Juan Osong

 Pages are blank because the translator got harassed by a Canadian man, posting the translator's underaged photos online.

Santigwar

 In the Bicol region of the Philippines, the term "santiguar" refers to a traditional practice deeply rooted in indigenous beliefs and Spanish influence, often associated with the term "ipapatawas." This ritual is a form of faith healing aimed at diagnosing and curing ailments believed to be caused by unseen beings or spirits.

The word "santiguar" comes from the Spanish term meaning "to bless" or "to make the sign of the cross." It has been adapted into Bicolano culture to describe at least two distinct practices of talado (divination). These practices are typically embedded within larger healing rituals, which aim to identify the supernatural causes of an illness and to offer remedies to the afflicted person.

Two Forms of Santiguar:

1. Egg Divination: In this form, the healer begins by offering prayers and invoking guiding spirits. The ritual involves an inverted latok (wooden plate) or an old white pinggan (porcelain plate), upon which an egg is made to balance on its end. This delicate balance is sometimes aided by an old coin placed under the edge of the plate. As the healer silently utters various possible causes of the illness, the moment the egg balances is taken as an indication of the correct cause. To further confirm this, the egg is cracked open into a glass of water, and the healer reads the formation and consistency of the egg's contents. This reading helps determine the specific steps required to heal the person or appease the offended spirits.

2. Lambon Ritual: The second form of santiguar involves the use of a lambon, a shroud that covers the sick person. The individual extends a hand out from beneath the lambon, and if the illness is believed to be due to a spirit dwelling within the person, the healer presses a key or other pointed object into the tip of the forefinger (tammudo). During this process, the healer engages in a dialog with the spirit, which is believed to speak through the person covered by the lambon. Following this interaction, the healer administers the necessary remedies to expel the spirit or cure the illness.

Santiguar is more than just a healing practice; it is a reflection of the Bicolanos' deep connection to both their indigenous roots and the Spanish colonial influences that have shaped their spiritual practices. It embodies the community's respect for the unseen forces and the belief that harmony must be maintained with the spirit world to ensure good health and well-being.

In modern times, while some may view these practices as mere superstition, they continue to play a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of many in the Bicol region, preserving a link to the past and offering comfort and hope to those in need of healing.

Si Bulusan nan Si Aguingay

 Aguingay, or Agingay, is a legendary figure from the folklore of Bulusan, Sorsogon, known for her beauty and fair skin. She is a central character in the epic tale Si Bulusan nan Si Aguingay, which tells the story of love, tragedy, and conflict between her and her beloved, Bulusan. This tale is believed to have been passed down long before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, making it an important part of the region’s pre-colonial heritage.

Aguingay was born into a powerful neighboring tribe and was admired from a young age for her grace and striking beauty. Her fate was intertwined with Bulusan, the brave son of a great warrior, to whom she was betrothed. Together, they formed a legendary bond, and Bulusan’s bravery became so well-known that the town was later named after him, symbolizing his heroism and their destined love.

Long ago, in the ancient land of Bulusan in Sorsogon, there lived a brave and handsome warrior named Bulusan, who had just wed the beautiful and kind Agingay. The couple lived happily beneath the towering shadow of a mighty volcano. However, unknown to them, an evil force lurked in the form of Casiguran, the envious son of Apu Juban, the respected village chieftain. Though Casiguran already had a loyal and loving wife, Irosin, his heart burned with jealousy toward Bulusan, wishing to take Agingay for himself.

When Apu Juban passed away of natural causes, Casiguran saw his chance to destroy Bulusan. Driven by envy, he falsely accused Bulusan of murdering his father. To make his lie believable, he threatened and bribed the village soothsayer, Putiao, to bear false witness against Bulusan. Under this false testimony, Bulusan was brought before the village elders, the Gurang Donsol, Gurang Matnog, and Gurang Bacon. In their judgment, they sentenced him to be fed to the fearsome Mampak, a giant, man-eating bird that terrorized the village.

