We've all heard the stories of Tikbalangs and Aswangs! But have you ever heard of the Burulakaw, the Magindara, or the Lambana? These are just a few of the fascinating, yet obscure, creatures lurking in the shadows of Philippine mythology.
Unlike many of us, Karl Gaverza wasn't satisfied with just knowing the usual mythical suspects. This college grad turned myth-hunter and took it upon himself to collect stories from across the Philippines and document the lesser-known beings that haunt our folklore. His passion project? Mythica Obscura, an epic encyclopedia coming to life in four volumes!
"I wanted to take my research and turn it into something everyone could enjoy," Karl says. Packed with illustrations, descriptions, and even original stories penned by Karl himself, Mythica Obscura promises to be a treasure trove for Philippine mythology enthusiasts.
Passion for the project
In 2016, right after college, he launched Philippine Spirits, a platform dedicated to safeguarding our vanishing folklore. Through captivating narratives and artwork by local artists, Karl meticulously documented over 2,500 mythical beings and 1,500 gods – many on the verge of oblivion.
And it doesn't stop there. A champion for our native languages, Karl has these stories translated and published on the Philippine Spirits website, ensuring these myths reach a wider audience and leave a lasting impression.
Why is this such a big deal? Because before Karl, these creatures existed only in whispers and campfire tales. His research not only enriches our language and literature but also serves as a vital record of our regional myths. These are stories that deserve to be heard, not left to vanish with time.
Plus, Karl's a firm believer in the power of our local languages. He's fostering a more inclusive cultural space for everyone by promoting translations and publications in various dialects.
Follow Karl's journey on Facebook, Instagram, and Philippine Spirit's official website, where you will find more intriguing information on the mythological creatures of the Philippines.
