Philippine folklore characters domain is the home of the mythical ones and the legends that provide a showcase of the country's fabulous history and culture. These characters, which are the backbone of the historical Filipino tales, lively told the tales of the past, virtuous and also the supernatural.
The Enigmatic Aswang
Of the characters who are the most often remembered from Philippine folklore is the Aswang, a kind of monster that can change its identity and is associated with its frightening presence and bad intentions. Like regular people, in the daytime, the Aswang is indistinguishable from the rest of the place and fits into its community. However, during the night, it turns into many thought-provoking animals, such as a vampire or a ferocious bird. Aswang, opposite the tellers of its stories, sustains on the flesh of the living, thereby inspiring both fear and awe at the same time. The Aswang has a strong reputation for being a frightful monster but it can be also used as a warning figure, the cautionary figure serving as a means of reminding people to be vigilant and protect their loved ones.
The Benevolent Diwata
Unlike the malicious Aswang, Diwata are kind beings and appear flawless and graceful. Frequently, Diwatas are depicted as living in forests, mountains, or rivers. They are the bridgeman between the mortal world and the world. They can substitute fortune or misfortune for those who enter their territory. They had a reputation being kindly making gifts and offering protection to the gods to those who treated nature with respect. The diwatas stand for the deep Filipino connection to nature and the belief that there is peace and substantial well-being through the quest for harmony with nature.
The Mischievous Duwende
The Philippine folklore characters are also offered by the Duwende who are small creatures that inhabit mounds, trees, and homes. They may become the carriers of luck or misfortune depending on the way they are treated. Filipinos usually leave food and drinks for the Duwende so as not to attract their tricks but rather to get their favor. The stories of the Duwende bring to the foreground the values of respect and kindness, especially towards other spirits that are not seen by humans.
The Fearsome Tikbalang
One more figure in Philippine mythology is the Tikbalang, the creature that is half-human and half-horse known for its unscrupulousness. Having the upper body and head of a horse in addition to the lower body of a man, the Tikbalangs live in the forests and mountains where they mislead travelers and make them lost. On the other hand, it is supposed that once a Tikbalang is subdued it becomes a devoted guardian. This character depicts the dualism in the world and also the assertion that bravery and wit are more than enough to conquer even difficult situations.
The Serene Maria Makiling
The Filipino legend of Maria Makiling is a household name, symbolizing the forces of nature and beauty. She is frequently shown as a beautiful lady who dwells upon Mount Makiling. Maria Makiling is loved not only for her gentleness but also helps people and chastises anyone who shows disregard for her mountain. Her story is the only one that emphasizes the role of environmental conservation and the consequences that come with abusing nature.
The Menacing Kapre
The Kapre, an enormous being that lives on the trees, pushes a thriller element to Filipino folklore. Usually illustrating a tall, dark, and smoky man with glowing eyes, Kapre prefers the mysterious shade of the ancestral trees and smokes a large cigar. Against the background that they are peaceful and inoffensive, simply, a Kapre loves frightening people, especially those who go for a walk alone at night. The Kapre's stories function as a cue that nature is sacred and that these tall old trees that have been around for centuries should be guarded.
Conclusion
Philippine folklore characters are much more than mere fantastic characters; they personify the morals, beliefs, and cultural practices of the Filipinos. These characters, whatever their motives appear to be, teach lessons on acceptance, kindness, and the fact that all things in the world are interconnected. Thus, by looking at these myths we appreciate a crucial aspect of Filipino tradition and gain a wider grasp of reality and our existence within it. Therefore, in case you hear a thrill in the foliage or feel a chill down your spine, always remind yourself of the great Philippine lore characters who continue to surprise and fascinate you.
