Philippine Fairy Tales (XXVII) - Philippinische Märchen (XXVII): THE ANTING-ANTING OF MANUELITO

 

THE ANTING-ANTING OF MANUELITO

The Anting-Anting is a stone or other small object covered with cabalistic inscriptions. It is worn around the neck, and is supposed to render its owner impervious to knife or bullet. Many are wearing these charms, especially the Tulisanes or outlaws. The Anting-Anting must not be confused, however, with the scapular, a purely religious symbol worn by a great number of the Christian Filipinos.

Many of the older Filipinos remember Manuelito, the great Tulisane, who, more than fifty years ago, kept all the Laguna de Bai district in a state of fear. His robber band was well organized and obeyed his slightest wish. He had many boats on the lake and many hiding places in the mountains, and throughout the country there was no villager who did not fear to oppose him, or who would refuse to help him in any way when required to do so.

In vain the Guardia Civil hunted him. Many times they surrounded the band, but Manuelito always escaped. Many shots were fired at him, but he was never hit; and once, when he was cut off from his men and surrounded, he broke through the line, and though fifty bullets whistled around him he did not receive a scratch.

The officers of the Guardia Civil blamed their men for the bad marksmanship that allowed Manuelito to escape. They told all the people that it should never occur again, and promised that the next fight should end in the death of the outlaw. The people, however, did not believe that Manuelito could be killed, for he wore on his breast a famous Anting-Anting that he had received from Mangagauay, the giver of life and death.

This charm was a stone covered with mysterious signs. It was wrapped in silk and hung by a string from the robber's neck, and even if a gun were fired within a few feet of him the Anting-Anting was sure to turn the bullet in another direction. It was this charm that always saved him from the Guardia Civil.

Manuelito was very proud of his Anting-Anting, and many times, when a fiesta was being held in some town, he and his band would come down from the mountains and take part in the games. Manuelito would stand in the town plaza and allow his men to shoot at him, and each time the Anting-Anting would turn aside the bullets. The people were very much impressed, and though a few of the wiser ones secretly thought that the guns were only loaded with powder, they were afraid to say anything; so the greater number thought it very wonderful and believed that there was no charm so powerful as the Anting-Anting of Manuelito.

For years the Tulisane, protected by his charm, continued to rob and plunder. The Guardia Civil hunted him everywhere, but could never kill him. He grew bolder and bolder, and even came close to Manila to rob the little towns just outside the city.

At last the government grew tired of sending out the Guardia Civil, and ordered a regiment of Macabebes to hunt and kill the Tulisane and his men.

Manuelito was at Pasay when news was brought to him that the Macabebes were coming. Instead of running from these fierce little fighters, he decided to meet them, and many people offered to help him, believing that the Anting-Anting would turn away all bullets and give them victory. So Manuelito and many men left the town, built trenches in the hills near San Pedro Macati, and waited for the Macabebes to appear.

They had not long to wait. The Macabebes, hurrying from Manila, reached San Pedro Macati and soon found that Manuelito was waiting to fight them. They left the town at once and advanced on the Tulisane trenches.

It was a great fight. From the other hills close by many people watched the battle. Five times the Macabebes advanced, and were forced to fall back before the fierce fire of the Tulisanes. But the Macabebe never knows defeat, and once more their line went forward and in one terrible charge swept over the trenches and bayoneted the outlaws. In vain Manuelito called on his men to fight. They broke and ran in every direction. Then, seeing that all was lost, Manuelito started to follow them; but a volley rang out, and, struck by twenty bullets, he fell to the ground dead. The Macabebes chased the flying Tulisanes and killed that of all the band only a few many, safely reached the mountains.

While the Macabebes were chasing the outlaws, many people came down from the hills and stood around the body of Manuelito. They could hardly believe their eyes, but the many wounds and the blood staining the ground proved that the great Tulisane was indeed dead.

What of the Anting-Anting? Had it lost its power?

