REDISCOVER HANDIONG OF BICOL MYTHOLOGY

 

Handiong

Handyong (Handiog) is a mythological Hero in Philippine mythology, specifically in Bicol. The Towering Hero of Ibalong, depending on the version of the story some say he has blood from or descended from the ''Tawong Lipod'' apsaras or apsara (Sanskrit: अप्सरा)

Handiong, in Bicol mythology, is a legendary hero who played a crucial role in the transformation of the land. Arriving in Bicol after Baltog, Handiong became the most famous among the tawong-lipod. He embarked on a heroic journey, clearing the region of menacing creatures such as one-eyed, three-throated beasts, winged sharks, wild carabaos, and man-eating crocodiles.A significant adversary in Handiong's quest was Oryol, a beautiful demigoddess with the lower part of her body resembling a giant snake. Despite attempts to trap her, Oryol's intelligence thwarted the efforts, leading to a captivating battle. Eventually, the two warriors gained mutual respect and fell in love. Oryol, with her serpent form, revealed the secrets of governing the lands to Handiong.Together, Handiong and Oryol cleaned the land of monsters, leading to the flourishing of Bicol. Their triumph over giant crocodiles, known as Buwaya, turned the Bicol River red with blood. The survivors, including Sarimao, were banished and sealed away inside Mount Kulasi.

Handiong

Handiong's success resulted in the establishment of settled communities marked by advancements in boat-building, agriculture, and the creation of tools and utensils. Laws were enacted to ensure equality, protect life and honor, fostering a sense of order and respect for heritage.The epic also recounts the earlier arrival of people led by Baltog, who settled in Tundol, facing challenges with beasts and strange creatures. Their prayers to the sun and moon gods paved the way for the establishment of a new colony.From a distant land, men led by a tall, muscular leader named Handyong arrived, seeking to purge the land of non-human creatures. After battling one-eyed monsters and giant flying fishes, the warriors successfully enslaved the fierce Tamaraw.

However, the creatures of Ibalon, including Sarimao and the Buaya, fought back. Asuang, the lord of all monsters, recognized the end of the monster era, signaling the age of man. Oryol intervened to stop the foreign warriors, but her love for Handyong led to their collaboration in cleaning the land.Despite years of prosperity under Handiong's leadership, the gods intervened, causing storms and chaos. The tragic love story of Onos and Takay resulted in deluge and floods. The moon gods, Bulan and Haliya, transformed Takay into flowers, while a great beast named Rabot posed a new threat to Ibalong.Handiong's friend, Bantong, successfully killed Rabot, but the victory left Handiong saddened, symbolizing the passing of an era. The narrative concludes with a foreshadowing of the coming subjugation of the Spaniards, as men prove to be more vicious than monsters.

Handyong

 Handyong's Quest: Purging the Land and Building a Golden Age

Enter Handyong, the central figure in the epic and the most renowned among the tawong-lipod. Arriving in Bicol with his followers after Baltog, Handyong's mission was clear – to cleanse Ibalong of predatory monsters and establish a new golden age. His exploits and battles against mythical creatures became the stuff of legends.

Handyong and his warriors faced formidable foes, from the one-eyed monster in Ponong to the giant flying fishes Tiburon. They tamed the fierce Tamaraw, defeated the Sarimao and Buaya, and purged the land of its mythic creatures. The rivers and swamps of Ibalong turned red with the blood of these creatures as Handyong set the stage for a new era.

The intervention of Oryol, a beautiful demigoddess, added intrigue to the narrative. Initially adversaries, Handyong and Oryol's story evolved into a tale of love, respect, and shared governance. Oryol's revelation of the secrets of the gods and beasts played a pivotal role in the flourishing of Bicol under Handyong's rule.

Under Handyong's leadership, Ibalong blossomed into a rich and bountiful land. Colonies were established in Isarog, progress flourished, and inventors emerged, bringing forth tools and technologies. Handyong's laws fostered equality and respect, creating a society where even slaves were dignified.

Handiong

The Battles and Triumphs of Handyong

Handyong's journey was marked by epic battles against formidable adversaries. From the one-eyed monster in Ponong to the lair of giant flying fishes known as Tiburon, Handyong and his warriors fought tirelessly, never resting until each monster was vanquished. The fierce Tamaraw was tamed, and the Sarimao, Buaya, and other mythical creatures were driven away, cleansing the land.

The rivers and swamps of Ibalong turned red with the blood of these creatures as Handyong systematically rid the land of its supernatural inhabitants. As Asuang, the lord of all monsters, acknowledged the end of the monsters' reign, Handyong's warriors, blessed by the moon god, stood as a formidable force against the mythical beings.