Despite Agingay’s tearful pleas, Casiguran’s heart remained as cold as stone. With no mercy, Bulusan was taken to the summit of the volcano, where the Mampak devoured him, leaving nothing but sorrow behind. But Casiguran’s hatred was far from satisfied. He ordered that once Agingay bore Bulusan's child, the newborn would be cast into the fiery heart of the volcano, ensuring no trace of Bulusan's legacy would remain.

Terrified and grief-stricken, Agingay climbed the volcano, her newborn son cradled in her arms, following Casiguran’s cruel command. Meanwhile, Irosin, who had long seen through her husband’s wickedness, confronted Casiguran, but he only sneered at her defiance. As guilt consumed Putiao, he confessed his false testimony to the village elders. Shocked and enraged by Casiguran's treachery, the elders, along with Irosin and the villagers, rushed to the volcano to save Agingay and her child.

Bulusan nan Si Aguingay

On the way, they discovered the lifeless body of Putiao, brutally slain by Casiguran's minions to silence him forever. When they reached the volcano’s crater, they found Agingay lying lifeless, her heart shattered by grief. She had taken her own life after casting her infant son into the fiery depths, unable to bear the weight of her sorrow. Casiguran, hiding nearby, was seized by the furious villagers and was thrown into the same fiery crater where he had condemned Bulusan and his son.

With heavy hearts, the villagers carried Agingay's lifeless body down the slopes of the volcano. Their tears, mixed with the blood of Bulusan and the sorrow of Agingay, flowed down the mountainside, forming two beautiful lakes. These lakes, born of tragedy and love, became known as Lake Bulusan and Lake Agingay. The mighty volcano, which had witnessed both the love and sorrow of Bulusan and Agingay, was forever called Mt. Bulusan

Early Years

Aguingay was born into a powerful tribe neighboring Bulusan’s village. From a young age, she was renowned for her beauty, her fair complexion, and her graceful demeanor. It was said that her beauty was so striking that her fate was sealed early on—she was betrothed to Bulusan, the son of a great warrior. Bulusan was known for his bravery and strength, and together, they formed a bond destined to become legendary in their village. In time, Bulusan's name would be immortalized as the name of the town, a symbol of his heroism and their fated connection.

The Mampak Bird

During Aguingay’s time, a terrible threat loomed over Bulusan in the form of the Mampak, a giant, monstrous bird that terrorized the region. The Mampak, with its massive wings and deadly talons, wreaked havoc on the village, killing countless tribesmen and leaving destruction in its wake. Just before Bulusan and Aguingay were to be married, the Mampak attacked the northern tribes, spreading terror.

When the giant bird approached Bulusan’s village, Casiguran, a rival chieftain from the western tribes, led a group of warriors to aid Bulusan and his people. In a fierce battle, the tribes united to fight the Mampak, ultimately mobbing and killing the beast. It is believed that they dragged the creature’s enormous body to the sea, where they cast it into the waters, sealing its doom. The villagers held this moment as a victory, and many places around Bulusan gained their names from the struggle against the Mampak. For instance, the town of Barcelona, Sorsogon, is said to be named "Tagdon," meaning "landing," where the Mampak first touched down. Other nearby places, such as Layog ("flight"), are linked to the bird’s desperate attempts to escape its pursuers. Some stories claim that the blood of the wounded Mampak formed Bulusan Lake when it finally fell at the foot of the mountain, while the nearby island of San Bernardino is said to be the final resting place of the creature's remains.

Casiguran’s Jealousy

After the defeat of the Mampak, Casiguran, emboldened by his role in the battle, claimed that his tribe was responsible for slaying the beast. Driven by pride and jealousy, he demanded Aguingay’s hand in marriage as a reward. However, Bulusan fiercely protested, for Aguingay was promised to him. Casiguran, unwilling to accept defeat, challenged Bulusan to a duel to settle the matter.

The two warriors met at noon on the battlefield of Punta Tawog. The clash was intense, but in the end, Bulusan emerged victorious. Casiguran and his men were defeated and forced to retreat to the western lands. With his victory, Bulusan was hailed as a hero, the warrior who saved the village from both the Mampak and his envious rival. He and Aguingay were finally free to be together, and their union was celebrated throughout the region.

