The Gods Must Be Crazy: A Philippine Mythology Podcast

Latest Episodes:

31: NEVER GONNA GIVE YOU UP | Sinukuan & the Gods of Kapampangan Mythology, Part 1 Feb 02, 2023

Show notes

31: NEVER GONNA GIVE YOU UP | Sinukuan & the Gods of Kapampangan Mythology, Part 1 In this episode, we learn about Sinukuan, the Sun God of War and Death for the Kapampangan people and how the whims and follies of gods can (literally) move mountains. We also learn about the origins and legends surrounding Mount Arayat, a mystical mountain in the heart of Pampanga, and what could possibly connect it to Mount Makiling all the way in Laguna, and the neighboring Mount Pinatubo, as well as the devastating eruption that rocked the region more than 20 years ago. Join us as we learn about the gods that the ancient Kapampangan people worshipped, and the mythology surrounding the creation of the Kapampangan region and its people. Who are Apung Sinukuan and Apung Malyari, and what power did they yield? Is it better to be maganda (beautiful) or masipag (hard-working)? And what happens when feuding gods collide? — The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes. You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram). --- References: King Sinukwan Mythology and the Kapampangan Psyche Julieta C. Mallari, Ph.D. https://www.raco.cat/index.php/coolabah/article/download/327855/418377/ Mount Arayat: Giants of Zambales & the Legend of Apung Sinukuan. https://www.aswangproject.com/mount-arayat-myth/ Myths and Legends of Pinatubo and Arayat. Paul Manansala. https://www.academia.edu/11314629 Ing Ari (‘The King’). https://siuala.com/ing-ari/

[REBROADCAST] EPISODE 17: I HOPE YOU GET RICH | Filipino-Chinese New Year Beliefs, Practices & Superstitions Jan 21, 2023

Show notes

This CNY eve, we’re revisiting the super fun episode where we talked about Filipino-Chinese beliefs around the Lunar New Year. We hope you get rich!! 🤑 —- EPISODE 17: I HOPE YOU GET RICH | Filipino-Chinese New Year Beliefs, Practices & Superstitions In this (semi-cross-over) episode, we discuss the fascinating practices and beliefs of the huge Filipino-Chinese community, especially during the Chinese Lunar New Year! Listen in while Anama quizzes Ice on things like: why do people give each other tikoy, which fruit does not belong in a Chinese New Year spread, how much money you can or cannot put in an Ang Bao, and what people actually tell each other when they give New Year’s wishes. Learn about the dos and don’ts during Chinese New Year and find out what a well-known brand of delicious snacks has to do with...fire trucks? Notes: Monday, Feb 7 is everybody’s birthday in the Chinese New Year context — The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds, and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes. You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram). --- SOURCES: Solar Daybreak Claire Celdran tours Binondo with Carlos Celdran (2014) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8TU06qokdI https://www.filipinopod101.com/blog/2020/01/06/filipino-chinese-new-year/ https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/starweek-magazine/2018/02/11/1786501/dancing-new-year Tan, S. L. (1995). Tales for Big Children: Chinese and Filipino Folk Stories Part I. Manila: De La Salle University Press. https://www.zenrooms.com/blog/post/chinese-new-year-philippines/#:~:text=Serving%20and%20eating%20tikoy%20every,luck%20and%20fortune%20to%20them. https://faq.ph/chinese-new-year-traditions-in-the-philippines/

30: THE ANTI-HERO | The Babaylan Part 3 of 3 Jan 20, 2023

Show notes

30: THE ANTI-HERO | The Babaylan Part 3 of 3

Uncover the powerful history of the Babaylan, the ancient Filipino tribal figure who served as a bridge to the spirit world, herbalist, and healer. Join us as we explore the qualifications of becoming a Babaylan, why they were typically women and sometimes trans women, and their societal roles. And most especially how these roles changed from Hero to Anti-Hero.

In this final episode, discover the story of the Babaylan during Spanish colonization and how their knowledge and practice still survives today. Learn about the struggles and injustices faced by Babaylan during this time, but also the ways in which their legacy lives on.

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The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes.

You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com

The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram).

---

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_shamans#:~:text=Filipino%20shamans%2C%20commonly%20known%20as,and%20the%20spirits%20of%20nature.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/superior-canal-dehiscence-syndrome-scds#:~:text=The%20problem%20can%20cause%20hearing,footsteps%20in%20the%20affected%20ear.

https://www.babaylanadlaw.com/p/batak-dungan.html

@Nico Valdez on Tiktok (Baranggay)

https://www.isiswomen.org/downloads/wia/wia-2006-2/02wia06_06GirlieA.pdf

29: PRACTICAL MAGIC | The Babaylan Part 2 of 3 Nov 14, 2022

Show notes

29: PRACTICAL MAGIC | The Babaylan Part 2 of 3

In this series, we learn about the deep and important history (and present) of the Babaylan: The pre-colonial figure of ancient Filipino tribes who served as the bridge to the spirit world, the herbalist, healer and sometimes even deputy Datu. Over a series of episodes, we dive into: who is qualified to be a babaylan? Why were they typically women, and sometimes even trans women? What role did she play in society? And where can we find her in our history?

