Spirits and Deities
In Philippine mythology, the Diwata are supernatural beings often likened to fairies or nature spirits. They are believed to inhabit natural features such as forests, mountains, and bodies of water, watching over the land and its people. Their presence is both protective and powerful—those who honor nature may receive their blessings, while those who harm it risk invoking their wrath.
Guardians of Forests and Mountains
Diwata are said to dwell in ancient trees, particularly the acacia and balete, which are considered sacred by many. These beings are closely tied to the earth and its cycles, acting as guardians of nature. In folklore, encounters with Diwata often happen in remote, lush environments where the balance of the natural world feels most alive.
One of the most well-known figures is Maria Makiling, a Diwata said to watch over Mount Makiling in the province of Laguna. She is often portrayed as a kind yet mysterious protector of the mountain and its forests, helping those in need and punishing those who exploit nature’s gifts.
Engkanto and the Spirits of the Sea
While Diwata are often associated with the forests and highlands, their male counterparts—known as Engkanto, Encanto, or Encantado—are said to dwell in the sea. These beings are also revered and respected, especially by fishing communities. Traditionally, Filipino fishermen would offer meat and other delicacies to the Engkanto by casting them into the sea, a gesture of gratitude for a bountiful harvest and a request for continued abundance.
Divine Beings Across the Islands
In some regions of the Philippines, the term Diwata takes on a broader, more divine meaning, comparable to the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology. These Diwata are not just spirits of nature, but powerful deities who rule over cosmic forces and aspects of life.
Among the most revered are:
- Bathala (also known as Kabunian, Malyari, or Lumawig in various regions), regarded as the supreme deity and ruler of the heavens.
- Amanikable, the fierce ruler of the seas.
- Dian Masalanta, goddess of love and protector of lovers.
- Apolake (or Adlaw in other traditions), the god of the sun.
- Mayari (sometimes known as Bulan), the goddess of the moon.
- Tala, goddess of the stars.
- Anitan, guardian of lightning.
These names and stories vary across islands and cultures, reflecting the Philippines’ rich diversity and the deep connection between myth, nature, and everyday life.
A Living Heritage
Though the belief in Diwata has evolved over time, these beings continue to live on in local folklore, rituals, and even in modern storytelling—from literature and television to festivals and oral traditions. They represent not only a spiritual link to the environment, but also a cultural reminder to respect and protect the natural world.
Whether as nature spirits, ancestral deities, or mysterious forces of the sea and sky, the Diwata are a vital part of the Philippines’ mythological heritage—a living legacy of reverence, wonder, and harmony with the unseen.