Tragedy Strikes

However, their happiness was short-lived. A village princess named Dayang Buhang, driven by her own desire for Bulusan, sought to steal him away from Aguingay. Dayang Buhang’s infatuation turned into obsession, and when she learned that Bulusan and Aguingay were to be married, she was consumed with jealousy. Determined to claim Bulusan for herself, she plotted to destroy the couple’s happiness.

Fearful of Dayang Buhang’s wrath, Bulusan and Aguingay fled to the dense forests, hoping to escape her vengeance. But the princess, enraged by their defiance, sent her soldiers to track them down. Her orders were clear: capture Bulusan and kill Aguingay if necessary.

In a final, fateful confrontation, the soldiers found Bulusan and Aguingay deep in the forest. A fierce battle ensued, but the couple, outnumbered and desperate, fought valiantly. Tragically, both Bulusan and Aguingay were killed in the struggle, their love story ending in bloodshed. Upon hearing the news of their deaths, Dayang Buhang was stricken with guilt and sorrow. She ordered her men to give them a majestic burial, constructing their tombs high on the slopes of the mountain, so that all who passed could see and remember them. Thus, the legend of the two mountains was born, with the mountains symbolizing Bulusan and Aguingay's eternal love and tragic fate.

Reynaldo T. Jamoralin's Version

In another version of the story, retold by Reynaldo T. Jamoralin, the rivalry between Bulusan and Casiguran takes a darker turn. In this telling, after Apu Juban, Casiguran's father, dies, Casiguran falsely accuses Bulusan of murder, driven by jealousy and a desire to claim Aguingay for himself. Through manipulation and treachery, Casiguran has Bulusan sentenced to death by the giant Mampak bird, a creature that regularly terrorizes the village. Bulusan is devoured, and Casiguran, not content with Bulusan’s death, orders Agingay to throw their newborn child into the mouth of the volcano.

Overcome by grief and fear, Agingay complies, but in the end, unable to bear the loss, she takes her own life at the volcano’s edge. In a final act of justice, the villagers, enraged by Casiguran's cruelty, throw him into the fiery crater of the volcano. Their tears of sorrow and regret mix with the blood of Bulusan and Agingay, forming the two lakes that now sit quietly on the mountain’s slopes—Lake Bulusan and Lake Agingay.

Si Bulusan nan Si Aguingay Festival

In modern times, the tale of Si Bulusan nan Si Aguingay continues to live on through an annual festival held in the town of Bulusan. The festival takes place the day before the town’s fiesta on July 25, the feast day of St. James the Greater. During the celebration, the epic story is reenacted through a colorful parade and street dances, with participants dressed in traditional costumes, portraying the characters from the legend. The festival is a vibrant display of local culture, preserving the memory of Bulusan and Aguingay for future generations.

YASAW

VISAYAN GODS, BICOLANO MONSTERS

In the old days the Bicolano and the Visayans had some conflict because most of the Visayans practised raiding by sea and by land . They also raided and attacked Ibalong, the fierce Visayan raiders clad in gold and tattooed. Before alliances by marriage and trading the Ibalong and the Visayan colonies were at discord. The people of Ibalong viewd the Visayans to be evil and worshipped demon gods. These gods were intertwined in the Bicolano mythology as their gods were interwoven into the Visayan mythology.

lambana

Lambana

Lambana In Philippine mythology are small fairies, mythical diminutive beings with delicate and graceful builds, typically standing a few inches to a foot tall. They are characterized by translucent wings resembling those of butterflies or dragonflies, and they wear enchanting and colorful attire inspired by nature. They are considered to be engkantos, or a variant of diwata. Lambana have humanoid features with expressive eyes and are associated with a magical glow or sparkle. Additionally, they possess the ability to change their size, allowing them to appear more human when needed.

art by Ara Villena

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Lambana depicted on Philippine TV