In this second installation, we dive deeper into the different functions of the babaylan and the complex and diverse roles she plays in the community. From medium to cosmologist, from a Karen to a Whoopi, the babaylan was, and still is, a force to be reckoned with.

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You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com

The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram).

---

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_shamans#:~:text=Filipino%20shamans%2C%20commonly%20known%20as,and%20the%20spirits%20of%20nature.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/superior-canal-dehiscence-syndrome-scds#:~:text=The%20problem%20can%20cause%20hearing,footsteps%20in%20the%20affected%20ear.

https://www.babaylanadlaw.com/p/batak-dungan.html

@Nico Valdez on Tiktok (Baranggay)

https://www.isiswomen.org/downloads/wia/wia-2006-2/02wia06_06GirlieA.pdf

[REBROADCAST] 11: SHAKE IT OFF | Pagpag & Philippine Superstitions & Traditions about Death & Burial Oct 31, 2022

Show notes

This Undas, join us as we revisit one of our favorite episodes — all about Filipino superstitions on death, and strange and interesting practices observed during wakes and burial. Happy Halloween and a blessed All Saints’ Day! [REBROADCAST] EPISODE 11: SHAKE IT OFF | Pagpag & Other Philippine Superstitions & Traditions about Death & Burial In this chill (and weirdly cozy?) episode, we cover the strange, unique, oddly specific, and sometimes random superstitions and traditions on death and burial in the Philippines. Every year at around Halloween, Filipino families gather at cemeteries for Araw ng mga Patay (Day of the Dead) to be with their loved ones – both living and dead. What better time to talk about the superstitions we practice but take for granted, like: why do we have to stop off somewhere before going home from a wake? Why can’t you thank people for offering their condolences? And why can’t you let your tears fall on the casket? Join us as we also uncover a few of the lesser-known practices: like what animal you put on the coffin of a person who is murdered? What type of food to eat or avoid during wakes? …And what’s up with all the broken pots and plates? --- The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff, and possibly answer some burning questions after this episode such as: What does a manananggal look like? How do you cook adobo? Who is Gardo Verzosa and why do they keep thirsting after him? We also welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes. You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram). --- Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Funeral_practices_and_burial_customs_in_the_Philippines https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pagpag:_Siyam_na_Buhay https://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Philippines/sub5_6c/entry-3864.html https://flowerpatchdelivery.com/blog/40-filipino-superstitions-funerals-and-wakes/

28: PRIESTESS, MEDIUM, HEALER, GUIDE | The Babaylan Part 1 Oct 24, 2022

Show notes

28: PRIESTESS, MEDIUM, HEALER, GUIDE | The Babaylan Part 1

In this episode, we learn about the deep and important history (and present) of the Babaylan: The pre-colonial figure of ancient Filipino tribes who served as the bridge to the spirit world, the herbalist, healer, and sometimes even deputy Datu. Over a series of episodes, we dive into who is qualified to be a Babaylan? Why were they typically women, and sometimes even trans women? What role did she play in society? And where can we find her in our history?
In this first installation, we take an overview of the Babaylan and see what being buried alive, hearing voices, and possibly having an inner-ear condition may mean for your admission into the Babaylan School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. We also try to understand what this tells us about our ancestors’ views on gender identity and equality: How it’s not just about who is “above” or “below,” but who is the best person for the job.

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You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com

The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram).

---

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_shamans#:~:text=Filipino%20shamans%2C%20commonly%20known%20as,and%20the%20spirits%20of%20nature.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/superior-canal-dehiscence-syndrome-scds#:~:text=The%20problem%20can%20cause%20hearing,footsteps%20in%20the%20affected%20ear.

https://www.babaylanadlaw.com/p/batak-dungan.html

@Nico Valdez on Tiktok (Baranggay)

https://www.isiswomen.org/downloads/wia/wia-2006-2/02wia06_06GirlieA.pdf

27: THE PRINCESS AND THE BETEL NUT | Datung Sumanga and Bugbung Humasanun (The BINUKOT - Part 2) Oct 01, 2022

Show notes

EPISODE 27: THE PRINCESS AND THE BETEL NUT | Datung Sumanga and Bugbung Humasanun (The Binukot - Part 2)

In this episode, we learn more about the practices and traditions surrounding the betel nut, and discover an epic we didn’t cover or hear about in our high school Panitikan class, featuring: a beautiful princess who with an incredibly healthy sense of self-worth, a warrior-chief who went to great lengths for courtship, and a harried messenger-slave at the end of his patience.

We look at the tale of Datung Sumanga and Bugbung Humasanun with fresh eyes. After learning about the Binukot from the last episode (See: Ep 26), is Bugbung Sumanga someone to admire or someone to pity? What’s with all the slave raids? And how many carabaos do you think you’re worth?

