Mythos Museum

Sirena Gulamgaus, mermaid-like creatures in Philippine mythology, boasts fish-like tails and enchanting voices, known for luring sailors. Their origins, influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and indigenous cultures, still need clarification. They symbolize the rich imagination of Filipino folklore and are celebrated in art, literature, and music. Sirena Gulamgaus has a protective nature, which is invoked by fishermen for safe journeys and depicted as guardians of marine life. Their captivating melodies, steeped in cultural meaning, capture the appeal and mystery of the sea. Despite her unknown roots and cross-cultural influences, Sirena Gulamgaus is a compelling figure in Philippine folklore, representing the country's colorful storytelling traditions.

This mesmerizing artwork depicts Sirena Gulamgaus, mythical creatures in Philippine folklore known for their fish-like tails and enchanting voices that lure sailors. With a mermaid-like figure, long blonde hair, and a vibrant green tail, she sits upon a rock amidst gentle waves under a bright moon and starlit sky. While her origins remain influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and indigenous cultures, her protective nature is invoked by fishermen for safe journeys. Sirena Gulamgaus symbolizes the rich imagination of Filipino folklore and serves as guardians of marine life. Through captivating melodies and cultural significance, she embodies the allure and mystery of the sea, reflecting the colorful storytelling traditions of the Philippines.

The concept of Anting-anting goes beyond mere decoration or an amulet; it is a sacred charm that's been carefully produced to address specific aspects of a person's life. With deep roots in tradition, this mystical item combines powerful elements such as charms, amulets, or objects of power to act as a shield against different kinds of harm. Whether it's dispelling harmful hexes, driving away spirits, igniting love, or enhancing virility, its protective abilities are extensive. Anting-anting comes in various forms, each carrying its own unique strength. While often seen as medallions, they can also appear as intricately inscribed paper, finely embroidered clothing, permanent tattoos etched into the skin, or incantations. The belief in an object has a long history in Philippine society, as evidenced by the fact that it dates back to the Spanish colonial era.

The Anting-anting artifact is featured in the exhibit due to its cultural and historical significance, as these objects were sought after for protection against the uncertainties and fears instilled by the presence of the Spaniards, providing insights into spiritual beliefs, craftsmanship, and societal values of Filipinos, especially during the era of Spanish colonization.

This artwork captures the essence of Anting-anting, a revered symbol in Filipino culture. With a brown outline of a girl's face adorned with intricate tattoos and a triangle amulet featuring an eye at its center, it represents the mystical power of this sacred charm. Crafted to shield against various forms of harm, Anting-anting reflects deep-rooted traditions and beliefs, offering insights into Filipino spirituality and societal values during the era of Spanish colonization.

Maria Makiling used to be famously known as Dayang Masalanta, but after the Philippines was colonized, the name Maria Makiling was made. Maria Makiling is admired for her capacity to stop natural disasters like storms and earthquakes. She was considered a kind soul who was available to the poor and provided support when needed. Maria Makiling is traditionally portrayed as an eternally young woman with dazzling eyes, long black hair, and a pale olive complexion that symbolizes the tranquil beauty of the alpine surroundings in which she lives. She is sometimes depicted as having bright white clothes, making people mistake her for wisps of mist among the trees which relates her to the mist that veils Mount Makiling. Folklore states that Maria lives in a little cabin that can be found on the mountain with her permission. Whether the mountain was named after her name or the other way around is unknown, leaving the origins of the name "Maria Makiling" ambiguous.

The story of Maria Makiling is an example of compassion and giving to those in need. She emphasizes the value of lending a helping hand to those in need and encourages us to do as much as we can to do good in our community, which is why we have chosen Mount Makiling to be part of the exhibit.

This exquisite artwork perfectly embodies the essence of Maria Makiling, the beloved guardian spirit of Mount Makiling in the Philippines. The serene presence of Maria Makiling, depicted as the mountain itself, radiates an aura of compassion and protection. The portrayal beautifully highlights her mythical qualities, emphasizing her compassionate role in safeguarding against disasters and her generosity towards those in need. The tranquil beauty of the mountain serves as a testament to her graceful and timeless spirit, evoking a sense of profound respect and reverence for this respected figure in Philippine folklore.

In Visayan mythology, Lalahon is a highly revered deity who rules over abundant harvests and agriculture, representing the delicate balance between the nurturing and destructive forces of nature. Lalahon's significance in Filipino mythology endures despite historical misinterpretations, signifying a fundamental aspect of the nation's cultural and spiritual legacy.

Furthermore, Lalahon represents the fertility and plenty of the territory she rules over. She is frequently shown as a beautiful woman with fiery red hair and brilliant eyes. She is a deity of agriculture and harvest, and her link with volcanic elements and her regal manner emphasizes her authority and might. Lalahon symbolizes the abundance and fertility of the land she possesses. She is usually shown as a woman with radiant eyes and fiery red hair. She is a goddess of harvest and agriculture, and her connection to the elements of fire and her regal bearing highlight her power and might

Moreover, Lalahon is included in this exhibit because she inspires writers and artists of this day and period. Certain communities continue to celebrate her in her honor, with customs evolving. Her relationship with nature reminds us of the need for environmental protection. The influence of Philippine mythology and the connection between people and their land is highlighted by Lalahon's legacy.

This exquisite artwork captures the essence of Lalahon, the revered goddess of Harvest in Visayan mythology. With her fiery black hair and vibrant dress adorned with red and orange hues, she embodies the fertility and abundance of the land she rules over. As a deity of agriculture and harvest, Lalahon's regal demeanor and connection to volcanic elements underscore her authority and might. Her presence symbolizes the delicate balance between nurturing and destructive forces of nature, reflecting the fundamental aspect of Filipino cultural and spiritual heritage.