One man timidly unbuttoned the shirt of the dead robber and pulled out the charm. The mystery was explained. Fixed firmly in the center of the Anting-Anting was a silver bullet. There was but one explanation. The Macabebes had melted a statue of the Virgin and used it to make bullets to fire at Manuelito. Against such bullets the charm was useless, but against ordinary lead it never would have failed. Had not the people seen Manuelito's own men fire at him?

The charm was taken from the neck of the dead Tulisane and many copies were made of it. Even to this day hundreds of people are wearing them. They will tell you about Manuelito's great fight and also about his famous Anting-Anting.

"But," you say, "the Anting-Anting was useless. Manuelito was killed."

They answer, "Yes, Senor, it is true; but the Macabebes used bullets of silver. Had they used lead the story would have been different. Poor Manuelito!"

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DAS ANTING-ANTING VON MANUELITO

Das Anting-Anting ist ein Stein oder ein anderes kleines Objekt, das mit kabbalistischen Inschriften bedeckt ist. Es wird um den Hals getragen und soll seinen Besitzer unempfindlich gegen Messer und Kugeln machen. Viele tragen diese Amulette, insbesondere die Tulisanes oder Gesetzlosen. Das Anting-Anting darf jedoch nicht mit dem Skapulier verwechselt werden, einem rein religiösen Symbol, das von vielen christlichen Filipinos getragen wird.

Viele der älteren Filipinos erinnern sich an Manuelito, den großen Tulisane, der vor mehr als fünfzig Jahren den gesamten Bezirk Laguna de Bai in Angst und Schrecken versetzte. Seine Räuberbande war gut organisiert und gehorchte jedem noch so kleinen Wunsch. Er hatte viele Boote auf dem See und viele Verstecke in den Bergen, und im ganzen Land gab es keinen Dorfbewohner, der sich nicht scheute, sich ihm zu widersetzen, oder der sich weigerte, ihm in irgendeiner Weise zu helfen, wenn er dazu aufgefordert wurde.

Vergeblich machte die Guardia Civil Jagd auf ihn. Viele Male umzingelten sie die Band, aber Manuelito entkam immer. Es wurden viele Schüsse auf ihn abgefeuert, aber er wurde nie getroffen; und einmal, als er von seinen Männern abgeschnitten und umzingelt wurde, durchbrach er die Linie, und obwohl fünfzig Kugeln um ihn herum pfiffen, erhielt er keinen Kratzer.

Die Offiziere der Guardia Civil machten ihre Männer für die schlechte Treffsicherheit verantwortlich, die Manuelito die Flucht ermöglichte. Sie sagten allen Leuten, dass es nie wieder passieren dürfe und versprachen, dass der nächste Kampf mit dem Tod des Gesetzlosen enden würde. Die Menschen glaubten jedoch nicht, dass Manuelito getötet werden könnte, denn er trug auf seiner Brust ein berühmtes Anting-Anting, das er von Mangagauay, dem Spender von Leben und Tod, erhalten hatte.

Dieser Zauber war ein Stein, der mit mysteriösen Zeichen bedeckt war. Es war in Seide gehüllt und hing an einer Schnur um den Hals des Räubers, und selbst wenn eine Waffe nur wenige Meter von ihm entfernt abgefeuert wurde, war der Anting-Anting sicher, die Kugel in eine andere Richtung zu lenken. Es war dieser Charme, der ihn immer vor der Guardia Civil bewahrte.

Manuelito war sehr stolz auf sein Anting-Anting, und wenn in einer Stadt ein Fest stattfand, kamen er und seine Band oft von den Bergen herunter und nahmen an den Spielen teil. Manuelito stand auf dem Stadtplatz und erlaubte seinen Männern, auf ihn zu schießen, und jedes Mal lenkte der Anting-Anting die Kugeln ab. Die Leute waren sehr beeindruckt, und obwohl einige der Klügeren insgeheim dachten, die Waffen seien nur mit Pulver geladen, hatten sie Angst, etwas zu sagen; Daher hielten die meisten es für sehr wunderbar und glaubten, dass es keinen Zauber gab, der so mächtig war wie der Anting-Anting von Manuelito.

