The Nightsky of Bicol

In ancient times, the heavens served as both a map and a mystery for humanity. The celestial bodies — stars, planets, comets, and meteors — inspired observation, myth, and attempts at explanation. The planets, distinct in their wandering paths across the sky, contrasted with the relatively fixed positions of the stars. Venus, with its brilliance, became the most easily identifiable and frequently discussed celestial object. Seasonal changes, tides, winds, and rain were closely tied to these celestial observations, shaping life and language in profound ways.

In old Bicol , the night sky, moon, and stars were objects of fascination and romantic longing for various reasons. These celestial bodies held spiritual and mythological significance, serving as navigational tools for seafarers, influencing agricultural practices, marking cultural events, and inspiring romantic themes in traditional folklore and oral storytelling. The celestial elements played a vital role in daily life, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of both modern and indigenous people and shaping their worldview.

Venus: The Morning and Evening Star

Venus was often perceived as two different celestial bodies: the morning star and the evening star. This perception stemmed from its orbital pattern relative to the sun. When Venus trails the sun, it appears after sunset as the evening star. Conversely, as it moves faster in its orbit and overtakes Earth, it becomes visible before sunrise as the morning star.

• In Bikol Language:
  The term nagsubáng is used for Venus as the morning star, derived from subáng, meaning "to rise" in the east. Additionally, makakadamlág refers to Venus when it shines through the night.

• In Tagalog:
  The star tala is identified as Venus, specifically as the morning star. This identification is consistent with descriptions found in early Tagalog lexicons.

• In Waray and Cebuano:
  In Waray, Venus is referred to as bituˈon sa kaagahan (“the morning star”) and kapanosan. Similarly, in Cebuano, the terms makabanglos and kabugason are used, both indicating Venus as the morning star.

In pre-colonial Philippines, the night sky, moon, and stars held a profound significance and were objects of fascination and romantic longing for several reasons:

Spiritual and Mythological Significance (Bicol)

   - Pre-colonial Filipino societies had animistic beliefs, and they often associated celestial bodies with deities and spirits. The moon and stars, in particular, were believed to have divine qualities and were sometimes linked to creation myths and epic narratives. In Bicolano mythology the night sky was considered by many as the vast Celestial ocean, realm of the deity Tubig (Tubigan) and all the ancient Swimming monsters

 Navigation and Timekeeping:

   - The indigenous peoples of the Philippines were skilled seafarers and traders. The night sky served as a natural navigational tool for maritime activities. The position of the stars and the phases of the moon were used to determine direction, helping seafarers navigate the vast archipelago.

  Agricultural Practices

   - The pre-colonial Filipinos were primarily agrarian communities, and celestial events were often linked to agricultural practices. The phases of the moon, for instance, were essential for determining planting and harvesting seasons, as well as for other agricultural activities.

Cultural and Festive Observations

   - Celestial events often marked important cultural and festive occasions. The cycles of the moon, for instance, might be associated with the timing of rituals, celebrations, and festivals. The appearance of certain constellations might be linked to specific cultural practices.

Bulan at Haliya

Symbolism and Romanticism:

   - The moon and stars held symbolic meanings, representing love, beauty, and inspiration. The night sky became a canvas for poets and storytellers, and its beauty inspired romantic themes in traditional folklore, songs, and poetry.

Oral Tradition and Storytelling

   - In the absence of a written language, the pre-colonial Philippines relied heavily on oral traditions for passing down knowledge, stories, and cultural values. The night sky, with its celestial bodies, became a source of inspiration for myths, legends, and stories that were orally transmitted from one generation to the next.

Connection to Everyday Life

   - The movements of the moon and stars influenced daily activities, from timekeeping to religious rituals. Observing the celestial bodies provided a sense of order and connection to the broader cosmos, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.

The night sky, moon, and stars, therefore, played a multifaceted role in old Bicol  societies, serving as sources of guidance, inspiration, cultural identity, and romantic symbolism. The celestial elements were intricately woven into the fabric of everyday life, shaping the worldview and cultural expressions of the indigenous people in the Philippines.

Haliya goddess of moonlight

 astronomical terms found on Vocabulario de la lengua 

Compiled Jeremiah Cordial ❤️

𝗠𝗮𝗴̃𝗻𝗮 𝗬𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗮 𝗟𝗮𝗴̃𝗻𝗶𝘁  Astronomical terms in Bikol based on Vocabulario de la lengua Bicol by Maŕcos de Lisboa (d. 1628)

𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗴- (or Aldaw) the Sun, its brightness and heat.

𝗕𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗻- star. A big star is called 𝗡𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗴, literally referring to the emitted light from the sun. A particular star called 𝗣𝗼𝗴𝗼𝘁 is used as a sign of coming typhoon, while a particular group of three stars called 𝗧𝗼𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 is used as a sign for typhoon season or impending storm. A group of stars are called 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗻.

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴- the Southern Cross constellation.

𝗟𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗴- the three stars found on Orion's belt.

𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗼- Pleiades, or a cluster of stars.

𝗦𝘂𝘄𝗮𝗴- quadrangle of stars, used as a sign of midnight.

𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗺𝗹𝗮𝗴- Venus, first believed to be a star.

𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗸𝗮𝘄- comets and asteroids.

𝗞𝘂𝗹𝗼𝗽- solar or lunar eclipse.

𝗠𝗮𝗴̃𝗻𝗮 𝗬𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗮 𝗟𝗮𝗴̃𝗻𝗶𝘁 - Phases of the moon and words related to earth, tide, and night. Based on 1950 Kalendaryong Bikol and Notes from Vocabulario de la Lengua Bicol.¨

𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗻- the moon, the natural satellite of planet Earth.

𝗕𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗴- full moon. Written as 𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻 by Lisboa which lasts the whole night.

𝗚𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗮- new moon. Written as 𝗖𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮 𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗺 by Lisboa which happens five to six days. 𝗡𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗮 means to become a new moon.

𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮- waning moon. 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗻 also means the same but takes longer in coming/fading out (from the word subang, to emit light).

𝗣𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗸𝘂𝗹𝗮- waxing moon.

𝗧𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗸𝗼𝗹- the tide rising as the moon becomes bigger. Also written as 𝗟𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗴 by Lisboa. I usually hear this word spoken as "tignarakol" but Lisboa spells it Tig̃narakol.

𝗞𝘂𝗯𝗼𝘀- the tide decreasing as the moon becomes smaller. Also written as 𝗨𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 by Lisboa. When the tide stops ebbing, 𝗔𝘆𝗮𝗮𝘆 is used.

𝗗𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗺- refers to the darkness when the moon is no longer seen above the sky.

𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗶- refers to the sun rising when the moon is still in its last quarter, as in 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗮𝘁𝗶 𝗻𝗮 𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗻. The word 𝗞𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 is also used when the sun rises while the moon slowly disappears early in the morning.

𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗻- the Earth.

𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘆𝗮𝗽- the moon or sun when covered by the clouds, dimming their light.

SI HALIYA DIWATA NG BUWAN

 

Haliya

Sa mitolohiyang Bicolano Si Haliya ang Diyosa o diwata ng liwanag ng buwan, o diwata ng buwan sa lupain  Ibalong.  Mandirigma, Matapang at malakas ang loob, walang kapintasan ang kanyang maamo at magandang mukha na kanyang intinatago sa likod ng maskarang gawa sa ginto. Bilang diwata ng Buwan at kumakatawan sa liwanag ng buwan siya ang tagapagtangol ng sinaunang diwata ng buwan na si Bulan.

Pinaniniwalaang si Haliya ay anak ni Bulan, sa ibang bersyon ng kwento siya ay kapatid, kapid ni Bulan. Malungkot at nangungulila sa pag iiisa sa kalangitan at kamurayan si Bulan. Sa kanayang pighati ay binunot niya mula sa kanyang katawan at nilalang nya ito upang maging kasama. Mula kay Bulan umusbong ang napakagadang si Haliya. Si Haliya gaya ni Bulan ay napakagandang diwata, mala sulta ang balat sa kaputian, ang kanilang mata at mahahabang buhok ay sing itim ng hating gabi.

Ang Diyosa nin Bicolandia, asin tagapagsurog nin Bulan

Si Haliya at matapang, matatag at mabagis kung minsan, kabaliktaran ng kanyang kapid na maamo, pala laro at may kahinhinan. Isang halimbawa ay ang kwento kung saan nakita ng mga Dayao ang halimaw na Rabot, nais agad puksain ni Haliya ang halimaw gamit ang kanyang kampilan ngunit siya ay pinigilan ni Bulan. Si Haliya at si Bulan ang pinaka ma-dayao o pinakamaganda sa kalangitan, dalisay na nagliliwanag sa madilim na kalangitan. Sa kanilang angking rikit ay nabibighani ang mga ibang diwata, halimaw at mga sirena.

Marami at iba iba ang kwento tungkol kay Haliya. Pagpasalinsalin ang kwento ni Haliya, Bulan at ng Bakunawa mula lumang pahanhon hangang sa kasalukyan..

sino si Haliya?

Sa mitolohiya at kwentong bayan siya ang diyosa ng Buwan na kalaban ng Bakunawa.