Lambana

Lambana

LAMBANA IN BICOL MYTHOLOGY

In Bicolano Mythology, the term "Lambana" encompasses two distinct meanings. Firstly, a tagno it denotes a symbol, drawing, or carving that depicts a human figure adorned with dragonfly wings (alibangbang) or bird wings (such as those of an abukay or white parrot). This symbol is utilized for invocations and is closely associated with Batala, a minor god overseeing the anito (ancestral spirits) and Katambay (guardian spirits). The second interpretation of "Lambana" describes petite, exquisite humanoid beings with dragonfly wings and razor-sharp teeth. According to certain narratives, these creatures are believed to consume the bones of deceased animals.

sto. nino a small tagno  in modern times

Over time, Tagalog mythology has incorporated the concept of Lambana, portraying them as small winged entities endowed with ethereal beauty and a radiant glow, often synchronized and confused with the Diwata (gods and goddesses, dryads). Stories depict them as serving under a higher Diwata, playing a role in the protection of nature. In Tagalog oral mythology, they are also referred to as Numbali, lumbali, or Nambana. In these narratives, Lambana are typically depicted as winged, sweet, and benevolent beings emitting a radiant glow, possessing the ability to take flight, and endowed with magical powers used to assist good-hearted individuals.

lambana

modern Tagno, modern lambana - Sto.ninong may pakpak

The word "lambana" originally referred to a symbol or representation of something worshipped, like an image, idol, or emblem. Later, it became popularly associated with fairies, often shown as small winged beings in. additionally "lambana" is a homonym of "dambana," which now means "shrine" or "chapel" in modern Tagalog.

Tagno ng Diwata  ( Diwatang Lambana) photo from Cordillera Museum

contemporary lambana tagno 

lambana

Lambana

LAMBANA IN PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY

In Philippine mythology at large, Lambana are recognized as small fairies or fairy-like creatures, mythical diminutive beings with delicate and graceful builds, usually standing a few inches to a foot tall. Characterized by translucent wings reminiscent of butterflies or dragonflies, they wear enchanting and colorful attire inspired by nature. Lambana exhibit humanoid features, expressive eyes, and are associated with a magical glow or sparkle. Reflecting their connection to nature, their clothing often draws inspiration from the natural world. Furthermore, they possess the ability to change their size, temporarily losing their wings to appear more human when necessary. Over time, the Bicolano and Tagalog myths have become synchronized in their depictions of Lambana.

art by Brian Valeza

lambana

lambana

LAMBANA IN TAGALOG MYTHOLOGY

The Lambana in Tagalog Oral Mythology are depicted as small winged beings with otherworldly beauty and glow, often associated and synchronized with the Diwata (fairies,gods, goddesses, dryads). Stories revolve around them serving under a higher Diwata in the protection of nature. These small winged Lambana possess the ability to become human-sized and temporarily lose their wings, often appearing as beautiful maidens.  The lambana, as minor spirits or fairies, often act as messengers or servants of the more powerful diwata (sky gods,dryads, nature spirits) . They help maintain the natural balance by performing tasks assigned by these higher deities. In return, the lambana are given protection, power and are allowed to live in the places they cherish.

ORAL MYTHOLOGY 

In Tagalog oral mythology, they are also referred to as Numbali, lumbali, lubi, lubi lubi or Nambana. In the stories, Lambana are often depicted as winged, small, sweet, and benevolent creatures emitting a radiant glow and having the ability to take flight. They possess magical powers that they use to assist and aid good-hearted individuals.

In some Tagalog stories, Lambana are portrayed as emissaries or minions of a higher being known as "Diwata." Due to their otherworldly glow and beauty, characters in these stories may mistakenly confuse Lambana with Diwata.

Some folktales portray that the Diwata and lambana are magically connected and have a symbiotic relationship, There are also tales describing that if a Diwata experiences heartbreak caused by a mortal, the Diwata's Lambanas would transform into hideous humanoid monsters with sharp claws and razor-sharp teeth resembling those of sharks.

