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Showing posts with label Folklore. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Folklore. Show all posts

Friday, September 19, 2025

Philippine Mythological Creature: Gisurab



The tale of Gisurab, a fire-possessing giant from the Isneg tribes, demonstrates that even beings of enormous size can exhibit kindness.  In the tale, hunters sought out Gisurab in the wild to request fire.  The giant supplies the hunters with fire to cook their food.  The story bears a likeness to that of Prometheus, the famous Titan who is reputed to have taken fire from heaven and bestowed it upon mortals.

The naked gigantic creature known as the Gisurab hunts both people and other animals.

Although he is incredibly enormous, his physique is human.  He has an excellent sense of smell and often wanders the woods shirtless.

The Gisurab hunt down deer and other wild animals in the forests, as well as people, using their acute sense of smell.  At home, he would hold the human and deer he had trapped and prepare them in his enormous cooking pot.  The Gisurab would sometimes engage in conversation with people and go hunting with them instead of attacking them.

Gisurab became a legend in this untamed yet gorgeous land.  His story is essential to Isneg culture since he was a giant with fire.  It presents the Isneg's perspective on giants, which is different from the typical "evil" one.








Source:

https://www.aswangproject.com/giants-philippine-mythology/

https://mythmuseum.weebly.com/gisurab.html

https://pinoymyths.com/gisurab-isneg-the-fire-possessing-giant/

https://www.artstation.com/artwork/Ka029B courtesy of Ejay Paz





Thursday, September 18, 2025

Philippine Mythological Creature: Lampong

Lampong, a legendary figure, is deeply embedded in the cultural and environmental awareness of the Filipino people, revered as the guardian Anito of wild animals.  This legendary dwarf has the remarkable power to lead untamed deer and transform into a white deer with a radiant single eye.

More than just a legend, Lampong serves as an important cultural symbol in the Philippines. She embodies the ancestral wisdom passed down through generations, promoting a peaceful coexistence between people and nature. The deep-seated conviction that every action has repercussions is instilled by Filipino folklore, which stresses the necessity of treating the forest with the highest respect and thankfulness.

Lampong’s ability to transform into a white deer is a strong emblem of purity, innocence, and spiritual enlightenment. The singular, shining eye symbolizes wisdom and insight, reflecting Lampong’s esteemed position as a guide and protector. In addition, it is crucial to recognize the worldwide reverence associated with the white deer in various cultures around the world.  For instance, in Native American traditions, the white deer is viewed as a messenger from the spirit world, underscoring the deep importance of Lampong’s character.

Ilongot gnome Lampong has remarkable cross-eyed, bright yellow eyes and a height of only two feet. He wears a unique two-peaked cap and has a flowing white beard.  Although he may sometimes show a single eye and his form often resembles that of a deer while in his deer guise, his coat is always a brilliant snow-white.

It is noteworthy that although hunters can readily identify him, Lampong uses a distinctive approach to keep the deer he safeguards safe. He takes on the role of target, taking the hunters’ shots himself instead of allowing any damage to come to the deer. He can astonishingly rejuvenate himself and, in an unusual turn of events, bestows deadly illnesses upon the hunters as a means of deterrence.

Lampong is a key character in Ibanag folklore and is profoundly embedded in the cultural heritage of the Ibanag people, an ethnolinguistic group from Northeastern Luzon. As the guardian Anito of wild animals, Lampong is frequently depicted as a forest custodian tasked with guiding and protecting wild deer in their natural habitat.

Lampong’s legend is especially fascinating due to his extraordinary talent for metamorphosing into a white deer that possesses a single, radiant eye. This metamorphosis goes beyond a simple physical alteration; it represents his deep bond with nature and highlights his essential position as a guardian of wildlife.

The story of Lampong in the Ibanag culture goes beyond myth—it is a vital part of their cultural identity and belief system. The Ibanag people exhibit a steadfast respect for nature and the animal kingdom, a feeling realized in their veneration of Lampong.

His steadfast dedication to safeguarding the forest’s noble inhabitants earned him the revered titles of Deer Herder and Deer Guardian.

On an ill-starred day, the peace of the woods was broken when a band of hunters with powerful firearms invaded the forest.  Their target, to the detriment of hundreds of deer, was unmistakable.  With the hunters' progression, their armaments reverberated through the woods, taking the lives of innumerable deer.  Their unceasing chase ultimately brought them to a broad expanse filled with the elegant creatures.  Without hesitation, the hunters aimed their guns, prepared to continue their relentless onslaught.

Yet, in a moment of astonishing change, the forest observed an intense light and heard a loud roar coming from behind a nearby hill. A gigantic white stag with splendid golden antlers came out of the shadows. As the other deer fled, escaping the looming threat, it placed itself in front of the hunters. The hunters, without mercy, set their sights on the noble white deer and shot at it; to their first impression, it had succumbed to their attack.