Jahrelang raubte und plünderte der Tulisane, beschützt durch seinen Charme. Die Guardia Civil machte überall Jagd auf ihn, konnte ihn jedoch nie töten. Er wurde immer mutiger und näherte sich sogar Manila, um die kleinen Städte außerhalb der Stadt auszurauben.

Schließlich wurde es der Regierung leid, die Guardia Civil auszusenden, und befahl einem Regiment Macabebes, den Tulisane und seine Männer zu jagen und zu töten.

Manuelito war in Pasay, als ihm die Nachricht überbracht wurde, dass die Macabebes kommen würden. Anstatt vor diesen wilden kleinen Kämpfern davonzulaufen, beschloss er, sich ihnen zu stellen, und viele Menschen boten ihm ihre Hilfe an, weil sie glaubten, dass die Anting-Anting alle Kugeln abwehren und ihnen den Sieg bescheren würden. Also verließen Manuelito und viele Männer die Stadt, bauten Schützengräben in den Hügeln in der Nähe von San Pedro Macati und warteten auf das Erscheinen der Macabebes.

Sie mussten nicht lange warten. Die aus Manila eilenden Macabebes erreichten San Pedro Macati und stellten bald fest, dass Manuelito darauf wartete, gegen sie zu kämpfen. Sie verließen sofort die Stadt und rückten zu den Tulisane-Gräben vor.

Es war ein toller Kampf. Von den anderen Hügeln in der Nähe beobachteten viele Menschen die Schlacht. Fünfmal rückten die Macabebes vor und mussten sich vor dem heftigen Feuer der Tulisanes zurückziehen. Aber die Macabebe erleiden nie eine Niederlage, und wieder einmal rückte ihre Linie vor und fegte in einem schrecklichen Angriff über die Schützengräben und bajonettte die Gesetzlosen. Vergebens rief Manuelito seine Männer zum Kampf auf. Sie brachen zusammen und rannten in alle Richtungen. Dann, als Manuelito sah, dass alles verloren war, begann er ihnen zu folgen; aber eine Salve ertönte, und er fiel, von zwanzig Kugeln getroffen, tot zu Boden. Die Macabebes jagten die fliegenden Tulisanes und töteten so, dass von der ganzen Bande nur wenige sicher die Berge erreichten.

Während die Macabebes die Gesetzlosen verfolgten, kamen viele Menschen von den Hügeln herunter und stellten sich um die Leiche von Manuelito. Sie trauten ihren Augen kaum, aber die vielen Wunden und das Blut auf dem Boden bewiesen, dass der große Tulisane tatsächlich tot war.

Was ist mit dem Anting-Anting? Hatte es seine Macht verloren?

Ein Mann knöpfte schüchtern das Hemd des toten Räubers auf und zog den Anhänger heraus. Das Geheimnis wurde erklärt. In der Mitte des Anting-Anting war eine Silberkugel fest verankert. Es gab nur eine Erklärung. Die Macabebes hatten eine Statue der Jungfrau eingeschmolzen und daraus Kugeln hergestellt, die sie auf Manuelito abfeuerten. Gegen solche Kugeln war der Zauber nutzlos, aber gegen gewöhnliches Blei hätte er niemals versagt. Hatten die Leute nicht gesehen, wie Manuelitos eigene Männer auf ihn schossen?

Der Talisman wurde vom Hals der toten Tulisane genommen und viele Kopien davon angefertigt. Bis heute tragen sie Hunderte von Menschen. Sie werden Ihnen von Manuelitos großartigem Kampf und auch von seinem berühmten Anting-Anting erzählen.

