Filipino Cooking and Culture By Dennis Sim

 

Filipino Cooking and Culture

By 

Dennis Sim

The Filipinos are gregarious and sociable people who love to party, and the food is often at the center of their many celebrations. Filipino food combines Eastern and Western ideas and is strongly influenced by Chinese, Spanish and American traditions.

Original Fusion Food

While it defies any singular characterization, Filipino food is sometimes identified by the way it fuses Asian and European ingredients. For example, in the robust and popular Pork Menudo dish, some recipes have it blending tomato sauce with soy sauce, while others have it combining cheese and bay leaf with soy sauce.

Still, as with all other Southeast Asian cuisines, we often find local Southeast Asian ingredients like chilies, coconuts, shrimp paste, lemongrass, and fish sauce or patis present in Filipino cooking.

Chinese traders, who have been going to the Philippines since the 11th century, brought with them not only their silks and ceramics from the Middle Kingdom for purposes of commerce but also Chinese cooking traditions like stir-frying and steaming. The Filipino pancit has its roots in noodle soup dishes from China, the lumpia finds its origins in Chinese spring rolls, while the siaopao and siaomai are similar to the popular Chinese dim sum dishes of steamed buns and dumplings.

Colonization

Later, in the 16th century when the Spanish colonized the Philippines and imposed Catholicism on the masses, they also introduced their flavors to Filipino cuisine, including olive oil, paprika, ​saffron, cheese, ham, and cured sausages. The Spanish paella or fried rice, for example, has come to be a festive dish in the Philippines and has been locally adapted to include many of the abundant seafood such as shrimps, crabs, squid, and fish, with which the Philippines is blessed.

In 1889, the United States colonized the Philippines, which bequeathed it the widespread use of the English language as well as convenience cooking -- pressure cooking, freezing, pre-cooking, sandwiches, salads, hamburgers, and fried chicken, which have all come to form part of the arsenal of the Filipino cook.

Island Food

The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands; with a few more appearing when the tide is low. With so much water everywhere, it is no wonder that seafood is the main source of protein in the Filipino diet.

The country is divided into seven major regions and features a wide variety of regional fare. It’s not easy to put one’s finger on what might constitute a Filipino “national” dish, but several that could lay claim to that distinction include the Adobo which is chicken and pork stewed in vinegar and soy sauce, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaf, the Bistek or beef and onion rings in soy sauce and the lumpia or spring rolls.

One feature that is unique to the Filipino dining is the sawsawan, dipping sauces that are served with every meal and which can turn simply prepared roasted or steamed meals into bursts of flavors that follow one’s own taste buds.

Common condiments like fish sauce, dark soy sauce, native vinegar, and cream-style shrimp paste are mixed with herbs including ginger, garlic, chili peppers, peppercorns, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and kalamansi lime to bring the flavors up a few notches.

Just as in the other Southeast Asian countries, a typical Filipino meal often consists of white rice eaten with a variety of dishes, all of which taste better when consumed together with family and friends.

Source: https://www.thespruceeats.com/filipino-cooking-and-culture-3030285

Dennis Sim

Food writer and chef living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, who creates recipes inspired by Southeast Asia.

Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process

The Filipinos are gregarious and sociable people who love to party, and the food is often at the center of their many celebrations. Filipino food combines Eastern and Western ideas and is strongly influenced by Chinese, Spanish and American traditions.

Original Fusion Food

While it defies any singular characterization, Filipino food is sometimes identified by the way it fuses Asian and European ingredients. For example, in the robust and popular Pork Menudo dish, some recipes have it blending tomato sauce with soy sauce, while others have it combining cheese and bay leaf with soy sauce.

Still, as with all other Southeast Asian cuisines, we often find local Southeast Asian ingredients like chilies, coconuts, shrimp paste, lemongrass, and fish sauce or patis present in Filipino cooking.

Chinese traders, who have been going to the Philippines since the 11th century, brought with them not only their silks and ceramics from the Middle Kingdom for purposes of commerce but also Chinese cooking traditions like stir-frying and steaming. The Filipino pancit has its roots in noodle soup dishes from China, the lumpia finds its origins in Chinese spring rolls, while the siaopao and siaomai are similar to the popular Chinese dim sum dishes of steamed buns and dumplings.