Si Haliya at Bakunawa

Bakunawa

Maraming ibat ibang  kwento tungkot sa Bakunawa, laganap sa buong kapuluan. Sa Ibalong ,Ang bakunawa ay isang sinaunang diwata, isang diyos sa kailaliman. Gaya ng ibang nilalang nabighani ang si Bakunawa sa taglay na ningning ng mga dayao. Laging pinagmamasdan, laging tinitingala at laging umaasa si Bakunawa na mapansin manlang siya ni Bulan. Siang gabi bumaba mula sa kalangitan si Bulan at si Haliya. Masayang nag tampisaw at lumangoy kasama ng mga Magindara o sirena. Napagtanto ni Bakunawa na ito na ang tamang panahon upang lumapit at magtapat sa Bulan na kanyang laging tinitingala at tinatanaw. Nanglumapit si Bakunawa ay hindi siya napansin ni Bulan, pagkat ito ay masayang lumalangoy at nakikipaglaro sa mga sirena at iba pang nilalang. Napuno ng pag iimbot at galit si Bakunawa, ang tamis ng kanyang pagsinta ay napalitan ng pait at hapdi. Pinangako niya na mapapasakanya si Bulan. Nagpalit anyo ang diwata ng kailaliman, siya ay naging malaking nilalang na may kaliskis, isang dambuhalang halimaw na ang bibig ay sing-laki ng lawa. Mula sa kaibuturan ng dagat ay umabon ang Bakunawa upang lamunin si Bulan. Napansin ni Haliya ang paparating na panganip. Kanyang sinuot ang kanyang gayak pandigma, kinuha ang kampilang yari sa liwanag ng mga bituoon, at ang maskarang ginto. Kinalaban ni Haliya ang dambuhalang Bakunawa upang iligtas ang kanyang kapid. Nakita ni Gugurang (ang pinaka makapangyarihang diyos) ang mga naganap. Pinarusahan niyang manatiling anyong dambuhalang halimaw si Bakunawa. Simula noon ay katungali na ni Haliya ang Bakunawa.

Ang bulaklak ng Sawa at bulaklak ng Takay

Ang mga taong lipod ay ang mga ispiru ng hangin at ulap, sila ang mga mababang diwata na siyang naglilingkod sa mga dayao. Nais ng mga tawong lipod matuklasan kung ano ba ang mayroon sa lupa. Sakanilang pagtataka at paguusisa ay di sinasadyang marinig ni Haliya ang mga ito. Kimubinsi ng mga taong lipod na bumama sa lupa si Haliya, si Haliya naman ay pinilit si Bulan na sumama pababa sa lupa. Noong una ay ayaw pa ni Bulan bumaba sa, ngunit sa pag pupumilit ng kapid ay pumayag na rin ito. Mula sa kaintaasan ng kamurayan ay dahang dahang bumaba si Haliya at Bulan, kasunod ng mga tawong lipod. walang kupas ang kinang ng dalawa, ang pag baba ni Haliya at Bulan ay isang kagilagilalas na pangyayari. Sa kanilang kagandahan ay napatingil sa pag lipad ang mga ibon at mga lumilipad na nilalang. Pagtapak sa lupa ni Haliya at Bulan ang mga halimaw ng lupa ay pansamantalang naging maamo.Dahil sa kanilang taglay na kagandahan ang mga mababangis na aswang dagat na magindara ay naging maamo. Sa labis labis na kagandahan at busilak na liwanag na kanilang taglay pansamantalang nalimutan ng mga isda na lumangoy. Nagtampisaw sa lawa ng Bato si Haliya at Bulan. Ang mga halaman ay nag bulungan at nahiya. Tinanong ni Haliya ang mga ito. Sumagot ang mga halaman na hindi sila karapat dapat kausapin ng mga Buwan dahil sila ay mga halamang tubig lamang. Naantig si Haliya at Bulan sa mga kataga ng halaman. Bilang gantimpala sa kababaang loob pjnagkalooban nila ng kagandahan ng mga ito. Ang mga halaman ay naging bulaklak ng sawa (lotus)at bulaklak ng takay.(water hyacinth). Ang mga bulaklak na ito ay kumakatawan sa kababaang loob kanilisan ng kalooban ng puso. Makikitang kahit sa pinakamaputik na lugar ay namumukadkad ng nakaangat ng walang bahid ang mga ito. Ang tangkay naman ay nanatiling nakababad sa putik, simbulo na kailan man ay hindi mag mamataas.

Ang bulaklak ng sawa at ng takay ay kumakatawan sa pagiging mabait, mapagkumbaba at pagiging palakaibigan ng mga Bikolano. Ang putik at yurak na tinutubaan ng mga ito ay ang pasakit at paghihirap sa buhay na hindi maiiwasan, ang mamumukadkad ng mga bulaklak ay kumakatawan sa kalinisan ng budhi at pagiging masikap ng mga Bikolano. Ang tangkay na nakalubog sa putik ay gaya ng mga paang nakatapak sa lupa, ang magiging mabait at mapagkumbaba.

Haliya

Ibang sanaysay ukol sa bulaklak ng Takay

Namasadan mula sa kaitaasan at nasaksihan ni Haliya at Bulan ang pag iibigan ng mga mortal na si Takay at Kanaway. Nasaksihan nila ang puot at pag iimbot ng diyos ng bagyo at himpapawirin na si Onos, sa handlang sa pag iibigan ng dalawa. Dahil sa kasakiman ni Onos at nais niyang ma angkin ang dalagang si Takay ay nilubog niya ang buong Ibalong gamit ang daluyong. Di sinasadya ay nalunod ang kaawa awang si Takay at Kanaway. Naantig si Bulan at Haliya. kanilang muling pinagsama ang mga walang buhay na katawan ng magkasintahan at ginawang mga bulaklak ng Takay.

