Superhero stories are arguably the most popular media genre at the moment, with new titles coming out every few months. One of the interesting things about these superhero films is that they borrow heavily from mythology. Characters like Thor and Wonder Woman have surprisingly strong ties to mythology from different countries despite their modern takes. This connection will surely make any local superhero fan wonder. Which of the various characters in Philippine mythology and folklore would be worthy of their own superhero movies? Let’s take a look at some of the badass characters from our local myths and get to appreciate them along the way.
Philippine Mythology Superhero No. 1: Bantugan
When you hear the word epic, you will likely think about the various Greek or Norse entries. But our country also has its own epic tales. One of these is the Darangen from the Maranao people of Mindanao.
The Darangen is an expansive story covering the mythical kingdom of Bembaran. It also follows a large number of characters, the most famous being Prince Bantugan. His cycle in the epic details his courtship of Paramata Gandingan, the princess of the kingdom of Komara. Bantugan also appears in the cycles featuring his brother Haring Madali.
Why is he a badass?
The epic describes Bantugan as the most handsome man in the kingdom. He is also intelligent and strong, earning him an adoring fan club. Interestingly enough, this also leads to his rather cruel downfall, as his brother Madali becomes jealous of the attention. He then orders everyone not to speak with Bantugan or face the death penalty.
Shocked by the treatment, Bantugan became distressed and wandered off. Then again, who wouldn’t after getting ostracized for being pogi? During his journey, Bantugan gets sick and eventually dies upon reaching the Kingdom Between Two Seas. The ruler of the kingdom and his sister Princess Datimbang took pity on the dead man. After learning who Bantugan was from his pet parrot (yeah, just roll with it), the king sends word to King Madali.
Upon learning of his brother’s fate, Madali softens and goes up to heaven to get Bantugan’s soul back. When he is finally revived, the two brothers reunite and hold a party, with Princess Datimbang as a guest.
But every superhero story needs a climactic battle, and the epic never fails to deliver. Upon learning of Bantugan’s death, the nearby kingdom attacks. The party is called off and Bantugan joins in the battle to drive away the invaders. After the battle, he finally gets to live happily ever after in the kingdom.
Philippine Mythology Superhero No. 2: Lam-ang
Another great epic that can give us a superhero from Philippine mythology is the Biag ni Lam ang. This one comes from the Ilocos region and follows the adventures of the demigod Lam-ang. It is notable as being one of the first epics to be put into written form during the Spanish era.
The story starts from the moment that Lam-Ang is born and showcases his extraordinary skills. It then moves to his quest to find his father who has never returned from battle. There is also a love story stuffed into the epic as Lam-ang courts the maiden Ines Kannoyan.
Why is he badass?
The best part of the epic is that Lam-Ang did some of his feats when he was barely a kid. He was born already able to speak and even the one to choose his name. Lam-ang also did that quest to search for his father when he was just nine months old. When he learns that his dad was killed by headhunters, he takes them out all by himself as revenge.
The hero also has a set of magical pets that would make even Thor envious. There is a magical rooster that can destroy buildings with its crow. Lam-ang also has a dog that can rebuild things with its bark. Oh, and the two can even combine their powers to resurrect him if he dies. Pretty neat power for all his adventuring.
Lam-ang is one of the more popular figures of Philippine mythology, being featured in books and stage plays. There was even a movie adaptation in 2012. Now, we just have to wait for that eventual superhero flick that will show him in all his epicness.
Philippine Mythology Superhero No. 3: Princess Urduja
Female superheroes like Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel have also become popular in movies nowadays. Even anti-heroines like Harley Quinn are now iconic characters. We also have our own modern-day superheroine in the form of Darna, despite her latest film being in development hell.
Philippine mythology also has its own awesome female characters. One of these is Princess Urduja, the mythical ruler of the kingdom of Tawalisi in Pangasinan. Most of the stories featuring Urduja come from the writings of Ibn Battuta. But she also takes in elements from Udayan, a mythical heroine of the Ibaloi people.
Why is she badass?
Ibn Batuta’s writings describe Urduja as a tall and beautiful woman. Beyond her physical beauty, she is a skilled fighter, particularly when using a sword. She is also well-known as a good military strategist. There are even claims that she led her own army of warrior women, known as the kinalakian. Additionally, the princess knows how to speak many languages.
One of the most notable stories about Urduja is her refusal to marry unless the man can beat her in a fistfight. The lack of stories about a supposed husband can only mean that not many men dared to take up the challenge. Urduja’s story remains popular through modern retellings, including a Disney-style animated film.
Be Amazed at the Superheroes of Philippine Mythology
Renowned Sandman author Neil Gaiman once expressed his love for Philippine mythology and said that it has plenty of interesting characters. This list is just a glimpse of what our local legends can offer. Now, we just have to wait for them to finally make the jump into the modern superhero scene.