Episodes

  • The Cosmic Tale of the Moon-Eater: Bakunawa and other Sun and Moon-Eating Creatures

    The Cosmic Tale of the Moon-Eater: Bakunawa and other Sun and Moon-Eating Creatures
    Nov 22 2024
    What happens when the night sky is no longer safe? This week on LilWeird, we explore the haunting tale of the Bakunawa, the mythical sea dragon from Filipino folklore, known for devouring the moon. Dive into a world where ancient myths meet cosmic wonders, revealing how early Filipinos explained lunar eclipses and their connection to the cycles of nature and time.
    From the Bakunawa’s shimmering, starlit scales to the seven moons it consumed, we’ll uncover the origins of this epic legend and its surprising connections to cultures across the globe. You’ll learn why communities gathered to beat drums and shout into the night during lunar eclipses—and how this powerful story continues to inspire awe today.

    A Note to Our Listeners:

    This episode delves into Filipino mythology and the cultural importance of these stories. Interpretations may vary across regions, and while we strive to present them respectfully, we welcome your insights or corrections to keep the conversation going. Additionally, this content is for entertainment and educational purposes and is not intended as a scholarly resource. It’s all about celebrating and exploring the beauty of these myths.
    Whether you’re a lover of myths, curious about cultural heritage, or fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos, this episode will leave you enchanted by the beauty and depth of Filipino folklore.

    Show Notes:

    In This Episode, We’ll Explore:
    • The origin story of the Bakunawa and its connection to lunar eclipses and celestial myths.
    • How the Bakunawa legend ties to ancient Filipino agricultural practices and the Ilongo lunar calendar.
    • Cross-cultural parallels with moon-devouring creatures like Norse wolves, Indian celestial demons, and Chinese dragons.
    Other fascinating Philippine mythical beings that echo similar cosmic themes, including:
    • Tambanakaua: The giant crab from Mandaya and Bukidnon myths, whose anger and attempts to swallow the moon symbolize the tides and lunar eclipses.
    • Minokawa: A monstrous bird from Bagobo lore that pursues both the moon and sun, threatening to devour the skies.
    • Olimaw: The Ilocano winged serpent or dragon, believed to plunge the world into darkness if left unchecked.
    • Laho: A shadowy devourer in Tagalog mythology whose name means "to vanishing."

    Modern Connections:
    • The discovery of Iniistius bakunawa, a fish with eclipse-like markings, named after the mythical dragon, and its role in biodiversity conservation.
    References Mentioned:
    • Creatures of the Midnight by Dr. Maximo Ramos
    • The Soul Book by Francisco R. Demetrio and Gilda Cordero
    • The Aswang Project: In-depth articles on the Bakunawa, Minokawa, and other mythical creatures
    • Stories from Kiniray-a, Ilongo, Mandaya, and Bagobo folklore
    • Indian, Norse, and Incan mythology comparisons

    Join the Conversation:

    What’s your favorite myth about the moon or celestial creatures? Do you have a family story that reminds you of the Bakunawa or similar beings? Let us know! We’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!

    Facebook: facebook.com/lilweirdpodcast
    Instagram: @lilweird_podcast
    TikTok: @lil.weird_
    X (formerly Twitter): @LilWeirdJane

    References:
    • Creatures of the Midnight by Dr. Maximo Ramos
    • The Soul Book by Francisco R. Demetrio and Gilda Cordero
    • The Aswang Project: In-depth articles on the Bakunawa, Minokawa, and other mythical creatures
    • Stories from Kiniray-a, Ilongo, Mandaya, and Bagobo folklore
    • Indian, Norse, and Incan mythology comparisons
    Credits:
    Closing Music: 'Dystopia' by Neutrin05
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    30 mins
  • Campus Legends: The Haunting Stories of Philippine Universities

    Campus Legends: The Haunting Stories of Philippine Universities
    Oct 31 2024
    In this Halloween special, we dive into the eerie legends of some of the Philippines’ oldest universities, where ghost stories have thrived for generations. From Ateneo de Manila’s mysterious infinite staircase to the restless spirits of De La Salle University, these tales take us through shadowy hallways, haunted staircases, and spine-chilling apparitions. Discover what secrets lie within the hallowed grounds of the University of Santo Tomas and the strange encounters that make UP Diliman a ghostly hotspot. Join me, Jane Bee, as we explore why some stories refuse to fade away.