Si Haliya ang diwata ng liwanag ng buwan, ang bagong diwata ng buwan na sumasagisag sa katapangan at pagiging buo ng kalooban.Ang Diyosa nin Bicolandia, asin tagapagsurog nin Bulan, Ang paglaban nya kay Bakunawa ay tulad ng mga taong handang gawin ang lahat upang ipag tanggol ang mga minamahal sa buhay. Katapangan, pagpupursigi at kalinisan ng budhi. 

Haliya

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.

HALIYA

HALIYA the goddess of moonlight

Haliya masked goddess of the moonlight

Haliya in Bicol mythology  a lunar goddess, according to stories and folklore she to be worshipped mainly by women in  Bicol. Prominently known as the arch-enemy of the dragon Bakunawa. In Bicolano Mythology She is the warrior goddess of moonlight and sister, while in other stories she is Bulan's daughter,  confidant and protector. She is strong and adamant as Bulan is weak and submissive. She is depicted as a very lovely young woman with very fair and radiant skin, and having long black hair and eyes as dark as midnight. She and Bulan are the most pursued and fairest beings in the heavens. She wears a mask to hide her beauty.
She was convinced by the wind people or  ancient Taong Lipod to go down to the waters of the earth to bathe, she in turn convinced Bulan go bathe in the waters of Bicol.
She is described as having otherworldly beauty with fair and luminous skin and with long black hair darker than midnight same as his twin brother Bulan. Many myths depic Haliya as wearing a golden mask made of starlight to hide her beauty

Haliya masked goddess of the Moon and Moonlight

Numerous oral myths and different versions of the folklore

Some stories say that Haliya was not Bulan's sister but his daughter. The most known version of the story is that Bulan out of loneliness being alone in the heavens used starlight created a being in his own image, to be his confidant to keep him company, it was the goddess Haliya.
In all stories in Ibalong it is very prevalent that even though Haliya and Bulan share the same kind of radiant beauty they were polar opposite when it comes to personality, Bulan was childlike and playful and sweet while Haliya was described as expressionless(emotionless), strong and even ruthless. In most stories involving beast and mortals usually Haliya would just want to smite the monster immediately with her Kampilan(broad sword), while Bulan would befriend it, such as the story of the beast Rabot the demi god, Haliya upon seeing it was a monster wanted to slice Rabot in half, but Bulan stopped her.  Also in the story where Haliya and Bulan were pursued by the gods, Haliya paid no interest nor attention. The story of Sidapa giving gifts to the lunar gods and performing miracles to win their attention, in that story Haliya was unmoved, with contrast to Bulan who was very pleased and greatful to the gifts of the foreign god that he gave a lock of his long beautiful black hair as a token of appreciation.

Bulan and Haliya

Haliya bicolano moon goddess

According to oral myths and legends Haliya is worshipped by cults of women, she is the symbol of strength in women. Dance ritual Halea or Haliya is named after her (or the other way around depending on the folklore)

Statues of the goddess Haliya 

Philiipine Statue of Masked Haliya

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

18 feet tall Haliya Masked Moon goddess statue in Dubai
photo by jazperjay

 ‘Haliya Bathing’ by Agnes Arellano

 ‘Haliya Bathing’ by Agnes Arellano

might be based one of the oral myths about how Haliya descended from the heavens and fell inlove with a mortal man. She temporary forgot she was a deity. At the time she is about to gave birth she returned to the waters where she first descended ad her brother Bulan sent fairies and sylphs to sing and play music to soothe her and celebrate the union between mortal and divine

Haliya and the Bakunawa

Haliya VS Bakunawa

In the Oral  myths and stories Haliya is known to be the arch-enemy of the moon-eating dragon Bakunawa. Bakunawa was once a beautiful goddess who dwells in the darkest deepest parts of the ocean (some say it was the gates of the cold underworld) who saw Haliya and Bulan's light when they were swimming in the waters. The goddess Bakunawa went swimming near Bulan and Haliya and was smitten by Bulan's comeliness and boy charm but was unnoticed by the moon god. So she vowed to claim Bulan from the sky. Thus transforming herself into a serpent-like-dragon to devour the moon. Haliya who was sworn to protect her brother battled Bakunawa. Gugurang the supreme deity saw their fight and punished Bakunawa to be forever be trapped in her dragon form.

Haliya moon goddess (diwata ng linwanag ng buwan)

Bakunawa and Haliya in Bicol mythology

According to Bicolano myths, Bakunawa was punished for her arrogance and greed for desiring the moon or moon or moons (depending on the story). She lost her beauty and transformed into a giant fish seaserpent being guarding the underworld gates. Bakunawa fell in love with Bulan, the god of the moon, but he neglected her. In her pursuit to claim Bulan from the sky, she made an enemy out of Haliya, the moon god's sister and protector.

