The story of Mount Mogao and the enchanted eels is a local legend that has been passed down through generations in the Sunnyside cluster of Tadian municipality, Mountain Province. It speaks of love, sacrifice, and the lasting connection between people and nature. This legend highlights how a simple couple's defiance of social norms leads to an unforgettable legacy, with the natural world forever changed by their story.
The Forbidden Love of Kagu and Atan
Long ago, the village of Sunnyside was a peaceful and thriving community. In this village lived Kagu, a young woman known for her beauty, who caught the attention of many suitors. Although the sons of wealthy families, known as kadangyan, pursued her hand, Kagu rejected them all. Instead, she found love with Atan, a humble hunter who lacked wealth but possessed a kind heart.
Atan and Kagu's relationship faced opposition from Kagu's parents. Her family, being of high social standing, disapproved of Atan due to his modest background. They urged Kagu to marry someone of status, but Kagu and Atan's love could not be swayed. In an act of rebellion, the couple eloped and built a life together in a small house far from the village, away from the expectations of Kagu's family.
A Simple Life and a Desire for Children
Although their lives together were simple and filled with hard work, Atan and Kagu felt a deep longing. Atan continued to hunt while Kagu worked their fields, planting vegetables and rice. Their days were peaceful, yet they yearned for children to complete their family. One night, Kagu dreamed that the god Kabunyan, an important figure in Igorot mythology, told her she would soon become a mother. This dream gave both Kagu and Atan hope.
Years passed, but Kagu did not conceive. Despite this, they remained hopeful, believing in the promise of Kabunyan's words. Their faith remained strong, and they continued to live their lives with the belief that their wish would one day be fulfilled.
Tragedy Strikes: Atan's Death and Kagu's Pregnancy
The couple's dreams were shattered when tragedy struck. Atan, while hunting, was attacked by wild animals. Severely wounded, he managed to make his way home, but the injuries proved fatal. He died in Kagu's arms, leaving her devastated.
After several days of mourning, Kagu returned to the fields to resume her work, but the physical strain caused her to faint. Concerned, she called for the village quack doctor to examine her. To everyone's surprise, the doctor declared that Kagu was pregnant. The news shocked the villagers, who had believed Kagu's grief would prevent her from having children.
When the time came, Kagu gave birth to twins-a boy and a girl. However, the babies were different from others. Their skin was slippery, like that of a fish, which caused many villagers to fear them, believing they were cursed or unnatural.
The Villagers' Fear and the Call for Sacrifice
The unusual appearance of Kagu's children sparked fear and suspicion in the village. When a water shortage affected the community, many villagers believed the children were to blame. They accused the twins of bringing misfortune and demanded that Kagu give them up.
In fear for her children's safety, Kagu hid them under a bed made of woven sticks. But the villagers, angry and frightened, began throwing stones at her home. The children, trying to protect their mother, ran toward her, but Kagu, determined to defend them, held them close.
Kabunyan's Intervention and the Transformation
The suffering of Kagu and her children did not go unnoticed. Kabunyan, the god, intervened, letting out a mighty sound that frightened the villagers and caused them to flee. However, the damage had been done. Kagu and her children were severely wounded, and before they could recover, they died.
In their final moments, Kagu and her children asked Kabunyan to forgive the villagers for their actions. Touched by their humility, Kabunyan granted their wishes. As a result, Kagu was transformed into Mount Mogao, standing tall as a symbol of her love and sacrifice. Her children, who had been so unfairly treated, were turned into eels that still inhabit the waters of Cagubatan.
The Lasting Legacy of Mount Mogao and the Enchanted Eels
Today, the story of Mount Mogao and the enchanted eels serves as a reminder of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of prejudice. Kagu's transformation into a mountain signifies her strength and eternal presence, while her children's transformation into eels symbolizes their enduring bond with the land and water.
The tale teaches important lessons about humility, forgiveness, and the importance of looking beyond appearances. It also emphasizes the deep connection between people and the natural world. The legend of Mount Mogao and the enchanted eels continues to remind the people of Mountain Province of the power of love, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of their actions on the world around them.
Source: The Tale of Mount Mogao and the Enchanted Eels by Francis Degay
