Narratives of Folklore in Southern Cebu - Beliefs, Myths, and Customs

Abstract

This study documents and analyzes the folk narratives of Boljoon, Cebu, with the aim of examining local folklore, associated beliefs and practices, and the lived experiences and memories of community members. Guided by Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis framework, the research adopts a qualitative approach to identify themes across individual narratives. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with selected key informants who possess long-standing knowledge of the locality. The findings reveal that folklore in Boljoon functions as a living belief system embedded in everyday life. Several interrelated themes emerged from the analysis, including folklore as a lived and experiential belief system, the coexistence of indigenous animistic beliefs and Catholic faith, folklore as a form of moral and social regulation, continuity and cultural memory, and the interconnected relationship between humans, nature, and the supernatural. These themes demonstrate how folk narratives shape values, guide behavior, and preserve cultural identity. The study also highlights how folklore serves as a medium for intergenerational transmission, allowing continuity of traditions. Narratives related to supernatural beings, religious devotion, agricultural practices, and communal rituals reflect the cultural hybridity and place-based character of Cebuano folklore. Despite its contributions, the study is limited by its small number of participants and its focus on a single community. Future research may expand participant diversity, include younger generations, or conduct comparative studies across other Cebuano communities. Overall, the findings affirmed the importance of localized folklore studies in understanding Cebuano cultural heritage and the continuing relevance of oral traditions in contemporary community life.