Monsters of Philippine Mythology

Monsters of Mindanao

• Kurita: A multi-limbed creature dwelling on land and sea, causing devastation at its favorite location, a rattan mountain.
• Tarabusaw: An ugly, man-like monster residing on Mt. Matutum, known for consuming people and ruining the land.
• Pah: An enormous bird so large it blocked sunlight, nesting on Mt. Bita; its eggs are house-sized.
• A second dreadful bird with seven heads and omnidirectional vision lived on Mt. Gurayn, wreaking havoc across its region.

King Indarapatra and Sulayman

• King Indarapatra heard of the destruction in Mindanao and felt compassion for its people.
• He tasked his brother, Sulayman, with saving the land from monsters, equipping him with a ring and sword for protection.
• A sapling was planted to signal Sulayman’s fate: it would wither upon his death.

Sulayman's Journey

• Sulayman used his ability to fly, traveling directly to the rattan mountain and witnessing widespread devastation.
• He encountered Kurita, recognized its threat, and successfully defeated it in battle.
• At Mt. Matutum, Sulayman faced Tarabusaw; after a fierce struggle, he managed to kill the monster as well.

The Tragic Confrontation

• Upon reaching Mt. Bita, Sulayman saw a massive shadow from the bird Pah and fought it.
• Although he initially injured the bird, falling debris resulted in Sulayman's death, causing grief to King Indarapatra.

Resurgence and Final Battle

• King Indarapatra witnessed the sapling wither, indicating Sulayman’s demise, inciting his desire for revenge.
• He traveled to Mindanao, discovering the remains of Kurita, Tarabusaw, and ultimately, Sulayman’s bones at Mt. Bita.
• Indarapatra revived Sulayman by pouring heavenly water on his bones, leading to a joyous reunion.

Restoration of Peace

• The brothers jointly defeated the seven-headed bird on Mt. Gurayn, restoring peace to the land.
• After the monsters were vanquished, Indarapatra sought survivors, eventually locating a hidden community.

Cultural Redemption

• An old woman shared that only a few had survived by hiding, thanks to Sulayman's bravery.
• Indarapatra’s heroic deeds prompted gratitude from the community, leading to his marriage to the headman's daughter, whom he had previously seen.

Explore the terrifying creatures of Philippine folklore, including the multi-limbed Kurita, the man-like Tarabusaw, and the enormous bird Pah. This quiz delves into the legends surrounding these mythical beings, their habitats, and their impact on the lives of the people. Test your knowledge of these fascinating stories that blend nature and mythology.