    Show Notes

    Timestamps:
    00:00:50 - Welcome - Jane introduces the theme, inviting listeners on a haunted journey through the Philippines’ most storied universities.
    00:01:48 - Ateneo de Manila University - Dive into tales of endless staircases, ghostly ladies in Bellarmine Hall, and eerie sightings in the Old Communications Department.
    00:05:45 - De La Salle University - Discover wartime tragedies and spirits in St. La Salle Hall, Mutien-Marie Hall, and Yuchengco Hall, where mystery and fear linger.
    00:08:29 - University of Santo Tomas - Explore UST’s ghostly friar in Benavides Park, the crying student in St. Raymund’s Building, and the haunted piano of the Conservatory of Music.
    00:10:44 - University of the Philippines Diliman - End the tour with tales from UP Diliman, where blood-red eyes haunt the College of Education and the ghost of Vinzons Hall leaves a lasting impression.

    Episode Highlights:

    The connection between historical tragedy and paranormal activity on campuses.
    How each university’s architecture and past shape its ghostly legends.
    Reflections on the cultural significance of these ghost stories passed down through generations.
    Got your own campus ghost stories? I’d love to hear them! Reach out and share your spooky encounters—because you never know, they might make it into a future episode. And if you enjoyed today’s Halloween speciaI, ’d love to hear your thoughts, creepy experiences, or any weird topics you’d like me to cover next! Connect with me on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more spooky fun:

    Facebook: facebook.com/lilweirdpodcast
    Instagram: @lilweird_podcast
    TikTok: @lil.weird_
    X (formerly Twitter): @LilWeirdJane
    Join the weird fam, and let’s keep diving into the unknown! And remember—always be curious and embrace the weird. 🎃

    Disclaimer: The stories shared in this episode are based on urban legends and campus folklore from various Philippine universities. These tales have been passed down through generations, blending history with the supernatural, but remember—they are largely anecdotal. So, while they’re sure to send a chill down your spine, they’re meant for entertainment and exploration of Philippine folklore rather than factual accounts.

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    17 mins
  • Beware the Signs: The Haunting of Filipino Death Omens

    Beware the Signs: The Haunting of Filipino Death Omens
    Oct 15 2024
    In this eerie Halloween special, we dive into some of the most spine-chilling omens of death from Filipino folklore and beyond. What does it mean when you dream of losing teeth? Could encountering your doppelgänger actually signal your final days? And what should you do if you see someone you know without a head? These unsettling experiences have haunted generations, but are they just coincidence, or could they be real warnings from something beyond?

    Join me, Jane Bee, as we explore these terrifying signs, backed by cultural beliefs, psychological interpretations, and real-life stories. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode will have you questioning what you know and what might be lurking around the corner.

    Show Notes:
    [00:01:23] – Introduction: Overview of Filipino death omens and how they connect to deeper beliefs about life, death, and the supernatural.
    [00:01:56] – Dreaming of Losing Teeth: Explore the spiritual and psychological interpretations. Is this dream a harbinger of death or simply a reflection of your inner anxieties?
    [00:11:32] – Seeing Your Doppelgänger: Stories of famous historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Percy Bysshe Shelley encountering their doubles before death, and what Filipino culture says about seeing your own doppelgänger.
    [00:14:54] – Headless Apparitions: From eerie urban legends to firsthand accounts of headless figures, discover the chilling belief that seeing someone without their head signals impending doom.
    [00:16:06] – Jeepney Creepy Story: A late-night jeepney ride turns terrifying when the driver notices something horrifying in the rearview mirror—a woman with no head.
    [00:18:27] – Personal Story: Hear the unnerving tale of a friend of mine who saw her mother’s face disappear and what her family did to ward off the bad omen.
    [00:20:27] – Conclusion: Are these omens just psychological tricks, or should we heed their warnings? Let’s reflect on how they shape our understanding of the unknown.

