MALAKAS

[Other] The Philippine myth of how the world was first populated by humans. It is said that after the world was created, a bird with a sharp beak and highly ornate feathers sought a place to rest and eat after flying for several days. Looking down at the vast ocean below him, he spots a small formation that seemed to be a cluster of pearls (the Philippine islands). Not desiring to fly any further, he lands and finds himself perched on a giant bamboo shoot. Curious as to what was inside, he proceeded to peck at the top end of the large plant. After several attempts, the shoot finally splits in the middle and with amazement he finds himself looking at the first man (malakas) and woman (maganda) tucked inside the hollows of the bamboo halves.