With the intention of skinning it, the hunters approached the fallen deer, eager to claim their prize. To their amazement, the white deer, which was clearly not defeated, suddenly got to its feet. In a surprising turn of events, it launched an intense assault on the hunters, causing them to suffer from a deadly disease that would signal the demise of their reign of terror.

Although modernization has caused radical changes, the lasting Lampong legend still resonates with the Ibanag people. It acts as a lasting reminder of their cultural origins and the essential part they play in caring for their natural environment. The Lampong legend offers insight into the rich cultural tapestry of the Ibanag people. It underscores their unwavering dedication to maintaining the sanctity of nature and wildlife—an enduring principle that still aligns with modern sensibilities.

A fresh enthusiasm for Philippine mythology, featuring legendary characters such as Lampong, has surfaced in recent times. This revival can be attributed largely to the resolute endeavors of cultural aficionados dedicated to safeguarding indigenous stories and spreading them across various platforms, including literature, art, and digital formats.

He is referred to as lampong by the Ilokanos and the Ilongots ethnic groups.  He is an old man, short in stature, of the fields and woods.  Sein Blick ist lebhaft, und er trägt einen langen, spärlichen Bart. He tends to wild deer as a shepherd.  He transforms into a deer and remains motionless.  He is shot at by hunters, but they fail to hit him. The hunters attempt to shoot him, but the deer flee. After that, he becomes an old man again.  He strolls off from the hunters.

In Philippine folklore, particularly among the cultures of Northeastern Luzon, the Lampong is a mythical creature recognized as the guardian Anito of wild animals and a protector of deer. It is represented as a two-foot-tall dwarf with a white beard, who can change into a magnificent white deer with a single, bright eye.  The Lampong, by presenting itself as the white deer, diverts hunters' attention when they attempt to shoot at deer, thus enabling the real deer to flee.

The Lampong, an Ilonggot gnome, has the ability to turn into a white deer in order to safeguard real deer. Whenever a hunter passes by to take aim at one of the deer, the Lampong transforms into its deer form and gets shot in place of the real deer, which flee. The Lampong is shot six times, but he is impervious to the bullets, ensuring the deer remains safe from hunters.

In the distant past, a magnificent forest teemed with beautiful creatures, and at its helm were the deer. One day, hunters armed with large guns arrived in the forest and began to shoot the animals individually, but their main target was the deer. They murdered hundreds of them. One day, they stumbled upon a vast field teeming with deer. The hunters lifted their rifles and began firing, but suddenly a bright light flashed and a loud roar erupted from behind a hill. Out of nowhere, a gigantic white stag with golden antlers appeared and dashed in front of the hunters as the other deer escaped. All the hunters shot the white deer, and he appeared to be dead. However, at the moment they were going to skin him, he rose up and battled the hunters, ultimately giving each of them a deadly sickness. The white deer was actually Lampong himself. He ensured that none of the remaining deer were shot. For this reason, he was occasionally referred to as the Deer Herder or the Deer Guardian.

The Lampong, an Ilonggot gnome, stands about two feet tall and sports a long white beard. He wears a two-peaked cap and has bright yellow, cross-eyed eyes. He can sometimes be seen with one eye or is about the same size as deer, but his coat is always a beautiful snow-white in his deer form. Though hunters can see him with ease, he ensures that no deer is shot by allowing himself to be shot, reviving himself afterward and infecting the hunters with a deadly illness.




Sources:









Sunday, September 29, 2024

Philippine Mythological Creature: Kaperosa

Kaperosa



Kaperosa of the Tagalogs

The Tagalogs local term for the white lady.

Female ghosts are frequently seen wearing flowing white robes or dresses. Some may appear without heads or with rotten flesh. The most famous are the White Lady of Balete Drive and Loacan Road in Baguio. Common Kaperosa stories feature a female committing suicide out of hatred or being betrayed by her spouse or fiance, and then being murdered. Other 'ghost legends' describe them as souls who refuse to rest because they have unfinished business on Earth.

The KAPEROSA, also known in the Philippines as the WHITE LADY, is a white-clad spirit of a young woman who died tragically. She periodically appears to people at night near the location where she died, but she does not cause any harm. She appears to be seeking justice for her death.

A female ghost dressed in a white long garment with long black hair. Kaperosa is a female who commits herself because she is hated or betrayed by her spouse or fiance, or who is murdered, according to others. They are souls who cannot rest because they have unfinished business on Earth.

Some people believe that if you encounter a white lady in your house, whether it is rented or inherited from your parents or relatives, she is the former owner and want to remain on the property.