    Thank you so much for tuning in to this episode of the LilWeird Podcast! If you enjoyed the stories and eerie discussions we had today, be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite platform—it really helps us grow and reach more curious listeners like you.

    I’d love to hear your thoughts, creepy experiences, or any weird topics you’d like me to cover next! Connect with me on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more spooky fun:

    Facebook: facebook.com/lilweirdpodcast
    Instagram: @lilweird_podcast
    TikTok: @lil.weird_
    X (formerly Twitter): @LilWeirdJane

    Join the weird fam, and let’s keep diving into the unknown! And remember—always be curious and embrace the weird. 🎃
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    24 mins
  • Back from the In-Between: Exploring Liminality

    Back from the In-Between: Exploring Liminality
    Oct 2 2024
    In this episode of LilWeird Podcast, we explore the concept of liminality, that strange in-between state where you're no longer where you were, but not yet where you want to be. From eerie empty spaces and ghostly balete trees to the unsettling phenomenon of sleep paralysis, we dive into the mysteries that lie on the edges of reality. Join me as we journey through liminal spaces, time, and life transitions, and uncover the profound, and often creepy, transformations that happen in these threshold moments.

    Show Notes:
    • Introduction: What is liminality? The feeling of being stuck between two worlds—like standing at the crossroads of change.
    • Part 1: Exploring liminality in life, spaces, and time.
      • Empty Parking lots, hotel hallways, doors and thresholds, and my personal story.
      • Liminal times- twilight and midnight.
    • Part 2: Liminality in the paranormal world.
      • Ghosts and liminal spaces—spirits caught between life and death.
      • Balete Tree as a Liminal Space: From Balete Drive, Siquijor, to the Millenium Tree in Aurora Province, we explore the supernatural lore surrounding these iconic trees.
      • Sleep Paralysis: The terrifying in-between state between sleep and wakefulness, known as bangungot in Filipino folklore.

    If you enjoyed today’s dive into the strange world of liminality, don’t forget to subscribe to the LilWeird Podcast so you never miss an episode. I’d love to hear your own stories about those eerie, in-between moments, so feel free to share them with me on social media or via email. Who knows, maybe your story will make it into a future episode! And don’t forget to tune in for our upcoming Spooky October special, where we’ll explore the spooky stuff and haunting tales.

    Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the podcast. Stay curious and stay fascinatingly weird.

    Thanks for listening!

    Credits:
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    20 mins
  • Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: Second Generation Gods and Goddesses

    Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: Second Generation Gods and Goddesses
    Jul 29 2024
    Join us in this captivating episode of the LilWeird Podcast as we delve into the fascinating world of pre-colonial Philippine mythology. Discover the second generation of deities and demigods, including Dumangan, Anagolay, Mayari, Tala, and Hanan. Learn about their unique roles, intriguing myths, and how these stories shape our cultural heritage. Perfect for mythology enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Filipino folklore.
    Thank you for joining me on this journey through the myths and legends of Philippine culture. I hope you enjoyed learning about these fascinating deities as much as I did. If you did, please consider subscribing to the LilWeird Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, so you never miss an episode.
    I would love to hear your thoughts on today's episode. Who is your favorite deity among the ones we discussed? Join the conversation on our social media channels—Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook—and share your insights.
    If you enjoyed this episode, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts would be a great way to support the show and help others discover it. Your feedback means a lot to me.
    Also, if you have any myths or legends you'd like us to explore in future episodes, drop me a message on Spreaker or reach out on social media. Your suggestions are always welcome and help shape the content of the podcast.
    Thanks again for listening. Keep exploring the weird and wonderful world around you, and I look forward to sharing more amazing stories with you in the next episode. Until then, stay curious and keep celebrating our rich cultural heritage.
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    24 mins
  • Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: The First Generation Gods

    Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: The First Generation Gods
    Jul 4 2024
    Join me, Jane Bee, on this captivating episode of the LilWeird Podcast as we delve into the mystical world of Philippine mythology with "Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: The First Generation Gods." Discover the fascinating stories of Bathala, Amanikable, Mapulon, Lakapati, and Idiyanale—gods and goddesses who shaped the Filipino spiritual landscape. From creation myths to tales of fertility and labor, these deities offer a unique glimpse into a rich cultural heritage.