The Love Story of Oryol and the Flourishing of Ibalong

In the midst of Handyong's quest, a captivating love story unfolded with Oryol, a beautiful demigoddess. Initially a formidable adversary, Oryol's intelligence and allure captured Handyong's attention. The two engaged in a fierce battle, but respect for each other's strength blossomed into love.

Oryol, half-human and half-serpent, played a crucial role in Handyong's journey. Her revelation of the secrets of governing the lands contributed to the flourishing of Bicol. The demigoddess, once an obstacle, became an ally in Handyong's quest to cleanse Ibalong of monsters and build a prosperous society.

Handyong's Contributions to Progress and Innovation

Under Handyong's leadership, Ibalong transformed into a rich and bountiful land. Colonies were established in Isarog, and a season of progress followed. The people planted rice, named after Handyong, and under his good example, inventors emerged, bringing forth tools and technologies that enriched daily life.

Ginantong crafted the plow, harrow, and other farming tools. Hablom invented the first loom for weaving abaca clothes. Dinahon, an Aeta, created essential kitchen utensils. Sural thought of the alphabet and initiated the practice of writing on white rock. Ibalong, under Handyong's rule, became a hub of innovation and progress.

The Gods Intervene: A Tragic Turn of Events

However, the gods, represented by Onos and Gugurang, intervened, introducing tragedy to the narrative. The forbidden love between Onos and the mortal Takay unleashed destruction upon Ibalong. The subsequent spurning of the gods by mortals, symbolized by the destruction of Rabot, marked the end of an era.

The gods' wrath, expressed through natural disasters and the demise of Rabot, signaled a shift in the dynamics of Ibalong. Handyong, curiously saddened by Rabot's death, could be interpreted as a foreboding of the looming subjugation of the Spaniards, hinting at a changing tide in the land's history.

the legends of Baltog and Handyong in Bicol mythology not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons. These tales speak of courage, resilience, and the consequences of challenging the divine order. As the epic of Ibalong continues to be passed down through generations by Kadunung, the echoes of Baltog and Handyong's valor linger, inspiring a sense of identity and pride in the hearts of the people of Bicol.

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.

ORYOL

Oryol is a demi-goddess in Bicolano myths, she is mentioned in the epic Ibalong. Believed to be the daughter of the deity Asuang. Oryol possesses inhuman beauty and prowess when it comes to seduction. In Bikolano stories she is both a villain and a hero. She commanded monsters to battle the human colonies in Ibalong, later she will teach the secret of the gods to Handiog and together, in their reign Ibalong flurished. Aside from having a beautiful face and seductive upper body, it is told that she has a beautiful voice that could lure anyone (both men and women, even animals) Half of her body is a serpent. It is believed that the Naga and the Magindara obey her every command for she is a demigoddess.

Oryol in Ibalong


The land of Ibalong was believed to the domain of mythical monsters and beast, it is where they cohabit freely and peacefully until the human settlers came from the sea.
Oryol, a beautiful demigoddess decided to stop the foreign invaders.
Handiog and his men set traps for Oryol but she is intelligent and does not fall into their traps.

Oryol  (📸 © Noel Borbe)

Oryol is beautiful but half of her body is that of a huge serpent. With the help of the naga and magindara (vicious mermaids) She used her voice and did so the mermaids to lure the warrior, she and the mermaids were able to slay most of Handiog's men. Handiog angered seek revenge and sealed the mermaids inside a huge cave (in Mount Hantik)

Handiog searched alone for Oryol. While looking for the monster Oryol, he heard singing and was captivated by it, only to find out it was Oryol. The two battled, they gained respect for one another for they were both strong and able combatant. The two fell in love.
Oryol thought Handiog the secrets of governing the lands.

Oryol could have killed him but she fell in love with her and help Handiog clean the land of monsters. He with the help of the demi-goddess Oryol revealing the secrets of the gods and beast made Bicol flourished.

Oryol
effigy in Daragang Magayon Festival in Bicol

Oryol
Art by Nadz

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The Love Story of Oryol and the Flourishing of Ibalong

In the midst of Handyong's quest, a captivating love story unfolded with Oryol, a beautiful demigoddess. Initially a formidable adversary, Oryol's intelligence and allure captured Handyong's attention. The two engaged in a fierce battle, but respect for each other's strength blossomed into love.

Oryol, half-human and half-serpent, played a crucial role in Handyong's journey. Her revelation of the secrets of governing the lands contributed to the flourishing of Bicol. The demigoddess, once an obstacle, became an ally in Handyong's quest to cleanse Ibalong of monsters and build a prosperous society.

