or traditions, they might try to impose their own interpretations or ideals, dismissing the knowledge and expertise of Filipino storytellers who are more in touch with the authentic traditions.
The antagonism, belittling, and attempts to cancel out local Filipino storytellers often stem from a mixture of cultural ignorance and foreign arrogance, lack of respect for indigenous practices and local story tellers, and an overwhelming desire to dominate or simplify complex cultural traditions. It is crucial for both foreign and Filipino-born individuals to engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue with local storytellers and embrace the diversity and richness of Filipino mythology and folklore.
REMINDER!!!!!
Mga kwentong Pilipino at pagkukwento ay para sa lahat...
Philippine Mythology is for everyone—Filipinos, Filipinxs, and even foreigners! These stories are meant to bring people closer. meant to be shared, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. They’re not set in stone and can have many different versions You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy them. These stories evolve with time, and everyone is welcome to listen, share, and get lost in their world. Mythology connects us all, no matter where we come from!
While myths inevitably evolve, and it's possible that future generations may begin to use Anito in new and broader ways, the pressure to erase or oversimplify traditional beliefs can have lasting consequences. It's essential to respect the original context of these myths and the efforts of Filipino-born storytellers to preserve them in their authentic form. If we continue to allow these misunderstandings to persist, we risk losing the cultural nuances that make Filipino mythology so unique.
while it’s understandable that outsiders might try to simplify Filipino mythology by using the term Anito for all supernatural beings, this does a disservice to the rich and nuanced world of Filipino folklore. By recognizing and respecting the specific names and attributes of creatures like Tikbalang, Duwende, Engkanto, Aswang, and others, we can preserve the cultural distinctions that make Filipino mythology so unique. It is essential for both Filipinos and non-Filipinos to appreciate the differences and learn the proper terms to honor the traditions and beliefs that have been passed down through generations.
So what is the Anito according to Filipinos in the Philippines?
 |
| Anito |
In modern-day Philippines, the term Anito is widely understood to refer to ancestor spirits or the spirits of the dead. However, its origins are much deeper, tracing back to ancient languages like Proto-Malayo-Polynesian and Proto-Austronesian. The word Anito may have derived from the terms qanitu and qanicu, both of which had broader meanings, encompassing not only ancestral spirits and the spirits of the dead but also malevolent spirits and the wooden idols that were used to represent them in rituals.
Mga Espiritu ng Yumao, kaluluwa ng patay, Espirtu ng Ninuno, at mga Bayani ng lumipas na panahon, maging mga diyos-diyosan at mga estatwang kahot. Yan ang pangkalahatang modernong pagkakakilanlan ng anito sa karamihan ng Pilipino sa Pilipinas.
 |
| Anito |
Historically, these early linguistic roots suggest that Anito had a multifaceted role in ancient Filipino belief systems, representing a wide range of spiritual entities, both benevolent and harmful. It was tied to the practice of ancestor worship, where spirits were honored and revered, often through wooden statues or idols known as Anito figures, which were thought to hold the presence of the spirits they represented. And yes in many horror stories the anito often referes to the dark gods the Aswangs and other evil creatures worship and grant blood sacrifices to. But that's because mythology and religion are separate.
 |
| anito |
As Filipino culture evolved, the meaning of Anito became more focused on the spirits of ancestors, revered for their protective and guiding roles. In contemporary times, the term is primarily associated with the spirits of deceased family members, and is often invoked in rituals, prayers, and offerings to seek protection, guidance, or blessings. The legacy of Anito in Filipino culture is a testament to the enduring spiritual connection between the living and their ancestors, a bond that has persisted throughout centuries, even as the meaning of the term has adapted to changing cultural contexts
Foreigners who antagonize, belittle, or try to cancel out local storytellers when it comes to Philippine mythology may do so for several reasons, often rooted in misunderstandings, cultural dominance The antagonism, belittling, and attempts to cancel out local Filipino storytellers often stem from a mixture of Superiority complex, white entitlement, cultural ignorance, lack of respect for indigenous practices, and an overwhelming desire to dominate and monotonize Philippine mythology or simplify complex cultural traditions. It is crucial for both foreign and Filipino-born individuals to engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue with local storytellers and embrace the diversity and richness of Filipino mythology. Only through mutual understanding and appreciation can Filipino folklore remain vibrant and respected in its authentic form.
The Continuing Legacy of Philippine Mythology
Daloy ng mitolohiya kwentong bayan, kwentong pasa pasa at pagku-kwento
Philippine mythology is not a stagnant or fixed system of beliefs; it is an evolving collection of stories and traditions that continue to grow and change. Unlike a religion, which often has structured practices and doctrines, mythology is a fluid, oral tradition that reflects the culture and worldview of the people.
In the Philippines, mythology is deeply tied to folk religion, but they are not the same. While folk religion deals with practices related to spirituality and the supernatural, mythology consists of the myths, legends, and stories that explain the origins of the world, nature, and human life. These stories are not tied to formal rituals or religious observances but are instead shared through generations, passed down through storytelling, rituals, and everyday conversations.
Filipino pinaspasa sa kapwa Filipino ang mga storya gamit ang wikang Filipino
Today, Philippine mythology is still very much alive. It is not confined to books or ancient texts but continues to be told and retold in the modern age. Platforms like YouTube , Podcast, viber have become a new way for local storytellers to promote and share these ancient tales and new ones. Through narration, animated videos, and discussions, storytellers are keeping the myths alive, reaching new audiences and bringing a new energy to traditional stories. From Aswang horror stories, Engkanto encounters, Diwata and demons from mountains ect...