A white lady lives in a specific location where she had a negative encounter and died. Some people claim that she doesn't hurt others. She will appear briefly and then vanish.

White ladies often reveal themselves in seconds, but they will frighten you to death. Some individuals believe they live in high-stress environments such as 'balete', old houses, or the location where she died. There are reports that they are waiting on the road and need a ride. She will enter the vehicle and close it once the driver has given his OK. By the time he asks where he can drop her off, she has already left.

These are just a few of the unresolved questions. People believed they were lost spirits seeking assistance from mortals.




Saturday, August 24, 2024

Philippine Mythological Creature: Yumud

Yumud 

Yumud of the Manobo ethnic group

A Manobo (parts of the Agusan valley) mythical creature. 

A water wraith that occasionally takes the form of a long-haired woman. It is a harmless spirit that lives beneath the water's surface in stony, deep regions that are typically pools. She is the owner of the color white and occasionally manifests as a masculine deity or spirit. It keeps an eye on the fish. People drown when they offended the Yumud.

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

Philippine Mythological Creatures Introduction



I will be introducing some of the mythological creatures in the Philippine folklore and more information about them as the Philippines is rich in folk tales and folk tales which was webbed through centuries of tradition and culture. They include witches, monsters, beasts, fairies, ghouls, spirits, folkloric beings etc. so we will have some insights into some of the creatures that continue to amaze and astound us through all time. 

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

The Legend of Pineapple

Once upon a time, there lived in Panay Island a very good leader named Datu Pinyang. Datu Pinyang is the richest and most powerful among all datus of other races in the land in those days. He is a just man and kind to people so he was loved and respected by his people.

The datu has a beautiful daughter named Mayad-ayad. A lot of datus and maharlikas or noblemen fell in love with Mayad-ayad including Datu Mapahitas, a datu of a race in nearby parts of Panay. However, Mayad-ayad preferred is a warrior of her father named Maisog (which means brave),and even if he has no nobility, Maisog is a strong and brave young man. To the young man chosen by the lovely lady to marry her father has no disagreement.

The relationship of Mayad-ayad and Maisog agreed by Datu Pinyang brought anger and fury in the heart of Datu Mapahitas because he really wants to marry Mayad-ayad and obtain the vast wealth of Datu Pinyang. Shortly after, Mayad-ayad got sick and her father called a doctor but she was not cured instead she got worse. Datu Mapahitas heard the worsening condition of the lovely lady. He decided it was the right time to carry out his plan of revenge.

Datu Mapahitas disguises and pretended to be a doctor and upon meeting Datu Pinyang he said he wants to cure the illness of Mayad-ayad and he will cure in the condition that they will follow his judgment.

Datu Pinyang asked what should be done and the pretending doctor said "It must," he said "is the roots of dita and sap of that wood." And the fake doctor continued that the one who should get those solutions is the person who has a pure love to the sick patient.

Datu Pinyang responded: "If that is so, me and Maisog will go now and find those things in the forest."

Datu Pinyang immediately went to wilderness. All of a sudden Mapahitas henchmen surfaced out of nowhere who hid behind the trees and pierced Datu Pinyang until he died.

When Maisog saw that Datu Pinyang is dead, he escaped, gather all the men of his race and presided the attack against the henchmen of Datu Mapahitas and to save Mayad-ayad.

In the battle, Datu Mapahitas was killed and many of his men and those remaining alive escaped. When the enemy troops were defeated, Maisog looked for the body of Datu Pinyang, buried in front of his house and Mayad-ayad planted some beautiful plants around it which she sprinkled with water everyday.

A peculiar event took place that the site where Datu Pinyang was buried surfaced a shrub that resembles a head with a crown and decorated around with something that looks like small arrows in the form of a saw and when it grows and ripen really resembles the head of Datu Pinyang and it was now called Pinya or pineapple by the people of the race in honor of the named datu.

The story is also widespread about a mother and child that the stupidity of the child is the root cause of the pineapple plant. It seems that her daughter is not using her eyes. Each time she was asked by her mother to get something, she just always asked her in return. This is her habit. Until her mother got sick her daughter is still doing the same thing so the old woman unintentionally wished that she will have several eyes. Pinya suddenly disappears. When the old woman recovered and got healed from her sickness she saw an unusual plant having something that looks like eyes in their garden while searching for her daughter while Pinya suddenly disappears like a bubble. Eventually, she realized that the plant was her daughter.

