General Beliefs and Customs in the Folktales of Bohol

Abstract

This article examines selected folktales from Bohol, Philippines, focusing on the underlying cultural beliefs, values, and customary practices they reveal. Drawn from oral traditions passed down through generations, these stories reflect the worldview of Boholano communities, intertwining indigenous spirituality, Catholic morality, and social norms. Through thematic analysis of regional narratives, this study highlights how folklore serves as both a mirror and transmitter of Boholano identity.

Introduction

Folktales have long played a vital role in preserving cultural heritage in the Philippines, especially in rural and island communities such as Bohol. Traditionally shared through storytelling during communal gatherings or family evenings, these tales are more than entertainment; they serve as vessels for transmitting ethics, spirituality, social roles, and environmental relationships. This article analyzes recurring themes in Boholano folktales and explores how they reflect the region's collective beliefs and customs.

1. The Supernatural World: Spirits, Elementals, and Divine Retribution

One of the most dominant elements in Boholano folktales is the presence of supernatural beings such as engkanto (enchanted spirits), kapre (tree dwellers), and aswang (shapeshifting creatures). These entities often act as moral agents, rewarding the good and punishing those who disrespect nature or violate social norms.

A recurring motif is the belief that nature is sacred and inhabited by spirits. Forests, rivers, and caves are often depicted as spiritual domains that must be respected. In one tale, a farmer who fails to ask permission (tabi-tabi po) before clearing land is cursed with misfortune, illustrating the importance of maintaining harmony with unseen forces.

2. Morality Tales and Social Discipline

Folktales in Bohol often carry moral lessons rooted in both indigenous ethics and Catholic teachings. Themes such as honesty, humility, respect for elders, and hard work are emphasized. In one well-known story, a proud man mocks a beggar and is later humbled when the beggar is revealed to be a disguised saint, mirroring biblical narratives and reinforcing Christian humility.

Such stories function as social regulators, teaching appropriate behavior and community values. Disobedient children, greedy individuals, and deceitful villagers are often the targets of cautionary tales, used by elders to educate younger generations.

3. The Role of Women and Family Structures

Female characters in Boholano folktales often occupy symbolic roles as caregivers, enchantresses, or moral compasses. Stories may portray women as wise and nurturing, but also as powerful figures who must not be wronged. A common narrative involves a spirit woman disguised as a poor maiden, testing the kindness or faithfulness of a man.

Family loyalty is another core value, with many tales highlighting filial piety and intergenerational respect. Disputes within families are commonly resolved through acts of sacrifice, forgiveness, or divine intervention, reflecting the cultural emphasis on familial harmony.

4. Humor and Wit in Trickster Tales

A notable subset of Boholano folklore involves trickster characters, such as Juan Pusong, who uses cunning to outsmart the powerful or avoid labor. These humorous tales serve as subtle critiques of authority and rigid social hierarchies, offering catharsis through cleverness rather than confrontation.

Although comedic in tone, these stories reflect survival through intelligence, a key trait in island communities historically challenged by colonialism, poverty, and natural disasters.

5. Rituals, Beliefs, and Everyday Practices

Embedded in the folktales are glimpses of everyday customs and pre-Christian rituals. These include traditional healing practices (hilot and tambal), offering food to spirits, and observing lunar cycles for planting or fishing. Some stories reference the pamalaye (pre-wedding negotiations) and pamisa (offering Mass for the dead), showing how folklore integrates with ritual and daily life.

The tales also illustrate syncretism, the blending of indigenous beliefs with Catholic dogma. Saints appear alongside forest spirits, and prayers are used in both spiritual and magical contexts. This cultural layering underscores the adaptive nature of Boholano belief systems.

Conclusion

Boholano folktales offer a rich tapestry of beliefs, customs, and cultural wisdom. They are not only relics of the past but living narratives that continue to inform identity, behavior, and values within the community. By analyzing these stories, we gain insight into the moral universe and social consciousness of Boholanos, a worldview that reveres nature, honors tradition, and finds power in both faith and folklore.

Preserving these oral traditions is essential not only for cultural continuity but also for understanding the deeper threads that shape Bohol’s unique place in the Filipino cultural landscape.

References

• Eugenio, Damiana L. Philippine Folk Literature: The Folktales. University of the Philippines Press, 1995.

• Maceda, Jose. Gongs and Bamboo: A Panorama of Philippine Music Instruments. University of the Philippines Press, 1998.

• Local oral accounts collected from Batuan, Loboc, and Anda (2010–2020 field interviews)