Philippine Mythology Should Not Be Taken Literally

Philippine mythology and stories are rich with symbolism and metaphors that reflect the culture, values, and worldview of the Filipino people. These stories were passed down through generations, often through oral tradition, and their purpose is to convey deeper meanings, not to be understood as literal truths or historical facts. This symbolic nature of Philippine mythology is important to grasp, as it shapes how these stories should be interpreted and appreciated.

Understanding Philippine Mythology Symbolically

Philippine mythology should be viewed not as a literal history or a strict religious doctrine but as a rich treasury of symbolic narratives that provide insight into Filipino values, beliefs, and the human experience. These stories are alive because they continue to be told and retold, evolving to fit the times while retaining their symbolic core. Whether they’re used to explain the forces of nature, convey moral lessons, or explore the complexities of human emotions, these myths serve as powerful metaphors, connecting the past with the present and guiding the future.

In modern times, while these stories may not always be seen as literal truths, they continue to influence Filipino culture through art, literature, and everyday life. They remain an essential part of Filipino identity, reminding us that the stories we tell are often more about what they represent than what actually happened.

Explaining Natural Phenomena and the Unseen World Many myths were created to explain the mysteries of nature and the forces of the universe that early Filipinos could not easily understand. For example:

• Volcanoes, such as Mount Mayon, are often explained in mythological stories as being the homes of gods or mythical creatures. These stories aren't meant to be taken literally, but instead to represent the power and mystery of the natural world. They symbolize the unpredictability of nature and the need to respect natural forces.
• The stories of the sun and moon or the shifting seasons are symbolic of the cycles of life and the interconnectedness of humans with nature. These myths allow people to understand the cycles of the earth in a way that resonates with cultural and spiritual beliefs.

Oral Tradition and Fluidity Philippine mythology has always been part of oral tradition, meaning the stories evolve and adapt as they are passed from one generation to the next. This fluidity makes them even more symbolic, as each teller adds their own interpretations and embellishments based on their experiences. This is why there are multiple versions of the same story across different regions or communities, with each version carrying its own symbolic nuances.

• This adaptability of myths underscores the living nature of Philippine mythology, where the symbolic meanings behind the stories evolve to reflect changing times, challenges, and cultural values. For example, the way an aswang is depicted may vary between regions, but it always symbolizes societal fears or dangers, whether those be literal or metaphorical. 

Philippine Myths and the Absence of a Single, Fixed Narrative Unlike Western mythologies, which often have a structured, fixed canon, Philippine mythology is more fluid and diverse. The myths are less concerned with historical fact and more with explaining the world, teaching lessons, and preserving cultural values. Each version of the story, while different, shares common themes and symbolism that reflect the worldview of the Filipino people

PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY SHOULD BE RECORDED NOT FROZEN

Philippine mythology continues to evolve and can only be documented, not fixed in place. Efforts to freeze or dictate its form—often by outsiders—echo the Spanish impositions of the past, which aimed to suppress indigenous culture. Such actions disregard the rich diversity of local voices and the many variations of these stories that have developed over time, each reflecting the unique perspectives of different communities.

MYTHOLOGY IS NOT SCIENCE IS NOT RELIGION 

Philippine mythology is symbolic, not literal. The myths and stories reflect Filipino values, culture, and the natural world through symbols and metaphors, rather than being true accounts of history. For example, gods, spirits, and mythical creatures like diwata or aswang represent forces of nature, societal fears, and moral lessons. These stories were passed down orally and have evolved over time, with different versions that reflect local beliefs and experiences. Philippine mythology isn't meant to be taken as factual but as a way to understand human experiences, nature, and the mysteries of the world.