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

The Origin Of Makapuno





Long time ago, there is a couple who has a very beautiful daughter named Makapuno. The couple lived in a secluded place near the river where they have a farm. Shortly after, a young man from a neighboring town heard of the beauty of Makapuno. He decided to visit the beautiful lady. When he arrived at the house of the lady, he saw that she has a suitor. Despite of this, he did not lose hope to woo the lovely woman. In his determination he obtained the nod of the lady in her desire. They scheduled the wedding. When the young man's rival to Makapuno heard of this, he returned to destroy the lovers.

One day while Makapuno and her boyfriend is strolling along the river, came the rival to her love who has evil intention a suitor of the lady mingling in their conversation. Without hesitation, he pulled a dagger in his pocket and continuously stabbed the lover of Makapuno. The lady thought it better to face death than to be in the hands of an evil suitor. A bloodbath event took place thereafter. Makapuno was buried by a grieving parents. After a few days, a plant emerges from the place where the beautiful lady was buried. When it bore fruits, it has produces a lot. So they name the plant Makapuno in memory of their beloved daughter. Furthermore, the word puno means full so the name of this fruit is appropriate. 




Photo Source:

http://www.marketmanila.com/archives/macapuno-preserves-a-la-marketman

Monday, May 2, 2016

The Legend Of The Sampaguita Flower




The Sampaguita flower is a delight to everyone because of its pleasing fragrance. The Ilonggos has kept a legend about the origin of the national flower of the Philippines.

It was said during the early times, there was a king who was known for his wealth and cruelty. He has a daughter named Guita. Guita is known for her beauty, kindness and humility. Though she possess and experience beautiful things and admired by everyone she was not happy. Her father is not thoughtful and helpful to the poor and forbid Guia to socialize and mingle with them and even strolling in the garden is not allowed by her father.

One day when her father is away, the lady went to the garden. She was playing with the flowers when she heard the whistle of a young man. The young man is Sampa, son of a planter. Guita asked the young man what he needs who in turn responded that he only wants to befriend her. The two made a mutual understanding.

They are currently conversing or chatting when the king passed by and saw Sampa holding the hands of Guita. In the eruption of fury and anger of the king he instantly ordered the killing of the two and buried them together.

About three months had passed and one day the king passed by the tomb of the lovers. He was shocked to see on top of the soil the beautiful, attractive white flowers which possesses fragrance. Tears fell down his eyes in regret for what he has done before. He cried and cried while saying:

   "Ay Guita, ay Guita, Sampa and Guita. Where are you?"

In his grief, the King lost consciousness. When he regained his consciousness, he ordered to call Sampaguita the flower in remembrance of the unfortunate lovers.


Photo Source:

http://www.flowermeaning.com/sampaguita-flower-meaning/

Sunday, May 1, 2016

The Legend Of Katao (Mermaid)




The sirena or mermaid of the Tagalog is equivalent to the katao of the Ilonggos. It is narrated in the following story the origin of the katao.

A maiden attempted to commit suicide because her lover married another woman. The broken-hearted woman in love jumped over the river from a cliff. In an unexplained phenomenon, when her feet touches the water she immediately got a tail just like a fish and she did not die.




Photo Source:

http://m4rl0.deviantart.com/art/Sirena-367131386


Saturday, April 30, 2016

The Origin Of The Fairies Or Tamawo




Tagalog people has created some fairies called diwata or goddesses known as engkantada in haraya; the Ilonggos have what we call tamawo. The following stories was said to be the origin of these supernatural beings.

When Adam and Eve has not yet left the paradise, they were told by God.

"Go forth and never forget my order. Bore just three children and with the birth of the third child, bring them to me so I can baptize them."

Adam and Eve left the paradise and started a new life. However, they momentarily forgot what God had told them about having children. They were very happy with their seven children.

One day while strolling, the couple met God and asked: "Adam and Eve, I've been looking for you and your children for so long, where are they now?

The two was immovable after what they heard. They could not give an explanation to God. They forgot that they should only have three children because they now have seven children.

"Bring to me your three children at the soonest time so I can baptized them." And God left.

The tearful Eve asked Adam, "What will we do now? And continued with a shivering voice, "I'm scared, Adam. We did not obey the orders of God. What will happen to us?"

"Have peace, Eve, we will find ways to keep the truth from God."

The next day, Adam and Eve dressed their first three children to bring to God and hide the four in the wilderness of the forest so God will not see them.

"Where are your other kids? Why are they the only ones you brought to me? Where are the rest of your children? the gentle and soft speaking God asked the couple.

"Our beloved God, we only have three children. Isn't this what you told us?"  the continuing denial of the two.

"Don't lie to me. Where are your four children?" God inquires.

"Señor, nothing else. We only have three children."

"You both lied to me. You have seven children but you only showed me three. If you only brought them all here I could baptized them all. I will baptize the three you showed me but you will no longer see the four you hide. They are alive but you could no longer see them. You can only hear their voices. They will not show to you while the food they will eat will come from you," the final words of God.