Unraveling Filipino Mythology: Discover the Legends, Deities, and Creatures that Shaped Our Heritage

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Mythological Creatures in Philippine Folklore
  • Aswang – The Shape-shifting, Flesh-eating Ghoul
  • Kapre – The Giant Tree-Dwelling Trickster
  • Tikbalang – The Horse-headed Guardian of the Forest
  • Manananggal – The Self-segmenting, Bloodthirsty Vampire
  • Duwende – The Mischievous Little Dwarfs
• Legends of Filipino Deities
  • Bathala – The Supreme God of the Tagalog People
  • Mayari – The Goddess of the Moon and Night
  • Apolaki – The Sun God and Patron of Warriors
  • Diwata – The Beautiful and Powerful Forest Spirits
• Tales of Heroism and Adventure
  • The Epic of Lam-Ang – A Journey of Love, Revenge, and Bravery
  • The Legend of Mariang Makiling – The Mysterious and Enchanting Mountain Goddess
• The Influence of Filipino Mythology on Modern Culture
• Conclusion

Introduction

Ever wondered what makes Filipino culture so captivating and unique? Well, the answer lies partly in our rich and diverse Filipino mythology. Our islands are teeming with fantastical tales of gods, goddesses, and supernatural beings that have been passed down through generations. These stories are not just entertaining; they offer a glimpse into the ancient beliefs, customs, and traditions that make up the colorful tapestry of our heritage.

Now, you might be asking yourself, “Why should I care about these old stories?” As Filipinos, it’s essential to understand our roots and appreciate the foundation of our identity. Philippine folklore serves as a window to our ancestors’ worldview and values, helping us connect with our past and better understand who we are today. Plus, who doesn’t love a good story about mythical creatures and legendary heroes?

In this article, we’ll embark on an epic adventure through the enchanting world of Philippine mythology. We’ll introduce you to some of the most famous mythological creatures that have been haunting the imaginations of Filipinos for centuries, such as the terrifying Aswang and the mischievous Duwende. Next, we’ll explore the fascinating legends surrounding our ancient deities, like Bathala, the supreme god, and Mayari, the goddess of the moon. We’ll also share tales of heroism and adventure, like the epic of Lam-Ang and the legend of Mariang Makiling. Finally, we’ll discuss the lasting influence of Filipino mythology on modern culture and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations. So, buckle up, mga kababayan, as we dive into the magical realm of Philippine folklore!

Mythological Creatures in Philippine Folklore

Aswang – The Shape-shifting, Flesh-eating Ghoul

Ah, the Aswang—perhaps the most notorious creature in Philippine folklore. This shape-shifting, flesh-eating ghoul has long terrorized our sleepy barrios, giving us countless sleepless nights. An Aswang can take on various forms, from an ordinary-looking human to a monstrous beast with wings. By day, they blend in with the townsfolk, but by night, they transform into their true selves, hunting for human flesh—especially the hearts of unborn children. Yikes! It’s no wonder Aswangs are the ultimate stars of many Filipino horror stories.

Kapre – The Giant Tree-Dwelling Trickster

If you’re ever near a large, old tree and smell the unmistakable scent of tobacco, you might just be in the presence of a Kapre. These giant, hairy, tree-dwelling tricksters love to perch on branches, puffing away on their cigars while watching the world go by. They’re not exactly evil, but they do have a penchant for playing pranks on unsuspecting humans. So, if you find yourself lost in the woods or suddenly surrounded by strange noises, you might just have a Kapre playing tricks on you.

Tikbalang – The Horse-headed Guardian of the Forest

Imagine a tall, muscular creature with the head of a horse, the body of a human, and the hooves of a goat—that’s the Tikbalang, the enigmatic guardian of the forest. This mythical beast is known to lead travelers astray, challenging them to conquer their fears and prove their worth. But don’t worry, if you can pluck three strands of hair from a Tikbalang’s mane, legend has it that they’ll become subservient to you. So, if you ever encounter one, you know what to do!