Bakunawa and the seven moons (northern Bicol )

Long ago there were seven moons in the sky. Each of the moons embodies a lunar deity. One night Bakunawa saw the beauty of the moons. Captivated by their beauty he wanted to possess them so the Bakunawa rose from his domain and flew to devour the moons. Inordinately proud of his feat, he slunk back down to his watery domain. Unfortunately, he soon realized the moon inside him was melting away like candle wax. He wants to take a moon that would last; Bakunawa rose into the sky the next night and swallowed another moon. But this one too melted away. Night after night he took another moon from the sky, and each time it melted away inside him  The creator of all saw what had happened was furious. Rather than kill  Bakunawa, he punished him to remain in the beast for all eternity and commanded him not to devour the last moon." Every now and then Bacunawa tries, yes he tries to eat the last moon, and that is why it turns red. But the people on earth raise a loud clamour of clanging and clashing metal, screaming and wailing, all to startle him into spitting the moon out. Others take the gentler approach, playing music to put him into a deep sleep so that the moon will roll out of his mouth

Bakunawa and the Seven Moons (southern Bicol)

Long ago god created the seven moons to give light and beauty to the night sky, each moon had a deity as an embodiment. (Libulan,Haliya,Subang,Banolor,Banilig,Bulan,Mayari)
One night she saw the seven moon and was captivated by their beauty and longed to possess them. One of the embodiments of the moon descended to the sea to swim with the mermaids, it was Bulan - the adolescent aspect of the moon. Bulan was so comely with his long dark hair and his eyes darker than midnight, and his luminous fair skin that the vicious magindara became tame upon seeing his radiant beauty. the boy moon did not notice Bakunawa, thinking the boy had ignored her beauty to play with the mermaids enraged her. The following night she transformed herself into a dragon so she could devour the moons. Her dragon form was sea serpent with a mouth the size of a lake, a red tongue, whiskers, gills, small wires at its sides, and two sets of wings, one is large and ash-gray while the other is small and is found further down its body.

THE SEVEN MOONS IN REALITY

the seven Moons were decoded by Scientist which tells that of lunar phases,Waxing,First Quarter,Waxxing Gibbous,Full Moon,Wanning Gibbous,Third Quarter, and Wanning Crescent

The new moon, referred to as "subang,"  The moon looks like a crab shell. They used the term ''banilig'' "balirig" to describe this phase.The full moon, or the moon in general is known as '' bulan'' or  "dayaw," was celebrated for its perfect and praiseworthy brilliance from sunset to sunrise. As it began to wane, setting just before dawn, it was called "banolor," symbolizing a transition or exchange, akin to a passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

Bacunawa in Sorsogon folklore

Bacunawa and Bulan

according to folklore long ago there were seven moons in the sky, each one more beautiful than the last, and they brought peace and light to the world. Bacunawa, a giant serpent-dragon living deep in the ocean, fell in love with Bulan, the god of the moon. Her love turned into obsession, and she decided to steal the moons to keep them with her in the sea.

One night, Bacunawa rose from the ocean and began swallowing the moons. Bulan tried to stop her, but she was consumed by her longing. Gugurang, the Supreme God, intervened, using his fiery power to stop Bacunawa from devouring all the moons. Though she managed to swallow three moons, the remaining four were saved.

Banished to the ocean depths, Bacunawa’s hunger remained. Every now and then, she tries to rise and steal the moons again, but people bang their gongs to drive her away, knowing Gugurang is always watching to protect the skies.

Halya to Haliya the arc nemesis of Bacunawa

Haliya the masked goddess of Moonlight

Haliya: The Moonlight Goddess in Philippine Animism

Haliya is the goddess of moonlight in Bicolano and Luzon mythology, known as a masked protector who defends the lunar god Bulan from the serpent Bakunawa. In some stories, she is his daughter or twin.

Haliya is closely linked to the lunar god Bulan, sometimes described as his defender, daughter, or twin, depending on different oral traditions. She is known for protecting Bulan from Bakunawa, the serpent-like creature that seeks to devour the moon.

The Halya ritual, originally a full moon celebration, evolved into a sacred practice to summon Haliya’s protection. During the Halia ritual, people would gather and make loud noises to scare away Bakunawa and ward off evil spirits. Over time, Haliya became a symbol of strength, resilience, and divine protection in Philippine animism.

Haliya the masked goddess of Moonlight

The ancient ritual of Halya, once a simple celebration of the full moon, gradually transformed over time into a mythical summoning of the goddess of the Moon, known as Haliya. As stories and myths evolve through generations, the Halya ritual took on deeper spiritual significance, incorporating elements of divine intervention and protection. As the ritual evolved, so too did the mythology surrounding it. Over time, the people began to personify the protective forces of the moon, giving rise to the concept of Haliya, the goddess of the Moon. Haliya became a symbol of strength and defence, defending the male lunar deity Bulan from the threat of the Bacunawa

"Halia" was a ritual performed during the full moon. Tribespeople would exit their homes, gather in the streets, and create a cacophony of noise to deter the serpent Bakunawa from devouring the moon. The ceremony also aimed to dispel malevolent spirits.

