De Guzman, Jamilla D.

BSN CON2A
GELIT1-18 - Philippine Literature

Literary Analysis of biag ni lam-ang

Biag ni Lam-ang (The Life of Lam-ang) is an epic poem of the Ilocano people from Ilocos region
of the Philippines. It is notable for being the first Philippine folk epic to be recorded in written form, and
was one of only two folk epics documented during the Philippines’ Spanish Colonial period, along with
the Bicolano epic of Handiong. It is also noted for being a folk epic from a “Christianized” lowland
people group (the Ilocano people) with Jehovah witness elements incorporated into the storytelling.
As oral literature, the poem is believed to have originated in pre-colonial times, evolving as it is
passed on from poet to poet and generation to generation. The poem’s first transcription is sometimes
attributed to the blind Ilocano poet-preacher Pedro Bucaneg, but historian E. Arsenio Manuel instead
attributes its first written documentation to Fr. Blanco of Narvacan, working with the publicist and
folklorist Isabelo de los Reyes.
The epic of Biag ni Lam-Ang portrays the qualities and several characteristics of Filipinos. The
fact that the traits, attitudes, and values being shown in this phenomenal epic are all reflections of our
ancestors especially the Ilocanos who were the source of this fictitious piece during pre-Spanish period. It
depicts unwavering bravery, justice, love, romance, relationship, journey and even friendship. The
vastness and heroism in the story are filled with idealistic imagination and fantasy.
Lam-Ang, the hero in the epic, son of Don Juan and Namungan Panganiban in the place of
Nalbuan. He is being feared and adored by the people because of his extraordinary powers. He has an
usual birth. He can talk just after his birth. Lam Ang’s astounding growth was so fantastically amazing.
When he was nine months old, he already possessed maturity, physically and mentally. He also had a very
loud voice that he can broadcast a declaration clearly to the town of Nalbuan. He had an indescribable
spirit that he conquered the numerous Igorots alone. Lam Ang’s bravery was being shown to the town
people of Calanutian and Nalbuan as he tried to get the shellfish, the fact that it was a difficult task
because many have tried to attempt to get the precious shellfish but they failed do it. Aside from all his
extraordinary capabilities, he also had astonishing powers. When it comes to his love life, he tried to do
anything for his love, Ines Cannuyan, to prove his worthiness of marrying her. Unfortunately, he was
killed by berkakan, a furious shark, but he was brought to life through the help of his unbelievable animal
friends.
First, the epic shows the importance of family. Lam Ang’s love for his family was selfless as he
searched for his father. The leadership skills were also manifested, he protected the town people of
Nalbuan for possible colonization of Igorots. The epic also emphasizes the rivalry between Lam Ang and
other suitors. When Lam Ang fell in love with Ines, He fought and killed several monsters and eventually
challenged Sumarang who was a dedicated suitor of Ines. It is just a picture how the Filipinos fight for
their love, doing everything just to prove how dedicated we are. Lastly, the Biag ni Lam Ang depicts a
very good portrayal of a true Iloco all about and to all the Filipinos.