In this podcast, they explore the diverse folktales and cultures of the Philippines, featuring entertaining stories such as arguing pixie sisters, strategic lullabies, and a valuable lesson about staying vigilant. They also delve into the distinction between Tagalog and Bicol languages and share captivating tales of encounters with gods and diamond fights resulting in the creation of the sun and moon. Additionally, they discuss the Tagalog myth of the sun, moon, and stars, along with a thrilling battle against an army of monsters defending the kingdom of Ibalan.
The Tagalog folktale explains how the sun shines brighter than the moon and how the stars were formed.
The Bicol folktale highlights the themes of love, jealousy, and redemption, reflecting the rich folklore and cultural diversity in the Philippines.
Deep dives
Pixie Sisters and the Sun and Moon
This story from the Tagalog region of the Philippines tells the tale of two pixie sisters, Aarau and Bawan. Aarau is kind and caring, while Bawan is jealous and mean. Their mother prays to Bata'la, the creator God, for guidance. Bata'la tests the sisters and ultimately separates them in the sky, with Aarau becoming the sun and Bawan becoming the moon. This folktale explains why the sun shines brighter than the moon and how the stars were formed.
Hanjiang and the Monsters
In the Bicol region of the Philippines, the kingdom of Ibalan is constantly under attack by monsters led by a giant serpent named Oryo. King Hanjiang tries to protect his people but realizes a new approach is needed. When Hanjiang encounters Oryo in human form, they fall in love. Oryo's plan to use her enchanted song to control the monsters fails, and a battle ensues. With Hanjiang's bravery and the hunters' help, the monsters are defeated. Hanjiang proposes to Oryo, and they live happily ever after.
Love and Redemption in the Philippines
These Philippine myths show the themes of love, jealousy, and redemption. In the first story, jealousy leads to the separation of the sun and the moon. In the second story, a witch's curse turns a beautiful woman into a giant serpent, until she finds love and is redeemed. These myths reflect the rich folklore and cultural diversity found in different regions of the Philippines.
Oh Muses! Help us in our travels to the Philippines to tell some Filipino legends from the Tagalog and Bicol regions. We encounter arguing pixie sisters, many dialects, strategic lullabies and why it’s never a good idea to sleep on the job.
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