Mythology and Origin Story
Because of the misinterpretation as well as the nature of myths, there are multiple versions and retellings of this story. The following story is my personal favorite version of this modern myth.
Myths that surround Haliya:
Long ago seven radiant moons lit the night, each a living deity. From the ocean depths, Bakunawa, once a sea maiden, grew jealous of their splendor and especially of the handsome moon Bulan. Twisting herself into a vast serpent-dragon, she flew into the sky and swallowed the moons one by one, but each melted away inside her like wax. Furious, the high god Bathala bound Bakunawa to her monstrous form and forbade her to devour the last two moons. Undeterred, she attacked again, but this time Haliya was prepared. Wearing a golden mask to hide her beauty, the moon goddess faught Bakunawa, protecting her last sibling, until she drove the serpent back into the abyss. Now, whenever Bakunawa resurfaces—marked by a lunar eclipse and the moon's crimson hue—people on earth beat gongs, clash pots, and play music to frighten or lull her until she spits the moon out, preserving the sky's remaining light.
Iconography and Symbols
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The Moon:
Last of her kin alongside Bulan, Haylia is a personification of the moon.
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Golden Mask:
Haliya hides her moonlit beauty from the serpent Bakunawa by wearing a golden mask.
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Warrior Goddess of Women and Strength:
Haliya is a powerful moon goddess honored by women in Bicol. She is known for bravely fighting the dragon Bakunawa and is seen as a symbol of both beauty and strength. Her story continues to inspire people with courage and resilience.
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Takay and Padma Flowers:
Haliya is linked to the takay flower (water hyacinth) and the padma (lotus). The takay was a gift from the lunar gods to the people of Bikol, symbolizing their divine connection. The lotus, on the other hand, represents divine guidance and serves as a reminder to the people of Ibalong to live with kindness and compassion.