 And the four children of Adam and Eve which they kept and hide became the ancestors of the fairies or tamawo. They are around in the surroundings but invisible while they freely observe the people.





Photo Source:

http://www.deviantart.com/morelikethis/5281773

Friday, April 29, 2016

The Legend Of Sta. Cruz


The Holy Cross in Arevalo District, Iloilo City


If there is an image honored, venerated and consecrated by the elders of Arevalo, it is the Santa Cruz. There are lots of peculiar stories which are mysteriously attractive to narrate about this.

Long time ago, it was said that, there is a mananguete, a person climbing a coconut tree who saw the cross. He observed that the said cross grows bigger everyday. He took the attention of the natives about this. They plan to build a chapel for the cross. According to the elders, the wooden cross never dried up. It's tree is always moistened by the juice or sap that came from the living tree.

According to a statement, this cross was planted or erected by the Spanish missionaries on their first landing in the shores of Panay. The mysterious cross continues to grow. Others believed that the cross emerge from the shores to stop the Mohammedans of the South which frequents the area and  ransack the town in those days.

Whatever is the truth, each story strengthens and fortify the belief of the people in the sacred symbol. The elderly has kept attractive stories about the mysterious cross.

Many years had passed, they said that if the feast of the Holy Cross could not be celebrated properly or appropriately because there is no Queen Helena and King Constantine in the holy procession, the cross could not stand upright strongly no matter how tough is its nailing. In the whole duration of the procession, it moves as if it will fall from the decorated crate. It will only stand strongly if there is a complete colorful pageantry by the next day. According to the rumors, when the town attempted to abandon and forget  the celebration, a deafening thunder and a terrifying line of a lightning hit the place. This continued until the people decided to celebrate the feast of the Holy Cross.

In the celebration where the colorful pageantry or presentation lacks the presence of a king and princesses, a great fire or conflagration mysteriously took place which engulfs several houses while the procession is continuously happening.  

The men and women who were chosen to participate in the procession to portray the characters in the colorful presentation or pageantry could not refuse in the fear that they will meet misfortunes or bad omen. According to the rumors of the elders, if a beautiful young lady dared to refuse to be dressed as Queen Helena or Reyna Elena, she became insane, crazy or mentally ill, sometimes becoming blind some others are crippled. while others met an unfortunate accident.



Photo Source:

http://localphilippines.com/attractions/santa-cruz


Thursday, April 28, 2016

The Crown Of Arevalo


Crown Monument in Arevalo District, Iloilo City




The big crown sitting distinctively atop a tower in the plaza beside the church is a one of a kind marker of Arevalo. According to Father James Mansfield who served in the parish, this crown has a hidden history.

Many years had passed before the spread of Christianity in Arevalo, there is a group of Jesuits who were looking for a place to stay in a place now called as Santa Cruz. They built a chapel here and evangelize the natives. Nobody knows for whatever reason or event happened but the natives were infuriated with the Jesuits and they were driven away.

One day, a farmer unearthed a beautiful crown. In an untoward incident, a scepter and a big black cross was found nearby where the crown was found. The crown and scepter which were made out of expensive metals were just average in size. The cross which is now kept under the custody of the church is more than 15 feet tall and made out of hard and unusual kind of wood.

In 1854 during the incumbency of Domingo de Guzman as captain of the pueblo or town, the crown was made bigger in Fundidor, Molo. It was placed in the plaza or town square. This is gaining attention on top of the district of Arevalo as a statue of missionary purpose of the Spaniards in town.

The present day name of the former Jesuit missionary settlement is Santa Cruz. It was in this place where the crown, scepter and cross was found.





Photo Source:

http://www.iloilocity.org/places.html

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

The History Of Zarraga


Zarraga Parish Church









Zarraga Plaza Basketball Court 





Gamot Cogon Waldorf School in Barangay Libongcogon



The town of Zarraga before is a thick forest with the abundance of grasses growing in the area. Tigbao, cogon (Imperata cylindrica) and other grasses are tall and thick. Only the hunters dare to live in the area without any fear. This forest has no name and was said as "no man's land".

This place is formerly a forest but thanks to the pioneers of Pototan that includes Marcelino Penuela, Fulgencio Penuela, Damian Penuela, Eugenio Sollesta and Marcelino Poblador. They discovered and founded the town in 1853.

The town of Zarraga was named after Pedro Zarraga  who became the Alkalde Mayor or City Mayor of Irong-Irong (present-day Iloilo City).