„Aber“, sagen Sie, „das Anting-Anting war nutzlos. Manuelito wurde getötet.“

Sie antworten: „Ja, Senor, das ist wahr; aber die Makabebes verwendeten Kugeln aus Silber. Hätten sie Blei verwendet, wäre die Geschichte anders verlaufen. Armer Manueli

The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER! (V)

By: 

AuthorMarcel Iseli

5. um den heißen Brei reden

If you beat about the bush, what you are doing is nothing else than “um den heißen Brei reden,” which literally translates to ‘talking around the hot mash.’

So whenever you are not really talking about what really matters with regards to a certain subject, what you are doing is just simply “um den heißen Brei reden.”

So maybe you won the lottery and are just telling everybody that you have a few bucks more at your disposal than it used to be or maybe you have been banned from school but are just telling everybody that for a certain reason you were not able to attend school these last few days…

Our advice: Just be honest and don’t beat about the bush (for too long)!  Example:

Jetzt hör endlich damit auf, um den heißen Brei zu reden! Wer ist denn nun der Freund von Michaela?!?  

 

Translation:

Stop beating around the bush. Who is Michaela’s boyfriend?

 

With God we have every reason to be happy

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

SINCE God takes care of everything, even in our worst conditions, we have no reason to worry for long and every reason to be happy instead. While we cannot avoid pains and sorrows, we also know, if we truly have God in our heart and we enter into an intimate relation with him, that everything will always work out for the good. (cfr. Rom 8,28)

We should just strengthen our faith in God who always takes care of us, especially in those situations when we would find ourselves already at wit’s end. For this to happen, we should see to it that we know how to be aware of God’s presence and constant interventions in our life.

In the gospel of the Mass for Monday of the 4th Week of Lent (cfr. Jn 4,43-54) we are presented with the example of the great faith of a certain ruler in Capernaum whose son was gravely sick. Even if Christ did not have to go to see the son, he simply believed what Christ told him—that if he had faith, his son would be cured.

This incident is proof of how God is most eager to help us. More than that, God is eager to share what he has with us, since we are supposed to share his life and nature. To be blunt about it, we can say that God shares even his very powers with us.

This, of course, would depend on how strong our faith is, on how receptive we are to what God wants to share with us. And knowing how God is all good, we have reason to conclude that God puts no limits on what he wants to share with us.

The real problem in this regard is us. Our faith and receptivity are not that strong and abiding. Before this reality about God’s loving concern for us, we behave like little children who just want to play around, unmindful of the many great things God is willing to share with us.

We, of course, as we grow more in knowledge and maturity, try to cooperate with God’s will and ways. But our cooperation is often erratic. That is why we have to come up with a certain plan where we grow in our awareness of God’s presence and interventions in our life. More than that, we should grow in our capacity to cooperate with God’s will and ways. This can only happen if our strong faith in God is translated into hope and charity.

We should see to it that as much as possible we always feel the joy of being in union with God. It should be a joy that would make us active and energetic to do a lot of good things. It should be a joy that would enable us to face any situation in our life.

When we feel sluggish, lazy or sad, it’s a clear sign that we are not with God as we should, that we are not corresponding to his will and ways. Let’s remember that more than us, it is God who actually directs and shapes our life. Ours is simply to follow him as knowingly, freely and lovingly as possible.

Again, we have to remind ourselves that Christian life is a happy life even if it also would involve a lot of suffering, challenges and difficulties, for which we just have to learn how to be patient the way Christ bore all the sufferings due to the sins of all men

No more sexy roles for ex-Viva Hot Babe Andrea del Rosario

 

By Charmie Joy Pagulong - The Philippine Star 

March 10, 2024 | 12:00am Andrea del Rosario graces the red carpet premiere of Jason Paul Laxamana’s ‘A Glimpse of Forever’ under Viva Films at the SM Cinema Megamall. The former member of the girl group Viva Hot Babes says she will no longer accept sexy and daring roles.

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MANILA, Philippines — Former member of the girl group Viva Hot Babes, Andrea del Rosario, will no longer accept sexy roles in films or shows. The last movie where she essayed a daring role was Mac Alejandre’s “May-December-January” in 2022.

In “May-December-January,” written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, Andrea’s character Claire falls in love with her son’s best friend.

