Before the arrival of colonizers, the Philippine archipelago was vibrant with a rich and diverse tradition of oral literature. Early Filipinos utilized countless myths, legends, and stories to explain the world around them—from the creation of the sun and moon to the formation of mountains and the causes of earthquakes.
Since paper was not yet invented, the bulk of this early literature was not physically preserved, meaning much of it has vanished over time. What survives today was largely passed down through generations via oral tradition and later transcribed by scholars. The most enduring forms of this heritage are epics and folklores.
Here is a breakdown of the key forms of literature that showcase the ingenuity and values of precolonial Filipinos:
1. Proverbs (Salawikain)
Proverbs, known locally as salawikain, are succinct statements embodying practical observations, wisdom, and the philosophy of everyday life. They are typically written in a rhyming scheme, serving both to entertain and to teach fundamental life skills and local ethics.
- Example:
- Kung ano ang puno, siya ang bunga. (Whatever the tree, so is the fruit.) Meaning: Children reflect the character of their parents.
- Kung walang tiyaga, walang nilaga. (If you don’t persevere, you can expect no reward.) Meaning: Hard work and patience are necessary for success.
2. Riddles (Bugtong)
Riddles, or bugtong, share the philosophical nature of proverbs but differ crucially in that they demand an answer, serving as a test of wit. They were often central to communal battles of wits, where locals would gather to see who was the sharpest. A common characteristic is their flippant or deceptive nature; they might refer to something humorous, but the answer is often more serious or clever than expected.
- Examples:
- Heto na si Kaka, bubuka-bukaka. (Here comes Kaka, walking with an open leg.) Answer: Scissors or Garter.
- Sa araw ay bungbong, sa gabi ay dahon. (Roll in the morning, leaf in the afternoon.) Answer: Mat.
3. Folksongs
Folksongs are beautiful, informal expressions of ancestors’ experiences and emotional lives. They cover the full spectrum of human experience, ranging from courtship (like the harana, or serenade), lullabies (hele), harvests, funerals, and work songs.
4. Tales (Myths and Legends)
These narratives serve as stories of origin for specific places, their names, and their creation—hence, they are often classified as myths and legends. Tales were essential tools for explaining events or natural phenomena that early Filipinos could not reconcile with their limited knowledge of science.
- Examples: The origin stories of mountains like Mount Makiling or Mount Arayat, or legends about great folk heroes such as Bernardo Carpio.
5. Epics
Epics are long, narrative poems that detail the adventures and misadventures of a central hero. These stories usually feature a male hero who is born with exemplary qualities and superhuman capabilities. The hero is often paired with a beautiful young maiden and must typically undergo trials, often involving battles or journeys to the spirit world, to win her affection or save his community. Supernatural elements are frequently introduced to emphasize the hero’s strength and unique destiny.
- The Hinilawod, from Panay (Western Visayas, not Negros), is one of the most famous and longest epics in the Philippines, illustrating rich historical details and cultural values.
The Legacy of Precolonial Literature
The surviving narratives from this period offer more than mere entertainment; they provide a crucial window into the country’s indigenous heritage and the formation of its value system. In stories like the Hinilawod, we can observe foundational Filipino values such as bravery, brotherhood, community respect, and respect for the natural and spirit worlds.
By studying the way society was depicted in precolonial literature—the roles of men and women, the dynamics of power, and ethical codes—we gain a deeper understanding of the transformation between the lives of ancient Filipinos and our lives today. These ancient tales illuminate not only the past but also the cultural roots that continue to shape the Filipino identity in the present.