Photo Source:

http://www.zamboanga.com/z/index.php?title=Zarraga,_Iloilo,_Philippines

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/29437813   - courtesy of Boxxer "jAz" Rose

http://www.gamotcogon.org/school

Monday, April 25, 2016

The Origin Of Tubungan








Bato Sumpit Hidden Falls at Barangay Igtubli



The present day site or sitio of the town and its neighboring places are formerly cogon (Imperata cylindrica) fields and wilderness. The arable land is ideal for farming and pasture. Adventurers and farmers were attracted to go to this place. The first settlers came from Nahapay, a barrio of Guimbal. It was then followed by the settlers who were natives of the towns of Leon, Igbaras and Tigbauan. The natives settled together in Tin-an. Due to the increase of the population, the plan of establishing a town was recommended by one of the farmers named Mangon. The establishment of the town was inaugurated in 1768 in which the leader is Mangon.

The Spanish law during that time states that before a place or community will be considered officially as a town, it should first follow the mandatory rule about population. A lot of people were persuaded and motivated to live in Tubungan in response to the requirement of the law. Thus, the town of Tubungan was born in 1768 from the contribution or "tubong" from its neighboring towns.

The Hiligaynon word "tubong" means contribution or add-on which were usually used in gambling;  an addition to the original bet.

The establishment of the town was made possible from the additional number of settlers from neighboring places to meet the required minimum population before a place will be  officially considered a town. The name "Tubungan" came from the root word "tubong".



Photo Source:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tubungan,_Iloilo
http://www.tubungan-iloilo.com/tourism-and-culture.html
https://pinoyontheroad.com/2012/08/15/ilo-ilo-chasing-bato-sumpit-hidden-falls/

Sunday, April 24, 2016

The Legend Of Tigbauan


Tigbauan Church and Public Plaza




Bearland Resort



The town of Tigbauan is found southeast of the city of Iloilo. It is bounded by the following towns: in the north by the town of Leon, town of San Miguel in the northwest, Oton in the east, Iloilo Strait in the south, Guimbal and Igbaras in the west, and the towns of Tubungan and Guimbal in the northeast. This town is about 30 kilometers away from the city. It has 52 barangays, has an area of 6,667 hectares and a population of 58, 814 people according to 2010 census. The municipality has a flat terrain. The plain is approximately 57% of the total area, covering about 6,667 has. along the north-west site of the Sibalom River. There are lots of coconut trees and bamboos can be seen around. The Tigbaueños are the makers of frying pans, basket, lamps, glassware cover made of bamboo. Tuba palm wine, nata de coco, bucayo, vinegar, different kinds of candies, sweets, confectioneries are products of coconuts. The town of Tigbauan is one of the main supplier of healthy fish in the neighboring towns. Fishing is one of the jobs and source of livelihood of the people and they earn a lot from it which they use to send their children to school same with making palm wines.

One of the important events in Philippine history is the landing of American Liberation Forces on March 18, 1945 in the shores of Parara-Buyuan,  Tigbauan, which caused the liberation of Panay Island and Romblon from the Japanese Imperial Forces.

Tigbauan is known not only in the Philippines but also around the world because it was in this town where SEAFDEC (Southeast Asia Fisheries Development Council) Aqua Culture Research Center is located. The Research Center attracts foreign tourists to study about fisheries in our country but most especially students on their educational tours. The breeding of milkfish and shrimps are just some of the first researches of the center.

In accordance with the program of the government to improve the quality of lives of the people in rural areas, ILECO (Iloilo Electric Coop, Inc) was established in which office was located in Tigbauan. Same with SIBALOM RIVER IRRIGATION SYSTEM that provides water in the whole town and the town of Oton. The water system or irrigation gives a lot of help and improve the lives of the people in the town.

During the old days, the town was known by the name "Katigbawan" (mountain of the tigbao grass) which became Tigbauan today. The town is well known before because of the tall grasses growing thickly which was called "tigbao" o tambo with a scientific term, "Acanthus ebracteatus."

Three-fourths of this area is grown with tall and thick grasses growing abundantly everywhere in the area. Long time ago, according to the old folks, the most common practice of people is to cut tigbao grasses which they use as fuel and its leaves is made into broomsticks. During those times, there is a young man cutting some "tigbao" and he has a boyfriend who brought him food at noon time. One afternoon the lovers walked together home when they meet a Spaniard. The Spaniard asked about the name of the place. They could not understand what the Spaniard is saying so they keep silent. The Spaniard asked again pointing to the tall grasses.

The lovers responded katigbawan. With three parting ways, the Spaniards ascertained the name of the place where he was lost and he never thought he could give the name to the place. Since then, the place of the tigbao grasses became famously called "katigbawan". However, it eventually became "Tigbauan" because according to the townsfolk of Katigbawan the name is long so it was shortened by removing "ka" in Katigbawan and it became Tigbauan. The spelling of Tigbawan was again changed and became Tigbauan the place before where it was almost covered with tigbao grass. However, it is unbelievable that not a tree of Tigbaw is growing or can be seen today anywhere in Tigbauan.