Manananggal – The Self-segmenting, Bloodthirsty Vampire

The Manananggal is one creature that’s sure to send shivers down your spine. This bloodthirsty vampire has the uncanny ability to separate its upper body from its lower half, sprout bat-like wings, and fly off in search of prey—typically pregnant women. If that’s not terrifying enough, the only way to vanquish a Manananggal is by finding its lower half and smearing it with salt, garlic, or ash to prevent it from rejoining its upper half before sunrise. Talk about a high-stakes game of hide-and-seek!

Duwende – The Mischievous Little Dwarfs

Last but not least, we have the Duwende—mischievous little dwarfs that can either bring you good fortune or cause you endless trouble. They come in two varieties: the playful, kind-hearted Puti and the more sinister Itim. It’s wise to stay in the Duwendes’ good graces by offering them small tokens or simply saying “Tabi-tabi po” as you pass by their homes, which are often found in mounds of soil or anthills. Trust me, you don’t want to incur the wrath of these tiny troublemakers!

Legends of Filipino Deities

Bathala – The Supreme God of the Tagalog People

Let’s start with Bathala, the supreme god of the Tagalog people. Bathala is the almighty creator of the universe, ruling the sky and all the heavenly bodies. Legends tell of Bathala’s immense power and wisdom, shaping the world with his divine will. As the highest deity in the ancient Tagalog pantheon, Bathala was the one who kept the balance between the forces of good and evil, ensuring that harmony and order prevailed in the cosmos.

Mayari – The Goddess of the Moon and Night

Next, we have the ethereal Mayari, the goddess of the moon and night. Mayari is known for her unparalleled beauty and grace, illuminating the darkness with her radiant presence. As the moon’s guardian, she was responsible for guiding the tides and overseeing the cycles of life. Mayari was also believed to possess great mystical power, allowing her to weave dreams and visions for those who sleep under her watchful gaze. So the next time you gaze upon the moonlit sky, remember the enchanting Mayari watching over you.

Apolaki – The Sun God and Patron of Warriors

Apolaki, the sun god, is the brother of Mayari and the polar opposite in many ways. As the patron of warriors, he embodies strength, courage, and valor. Each day, Apolaki drives his fiery chariot across the sky, bringing light and warmth to the world. In times of war, it was believed that he watched over and guided Filipino warriors into battle, ensuring their success and victory. Apolaki’s fierce and indomitable spirit serves as a reminder of the resilience and bravery that runs deep in our Filipino blood.

Diwata – The Beautiful and Powerful Forest Spirits

Finally, let’s venture into the mystical realm of the Diwata, the beautiful and powerful forest spirits that have long captivated our ancestors’ imaginations. Diwatas are the guardians of nature, ensuring that the delicate balance of the ecosystem remains undisturbed. They are known for their otherworldly beauty and enchanting voices, which can lure unsuspecting mortals into their domain. Though generally benevolent, Diwatas can be vengeful if their territory is threatened or if their trust is betrayed. So, if you ever find yourself in the heart of the forest, be mindful of your actions and treat the land with respect, for the Diwatas are always watching.

Tales of Heroism and Adventure

The Epic of Lam-Ang – A Journey of Love, Revenge, and Bravery

One of the most celebrated tales in Philippine literature is the epic of Lam-Ang, a journey filled with love, revenge, and bravery. Lam-Ang, born with extraordinary strength and intelligence, embarks on a quest to avenge his father’s death at the hands of the monstrous Igorot chieftain. Along the way, he encounters a beautiful maiden named Ines Kannoyan, whom he woos and marries.

With the help of his animal companions—a talking rooster, a magical dog, and a wise catfish—Lam-Ang battles fierce adversaries, overcomes daunting challenges, and ultimately avenges his father. The epic of Lam-Ang is a testament to the resilience and courage of the Filipino spirit, inspiring generations with its timeless tale of heroism.

The Legend of Mariang Makiling – The Mysterious and Enchanting Mountain Goddess

In the lush forests of Mount Makiling, a mysterious and enchanting goddess named Mariang Makiling is said to reside. Often described as a beautiful maiden with long, flowing hair, she watches over the mountain and its inhabitants, ensuring harmony between nature and the people who dwell nearby.

According to legend, Maria Makiling was once open to interacting with humans, even falling in love with a mortal man. However, when the man betrayed her trust, she retreated into the heart of the mountain, never to be seen again. Today, Mariang Makiling is known for her generosity and compassion, aiding those in need by providing them with food or healing their ailments. But be warned: she also punishes those who disrespect her domain or mistreat the environment.