Summoning the Masked Moon goddess in myths to battle the Bacunawa

The ancient ritual of Halya, once a simple celebration of the full moon, gradually transformed over time into a mythical summoning of the goddess of the Moon, known as Haliya. As stories and myths evolve through generations, the Halya ritual took on deeper spiritual significance, incorporating elements of divine intervention and protection. Haliya is the personifacation of Halya ritual and the fabled masked goddess of the Moonlight 

Bulan and Haliya 

Originally, the festival of Halya was marked by extravagant festivities, characterized by the thunderous noise of drums, tambourines, and hollowed-out logs. The purpose of the celebration was to honor the full moon and ward off the threat of the Baconaná (Bakunawa), a feared creature believed to devour the moon, plunging the world into darkness. The disappearance of the moon during eclipses reinforced this belief, as the people interpreted it as evidence of the Baconaná's influence.

As the ritual evolved, so too did the mythology surrounding it. Over time, the people began to personify the protective forces of the moon, giving rise to the concept of Haliya, the goddess of the Moon. Haliya became a symbol of strength and defense, defending the male lunar deity Bulan from the threat of the Bacunawa

 participants in the Halya ritual not only celebrated the beauty of the full moon but also invoked the protective powers of Haliya to safeguard their world from darkness and disaster. The ritual took on a deeper spiritual significance, as participants believed they were actively engaging with divine forces to ensure the prosperity and well-being of their community.

The culmination of the ritual was marked by feasting and revelry, as participants indulged in tuba and enjoyed the bounty of the land. However, underlying the festivities was a sense of reverence and awe for the mythical beings they invoked and the cosmic forces they sought to appease.

Thus, the ancient ritual of Halya transformed into a mythical summoning of Haliya, the goddess of the Moon, as the people's beliefs and traditions evolved over time.

Haliya
the goddess of moonlight, the protector of Bulan the god of the pale moon,
and arch-enemy of the Bakunawa
'

Summoning the Moon goddess in myths

The ancient ritual of Halya, once a celebration of the full moon, gradually transformed over time into a mythical summoning of the goddess of the Moon, known as Haliya. As stories and myths evolve through generations, the Halya ritual took on deeper spiritual significance, incorporating elements of divine intervention and protection.

Originally, the festival of Halya was marked by extravagant festivities, characterized by the thunderous noise of drums, tambourines, and hollowed-out logs. The purpose of the celebration was to honor the full moon and ward off the threat of the Baconaná (Bakunawa), a feared creature believed to devour the moon, plunging the world into darkness. The disappearance of the moon during eclipses reinforced this belief, as the people interpreted it as evidence of the Baconaná's influence.

As the ritual evolved, so too did the mythology surrounding it. Over time, the people began to personify the protective forces of the moon, giving rise to the concept of Haliya, the goddess of the Moon. Haliya became a symbol of strength and defense, defending the male lunar deity Bulan from the threat of the Bacunawa

In the revised narrative, participants in the Halya ritual not only celebrated the beauty of the full moon but also invoked the protective powers of Haliya to safeguard their world from darkness and disaster. The ritual took on a deeper spiritual significance, as participants believed they were actively engaging with divine forces to ensure the prosperity and well-being of their community.

The Ancient Halya ritual

"Halia" was a ritual performed during the full moon. Tribespeople would exit their homes, gather in the streets, and create a cacophony of noise to deter the serpent Bakunawa from devouring the moon. The ceremony also aimed to dispel malevolent spirits.

One of the festivals they celebrated with the most pomp and uproar, to the terrifying noise of drums, tambourines, and balalones or hollowed-out logs, was the one dedicated to the full moon, a festival they called Halia. And they held this festival with such deafening and truly savage noise to prevent the Baconaná, a harmful and very misshapen animal, from swallowing the moon and leaving them in darkness, something they felt greatly, and which they took as a sign of some impending disaster or terrible misfortune that, devastating their fertile land, would leave them enveloped in the greatest misery. Since eclipses coincide with the full moon, they undoubtedly believed that its disappearance was because the Baconaná was swallowing it, and standing in two rows, forming a chorus, they would begin to sing the praises of the moon, which with its beautiful and clear light turned the night into a splendid day, preserving the charms of a cool and peaceful temperature. This superstitious ceremony or rite would usually end with everyone, satiated with tuba and buffalo or wild boar meat, lulled by the monotonous and languid rhythm of noisy revelry, awakening as if lethargic and drunken, the effect of the spirited liquor poured in wild abundance into rough coconut shell cups and distributed among the attendees.