Photo Source:

http://www.ivoteph.com/candidates/region-vi-western-visayas/iloilo/tigbauan-iloilo-official-local-candidates-mock-poll-2016/

http://ramzkie.com/2012/05/experience-paradise-experience-bearland-resort-tigbauan/


Saturday, April 23, 2016

The Town of Sara


Sara Municipal Hall





Relaxing Garden Resort



A lady is living in this town, that is not only reputed or famous for its admirable traits and honor but also known by the people as the most beautiful maiden during her time in the entire Panay Island. The name of this lady is Sara. Because of Sara, the town charmed its neighboring towns. A lot of people came just to see the lady. It is already common for the people if they plan to visit the lady they will say "We will go to Sara" or "Let's visit Sara". Until eventually, people forgot about the lady but people continued to call the place Sara.




Photo Source:

https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g298465-i109748097-Panay_Island_Visayas.html

http://ray.dilg.gov.ph/projects/12363/REPAIR/REHAB+MUNICIPAL+HALL/

Friday, April 22, 2016

The Origin of the Municipality of Santa Barbara


Santa Barbara Church and Convent is the seat of the Visayas Provisional Revolutionary Government led by General Martin Delgado in 1898. It also played host to the 117th Philippine Independence Day Celebration in 2015.







Iloilo Golf and Country Club in Santa Barbara is Southeast Asia's first and oldest golf and country club.





Santa Barbara Town Hall 




Long time ago, no one really knows how this town was started. However according to the stories that was passed through generations by our ancestors, it was said that in the year 1617, there was a small town and a few small huts in a place called Tabuc Suba in the banks of Tigum River until the present-day village of Tugas. After a few years, the people living in this area moved their residence downwards the river towards Itanan and enters in Carismo-an. In 1760, they transferred again to Catmon near the river in the belief that it is safe from floods.

In 1761, they transferred again to another place that is situated in a vast and fertile fields that is safe from great floods of Tigum river. In this place is where the residents found prosperity and security in life. They call this place Odtuan because it served as a resting place at noon by the travelers from Cabatuan and traders or merchants from Salog and Ogtong. Usually the people who went to the market pass the area at noon. In order not to mistake it with Oton or Ugtuan, in the end they called it Santa Barbara.

The missionary priests came and built a big church which was made of big blocks of stone. The natives who are residing were forced to gather huge stones in a far place of Coronado (present-day Leon) towards Angoy (present-day San Miguel). After more than twenty (20) years of forced labor, the construction of the church was finally completed. The chosen patron saint was Santa Barbara. The land was given to the Spanish officials and made it into a pueblo.

For the reason why they chose Santa Barbara as their patron saint is the belief of the residents that it brings good fortune in the place because it is no longer flooding with the help and guidance of the blessed protector from thunder, lightning and other calamities. Santa Barbara is also a patroness of the architects, marksman and miner.

Another history has told that during those times the pueblo was established before by paganism and the beliefs in babaylan or shaman seems like prevailing or dominant in the town in the surroundings of Odtuan. Day and night the agongs of the babaylan can be heard around that it seems like the bells of the Spanish churches can easily be defeated or overwhelmed.  The parish priest during that time was Father Mateo Rodriguez; so he chose Santa Barbara to be the patroness of the town to defeat the beliefs of the pagans.




Photo Source:

http://www.iloilo.net.ph/discover-santa-barbara/

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/696671/iloilo-town-ready-to-host-independence-day

https://golflifeatbp.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/iloilo-golf-and-country-club/

Thursday, April 21, 2016

Some Of The Barrios In San Joaquin


San Joaquin Town Hall




San Joaquin Town Hall Extension




Garin Farm




Bull Fight




Cattle Fight




Horse Fight




Carabao Fight 


Pasungay Festival is held every Fiesta celebration of San Joaquin in January featuring Cow Fight, Bull Fight, Horse Fight and Carabao Fight. Pasungay is taken from the root word "sungay" which is a local term for horns.



Sinugbuhan

According to local traditions, ten datus arrived here. They divided Panay island as their territory. As a symbol of their partition, they made a fire in front of Madja-as and throw the said fire into the sea. Sinugbuhan means place of drop or diving area in the water.


Lawigan

This place was named after the lovers, Law, son of a Chinese merchant and Igan beautiful daughter of an Ati chieftain. Since their parents are against their relationship, they eloped but died.