The Influence of Filipino Mythology on Modern Culture

The captivating stories of Filipino mythology continue to leave their mark on modern culture, particularly in literature and film. Writers and filmmakers alike have drawn inspiration from our ancient tales, using these timeless narratives as the backbone for contemporary novels, comics, and movies. From retellings of classic legends to fresh, inventive interpretations of our mythical creatures, Filipino mythology has provided a rich, creative wellspring for storytellers to explore and share with new generations.

Despite the passage of time and the arrival of modernity, many traditional customs and beliefs rooted in Filipino mythology continue to persist in our daily lives. Superstitions, rituals, and folk remedies are still observed by Filipinos, especially in rural areas. For example, many people still whisper “Tabi-tabi po” when passing by a suspected dwelling of a Duwende, or wear amulets known as “agimat” to protect themselves from harm. These practices serve as enduring reminders of our connection to the ancient wisdom and beliefs of our ancestors.

Conclusion

As we conclude our journey through the enchanting world of Filipino mythology, it’s essential to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. Our diverse collection of tales, legends, and mythical creatures showcases the creativity and imagination of our ancestors, providing a vivid glimpse into the past. By honoring our folklore, we pay tribute to the generations that came before us and ensure that their wisdom and stories continue to inspire and captivate us for years to come.

Filipino mythology remains relevant in contemporary society, as it continues to influence literature, film, and even everyday customs and beliefs. Our mythical tales and legendary figures not only entertain and inspire, but also serve as a source of national pride and identity. By embracing our folklore, we can foster a greater appreciation for our unique heritage and its impact on our modern lives.

We hope that this exploration of Filipino mythology has piqued your curiosity and inspired you to delve deeper into the fascinating world of our ancestors’ stories and legends. There is a wealth of tales waiting to be discovered, each one offering valuable insights into our culture, history, and collective imagination. By continuing to explore and celebrate our folklore, we can strengthen our connection to the past and carry on the rich legacy of our heritage for future generations to enjoy.

Read the complete article here: Unravelling Filipino Mythology 

How Learning Philippine Mythology and Folklore Can Shape Our Future

The Aswang Project 

By Rob Pastera

Renowned folklorists and anthropologists, Profs. Maximo Ramos and Felipe Landa Jocano emphasized the significance of Philippine Mythology in understanding the culture, values, and traditions of the Filipino people. They argued that this plethora of knowledge plays an important role in the daily lives of Filipinos, both during their time and for future generations. Albeit complex, the stories of the old, the beliefs in higher and lower mythology, as well as the traditional knowledge systems, are intertwined in the study of the history and culture of the country.

The strong emphasis on the role of Philippine Mythology in Filipino Culture isn’t enough to answer the lack of research on the integration of Philippine Mythology into the formal education system of the Philippines. One of the few research projects that tackles the importance of teaching Philippine Mythology, is by Sugue and Reyes in 2022. Sugue and Reyes (2022) emphasized the connection between the culture and history of the Filipino people as literary art forms and suggests that the recognition and preservation of Philippine mythology can be integrated into the curriculum through various means.

In addition to the above perspective, there are several reasons why the study of mythology is beneficial to students. This includes its benefits to the promotion of reading literacy of Filipinos, the reflection of the innate moral values of the society, the promotion of critical thinking for decision making, and the preservation and acknowledgment of different cultures of the people.

The literacy of Filipinos

A study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2018 revealed that Filipinos scored lowest in reading comprehension. This means that Filipinos may have difficulties comprehending readings and navigating through formal instructions. In addition, this low reading comprehension level may hinder the student’s ability to participate in academic engagements and interpret complex texts and ideas.

Ambayon (2020) claimed that mythology and folklore play an important role in promoting literacy across societies. Various cultures across the globe emphasize the importance of storytelling to the cognitive and emotional development of children, with mothers and fathers reading short stories before bed, this prompts their children to be active readers and explore the world of fantasy.