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You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com

The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram).

---

References:

Scott, William H. Barangay: Sixteenth-century Philippine Culture and Society. Quezon City, Manila, Philippines: Ateneo de Manila University Press, 1994. Print.

Jocano, F. Landa. Outline of Philippine mythology / by F. Landa Jocano. Centro Escolar University Research and Development Center Manila, 1969. Print.

EPISODE 26: THE PRINCESS IN THE TOWER | The Binukot (The Kept Maidens of Visayan Tradition) Aug 27, 2022

Show notes

EPISODE 26: THE PRINCESS IN THE TOWER | The Binukot (The Kept Maidens of Visayan Tradition) In this episode, we talk about a character often seen but barely heard in the Filipino epics; whose existence bears witness to an ancient Visayan practice that has almost disappeared today. She is the Binukot, secluded from the community and kept aside from a young age, valued for her fair skin, stunning and fragile beauty, and mysterious allure. Why was such a practice made and how had it endured throughout the years? What was life like for these girls and how did this upbringing affect them as grown women? And why are the fairy tale princesses always locked in a tower? — The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes. You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram). --- References: Abrera, Maria Bernadette L. (2008–2009). "Seclusion and Veiling of Women". Philippine Social Sciences Review. Accessed from . https://southeastasiaglobe.com/binukot-women-philippines/ https://www.rappler.com/moveph/177261-binukot-panay-bukidnon-death/ https://www.aswangproject.com/binukot/ https://web.archive.org/web/20150616205724/ http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/25104/publicaffairs/iwitness/huling-prinsesa-last-princess https://ayer428.wordpress.com/2009/01/18/lola-conchita-panay-bukidnon%e2%80%99s-%e2%80%9cbinukot%e2%80%9d/

EPISODE 25: SHE’S A COLD-HEARTED SNAKE (TWIN) | Kambal-Ahas or the Mystical Snake Twins of Philippine Folklore Jul 11, 2022

Show notes

EPISODE 25: SHE’S A COLD-HEARTED SNAKE (TWIN) | Kambal-Ahas or the Mystical Snake Twins of Philippine Folklore

What does a mall, a carpenter, a tribe in the Sierra Madres and Alice Dixon have in common? They are all tangentially connected to the uniquely (at least to our knowledge) Filipino myth of the Kambal-Ahas or Mystical Snake twin.

Learn about how this ancient and modern story was shaped by all the happenings of the day, the indigenous wildlife of the Philippines, and the cultural intricacies of the different ethnic groups of Manila. Plus, learn how to get a pet that gives you maximum cuddles.

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Correction: Bernardo Bernardo was the officemate in “Home Along Da Riles,” not Fernando Fernando.

—

The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds, and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes.

You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com

The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram).

—

References:

Rudolph, Ebermut. “THE SNAKE-TWINS OF THE PHILIPPINES: OBSERVATIONS ON THE ALTER-EGO COMPLEX. Second and Last Installment.”

https://medium.com/@l.po/the-real-life-monsters-of-manila-that-created-the-snake-man-of-robinsons-galleria-48927ac27333

EPISODE 24: PART OF OUR WORLD | The Sirena and Other Merfolk in Philippine Folklore Jun 18, 2022

Show notes

Look at this stuff: isn’t it neat? Get your sunscreen and swimsuits ready, because in this episode we’re diving deep into the crystal blue waters of the Philippines and visiting the Sirena and all her other merfolk cousins in Filipino folklore. From mysterious and dangerously seductive open-water predators to rebellious teenagers who just want to be part of our world, mermaids have been part of pop culture and our imagination for centuries. But did you know how many different types we have in the Philippines – and about the numerous reported sightings and interactions throughout history? Learn about tell-tale signs that help you identify mermaids going undercover, why you should avoid being late in religious processions, and the benefits of being vegan in avoiding the merfolk’s wrath. We also talk about the sirena’s seduction techniques, as well as the perks and perils of falling in love with someone who lives under the sea. — The Gods Must Be Crazy is a podcast on Philippine Mythology hosted by friends Anama Dimapilis and Ice Lacsamana, avid mythology nerds, and semi-professional gossips. Follow us over at @godsmustbecrazy.pod on Instagram and Facebook for more good stuff. We welcome any suggestions on future topics or episodes. You can also find us on Youtube – Gods Must Be Crazy Podcast channel, where we post some of our episodes and interviews. For other inquiries, please email us at godsmustbecrazy.pod@gmail.com The intro and outro music is by Brian O’Reilly (@dendriform on Instagram). --- References: https://web.archive.org/web/20081028115345/http://folknation.wordpress.com/2007/12/17/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirena_(Philippine_mythology) https://www.aswangproject.com/the-merfolk-of-philippine-folklore/ https://www.aswangproject.com/naiad-botocan-falls-laguna/ https://www.aswangproject.com/sirena/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyesebel

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