The Philippines has a rich tapestry of mythology, blending indigenous beliefs with

influences from various cultures that have touched its shores over the centuries. Here
are some famous mythological figures and stories from Filipino folklore:

1. Bathala: Often considered the supreme deity in Philippine mythology, Bathala is

the chief god of the Tagalog people. Bathala is associated with creation, the sky,
and the heavens.
2. Maria Makiling: She is a well-known character in Filipino folklore, often depicted
as a beautiful woman living in Mount Makiling in Laguna. Maria Makiling is
associated with protection of the environment and is believed to be a guardian of
the mountain.
3. Bakunawa: A dragon-like creature in Philippine mythology, Bakunawa is often
depicted as a giant sea serpent. It is believed to be the cause of eclipses, as it
swallows the moon or sun during these events.
4. Manananggal: This is a mythical creature in Philippine folklore, often depicted as
a woman who can detach her upper torso and sprout wings at night to prey on
pregnant women.
5. Tikbalang: A creature with the body of a horse and the head of a human, the
Tikbalang is believed to inhabit forests and mountains. It is often depicted as
mischievous or malevolent, playing tricks on travelers.
6. Aswang: One of the most well-known mythical creatures in Filipino folklore, the
Aswang is a shape-shifter often depicted as a vampire-like creature that preys on
humans, particularly pregnant women and children.
7. Diwata: These are supernatural beings in Philippine mythology, often associated
with nature and revered as guardians of forests, rivers, and mountains. They are
believed to be beautiful and benevolent spirits.
8. Sirena: Similar to the Western mermaid, the Sirena in Philippine mythology is a
beautiful sea
Bathala is a prominent figure in Filipino mythology, particularly among the Tagalog people.
Here's an overview of the mythology surrounding Bathala:

1. Creation Myth: Bathala is often depicted as the supreme deity responsible for creating
the universe, the earth, and all living things. According to Tagalog mythology, Bathala
created the world and everything in it, including humans, out of sheer will and divine
power.
2. Association with the Sky and Heavens: Bathala is closely associated with the sky and
the heavens. In many myths, Bathala is depicted as residing in the highest realms of the
sky, overseeing the universe and maintaining order among the celestial bodies.
3. Divine Protector: Bathala is revered as a divine protector and benevolent deity.
Followers believe that Bathala watches over humanity, guiding and protecting them from
harm. Rituals and offerings are often made to Bathala to seek blessings and protection.
 4. Mythological Stories: While there are various myths and stories involving Bathala,
specific narratives may vary across regions and communities in the Philippines. Some
stories portray Bathala as a compassionate and just ruler, while others depict Bathala as
intervening in the affairs of humans and other supernatural beings.
5. Continued Influence: Although the pre-colonial belief systems of the Philippines have
evolved and integrated with other cultural influences over time, Bathala continues to hold
significance as a symbol of Filipino spirituality and cultural identity. Despite the
introduction of Christianity to the Philippines during the colonial period, elements of
indigenous mythology, including Bathala, have persisted and remain part of Filipino
cultural heritage.

Overall, Bathala is a revered figure in Filipino mythology, embodying the creative and protective
forces believed to shape the universe and the lives of its inhabitants.
Luzon Divinities Bathala or Abba
The highest ranking deity of the ancient Tagalogs was called Bathala or Abba.1 Like other divinities the
world over, Bathala's origin 1 Cf. Juan de Placencia, "Customs of the Tagalogs," The Philippine Islands.
Blair and Robertson, ( eds.) Vol. VII (Cleveland: The Arthur H. Clark Company) pp. 185-189. 169 170
ASIAN STUDIES was not known. He merely appeared one day and announced his lordship over mankind.
So great and powerful was Bathala that no one ever dared question his demand for obedience and
reverence from man. 13ecause historians and writers often refer to this Tagalog deity as the god of the
ancient Filipinos, Bathala gradually became the accepted representative deity of the whole nation.2
Bathala was said to be the creator of all things - the sky, the earth and all the vegetation around us. He
dwelt in the highest realm of the eternal space called kawalhatian or sky. Just and merciful, he was said
to be the sustainer, keeper, nourisher, and protector of mankind. Sometimes he seemed very human. He
welcomed gifts from people with deep appreciation; and was pleased when men were helpful and
obedient to his moral laws. He was lavish' in his love towards those who kept his commandments and
paid him homage. To a certain extent, however, his kindness made many of .his favorites lazy - always
de.., pending upon. him to do things for them, an attitude from whence the dominant characteristics of
the - the bahala na or "Bathala takes. care" philosophy of life. This forms the base of two out-, standing
character traits. of the people - the tendency to be easy-going or resigned and the tendenGy to he
venturesome or audacious in time of emergency. While Bathala was said to be compassionate and
forever understanding to contrite hearts seeking forgiveness, he was equally exacting in his punishments
to sinners. He did not hesitate to send thunder and lightning to strike the transgressors of his laws. He
presided over the lesser divinities who cared for the needs of the people and guarded the general
welfare of the reverent families. His power and goodness were devoted to the interests of the people to
whom he was the almighty protector