A review by samiism
Alternative Alamat: Stories Inspired by Philippine Mythology by Paolo Chikiamco

5.0

GORRRL. Oh my bathala! This book was great!

Philippine mythology has a whole universe of its own. Greek, Norse, Roman mythology--all great. We know what they're about. But Philippine mythology is seriously underrated. I always knew it was fascinating, but I didn't fully realize the scope until I read this book of retellings.

Growing up in a largely Catholic and superstitious country made me paranoid child. I was always wary about offending spirits and supernatural creatures. The night was my enemy. I wouldn't point at trees in the dark in fear of a demon biting my finger off. When walking home at night, I would chant "Tabi tabi po", asking invisible dwarves to move aside so I don't step on them. I stayed away from big trees because I didn't want to anger the kapre/agta living there.



This book sort of reminded me of my childhood, or at least the legends I heard from old folks. The legendary diwata (fairy) Mariang Makiling who "haunts" Mt. Makiling was often rehashed in these pages, probably because she truly is a fascinating character. The story of creation involving Tungkung Langit and Alunsina, proudly of Visayan origin, was also retold. (That said, I kinda want to name my future daughter Alunsina. It's such a beautiful sounding name.)

If you're curious about Philippine mythology, I highly recommend this book. Granted it's not accurate (it is a collection of retellings), but it's a fantastic gateway nonetheless.