In the context of the Philippines, using resources that incorporate Philippine Mythology can increase the interest of readers and students due to their familiarity with the elements of the story. Through a heightened interest in the text, the readers will be more motivated to read by themselves and with autonomy (Pinoliad, 2021). Furthermore, exposure to these reading materials can allow the readers to improve their vocabulary skills, which is an essential component of reading comprehension.

The Moral Values of Filipinos

Mythologies, in general, play an important role in society through their reflection and distinction of what is right and wrong. Mythology and folklore are not just stories to scare or entertain, rather, these are vehicles for social, historical, and moral values of a certain society for the members of each generation to learn (Adhikari and Saha, 2021; Prihapsari et al. 2021; Sugue & Reyes, 2022). Highlighting the importance of having the right principles and moral obligations is part of the unwritten purpose of mythology and folklore, specifically, to be viewed as a vehicle for didacticism.

A significant number of folk literature and mythological stories are centered around the idea of having role models. A few examples are Bantugan from the Maranao epic “Darangën”, who is known for his strength and courage, Lam-Ang from the Ilocano epic “Biag ni Lam-Ang” who is known for his courage and intelligence, Maria Makiling a Diwata from Laguna who is known for her kindness and compassion, and lastly, Nagmalitong Yawa Sinagmaling Diwata from the Hinilawod who is known for her (his, as he transformed into Datu Sunmasakay) courage. These characters from folk literature inspired generations of Filipinos to be functional and morally upright by sustaining the social order and cohesion of their communities.

In addition to the prevalence of role models, is the idea of how Filipinos value their nature and environment. Filipinos exercise moral obligations in the protection of the environment. A study by Aruta and Paceño (2022), mentioned that social responsibility facilitates the transmission of healthy attitudes and perspectives to the environment. Furthermore, the beliefs of nature inhabitants like the Kapre, Tikbalang, Tamawo, etc., are helping the Filipinos across the country to be known and unknown stewards of their environment.

Can beliefs in the unknown help Critical Thinking and Creativity?

Critical thinking is one of the valued skills these days as it provides students with the opportunity to think outside the box and see ideas through a different lens. Folklore and mythological stories are filled with various themes, symbols, and social issues that require careful analysis and metacognition for better understanding and comprehension. Through a heightened interest in local beliefs and stories, students will be more engaged in thinking for more viable and practical solutions in solving problems that they encounter daily.

Various examples of heroes that emulated critical thinking skills are Bantugan, Handyong, Lam-Ang, and Humadapnon. These heroes displayed their critical thinking skills by strategizing and thinking of various ways to win their battles and continue their adventures. This can inspire the students to think of ways on how they can deal with possible challenges while keeping a morally upright attitude.

Aside from the aforementioned stories, beliefs in supernatural beings also help in the development of the critical thinking skills of students. The aswang, for example, are known as ferocious monsters who feed on humans. However, the belief in the aswang when contextualized with history, gender, or social issues, will result in different interpretations of its role in the community; prompting the students to think and reassess the importance of thorough research to construct their understanding of different concepts. Thereby promoting an open mind and critical mindset.

To achieve such level of critical thinking, it is also important to acknowledge creativity that is achieved through hard work. Various mythological beings value hard work and perseverance and reward people with blessings and gifts. The presence of these stories and mythological beings and stories not only inspires the students to create art forms but also gives them the reality check that they can achieve such skills through dedication.

 

Many Cultures yet united

Philippine mythology is a part of the country’s Intangible Cultural Heritage that is passed on to future generations. As a multiethnic society, a comprehensive study of the Philippines will require years of research and tons of readings for the students to engage in. With this, the availability of folk literature and mythology will provide a general idea of how knowledge systems from various cultural communities were built and sustained through the years.

The study of Philippine mythology can help students understand multiculturalism and the importance of heritage preservation (Lobo, 2023; Mendonça et al., 2020; Sugue & Reyes, 2022; Tamayo, 2023). There is no one-culture description-fits-all in the context of the Philippines. Each has its unique interpretation and traditional knowledge systems. Depending on the needs of the community members, various community leaders, or even elders, tend to provide their understanding of different phenomena. With this comes varied mythological beings, epic heroes, mythological events, and places.