The mythological creatures, gods, and spirits that were once shared around campfires and village gatherings are now shared globally. Local storytellers play an essential role in preserving and adapting these stories for modern audiences, ensuring that the richness of Philippine mythology continues to thrive in contemporary times.
Philippine mythology is not a relic of the past but a living, breathing part of Filipino culture. Its stories continue to evolve and be embraced by new generations, keeping the tradition vibrant and relevant today.
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.
Ang mga Aswang... bow.. next time ko na to translate, gala muna ako sa Manila. hello mga ka Yanggaw im in Manila!!!! wooh !!!
nakaka pagod mag translate from Filipino to english ah. tas aawayin pa ko pag nagka grammar error. kayo nalang mag translate. gigil nyo ko. char... Daming uri ng Aswang eh. ung listahan ko pakadami nosebleed ako sa pag t translate. Ay ambot.
Dahil baka ma stalk naman ako, at i post naman mga personal info ko pati underaged pictures ko pino post online. wag na uy. kayo nalang mag translate. di ko alam bakit obessed sakin ung Canadian na sine save particularly ung mga underaged photos ko ung bata pa ko.
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.
Mga kwentong Pilipino at pagkukwento ay para sa lahat...
Philippine Mythology is for everyone—Filipinos, Filipinxs, and even foreigners! These stories are meant to be shared, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. They’re not set in stone and can have many different versions You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy them. These stories evolve with time, and everyone is welcome to listen, share, and get lost in their world. Mythology connects us all, no matter where we come from!
.jpg) |
| Haliya by John Henry Esteban |
 |
| Made of coldcast marble sculpture and crushed marble stones, this sculpture by Agnes Arellano lends itself to a mythical significance that emphasises the artwork’s life-giving form. |
Haliya is a goddess from Bicolano oral mythology, and folklore known as the masked goddess of moonlight. According to myths and stories she is revered primarily by women and is celebrated for her strength and beauty. Haliya is depicted as a warrior goddess, protecting her brother Bulan, the god of the pale moon. She is often described as having fair, radiant skin, long black hair, and wearing a golden mask to conceal her otherworldly beauty.
In myths, Haliya is the arch-enemy of Bakunawa, an eel-like serpent dragon that tries to devour the moon. She is portrayed as strong and ruthless in combat, contrasting with his brother Bulan's gentle and playful nature. Haliya's battles with Bakunawa symbolize her role as a fierce protector of the moon and a symbol of feminine strength. Some stories say Rituals and dances named after her, some stories suggest she is the embodiment of the rituals that are performed to celebrate and summon her protective spirit during full moons.
 |
| Haliya Statue in Dubai Sharply blue, tranquil, and monumental at over 18 feet tall, the figure was created by internationally-circulating Filipino sculptor Duddley Diaz. |
Haliya Moon goddess statues
 |
| ‘Haliya Bathing’ |
 |
| ‘Haliya Bathing’ bu Agnes Arellano |
 |
| Masked Haliya Duddley Diaz |
Bakit Buntis ang mga Estatwa ng Diwata ng Buwan?
Why are the Statues pregnant ?
The Haliya statues represents Mystery, hope and life. the Moonlight goddess from Bicolano oral mythology and folklore
Statues of Haliya are often portrayed as pregnant to reflect a lesser-known story from Bicolano mythology that highlights her connection to both mortal life and divine strength. While Haliya is typically depicted as a fierce warrior goddess, the protector of her gentle brother Bulan, there is a softer, more nurturing side to her mythos that explains the pregnancy imagery.
 |
| 18 feet tall Haliya Moon goddess statue in Dubai photo by jazperjay |
In many myths, Haliya and her brother Bulan and other celestial beings would descend from the heavens to bathe in the waters of Ibalong. This act symbolizes purification and the ability to take on a mortal form. In one particular and lesser known story, Haliya falls in love with a mortal man during one of her visits to Earth. Her love for him is so profound that she temporarily forgets her divine nature and chooses to live as a mortal.
In love and in bliss she stayed on land and loved a mortal man. Eventually Haliya becomes pregnant, and as her time to give birth approaches, she returns to the waters where she first descended. Her brother Bulan, watching from the heavens, sends sylphs and fairies to comfort and support her during labor, singing songs that remind her of her strength and beauty. After giving birth to a child that is both human and divine, Haliya ascends back to the heavens.
This story intertwines the themes of love, transformation, and the divine connection to fertility, making the depiction of a pregnant Haliya in statues a representation of her role as a bridge between the celestial and mortal realms, and a symbol of creation and new life.
 |
| Duddley Diaz’s white Carrara marble sculpture of the Bicolano moon goddess Haliya. Haliya’s round and polished form The rotund, and serene figure holds a crescent moon close to her pregnant belly. An owl head crowns her seated figure. She is depicted as protector and goddess of wisdom. Ninety-kilos heavy, Haliya was transported from the artist’s garden in Italy to the Vargas Museum in 2010 for his retrospective exhibition Messenger of the Gods.(Louise Anne Marcelino) Duddley Diaz 1995 Haliya the Moon Goddess Marble |
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.