The culmination of the ritual was marked by feasting and revelry, as participants indulged in tuba and enjoyed the bounty of the land. However, underlying the festivities was a sense of reverence and awe for the mythical beings they invoked and the cosmic forces they sought to appease.

Thus, the ancient ritual of Halya transformed into a mythical summoning of Haliya, the goddess of the Moon, as the people's beliefs and traditions evolved over time.

The Celestial gods and the flowers

Abundant in the waters of Bikol are some of the loveliest flowers, the Bikolanos they were once both significant culturally and spiritually before the Spanish colonisation occurred and the settlers of Ibalong became Christians. The people of Ibalong associated the flowers with the divine, with the lunar gods Haliya and Bulan. These flowers were the water hyacinth, the water lilies and the lotus.

Haliya bicolano goddess of Moonlight

The Legend of the Takay Flowers

Long ago in Bicol there lived a lovely maiden named Takay, She was desired by men and gods but loved only one man named Kanaway. Takay was guarded by Onos the god of storms who also wanted her. Angry that Takay only loved Kanaway Onos shot lightning but Kanaway did not die but only turned to stone, he got angry and attacked the mountain(mt. Asog) where Kanaway was with numerous lighting bolts. Onos made it rain hard and storms came causing deluge thus making it sink and turn into now Lake Buhi. Onos later realized that in the process he had drowned the maiden he desires Takay. That night Haliya and Bulan went to bathe in the fresh waters of the new lake and saw the lovely corpse of the maiden. Takay's remains were being taken care of by the plants there. Moved by what they had seen Haliya and Bulan used their powers to make Takay into lovely flowers that grew on the plants.

The legend of the lotus flowers

The god Bulan and his sister Haliya followed by an entourage of wind people had frequent swims in the waters of the earth. One night they landed on the fresh waters of a Lake (Lake Bato - Freshwater lake in Camarinez sur), the plants were shy because of the beauty of the moons and said that they did not deserve to be in the same water as the gods. The god Bulan was touched by the sentiments of the water plants and he rewarded them. The next night the plants saw that they were now beautiful too, having beautiful flowers, the lotus flowers were gifts from the gods. In other version of the story the lotus flowers is the proof that Bulan dip his body into the monster infested waters of Ibalong and had rendered them tame

Both Haliya and Bulan are strongly associated with the Takay flowers(water hyacinth) and lPadma (lotus) flowers 

The takay flower was the gift of the lunar gods to the people of Bikol. While the lotus divine providence reminding the people of Ibalong to be good and kindhearted to one another.

 symbolises spiritual enlightenment and rebirth

 Bikolano people were  stunned  with its ability to dip into the grime and revive itself unscathed (like the way Bulan took a dip in the monster infested waters of Ibalong)—an incredible daily cycle of life, death, and a sudden immaculate rebirth ( the rebirth from primordial moon to the pubescent god) that can only be described as spiritual. the lotus is symbolic of purity of the body, speech, and mind as while rooted in the mud, its flowers blossom on long stalks as if floating above the muddy waters of attachment and desire. It is also symbolic of detachment as drops of water easily slide off its petals.

Bulan and Haliya

Haliya, Bulan and Bacunawa

According to Bicolano myth, the formidable Bakunawa did not always manifest as the colossal fish-dragon that seeks to devour the moon. Originally, she was a Naga, a serpent deity, and a goddess who, like other divine entities, held admiration for the celestial deity, Bulan. The moon, personified as Bulan, was known for its beauty and radiance, captivating the hearts of both mortal and divine beings alike.

The beautiful goddess Haliya was convinced by the wind nymphs to descend to the waters of Bicol, She then conviced Bulan to go down with her thus developing Bulan's nightly descend from the heavens to the waters of Bicol .Where Bulan would indulge in nightly baths accompanied by his entourage of wind nymphs. Among those who admired him from afar was Bakunawa, the goddess with a heart filled with love for the luminous Bulan. However, her attempts to approach him were in vain, as Bulan, being childlike and playful, was often immersed in joyous activities, playing and swimming with the mermaids.

Bulan the Primodial Moon god of Bicol

Frustrated and angered by this misunderstanding, Bakunawa vowed to make Bulan hers. Fueled by a mixture of unrequited love and jealousy, she harnessed her magical powers to undergo a profound transformation. The once elegant goddess morphed into a colossal fish-dragon, ready to challenge the celestial harmony.

The ensuing night witnessed Bakunawa's dramatic attempt to devour Bulan, eclipsing the moon with her massive form. It was then that Haliya, a significant figure in Bicolano mythology and the more dominant twin, stepped forward to confront Bakunawa. A fierce battle ensued between the two powerful entities, marking the beginning of a timeless conflict that would echo through the celestial realms.

Bulan and Haliya

From that moment onwards, Haliya and Bakunawa became arch-enemies, locked in a cosmic struggle that played out in the night sky. The lunar eclipses and celestial phenomena were seen as manifestations of their ongoing battle, with Haliya tirelessly defending Bulan from Bakunawa's relentless pursuit.

