Since the American rule of the Islands, Philippine folktales have occasionally appeared in scholarly journals, but as far as the author is aware, no attempt has ever been made to provide the general public with a thorough collection of this material. It is my sincere hope that this collection of tales will provide those with an interest in learning more about the magic, superstitions, and strange customs of the Filipino people with the chance to experience the allure of their wonder-world as it is imagined by these dark-skinned residents of our Island possessions. The traditional oral literature of the Filipino people is referred to as Philippine folk literature. Since the Philippines became a single ethno-political entity, many kinds of folklore have evolved as well as the historical folk literature of the country's many ethnic groups.
This distinguishes folk literature as the source from which Philippine mythology emerges, despite the fact that there is a clear distinction between the two. It is a part of Philippine folklore, a broader category that also encompasses other cultural facets like folk beliefs, traditional law, and material culture. There are numerous indigenous tribes in the Philippines. As a result, the nation is full in Filipino folktales. Although folklore is frequently connected with the past, more recent recordings of Philippine folk literature have been created. Aside from urban legends, modern myths about strong and charismatic figures like former presidents Ramon Magsaysay and Ferdinand Marcos possessing superhuman abilities have been extensively documented and recognized as legitimate examples of Philippine folk literature. In the case of Marcos, scholars have extensively described the ways in which propaganda techniques were used to create a cult of personality intended to uphold his authoritarian rule and to uphold his legacy.
With the rise of fan communities through comic book conventions like komikon and the popularity of artists like Gerry Alanguilan, Arnold Arre, Budjette Tan, and Kajo Baldisimo, Philippine Komiks in the middle of the 20th century and their revival in the 21st century have also led to the reinterpretation of Philippine folk literature in graphic form. This has led to crossover success in other media, such as feature films and streaming media. Philippine folklore is a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and traditional beliefs that have been passed down through generations in the Philippines. It reflects the country's diverse cultural heritage and influences from indigenous beliefs, Spanish colonization, and other foreign elements.
Here is an overview of Philippine folklore:
1. Mythical Creatures:
Aswang: The aswang is a well-known supernatural creature in Philippine folklore, often depicted as a shape-shifting monster that preys on humans, especially at night. It is associated with vampiric and ghoul-like characteristics.
Tikbalang: The tikbalang is a horse-headed humanoid creature that dwells in the forests and mountains. It is mischievous and sometimes leads travelers astray.
Kapre: A kapre is a giant tree-dwelling creature who enjoys smoking huge cigars. It is known to play tricks on people and can be both benevolent and malevolent.
Manananggal: The manananggal is a female monster who can separate her upper body from her lower body and fly around at night to suck the blood of pregnant women.
2. Folk Heroes and Legends:
Maria Makiling: Maria Makiling is a well-known folk heroine and mountain spirit in Philippine folklore. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman who appears to travelers, only to disappear mysteriously. Her story represents the beauty and mystique of Mount Makiling in Laguna.
Bernardo Carpio: Bernardo Carpio is a legendary figure who is said to be trapped between two mountains. He is believed to possess immense strength and is often associated with earthquakes.
Lam-ang: The epic of Lam-ang, from the Ilocano people, tells the story of a heroic warrior who was born fully grown and performed incredible feats to avenge his father's death.
3. Creation Myths:
The Philippines has a variety of creation myths from different ethnic groups. One common theme is the belief in a supreme god or deity responsible for creating the world, often assisted by various animals and natural elements.
4. Folk Beliefs:
Filipinos hold a wide range of folk beliefs related to daily life, such as superstitions about good and bad luck, taboos, and rituals associated with birth, death, and marriage.
5. Religious Syncretism:
Philippine folklore often blends indigenous beliefs with Catholicism, a result of Spanish colonization. Many local festivals and traditions have religious elements woven into them.
6. Oral Tradition:
Most of these folklore stories have been passed down through oral tradition and have varied from region to region. They have been preserved and shared through storytelling, rituals, and performances.
7. Contemporary Relevance:
Philippine folklore continues to play a role in the country's culture and arts. It is a source of inspiration for literature, music, dance, and art, and many Filipinos still hold folk beliefs and practices dear to their hearts.In summary, Philippine folklore is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, and it reflects the country's history, diversity, and the enduring significance of traditional beliefs and storytelling in Filipino society.