Ilokano myth

 Cabalangegan, once a jungle along the banks of the Abra River, bordered by towering mountains on the opposite shore, was presided over by an elderly man named Abra. Abra, the father of Caburayan, possessed control over the weather, ensuring bright and sunny days over the shaded river that was believed to be a collection of water vapor.


During this time, the God of Harvests, Anianihan, harbored affection for the Goddess of Healing, also named Anianihan. Lady Makiling, the mother of the latter, was aware of their mutual feelings, but they hesitated to reveal it to Abra, fearing his disapproval. Abra desired Caburayan to wed either Saguday, the God of the Wind, or Revenador, the God of Thunder and Lightning. To escape this fate, Anianihan took Caburayan away, leading to Abra's anguish. In his sorrow, Abra dismissed Lady Makiling after a confrontation.


Left alone, Abra wept incessantly until Bulan, the God of Peace and Calm, appeared. Despite Bulan's attempt to console him, Abra's sorrow persisted, and he pleaded with the other gods to return his daughter.


One day, the sun's intense heat caused the river Abra to boil, emitting smoke. Dark clouds, powerful winds from Saguday, fiery strikes from Revenador, and heavy rains ensued, lasting seven days. The river swelled, covering the trees and revealing the highest part of the mountain, resembling a distant turtle's back. Abra found refuge at this location.


On the seventh day, Abra heard cries and a sorrowful song but found no one upon searching. Determined to find his grandchild, Maria Makiling, Abra's search spanned three full moons, but it ended in despair. Maria was under the care of Lobo, a fierce dog serving the god of the Underworld as punishment. Lobo, having undergone divine retribution, was sent to perform charitable deeds.

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