Despite the individual interpretations of one’s reality, mythological beliefs, when carefully analyzed, cross boundaries. The beliefs in Mebuyan of the Bagobo showcase the importance of mothers in every Filipino society. The beliefs in the duwende, taong lipod, tamawo, Diwata, and engkantos are available in almost all Filipino communities; with a common distinction as creatures of the forests, it warns people to be careful while journeying alone or at night.

Multiculturalism should be viewed as an important quality of the Philippines as it levels the significance of each ethnolinguistic group and provinces to the eyes of the students. This also prompts the students to fight for the preservation and promotion of various intangible cultural heritage of the Philippines by engraining these values in their own.

To sum it up, integrating Philippine Mythology into the current curriculum of the Philippines will contribute to the holistic development of Filipino students by allowing them to be literate, think critically, and be morally upright citizens. This will further lead to a brighter future for them as they will be grounded to the innate values and traditions of their countrymen. To integrate and teach Philippine Mythology and Folklore to the students comprehensively, is to live up to the visions of Professors Maximo Ramos and Felipe Landa-Jocano.

 

References:

Adhikari, A., & Saha, B. (2021). Shakuntala: As Authored by Kalidas and Painted by Raja Ravi Varma. Galore International Journal of Applied Sciences and Humanities, 5(4), 45–53. https://doi.org/10.52403/gijash.20211008

Ambayon, C. M. (2020). Modular-Based Approach and Students’ Achievement in Literature. International Journal of Education and Literacy Studies. https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.ijels.v.8n.3p.32

Aruta, J. J. B. R., & Paceño, J. L. (2021). Social Responsibility Facilitates the Intergenerational Transmission of Attitudes Toward Green Purchasing in a Non-Western Country: Evidence from the Philippines. Ecopsychology, 14(1), 37–46. https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2021.0016

Lobo, J. (2023). Protecting Philippine Dance Traditions via Education of Tomorrow’s Pedagogues: The Role of Individual Interest and School Engagement. Journal of Ethnic and Cultural Studies, 10(1), 98–124. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejecs/1527

Mendonça, S. A., Macena, B. C. L., De Araújo, C. G. B., Bezerra, N. P. A., & Hazin, F. H. V. (2020). Dancing with the Devil: courtship behaviour, mating evidences and population structure of the Mobula tarapacana (Myliobatiformes: Mobulidae) in a remote archipelago in the Equatorial Mid-Atlantic Ocean. Neotropical Ichthyology, 18(3). https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2020-0008

Mioten, E. (2022). Addressing the Philippines’ learning crisis. BusinessWorld Online. https://www.bworldonline.com/special-features/2022/09/05/474223/addressing-the-philippines-learning-crisis/#:~:text=The%20Philippines%20scored%20the%20lowest,489%20points%20in%20both%20subjects.

Pinoliad, E. (2021). Contextualization in Teaching Short Stories: Students’ Interest and Comprehension. Middle Eastern Journal of Research in Education and Social Sciences, 2(1), 31–55. https://doi.org/10.47631/mejress.v2i1.167

Prihapsari, I., Andayani, & Suwandi, S. (2021). The Study of the Didactic Values in the Folklore of the Origin of Boyolali Regency Name. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, 08(02), 221–223. https://doi.org/10.51244/ijrsi.2021.8204

Sugue, A. S., & Reyes, M. (2022). Rediscovering the Value of Philippine Mythology for Philippine Schools: Literature Review. International Journal of Language and Literary Studies, 4(3), 329–341. https://doi.org/10.36892/ijlls.v4i3.1057

Tamayo, J. a. L. L. (2023). SAYAW NG BATI: A PERSPECTIVE ON TRANSCULTURATION OF THE SPANISH COLONIAL HERITAGE IN THE SOUTHERN TAGALOG REGION OF THE PHILIPPINES. Különleges Bánásmód, 9(1), 173–188. https://doi.org/10.18458/kb.2023.1.173

Robert John Pastera

Robert John Pastera is a college lecturer who specializes in teaching Language, Culture, Society, Ideas and Innovations, and Literature. He previously handled courses in Social Sciences, History, and Mythology and Folklore as a faculty member of a State University in Camarines Sur, Philippines. Robert has a deep passion for exploring the diverse cultural traditions and beliefs of various ethnic communities in the Philippines and is advocating for its inclusion to the curriculum of the country. He has a particular fondness for the Batibat, a mythological being known for causing nightmares and sleep paralysis in Philippine folklore. Robert is also a photographer and videographer, capturing the beauty of the world around him through his lens.