    In this episode, we’ll cover:
    • The creation myths surrounding Bathala, the supreme deity.
    • The tempestuous nature of Amanikable, the god of the sea.
    • Mapulon’s influence over the changing seasons and agriculture.
    • The unique and nurturing Lakapati, goddess of fertility and inclusivity.
    • Idiyanale’s role as the goddess of labor and good deeds.
    Don’t miss out—subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the podcast. Stay curious, stay weird, and join me in uncovering the mysteries of the gods and goddesses of the Philippines!

    🎵'Dystopia' by Neutrin05
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    20 mins
  • The Mysterious Teleportation of Gil Pérez

    The Mysterious Teleportation of Gil Pérez
    Jun 20 2024
    Join me on this intriguing episode of the LilWeird Podcast as we delve into the extraordinary tale of Gil Pérez, the 16th-century Spanish soldier who mysteriously teleported from Manila to Mexico City overnight. Was it an act of the supernatural, a case of bilocation, or simply an elaborate legend? Discover the different perspectives from historians, folklorists, and scientists as we unravel this historical enigma.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    • The detailed account of Gil Pérez's teleportation
    • Historical context and recorded accounts by Fray Gaspar de San Agustín
    • Theories ranging from supernatural to scientific explanations
    • The distinction between teleportation and bilocation, with notable examples like Padre Pio
    Why listen?
    • Gain a deeper understanding of one of history's most fascinating mysteries
    • Explore how stories evolve into legends over time
    • Engage with thought-provoking discussions on the boundaries of reality


    Subscribe to the LilWeird Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform to never miss an episode.

    Do you have a bizarre story or an unsolved mystery you'd like me to investigate? Reach out to me on Instagram, Twitter, or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

    Stay updated with the latest episodes and join our community of curious minds.

    If you enjoy our podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show.

    Share this episode with friends and family who love exploring the weird and wonderful.

    🎵'Dystopia' by Neutrin05
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    19 mins
  • Lipa's Miraculous Petals and Divine Apparitions Part 2

    Lipa's Miraculous Petals and Divine Apparitions Part 2
    Jun 17 2024
    In this episode of the LilWeird Podcast, we continue our exploration of the miraculous events at Lipa, Batangas. Following the divine apparitions experienced by Teresita Castillo, we now turn our attention to the miraculous shower of rose petals that captivated the faithful in 1948. These petals, some said to bear holy images, sparked awe and devotion, but also intense scrutiny and controversy.
    Join me, Jane Bee, as we delve into the Church's response to these events, the suppression that followed, and the eventual reopening of the case decades later. Discover the stories of those who fought to uncover the truth, the skepticism they faced, and the enduring faith that kept the miracles of Lipa alive in the hearts of many.
    • Key Topics:
    • The miraculous shower of rose petals
    • Skepticism and scientific scrutiny
    • Church investigation and suppression
    • Efforts to reopen the case and uncover the truth
    Tune in to the LilWeird Podcast for the second part of this captivating series. Dive deeper into the mysteries of Lipa and see how faith and controversy intertwine in this remarkable story.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the LilWeird Podcast, rate us, and leave a review on your favorite listening platform. Share this episode with friends and family who are fascinated by the mysterious and the divine. Follow us on social media for updates and more intriguing stories.

    References:
    Mother Figured: Marian Apparitions and the Making of a Filipino Universal by Deirdre de la Cruz

    Credits:
    🎵'Dystopia' by Neutrin05
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    28 mins