Is the Siyokoy a Borrowed Myth? Unpacking the Truth About Filipino Merfolk

Have you heard that the Siyokoy, that creepy merman from Philippine folklore, isn’t actually Filipino? Some say he’s a borrowed myth from Chinese stories. Others claim he’s got roots in Hindu and Western traditions. So, who’s right? Let’s dive deep into this watery mystery and uncover the truth about Filipino merfolk! 🕵️‍♀️

What’s the Deal with the Siyokoy?

First things first, let’s talk about the Siyokoy we all know (and maybe fear a little 😅). He’s that scaly, fishy fellow lurking in our rivers and seas, known for:

Fishy Features: Think green, scaly skin, a mop of seaweed hair, and gills for breathing underwater. 🐠
Not-So-Friendly Face: He’s usually depicted with a flat nose, big, round eyes, and a fierce expression. Definitely not winning any beauty contests here! 😬
Up to No Good: The Siyokoy is often blamed for causing mischief, like capsizing boats, tangling fishing nets, and even abducting people!

The Chinese Connection: Is the Siyokoy a Chui-Kui Cousin?

The theory that the Siyokoy originates from the Chinese chui-kui has been floating around. The chui-kui is a creature mentioned in Chinese mythology. Some scholars have pointed out similarities in their names and appearances.

However, this theory doesn’t hold much water. 💧 While there may be some resemblance, Filipino folklore is rich and diverse, with its own unique cast of characters. It’s entirely possible that the Siyokoy developed independently, influenced by local beliefs and experiences.

The Hindu-Buddhist Influence: Are Our Merfolk Inspired by Ancient Tales?

Now, let’s talk about the possibility of Hindu-Buddhist influence. Some believe that the concept of merfolk, including our very own Siyokoy, might have been inspired by these ancient traditions. 🤔

It’s true that both Hindu and Buddhist mythology feature water deities and creatures that resemble merfolk. For example, the apsaras, celestial nymphs often depicted near water, might have influenced the imagery of merfolk in Southeast Asia.

The idea of mermaids with enchanting voices, luring sailors to their watery graves, is also present in Greek mythology (think sirens!). 🧜‍♀️ This concept, brought over during the Spanish colonial period, likely blended with existing Filipino beliefs, further shaping the Siyokoy we know today.

The Visayan Version: Catau – The Original Pinoy Merfolk?

If we look back to pre-colonial times, we find fascinating accounts of merfolk in Visayan folklore. Spanish missionary Francisco Alcina, who documented Visayan culture in the 17th century, described creatures called “catao”.

These “catao” were a bit different from the Siyokoy we know. They had human-like bodies but sported webbed fingers and toes. They were known to be helpful to fishermen, sometimes even granting them favors!

So, it seems like the image of the fish-tailed merman might have come later, possibly through the blending of indigenous beliefs and foreign influences.

From Litao to Sirena: Tracing the Evolution of a Myth

Even more intriguing is the story of the “litao”, an ancient Tagalog spirit associated with rivers and seas. Described as a beautiful being with long nails and hair like a “metallic net,” the litao was believed to be responsible for drownings and disappearances in waterways.

When the Spanish arrived, they brought with them their own tales of mermaids, or “sirenas.” Over time, the litao and the sirena seem to have merged, creating the Siyokoy we know today.

5 Key Takeaways about the Siyokoy’s Origins:

The Siyokoy’s story is complex! It’s likely a blend of indigenous beliefs, Chinese influences, Hindu-Buddhist elements, and even Western imagery.
The “catao” of Visayan folklore could be the OG Pinoy merfolk, predating the fish-tailed Siyokoy.
The “litao” offers a glimpse into pre-colonial beliefs about dangerous water spirits.
The arrival of the Spanish and their “sirenas” played a role in shaping the modern Siyokoy myth.
Folklore is constantly evolving! Myths and legends change and adapt over time, reflecting the beliefs and experiences of the people who tell them.

So, the next time you hear someone say the Siyokoy isn’t Filipino, you can share what you’ve learned! He may have some interesting relatives around the world, but his story is deeply rooted in Philippine culture and history. 🇵🇭