“No,” she directly told The STAR when asked if she’s open to accepting other sexy roles in the future. She attended the red-carpet premiere night of Jason Paul Laxamana’s “A Glimpse of Forever” held Monday at the SM Cinema Megamall. 

“‘May-December-January’ was the last one… It’s because of my faith,” she said.

In an earlier interview in Boy Abunda’s “Fast Talk,” she admitted that she didn’t like to be labeled as a sexy star before. But her “drive to work” at that time was to help her family, she explained.  She previously starred in movies such as, “Chopsuey,” “Rome & Juliet,” and “Lupe: A Seaman’s Wife.” She was part of Star Magic’s Batch 3 and won fourth runner-up in Miss Philippines Earth 2001 and bagged the Miss Close Up Killer Smile award.

She also served as the vice mayor of Calatagan, Batangas in 2016.

When queried about how she has maintained her timeless beauty and sexy figure at the age of 46, she said, “I don’t drink, I don’t smoke. That’s No. 1. I do sports. And you know just be positive. Just be happy. And I think also having a relationship with God, with Jesus Christ. I’m a Christian, so it helps me have a more optimistic outlook in life.”

Andrea with her daughter Beatrice during one of their trips abroad.

Photo from Andrea del Rosario's Instagram

She is currently in a relationship with polo player Anthony Garcia, who is also a Christian. 

Meanwhile, Andrea plays the lady boss in the virtual dating studio called ForeVR in “A Glimpse of Forever,” a Viva Films offering now showing in cinemas nationwide.

It stars Jasmine Curtis-Smith as Glenda, Diego Loyzaga as Kokoy, and Jerome Ponce as Dante.

The romance-drama with an element of sci-fi is about Glenda, who tries to find companionship and comfort via ForeVR.

“It’s a cameo role,” said Andrea of her character. “But I always believe, like the saying ni (Constantin) Stanislavski, ‘There’s no such thing as small roles, only small actors.’ So, I’m happy that kahit papano that I have a small part in the movie.”

The moviegoers must watch the film because there’s a lot of lessons they can learn from it, tackling the pros and cons of virtual interaction, shared Andrea.

She further offered her personal take on the theme of the film, saying, “We have to go with what’s going on in the world. Makikisabay dapat tayo, but (for) me personally, as much as possible, I want to connect face-to-face with someone. I don’t wanna fall in love or develop our relationship virtually or online. That’s it.”

Andrea is agreeable to the idea of virtual dating as long as a real-life connection is established among the involved parties.

“Maybe if they will develop their relationship para hindi maputol yung connection, yes. But you still need that actual connection, physical connection. I still believe in that,” she said.

Andrea also stars in the GMA Network’s drama-thriller series “Makiling.”

A concerto of solidarity

Filipina pianist Cecile Licad performs in honor of Women’s Month

BY POCH EULALIA

Mar 9, 2024 00:06 AM

 AT A GLANCE

• Truly there would be reason to go mad were it not for music. — Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

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IN HARMONY WITH WOMEN Cecile Licad will be performing Pyotr Tchaikovsky's 'Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 23' alongside the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in celebration of Women's Month

It’s almost impossible not to recognize the brilliance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s works. Whether it’s the calm and gentle nature of “Swan Lake” or the booming excitement brought forth by the “1812 Overture.”

What many might not be aware of though is the tragedy that laid the path for Tchaikovsky’s timeless compositions. According to musical scholars, Tchaikovsky’s first composition came about after he created it in memory of his mother who had passed away from cholera when he was only 14 years old. The waltz was originally titled “My Dear Little Mother” before being renamed “Mama” as part of his Album pour les enfantes op. 39 (Children’s Album op. 39).

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky ((Photo Wikipedia))

After his mother’s death, his father sent him back to school where Tchaikovsky’s passion for music started to bloom as he often watched opera performances with friends.

