There’s something different about Majayjay, Laguna.
It’s not just the cold rivers or the old Spanish church. It’s that feeling — like the wind carries voices, like a trail could lead to more than just a waterfall. If you ask locals — especially the old folks, the tindera at the market, or the barangay captain who always “knows somebody who knows something” — you’ll find out Majayjay isn’t just a town. It’s a living archive of myths, mysteries, and magical stories passed down for generations.
Ready for a walk through the folklore of Majayjay?
Here are a few local legends and tales that have been quietly kept alive — through whispers, warnings, and family kwentuhan over coffee and suman.
1. The River That Never Dries
Dalitiwan River, known for its icy, clear waters, is more than just a favorite weekend spot. According to elders, this river was blessed — or cursed — by a diwata (fairy guardian) who once lived at its source.
Long ago, during a time of drought, a woman in white was seen bathing at the head of the river. A group of men mocked her beauty and tried to follow her. Offended, she vanished — but not before declaring that the river would never dry, even in the hottest summer — a blessing to locals, but a reminder to never disrespect what you don’t understand.
To this day, locals say no one has ever seen Dalitiwan dry up.
2. The Bell That Rang Without a Hand
Inside St. Gregory the Great Parish Church, there’s a tale that locals love to share — especially during stormy nights.
One evening in the 1800s, as a typhoon ripped through Majayjay, the church’s bell rang on its own. People thought it was the sacristan calling them to pray — but when they arrived, the church was empty and the ropes untouched. Lightning flashed, thunder roared, but the bell kept ringing.
The next morning, the town discovered that a massive landslide had been narrowly avoided — as if the bell was warning the people. Some say it was an angel. Others say it was St. Gregory himself protecting his town.
Now, during storms, people still listen for the bell.
3. The Enchanted Falls of Taytay
Yes, we all love Taytay Falls for the cool water and misty forest — but did you know locals say it’s guarded by elemental spirits?
Legend has it that the forest surrounding the falls is home to engkanto, beings who dislike arrogance and disrespect. Hikers who whistled loudly or left trash were said to have gotten lost in loops, walking for hours in the same spot. Others said they felt a strong push near the falls when no one was around.
Locals advise visitors to ask permission silently before entering — a simple “tabi po” whispered into the air — as a sign of respect to unseen dwellers.
4. The Giant of Mount Banahaw
Every town has a big story. Majayjay’s? A literal big story — of a giant said to sleep in the folds of Mount Banahaw, the sacred mountain looming behind the town.
Old folks say that when the clouds form a certain shape over Banahaw, it resembles a giant lying on his back, arms folded. They call him “Tatang Banahaw.”
He is the mountain’s protector. When people hurt the mountain — cutting trees recklessly, disrespecting sacred sites — the weather changes, trails vanish, and strange illnesses follow. When cared for, the mountain blesses the land with cold water, fertile soil, and peace.
Some farmers still offer the first fruits of their harvest to a rock believed to be Tatang’s heart
5. The Woman in White of Gagalot Bridge
Not all legends are gentle.
Gagalot Bridge, which connects to one of Majayjay’s barangays, has long been whispered about — especially by tricycle drivers and late-night walkers. They say a white-clad woman sometimes appears by the roadside, asking for a ride. When offered, she vanishes. If ignored, she screams.
Some say she was a bride-to-be who drowned on her wedding day during a flood. Others say she was a spirit watching over the bridge, warning people of accidents to come. One driver claims that every time she appears, a storm arrives within hours.
Even today, people slow down when crossing the bridge at night — just in case.
6. The Trees That Talk at Night
In Barangay San Miguel, locals speak of trees that whisper after midnight, especially during the new moon.
These are no ordinary trees — locals believe they’re bantay, spiritual guardians watching over the barangay. Farmers who pass through the area late at night have reported hearing voices, not threatening, but clear — as if someone’s calling their name from a distance.
Legend says the trees were once men and women who sacrificed themselves during the colonial wars and were rewarded by nature, turned into protectors of the land.
Visitors are advised: do not carve into them. And never mock the voices.
Why These Stories Still Matter
You might ask — are these legends real?
But maybe that’s not the point.
Majayjay’s tales, like many Filipino folktales, are woven into daily life. They’re warnings, reminders, and sometimes, just beautiful stories that keep communities grounded in something bigger than themselves. They connect us to the land, to memory, and to each other.
And in Majayjay, you don’t need to believe in magic to feel it.
Just walk through the mist. Listen. Look twice. And maybe, just maybe, the town will share one of its secrets with you.
FAQs:
Are Majayjay’s legends based on true events?
Many of the stories are rooted in oral history and local belief. While not officially documented, they are widely shared and respected in the community as part of cultural tradition.
Is it safe to visit places tied to these stories, like Taytay Falls or Gagalot Bridge?
Yes, they are safe to visit. Locals simply advise respectful behavior and a sense of reverence, especially when exploring nature-rich or sacred areas.
Are these stories still told today?
Absolutely. Elders, teachers, and barangay residents still share these tales during town gatherings, family events, and community rituals. Some are even passed on to students in local schools.
