Malvar, Batangas: Historical Data Part III

PART III

PART I | PART II | PART III | PART IV | PART V

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LEGENDS
The Legend of Taal Volcano

It was believed that Taal Volcano was the home of the “Encanto.” The belief that the island volcano was inhabited by supernatural beings was widespread not only in the whole province of Batangas but also in the neighboring provinces. It was the conviction of the masses not only of the illiterates but also of the educated inhabitants during the Spanish time that the supernatural beings were endowed with supernatural powers who were responsible for all activities of said volcano. It was a common belief that there were times that a golden cart pulled by a golden cow on the surface of the lake could be seen by the people. Golden cows, sheep, goats and calves pasturing along the slopes of the island, kept by a woman, were visible only to a privileged few. The boatmen plying their trade along the shores of the lake were careful enough to advise their customers or travelers not to point with their fingers or tell their companions whatever they would see or notice anywhere around, about anything unnatural they might see on the way, lest the winds would instantly roar, heavy rains would pour, the day would darken, the boat would capsize and the travelers would be drowned. It was also the belief of the people that there were hidden treasures buried in the said volcano by the “tulisanes” mountain brigands.

The Legend of the Duhat

Long before the Philippine Islands were discovered by the Spaniards, a group of dark people inhabited one of their forests. These people had a ruler, named Datuhat, who was loved for his kindness, strength and intelligence.

Notwithstanding all these good qualities, [a] few of his men disliked him and shot him to death. Before he died, his blood had spilled on a plant that bore many fruits. By a trick of nature, the red fruit turned dark violet. Henceforth, people called this fruit duhat in memory of the ruler, Datuhat.

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The Legend of the Gabi Plant

Long before the coming of the Spaniards in our country, there lived a brave rajah. Because of his bravery and strength, his subjects called him Rajah Matapang. He had an only son named Gabino, which was considered a fancy name during that time. Unlike his father, Gabino was meek and gentle, yet he was strong.

In those days, fighting among the tribes was prevalent. In their desire to get power and to prove their prowess, the rulers of the different tribes often waged war with each other. Rajah Matapang was one of the most powerful during his time. Every time he went to battle, he always returned victorious.

When Gabino grew to be a man, his father was very disappointed in him. He did not join the men when they went to war against other tribes. He was a peace-loving man. Very often, he tried to convince his father that fighting was an unforgiving sin, but his father only laughed. The young men of his tribe scored him and called him a coward.

One day, Rajah Matapang and his men went on an expedition. Only the women, children and a few of the feeble old men were left behind. Gabino did not join them as usual. His excuse was that he would look after those persons left behind.

It so happened that while they were away, an enemy tribe sneaked in the village of Rajah Matapang. They ransacked the houses and carried away women and children. The old men were easily overpowered but Gabino fought valiantly to the last to defend them. He was able to kill many of them before he was mortally wounded.

When Rajah Matapang returned, he found his son among the dead, still clasping his sword and shield. He then realized that, after all, Gabino was not a coward. Even the other warriors felt sorry for his untimely death and they, too, realized that he had done more a heroic act than they.

The rajah ordered his son to be buried in his garden, with his sword and shield with him. Every day, he visited his son’s grave. On his last visit, he was astonished to find a strange plant growing on it. The leaves were broad and resembled a shield. He named it “Gabi” after his son’s nickname.

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POPULAR SONGS, GAMES AND AMUSEMENTS

1. Songs:

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PART I | PART II | PART III | PART IV | PART V

Transcribed from “History and Cultural Life of the People of Malvar, Batangas,” 1953, online at the National Library of the Philippines Digital Collections.