The Mythic Origins of the Philippines: A Tale of Deception and Creation

In this captivating episode of Circle Round, recorded live at the Aladdin Theatre in Portland, listeners are treated to a traditional creation story that explains the origin of the world’s landscapes through the actions of a clever, high-flying trickster. This narrative serves as a reminder of how ancient cultures interpreted the natural world, specifically the relationship between the sea, the sky, and the land.

The Primordial State of the World

At the beginning of time, the world was defined by a binary existence: it was only "sea" and "sky." In this primordial state, the two elements were "best of friends," existing in harmony. However, the narrative introduces a catalyst for change in the form of a bird known as a "kite" (a sea eagle). The kite, characterized by his "yellow talons" and "striking brown and white feathers," becomes the central figure of the story due to his exhaustion. Because the world lacked land, the kite had no place to rest, forcing him to spend "hour upon hour flapping those wings without any rest."

The Discovery and the Deception

Desperate for relief, the kite descends into the depths of the ocean, where he discovers "thousands of rocky, stony formations" hidden beneath the surface. Realizing that he cannot live underwater like a fish, he hatches a "mischievous idea" to bring these rocks to the surface. He exploits the close bond between the sea and the sky by engaging in psychological manipulation.

Approaching the sea, the kite falsely claims that the sky has been speaking ill of him, questioning the sea's pride and power. Simultaneously, he approaches the sky with similar lies regarding the sea’s intentions. By sowing discord and convincing them that their friendship is a facade, the kite sparks an "epic battle between the elements." The sea begins to "roar" and sends "wave after foam-topped wave crashing upwards" toward the sky, effectively churning the ocean and forcing the submerged rocky formations to rise to the surface.

The Creation of the Philippines

As the sea and sky engage in their conflict, the kite watches as a "spectator," waiting for his opportunity. When the rocks finally break the surface, creating "thousands upon thousands of islands full of rugged mountains, rolling hills, and wide open valleys," the kite finally finds his sanctuary. He perches on the tallest rock, sighing with relief as he claims his long-awaited rest. This mythic event is presented as the origin of the 7,641 islands that constitute the Philippines today.

Reconciliation and the Vow of Harmony

Following the chaos, the sea and the sky eventually realize they have been manipulated by the "wicked ways" of the "weary bird." They apologize to one another, scold the kite for his deceit, and manage to "rebuild their friendship." The story concludes with a solemn vow: the sea and the sky promise to remain "honest," "faithful," "steadfast," and "true" to one another, ensuring that they will never again let the interference of a trickster cause such destruction. This story beautifully illustrates the power of communication and the importance of trust, while providing a whimsical, legendary explanation for the geographical beauty of the Philippine archipelago.