Lambana in modern Folklore

In Filipino folklore, Diwatang Lambana is a fairy-like being with three distinct forms. The first form is a small, winged, radiant fairy, often with butterfly or dragonfly wings, embodying beauty, sweetness, and gentleness. The second form is a human-like figure, exceptionally beautiful, appearing as youths or maidens without wings, associated with romance and charm. The third form is the most fearsome, where Lambanas become small, goblin-like creatures with razor-sharp shark-like teeth and dragonfly wings, displaying speed and viciousness when defending themselves. These three faces represent the balance between beauty, charm, and fierce protection in Lambana's nature.

Lambana

Lambana contemporary myths, superstitions and folklore and stories in Laguna

Tagalog Folklore

In the folklore surrounding Mount Makiling in Laguna, one of the most well-known stories involves the sighting of a beautiful lady in white believed to be Maria Makiling, a mythical diwata or nature spirit who protects the mountain and its surrounding forests. According to local tales, Maria Makiling is often described as beautiful woman with long flowing hair and dressed in white, radiating an ethereal beauty. She is said to watch over the forest, ensuring that those who respect nature are safe and that the balance of the natural world is maintained.

Maria Makiling and her Lambana

One particular story told by the people living near the forest recounts how travelers or lost villagers have, on occasion, encountered this mysterious lady in white. In these tales, the travelers, after becoming lost in the dense forest of Mount Makiling, are said to have seen Maria Makiling appear before them. She is often described as being surrounded by small Lambana, tiny winged fairies that assist her. The Lambana are thought to serve as her helpers, guiding the lost souls safely back to the path or their village.

In these stories, the sweet scent of flowers or a calming feeling often precedes her appearance. The lost travelers, disoriented and frightened, are said to follow the radiant lady as she silently leads them through the forest. The Lambana, glowing like fireflies, light the way and ensure that the travelers avoid dangerous areas. When the travelers finally emerge from the forest safely, Maria Makiling and the Lambana are said to disappear, leaving the rescued villagers wondering if they had experienced a dream or a divine intervention.

These sightings are considered to be acts of kindness from Maria Makiling, rewarding those who respect nature and the forest's spirits. However, those who harm the forest or disrespect the environment are believed to be punished, either by losing their way indefinitely or encountering misfortune.

The Lambana in this folklore play a supportive role, symbolizing the connection between the diwata and the natural world, helping maintain harmony in the sacred forest of Mount Makiling.

lambana

Lambana

Lambana as emissaries of a Diwata

The Lambana as symbiotic beings, intricately connected and bonded with a Diwata, whether it be a god, goddess, or a forest dryad. They serve as both emissaries and companions to the Diwata, their presence magically intertwined with their divine counterparts, embodying a harmonious relationship that extends beyond mere companionship.

A diwata with her two Lambana 

the lambana and the diwata

Male Diwata with his two Lambana (fairies)

Diwata and her three Lambana

lambana

In modern Lambana stories and myths in contemporary Philippines, they are often portrayed as diminutive, luminous fairies with butterfly wings. These enchanting beings temporarily transform into beautiful maidens to aid kind-hearted individuals, accentuating their beauty and grace.

In popular media in contemporary Philippines, Lambana are featured in various shows that highlight their beauty and grace. Some of these shows also delve into the darker and scarier stories surrounding the Lambana, strongly resembling the portrayals of European fairies in contemporary media.

lambana

Symbiotic Relationship of the lambana and diwata

• Interactions: The lambana, as minor spirits, often act as messengers or servants of the more powerful diwata and the Sky God. They help maintain the natural balance by performing tasks assigned by these higher deities. In return, the lambana are given protection and are allowed to live in the places they cherish.

• Mutual Benefits

• Lambana and Diwata: The lambana’s role in guiding and protecting aligns with the diwata’s responsibilities of guarding and nurturing the natural world. This relationship helps ensure that nature remains balanced and that the needs of both the spiritual and natural worlds are met.

Modern Lambana stories and myths

In contemporary Philippines, lambana stories often portray them as diminutive, luminous fairies with butterfly wings. These enchanting beings temporarily transform into beautiful maidens to aid kind-hearted individuals, accentuating their beauty and grace. In the stories the lambana usually assisting a higher diwata in protecting nature and giving blessings to kind people.

