Why Some Foreigners Find It Hard to Understand Philippine Mythology

 

Why Some Foreigners Find It Hard to Understand Philippine Mythology

1. It’s Not Linear or “Standardized”
   In many Western cultures, myths tend to follow a clear pattern—beginning, middle, end. Stories are often written down in fixed forms.
   But in Philippine mythology, the same creature or tale can change from one region to another. The Aswang can be a vampire, a witch, or a shapeshifter depending on who tells the story. That can feel confusing or inconsistent to outsiders who expect one “official” version.

2. It’s Deeply Tied to Culture and Language ( Aral aral din mag Tagalog o Filipino pag may time)
   These myths are told in Filipino or local dialects, and the meanings are often linked to cultural beliefs, values, or superstitions that aren't easily translated. Foreigners may miss important context, symbolism, or the emotions behind the stories.

3. It’s Oral and Flexible
   Philippine mythology wasn’t meant to be “fixed” in books. It lives through storytelling that changes over time and adapts to each storyteller. For people used to rigid systems, this feels unfamiliar even chaotic.

4. Myth and Reality Often Overlap
   In the Philippines, mythology blends with everyday life—some people still believe in these creatures or rituals. To outsiders, it might seem strange or too “superstitious,” especially if they don't understand the spiritual or emotional importance of the stories.

Why Some Foreigners Get Frustrated or Even Aggressive toward Filipino Storytellers

1. Cultural Misunderstanding
   When someone doesn’t fully understand a culture, they may feel confused or overwhelmed. Instead of asking questions respectfully, some foreigners react with frustration or mockery. They may try to challenge or argue with Filipino storytellers rather than learning from them.

2. Expecting “One Right Version”
   Many foreigners are used to mythologies being written down and standardized—like Greek or Norse myths. So when they hear different versions of a Filipino legend, they may accuse the storyteller of being “wrong.” They don’t realize that oral tradition thrives on variation. In Philippine mythology, many versions can be true.

3. Clout-Chasing and Division
   Sadly, some foreigners try to insert themselves into Filipino mythology discussions just to get attention. They clout-chase by acting like experts or stirring controversy, often without deep understanding or respect for the culture. Some even go as far as pitting Filipinos against each other—debating whose version is “correct,” criticizing local creators, or spreading drama to get more clicks, followers, or views.
   This behavior is not only absurd. it’s harmful. It turns a beautiful, shared heritage into a popularity contest.

4. Colonial Mindset and Ego
   There are still people who carry colonial attitudes, treating Filipino stories as “less valid” just because they’re not Western. When Filipinos speak with confidence about their culture, these individuals may feel threatened. Instead of being humble and curious, they try to dominate the conversation or discredit the storytellers.

5. Bias and Colonial Mindset (Again yes ulit ulit nalang)
   Sadly, some people still carry a mindset that non-Western cultures are “less serious” or “less real.” They may look down on local beliefs or storytellers as “uneducated” or “making things up,” which is both unfair and disrespectful.

Dear Foreigners Who Wanna Learn Philippine Mythology

Philippine Mythology Is Not Netflix Season 1.

There’s no “official” storyline. No cinematic universe where everyone agrees. One town says the Manananggal flies at night. Another says she sells kakanin during fiestas. Both are correct. Don’t look for consistency—embrace the chaos. It’s part of the charm.

Don’t Bring That Western Fixed-Mindset Here.
This isn’t Greek or Norse mythology with one version and a cast list. Ours is alive, constantly changing, and told differently across our 7,641 islands. It’s not broken—it’s beautifully flexible. No need to fix it, just feel it.

 Learn a Bit of the Language Or Three. (hindi yung kami pa ung mag a adjust)

Want to go deeper? Learn some Tagalog, Bisaya, Ilocano, or any of our many local languages. Mythology isn’t just in the story—it’s in the words, the accents, the flavor. You don’t need to be fluent, just willing. Locals will appreciate the effort more than perfect grammar.

Don’t Stalk or Harass Storytellers Online.

This should be obvious butt some folks need the reminder. Disagreeing is fine, but attacking, doxxing, or bullying creators? Big no-no. You’re not “correcting history,” you’re just being creepy. Respect the people keeping these stories alive.

Clout Is Not a Personality.
Please don’t use Filipino myths to farm views, start drama, or pit Filipinos against each other. These stories are meant to unite, not divide. If your content is causing more fights than fascination, it might be time to step back and rethink the approach.

Mythology Is for Everyone but It Starts With Respect.
Philippine mythology welcomes all curious hearts. It’s a bridge between generations, islands, and even countries. But like any culture, it asks you to come with humility, respect, and a willingness to listen. The goal isn’t to own it, but to learn from it and maybe fall in love along the way.

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.

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!