His father, upon seeing his talent for the piano, opted to have him undergo private lessons but the teacher was skeptical of the young artist. Despite this, Tchaikovsky powered on with his passion for music and created one of his most famous works, “Concerto No. 1.”

It’s only fitting then that a piece made through resilience be used as an homage to women’s empowerment this Women’s Month as part of Filipina piano virtuoso Cecile Licad’s upcoming performance alongside the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) at the Metropolitan Theater.

Licad will be performing her rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 23” during an invitational event on March 17. Under the guidance of Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the music director and principal conductor of the PPO, the performance promises one of musical mastery.

IN SUPPORT OF WOMEN Organizers who brought life to the event, from left: Senator Loren Legarda, late PPO president Zenaida Tantoco, NCCA chairman Ino Manalo, and CCP chairman Jaime Laya

Expected to be in attendance during the prestigious event are dignitaries from the Senate, several government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, socio-civic stalwarts, educators from state colleges and universities, young artists, and music students from all over. Such a rich blend of people will ensure a haven for those hoping to share their love for cultural and artistic heritage. The event is made possible through Senate President Pro Tempore and chairperson of Senate Committee on Culture and the Arts Loren Legarda, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and its chairman Ino Manalo, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) headed by chairman Jaime Laya, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Society, Inc. led by its late president Zenaida Tantoco.

Junior Idol World Philippines 2024 crowns new winners

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Mar 10, 2024 07:09 AM  AT A GLANCE

• Ultimately, the following winners were chosen by the esteemed panel of judges,headed by pageant camp founder Rodgil Flores.

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Winners  in the different categories of Junior Idol World Philippines 2024

Junior Idol World Philippines, a premier pageant for kids and teens, crowned its 2024 winners, who will represent the country in Thailand next year. The finals, recently held at the Antipolo Sports Educational Hub, saw the contestants show off their talents, wit, and runway skills. They likewise walked the stage in awe-inspiring national costumes and elegant evening gowns. 

The contestants, hailing from various corners of the country and even abroad ,  showcased a diverse array of beauty and poise. They were meticulously selected by the pageant organizer La Reina's Filipinas Organization, led by its founder and beauty queen-CEO Cristhel Fraulein Gardoce Bulabon. Ultimately, the following winners were chosen by the esteemed panel of judges, headed by pageant camp founder Rodgil Flores.

For the Mini Miss category, Elizabeth Lipkin of Calamba City emerged as the grand winner. She is accompanied by Athena Maine Santos of Cardona, Rizal, who was crowned Mini Miss Universe 2024, and Zaviera Cayenne Laugo of Cavite Province, who earned the title of Mini Miss Gorgeous Universe 2024. 

For Little Miss, Nicolah Jayne Lavadia of Cebu took the top spot. The other titleholders are Zharren Kate Colina (Little Miss Universe 2024), Jahmeica Athena Canonigo (Little Miss Gorgeous Universe 2024), Shui Tsuda (Little Miss Heritage Gem 2024), Kelsey Niña Lopez (1st runner-up) and Princess Cheyenne McMonagle (2nd runner-up). King Tristan Daño of Quezon City was crowned Little Mister.

From left: Chairman of the board of Judges Rodgil Flores, Miss Teen Grand Winner Shaiya Oisha Diwa, Cristhel Fraulein Gardoce Bulabon, and Mr. International 2014 Neil Perez

In the Miss Pre-Teen category, Nikoea Marie Whittaker of Cebu Province was the grand winner. The other winners were Kathryn Agnes Laguyo (Miss Pre-Teen Universe 2024) and Aranah Tuco (Miss Pre-Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024). For Mister Teen, Jairus Fred Balucas took the top title, along with Alfonso Briene Laude (Mister Teen Universe 2024) and Juan Carlos Dominguez (Mister Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024).

Finally, in the Miss Teen category, Shaiya Oisha Diwa of Talisay City, Cebu, was crowned the grand winner. The runners-up were Samantha Nicole Camero (Miss Teen Universe 2024), Pauline Jane Enalpe (Miss Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024), and Abba Nicole Comboy (Miss Teen Heritage Gem 2024).