Lambana

lambana

Lambana in popular media

In Philippine TV shows and movies, the "lambana" are frequently depicted, showcasing their beauty and grace. Often portrayed as allies of good and assistants to heroes, they play supportive roles. Some productions delve into the darker and more ominous aspects linked to lambana. Nonetheless, the majority of media representations portray lambana positively, depicting them as exquisite, diminutive beings adorned with delicate, translucent wings that glisten in gentle light. These sprite-like fairies gracefully flutter through the air, leaving behind a trail of stardust.

Lambana as depicted on TV

lambana

lambana 

liwa liwa ( lambana)

lambana

Lambana

Diwatang Lambana

Lambana

Lambana

Lambana in popular media

The lambana are featured in many television shows in Philippine TV often depicted as beautiful or cute small winged fairies, like in the folklore most serves as companions and emissaries of  a more powerful higher Diwata,

SHAKE RATTLE ROLL movie features the darker scarier side of the lambana reminiscent of how some Bicolanos once perceived the lambana as fast and vicious guardian fairies or spirits

Lambana in Oral mythologies and spoken folklore

Many contemporary stories and folklore feature lambanas fairies, often assocating them with nature and as companions of the Diwatas. Prevalent in the areas such as Laguna.

Song ispired by Lambana Oral mythology

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Lambana 

LAMBANA - NAMBANA -NUMBALI - LUMBALI

Lambana

Lambana

Lambana

LAMBANA CONFUSION THE WITH DIWATA

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAMBANA AND DIWATA

what's the difference between a lambana and a diwata? 

Lambana vs. Diwata: A Comparative Overview

Lambana:

lambana

1. Characteristics: Small and enchanting beings with delicate builds, translucent wings resembling butterflies or dragonflies, and nature-inspired attire. That can transform into attractive humans.
2. 
   
3. Size Transformation: Can change size, appearing more human when necessary.
4. 
   
5. Bicolano Mythology: In Bicolano mythology, "Lambana" refers to a symbol associated with the god Batala and small creatures with dragonfly wings.
6. 
   
7. Tagalog Mythology: small fairies with butterfly wings and eteral glow that can temporary turn humazied but loosed their wings. Synchronized with Diwata, serving as protectors of nature. Some stories depict them as emissaries of the Diwata.
8. 
   
9. Transformation: Stories exist about their transformation into monsters if the Diwata of the lambana experiences heartbreak caused by a mortal.
10. 
    
11. Contemporary Portrayals: Often emphasized for their beauty and grace, resembling European fairy depictions.
12. 
    
13. 
    
    

Diwata:

diwata

Diwata

1. Definition: A type of deity or nature spirit in Philippine mythology.
2. 
   
3. Mythological Range: Encompasses various beings, including Sky gods, ancient gods and goddesses, nature spirits, dryads and forest fairies.
4. 
   
5. Origin: Derived from the Devata beings in Hinduism and Buddhism.
6. 
   
7. Pre-colonial Worship: Worshiped and venerated in pre-colonial Philippines as superior beings in beauty, knowledge, and fighting skills.
8. 
   
9. Physical Appearance: Depicted as extremely beautiful males and females with luminous fair skin or radiant golden tan skin. Some having jet black long hair and some having fair hair.

Lambana

Comparison:

• Nature Connection: Lambana are specifically associated with nature and portrayed as protectors in coordination with Diwata.
• 
  
• Physical Characteristics: Lambana are small, winged, and delicate, while Diwata encompass a broader range of appearances.
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• Symbolism: Lambana can be symbols in Bicolano mythology, while Diwata hold a broader significance, representing various mythological entities.
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• Transformation Theme: Lambana are associated with size transformation and potential transformation into monsters, a theme not commonly attributed to Diwata.
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• 
  
• Cultural Adaptation: Both have evolved in meaning and portrayal over time, with contemporary media emphasizing beauty and grace in their representations.

Lambana

Lambana

REMINDER

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.