This mythical tale not only captures the imagination of those who hear it but also imparts profound lessons about the complexities of love, jealousy, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness. In Bicolano folklore, the celestial ballet between Haliya, Bulan, and Bakunawa continues to be a timeless reminder of the intricate interplay between the forces that govern the heavens.

Bulan and Haliya

HALIYA THE MOON GODDESS

In a lesser-known version of the Haliya myth from Bicol oral tradition, the moon goddess takes on a more earthly role. In this story, Haliya is a celestial being with the power to fly, descending to earth to bathe in a secret river. One night, while she bathed under the moonlight, a human man secretly watched her. He discovered that the source of her power to return to the sky lay in her clothes, so he stole them while she was in the water.

Stripped of her ability to fly back to the heavens, Haliya was forced to remain on earth. Unable to leave, she became the man's wife and lived as a mortal. Though she was a goddess, she accepted her fate and blended into human life, yet she was always bound by the loss of her celestial freedom.

When Haliya became pregnant, her powers resurfaced in unusual ways. As her time to give birth drew near, she returned to the same river where she had once lost her divine garments. Small winged fairies danced and Mysterious, enchanting music filled the air, accompanying her through the pain of labor, as if the river itself remembered her as the moon goddess. This music, whispered to be from the heavens or perhaps her celestial kin (her brother Bulan), signaled the birth of a child born of both the earth and sky, destined to carry the legacy of Haliya’s lost divine power.

This version of Haliya’s story reflects themes of loss, transformation, and the delicate balance between human and divine realms, highlighting the fluidity of oral mythology as it blends folklore with the lived experiences of the people who tell it.

HALIYA IN BICOLANO MYTHOLOGY

The Moonlit Warrior Goddess of Bicol

According to myths and stories Philippine mythology, Haliya emerges as a goddess of profound significance, revered by women in Bicol. Known as the formidable adversary of the dragon Bakunawa, Haliya represents the warrior spirit associated with the moonlight. This essay delves into the intricate tales surrounding Haliya, exploring her role as a goddess, her relationship with her brother Bulan, and her significance in the cultural and spiritual landscape of ancient Bicol.

The Moonlit Warrior Goddess:

The mythological Haliya stands as a powerful and steadfast warrior goddess, particularly associated with the moonlight. She is the sister, confidant, and protector of Bulan, the god of the moon. While Bulan is characterized by his weakness and submissiveness, Haliya embodies strength and determination. In the celestial realm, they are considered the most pursued and fairest beings, both admired for their exceptional beauty. Haliya, however, chooses to conceal her radiant allure by wearing a mask, adding an enigmatic layer to her character.

Haliya  moon goddess

Physical Attributes and Beauty:

Depicted as a strikingly lovely young woman, Haliya possesses fair and radiant skin that seems to glow in the moonlight. Her long black hair and eyes as dark as midnight contribute to her ethereal beauty. Alongside her twin brother Bulan, they shine as celestial beings, captivating the heavens with their unparalleled grace and charm. The mask she wears becomes a symbol of her decision to shield her beauty from the admiration of others.It also signifies that one should not look at beauty alone, by hiding her face you do not see her beauty, therefore you can see her other traits such as strength and bravery.

The Mythical Descent:

According to mythology, Haliya's descent to the earthly waters was influenced by the wind people, or Taong Lipod, who convinced her to bathe in the waters below, then she convinced Bulan to bathe with her. This act is significant as it emphasizes the connection between the divine and earthly realms. Haliya's interaction with the waters symbolizes her engagement with the forces of nature and the elements, showcasing her dynamic role in the mythology of Bicol.

Otherworldly Beauty

Haliya's beauty is often described as otherworldly, with her fair and luminous skin radiating a celestial glow. Her long black hair, darker than midnight, echoes the characteristics of her twin brother, Bulan. This sibling pair, with their enchanting allure, becomes central figures in Bicolano mythology, capturing the imagination and reverence of those who worship them.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance:

Haliya's stories and worship hold a special placein the lore and stories  of Bicol. As the goddess of moonlight and a symbol of strength, she embodies the qualities that women in the region might have aspired to emulate. The concealment of her beauty through the mask underscores the idea that true strength lies not only in physical attributes but in the wisdom and fortitude that come from within.

Haliya Bicolano moon goddess

Haliya, the moonlit warrior goddess of Bicolano mythology captivating and multifaceted figure. Her role as the protector of Bulan, her mythical descent, and her otherworldly beauty contribute to the rich cultural and spiritual narrative of the region. Haliya stands as a symbol of celestial beauty and also as a representation of inner strength and resilience, inspiring generations with her timeless tales. Her beauty and the way she hides it maybe symbollic that beauty is skin deep and what's more important is the personality and resilence to protect one's self  and loved ones and to  overcome all obstacle.

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.

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.

Foreigners 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.

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.