Mythological Creatures in Japan and the Philippines

In may aspects, the Philippines and Japan have similarities. They are both archipelagos, both have three main islands, and both are often in the line of typhoons several times a year.

It is not surprising then, that when it comes to mythological creatures, Japan and the Philippines also share similarities. Because mythological creatures are often created based on the environment. For example, a volcanic island, will have creatures of fire and lava in their myths. Islands often have sea creatures, like mermaids and giant squids. In the Philippines, there are mythological monsters that are surprisingly similar ones in Japan. 

Japan and The Philippines Mythological Creatures Part 1 

Japan and The Philippines Mythological Creatures Part 2

Archive: The Philippines' Martial Law

THE PHILIPPINES: Marcos' Martial Law

Monday, Oct. 02, 1972

Without warning, police squads late last week walked into Manila's newspaper offices and broadcast stations, ordered staffers to leave and posted announcements Stating THIS BUILDING IS CLOSED AND SEALED AND PLACED UNDER MILITARY CONTROL. Domestic air flights were grounded and overseas telephone operators refused to accept incoming calls. Finally, after several hours of mystifying silence, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos went on nationwide radio and TV to proclaim a state of martial law. Civil government would be continued, he said, but campuses would be closed. Restrictions on travel, the press and communications would remain in force until the government dealt with "a conspiracy to overthrow the government."

It was a drastic step; martial law had never before been imposed in the Philippines, despite the country's long history of social and political violence. And yet, though troops took up positions all over Manila, there were few other visible signs of emergency. Nightclubs, casinos and movie theaters remained open; shoppers were out in their usual numbers the next day. Filipinos accepted the measures calmly, even cynically, for they had been widely anticipated.

Only two weeks ago, in an atmosphere of rapidly increasing belligerence between the Marcos regime, its political opposition and a burgeoning Philippine revolutionary movement, the President warned that he would not hesitate to assume emergency powers if he deemed them necessary. He finally did so six hours after an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate one of Marcos' chief aides, Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile. As the Secretary was heading home from his office in Manila, a carload of gunmen intercepted his car and riddled it with 30 shots; Enrile, who was riding with security men in a second car, was unhurt. The gunmen escaped unidentified.

As Brigadier General Alfredo Montoya, boss of Manila's tough metropolitan police, put the regime's case last week, Marcos' measures only reflected "a need to discipline our people." Ostensibly, the crackdown is aimed at a Maoist-inspired (and Peking-supported) guerrilla movement known as the New People's Army, which the government blamed for the attempt on Enrile's life and for bombings that have rocked the Manila area recently. With about 1,000 arms-carrying guerrillas, the N.P.A. is nowhere near as large as was the Communist Hukbalahap movement that terrorized Luzon in the 1940s and '50s; but it enjoys wide support, not only in the countryside but among disaffected urban workers and intellectuals.

Another target of the regime's "discipline," besides the N.P.A. guerrillas, was the President's vocal political opponents. The morning after martial law was declared, police arrested a number of Marcos' critics. Among them: the publisher of the Manila Times and Senator Benigno Aquino, a leader of the opposition Liberal Party.

Aquino, whom Marcos has accused of collaborating with the N.P.A., had backed a Manila rally—held the day before the crackdown—at which 30,000 Filipinos protested that the Marcos regime would use terrorist violence as an excuse to employ emergency powers to silence the opposition.

Seven years ago, Marcos came to power as an immensely popular reform President, but opposition to his regime has been growing rapidly in recent months. Large sectors of Philippine society are waiting for tangible relief from poverty, inflation and a political system that remains responsive mainly to a propertied oligarchy. Land-reform programs remain unfunded; more than 400,000 of the country's 1,000,000 university graduates are without meaningful jobs. The benefits of the country's gradual economic expansion have been slow to trickle down to most of its 38 million people. As a result of this summer's record floods, which devastated much of Luzon and set the economy back five years by some estimates, that trickle will be slowed even further —perhaps with explosive results.

From TIME: THE PHILIPPINES: Marcos' Martial Law