HANDYONG & ORYOL

Handiong and his men successfully eliminated the dangerous creatures and flying monsters in Ibalong, cleansing the land of its wild beasts.

In a mystical forest, monsters led by the clever serpent, Oryol, freely roamed. Oryol, once a beautiful and intelligent maiden, led these monsters against the humans who had invaded Ibalong. Seeking assistance, she asked for help from mystical beings like Naga and Magindara.

Oryol, a demigoddess, became a strong opponent, using her serpent-like charm and the support of mermaids to hinder Handiong and his men.Surprisingly, Oryol, who could have killed Handiong, fell in love with him and decided to help him clear the land of monsters. With Oryol's assistance, Handiong discovered secrets about gods and beasts, leading to the flourishing of Bicol. Together, they defeated giant crocodiles called Buwaya in combat, staining the Bicol River red with their blood. The survivors, including Sarimao, were banished and sealed away inside Mount Kulasi.

As years passed, Ibalong became prosperous under Handiong's leadership. Handiong established colonies in Isarog, and progress continued. In gratitude, the people named the rice they planted after Handiong. This tale symbolizes themes of love, cooperation, and the triumph of good over evil, enriching the cultural heritage of the Bicolano people. The rivers and swamps of Ibalong turned red with the blood of these mythical beings, marking the end of the monsters' influence.

Oryol

Oryol as a Malevolent Naga

Stories about Oryol are usually contrasting some stories depict her as cruel and cunning, in some kind and has a tender heart. In the legend on how the volcanoes of Bicol come to be. she plays a major part, as a demi-goddess who seek to destroy the noble women from possessing the secrets of the gods. Using her beautiful voice and minions she killed the three most beautiful maiden in Ibalong, thus creating the three mountains or volcanoes in Bicol.

Oryol's Beauty and Cunning:

In Bicolano myths, Oryol is introduced as a demigoddess of extraordinary beauty, believed to be the daughter of the deity Asuang. Her physical allure is not merely superficial; it becomes a formidable weapon in her arsenal, capable of seducing both men and women. Oryol's enchanting voice, coupled with her cunning nature, allows her to command monsters and outsmart the protagonist, Handiog, as he attempts to set traps for her. Her cunning intellect is revealed as she navigates challenges with dexterity, showcasing her ability to manipulate situations to her advantage.

Love's Transformative Power:

However, the narrative takes a profound turn when Oryol's encounter with Handiog sparks a transformative change. The initial animosity between them evolves into a deep and genuine love. This love becomes a driving force in the story, leading Oryol to make a pivotal decision – to reveal the secrets of the gods to Handiog. This act of sharing divine knowledge becomes instrumental in the flourishing of Bicol, marking a significant shift in Oryol's character from antagonist to ally.

Battle againts Buwaya

Oryol was the main reason the mighty Buwaya tribe were defeated and banished.

The Buwaya were a race of crocodile-like creature that can transfrom into humanoid crocodile warriors. They were considered monsters and Handyong defeated the giant crocodiles in combat. Handyong was assisted by Oryol in killing many of them, which lead tinged the Bicol River red with blood. The survivors were banished, along with Sarimao, to Mount Kulasi.

Oryol

Oryol as the villain in TULONG 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, fari and lovely and 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.

Duality in Oryol

It is crucial to acknowledge the duality within Oryol's character. In different stories, she is portrayed both as a malevolent naga seeking destruction and as a kind-hearted demigoddess with a tender heart. This duality adds depth to her mythology, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of her existence. Oryol's character is not confined to a singular interpretation, allowing for a nuanced understanding of her role in Bicolano folklore.

Oryol's myth undergoes a profound transformation when love enters the narrative. Despite being initially portrayed as a malevolent force, her encounter with Handiog sparks a change in the demigoddess. The love that blossoms between them transcends the boundaries of their disparate worlds, leading to a mutual respect and understanding.

The pivotal moment in Oryol's story is when she decides to reveal the secrets of the gods to Handiog. This act of sharing divine knowledge becomes instrumental in the flourishing of Bicol. Oryol, once a hindrance to the human settlers, becomes an essential ally in Handiog's quest to cleanse Ibalong of monsters and establish a prosperous society.

beauty, cunning, wisdom, and love. Her character evolves from a formidable antagonist to a vital contributor to the flourishing of Bicol. Oryol's tale serves as a timeless reminder of the transformative power of love and the intricate interplay between gods and mortals in shaping the destiny of a land.

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.