Maria Makiling by RGPC on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

In Philippine folklore and mythology, a legendary diwata or forest goddess whose namesake roots from the mountain she is associated with: Mount Makiling in Laguna, Philippines. Commonly referred to as a lambana (fae, fairy or forest nymph), she is known as the protector of the mountain and all of its inhabitants that reside in her domain. Oftentimes portrayed as a beautiful woman dabbed in radiant white, she is able to control nature and can bring both blessings to those who value her generosity, and curses, to those who abuse her kindness. How she came to be valued by mortals stem from the legends that she fell in love with a hunter who became lost in her kingdom. The two are immediately lovestruck and as the hunter departed to return to the village, he promised to marry her. However, times passed when she found out that he fell in love with another mortal woman, she was deeply hurt. She was never seen or heard from again, bringing with her the abundance that she once offered to her beloved townsfolk. For now when only the moon shines pale in the night sky, the figure of such a beloved goddess can seldom be seen, looking for a kind soul that would love her for eternity.