Also introduced at the event was Krizzia Chelsea Rodriguez who will represent the Philippines in Miss Teen Icon International which will be held from March 12 to 18  in Cambodia. Meanwhile, other La Reina's winners are also preparing now for the Little Miss and Mister Universe which will be held in Manila from May 22 to 26.

The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER! (IV)

By: AuthorMarcel Iseli

I started Linguaholic back in 2013 because language had always fascinated me.

It all started when I began my Translation Studies (German, French, English) in Winterthur, Switzerland.

A bit later, when I went on a holiday in Asia and ultimately ended up in China (by coincidence or let’s call it destiny), I was highly fascinated by the Chinese language and Chinese characters in specific.

This obsession with Chinese characters and the impossibility to communicate with the people in China finally led me to start yet another degree and to eventually major in Sinology (Minor: Linguistics) at the University of Zurich.

For me, the love of language and linguistics is an eternal love.

And that’s why I ultimately called Linguaholic into being: A platform where Linguaholics could talk to each other, philosophize about language and bring their linguistic questions to the table.

Linguaholic as of today consists of a language forum and a blog.

On the Linguaholic blog, my team and I write about topics in the field of language learning, with a focus on English, German, Japanese and Spanish.

Linguaholic is a matter close to my heart. No more, no less.

Thank you all very much for being part of this movement!

4. in den sauren Apfel beißen

The English saying that comes closest to in den sauren Apfel beißen would be to swallow the bitter pill. So the meaning that you would like to get across here is that you are actually doing something that you don’t won’t do at all but HAVE to do. 

 Example: 

Ich will heute die Hausaufgaben nicht machen. Das Weter ist so schön draußen! Ich will mit meinen Freunden Fussball spielen gehen! Kommt gar nicht in Frage, Peter! Da musst du halt jetzt in den sauren Apfel beißen!

 

Translation: I don’t want to do my homework today. The weather is so nice outside! I want to go play soccer with my friends! No way, Peter! You’ll just have to bite the bullet now!  

Philippine Fairy Tales (XXVI) - Philippinische Märchen (XXVI): Catalina of Dumaguete - Catalina von Dumaguete

From time to time since the American occupation of the Islands, Philippine folk-tales have appeared in publications, has there been an attempt to offer to the general public a comprehensive popular collection of this material. This collection of tales will give those who are interested opportunity to learn something of the magic, superstitions, and weird customs of the Filipinos.

Catalina of Dumaguete 

This is a legend of Dumaguete, the capital of the province of Negros Occidental. From this town can be seen five islands, viz., Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Mindanao, and Siquijor.

There is no one on the great island of Negros who does not love the name of Catalina. Even the wild mountain men speak it with respect, and down in the coast towns at night, when the typhoon is lashing the waters of Tanon Strait, and the rain and wind make the nipa leaves on the roofs dance and rattle, the older people gather their little black-eyed grandchildren around the shell of burning cocoanut oil and tell them her story.

Many years ago there lived in Dumaguete a poor tuba seller named Banog, who made his daily rounds to the houses just as the milkman does in far-off America. But instead of a rattling wagon he had only a long bamboo from which he poured the drink, and in place of sweet milk he left the sap of the cocoanut tree.

The bad custom of mixing tungud, a kind of red bark, with the sap, and thus making of it a strong liquor, had not yet been known, so Banog, though poor, was respected, and the people tried in every way to help him and his daughter Catalina.

Catalina was a beautiful girl of sixteen and very good and industrious, but with many strange ways. She scarcely ever spoke a word and spent most of her time in looking out over the sea. Sometimes she would suddenly stand erect and, clasping her hands, would remain for a long time looking up at the sky as if she saw something that no one else could see. On account of these strange manners the people thought her a wonderful girl and she was supposed to have mysterious powers.

