Diwata

    In the Philippians the Diwata are believed to be spirits or deities that protect the surrounding nature. They are seen as the guardians of the natural world and are sometimes known for punishing those who abuse animals or the environment, while helping/rewarding those who’ve earned it. In the traditional stories they represent things like humanity, humility, consequence of greed, and the balance between material and immaterial realms. Diwata are praised for healthy harvests, protection from natural diseases, and unknighted communities. Many Filipinos still pray and give offerings to the Diwata before they start big projects like long trips away, planting crops, fishing, or building homes. People commonly offer flowers to the Diwata to show respect and gain their blessings. There are festivals and rituals held in modern times for the Diwata and what they represent to the Filipino culture. Diwata are described as glowingly beautiful women, wearing traditional flowing robes. Their long voluminous hair symbolizes their deeply-rooted connection to forests and waters. They are captivating creatures that hold graceful and peaceful auras around them. People believe that they are mesmerizing beings that can influence the elements, mostly focusing on the wind and rain. There are stories of Diwata singing and dancing to bring gentle gusts of wind and rain to help the growing harvests. Some legends say that the Diwata guide lost travelers out of the deep rain forests to safety.
    One of the most well known Diwata in Filipino folklore is Maria Makiling. The legends of Maria Makiling have been passed down through generations in the Philippines because she is important to the culture and one of the most recognized Diwata. Maria Makiling is a beautiful guardian spirit living on Mount Makiling, a dormant volcano on Luzon island. People who have ‘met’ her describe being captivated by her charming energy and breathtaking looks. Most stories revolve around her protective and important role for nature, but Maria Makiling also has many myths and stories about her, all with different morals and teachings in them. A unique theme in her stories is one of love and loss. Many of her stories are told around love and heartbreak, with mortal men falling in love with her and living through the exhilaration and devastation of that love. Which story it is, doesn’t matter because in all her stories she is just as important to the culture in the Philippines.

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