Tiolas

A Spanish official rode a karomata. The boat is sailing through the lengths of the ocean when the Spaniard got tired and ordered to stop the boat and got out of it and sit on the shores. His shoes got wet by the chasing waves. The poetic feeling enslaved him to utter:

"A tus pies a las olas" (at your feet are the waves).




Photo Source:

www.exploreiloilo.com courtesy of Marcos Caratao

http://galaero-escapetravels.blogspot.com/2014/02/san-joaquin-church.html

http://www.garinfarm.com/leisure/

http://www.garinfarm.com/pasungay-festival-at-san-joaquin/ courtesy of Eduardo Seatres

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/384917099372822493/ courtesy of Mayumi Beats

http://mybeautifuliloilo.blogspot.com/2016/01/pasungay-and-pahibag-honouring.html

http://leosolinap.0fees.net/displayimage.php?album=8&pos=11&ckattempt=1 courtesy of Leo Solinap



Wednesday, April 20, 2016

The History Of Gintaguan, San Joaquin



San Joaquin Church




San Joaquin Cemetery Campo Santo




San Joaquin Public Plaza Facade




San Joaquin Public Plaza Interior



Balahidyong and Balanakon, the brave warriors of Datu Sumakwel were sent by their chieftain to look for Datu Marikudo so the purchase of Panay will take place. During those days, the area were so dense and wild and less settled. The two men were so surprised to see a very beautiful maiden sitting on top of the mountain. All of a sudden they are beside the lady and became rival best friend in the heart of newly found lady. However the lady considered giving them a test and said:

"I'm hungry. The first to cook banana from a green bamboo in fire will be my other half."

In an instance the two went down the mountain just like a lightning bolt and they are so hasty looking for what the beautiful lady wanted. They want to hurry in going up the mountain first. In his hurry to cook the banana, Balanakon continuously stir it on fire. Balahidyong who is strong and determined is a poet. He is not hasty. While cooking the banana, he made a poem about love referring to Alayen, the maiden. Balanakon is first to offer the food but it was rejected by Alayen because the preparation is not that good and choose Balahidyong's offer instead despite that it was the last to offer. The impulsive Balanakon is not happy with the result of the challenge so he considered the decisions of the bathalas or the gods to declare in a duel but Alayen intervened.

"No" she pleaded, I won't allow to that your friendship and good relationship will be destroyed because of me who is undeservedly to shed blood with the Malayan noblemen. For the reason that you both desires of me, cut my body into half. One half will go to Balanakon and the other half will go to Balahidyong and each of the half will be buried on top of either mountain.

"I Agree" shouted Balanakon.

Balahidyong did not answer but stare with fear to Alayen.

"Let's start the division," said Balanakon who got his sword.

Balahidyong speaks.

"Warrior brother and best friend, companion to countless number of battles in Borneo and Sumatra, listen to what I say. It's painful for me to hack you with my sword in our duel, however, it would be a thousand times painful for me to see Alayen, the woman I truly love, to be in danger because she unfortunately encounter  the two best friends who could not harm just like they usually do in the past few days for the safety of each other. For me, I am ready to bestow my half to you just to see Alayen alive however I could not own."

He started to leave and Balanakon joyfully shouted, "Let's all go back to the baranggay or community in Andona and Sumakwel will preside on our wedding in a true Malayan tradition." Balanakon prepared their belongings.

All of a sudden Balahidyong pulled the hands of Alayen  and jumped off the nearby cliff and the intense chasing began. Balanakon was so swift but Balahidyong and Alayen was way faster. Across the mountains, river he chased the two however he could not catch them. The darkness is not a hindrance because Balanakon has a very strong smell.  On the third day of chasing, he reached the river. He sensed and smelled the two in the surroundings but not a shadow appears. No imprints nor a broken twigs, stepped leaves, turned stones. Only the smell exists. Balanakon thought that Balahidyong has an amulet or spell of disappearing that makes them disappear like the bubbles. At dusk, Balanakon surrendered and left.

Beneath that waterfall is a cave. Balahidyong and Alayen stayed there until the birth of their child. This place was called "Gintagu-an" which means the hiding place. Balahidyong together with Alayen returned to Barangay Siwaragan. Balanakon got married and lived in Malandog ruled by Sumakwel. The old grudges had been healed when the son of Balahidyong got married to the daughter of Balanakon.

The Gintaguan is still a place of attraction by the town of San Joaquin and visited by guests and tourists.




Photo Source:

http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/51145/angat-kabataan-unique-summer-heritage-pilgrimage-held-in-iloilo

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Joaquin,_Iloilo

https://exploreiloilo.com/  courtesy of Marcos Caratao

http://www.panoramio.com/user/82375/tags/Building?photo_page=8