One day many ships came up from the island of Mindanao and hundreds of fierce Moros landed. Shouting and waving their terrible knives, they fell upon the peaceful people and killed many, among them poor Banog. Then they robbed and burned the houses and, seizing all the women they could find, set sail for their great southern island. Among the prisoners was Catalina. With her eyes fixed on the sky she sat very quiet and still in the bow of one of the boats, and though her companions spoke often to her she made no reply.

Suddenly she sprang into the water and a wonderful thing occurred, for, instead of sinking, she walked lightly over the waves toward the distant shore. The Moros were so astonished that they did not try to stop her and she reached the land safely.

Many people who had hidden in the forests ran out to meet her but she spoke to no one. With her eyes still fixed above she walked through the burning town and along the road to Dalugdug, the Thunder mountain, that lies behind Dumaguete.

On Dalugdug there lived a terrible Sigbin. Its body was like that of a monstrous crow, but just under its neck were two long legs like those of a grasshopper, which enabled it to leap great distances without using its wings. It ate any one who came near its home, so when the people saw Catalina start to climb the mountain they begged her to come back. She paid no heed to their cries, however, but went up higher and higher, till her white dress seemed merely a speck on the mountain side.

All at once she seemed to stop and raise her hands. Then a fearful shriek was heard, and the fierce Sigbin came rushing down the mountain. It appeared to be greatly frightened, for it took tremendous leaps and screamed as if in terror. Over the heads of the people it jumped, and, reaching the shore, cleared the narrow channel and disappeared among the mountains of the island of Cebu.

When the people saw that the Sigbin had gone they ran up the mountain and searched everywhere for Catalina, but they could find no trace of her. Sorrowfully they returned to their homes and busied themselves in building new houses and in making their town beautiful once more.

Several years passed in peace and then again the Moro boats came up from Mindanao. The men hurriedly gathered on the beach to meet them, and the women and children hid in the cocoanut groves.

This time the Moros had no quick and easy victory, for the Visayans, armed with bolos and remembering their lost wives and sisters, fought furiously, and for a time drove the enemy before them. But more Moro boats arrived and numbers told against the defenders. Slowly but surely they fell fighting until but a few remained.

Suddenly a bridge of clouds unfolded from Dalugdug to the town, and across it came the lost Catalina holding a beehive in her hands. Then she spoke and thousands of bees flew from the hive to the ground. Again she spoke and waved her hand, and the bees changed into little black men with long sharp spears, who charged the Moros and killed every one of them.

Then Catalina, the hive still in her hand, went back over the bridge and disappeared once more in the mountain.

The people came out of their hiding places, crowding around the little black men and questioning them, but they received no answer. Instead the little warriors gathered together and ran into the forest and up the mountain side, where they were soon lost to view.

Such is the story of Catalina, Since that time Dumaguete has been safe from the Moros. The Sigbin has never returned to Negros. It still lives in the mountains of Cebu and the people are so afraid of it that they lock themselves in their houses after dark and can hardly be induced to come out. Up in the mountains of Negros live the little black men. They are called Negritos and are very savage and wild.

The savior of Dumaguete still lives in Dalugdug and is worshiped by the people. And in the town, now grown into a big busy city, the old people for years to come will tell their grandchildren the story of Catalina.

Catalina von Dumaguete

Dies ist eine Legende von Dumaguete, der Hauptstadt der Provinz Negros Occidental. Von dieser Stadt aus kann man fünf Inseln sehen, nämlich Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Mindanao und Siquijor.

Es gibt niemanden auf der großen Insel Negros, der den Namen Catalina nicht liebt. Sogar die wilden Bergmänner sprechen es mit Respekt, und nachts in den Küstenstädten, wenn der Taifun das Wasser der Tanon-Straße peitscht und Regen und Wind die Nipa-Blätter auf den Dächern tanzen und klappern lassen, versammeln sich die älteren Menschen ihre kleinen schwarzäugigen Enkelkinder um die Schale brennenden Kokosnussöls und erzählt ihnen ihre Geschichte.

Vor vielen Jahren lebte in Dumaguete ein armer Tubaverkäufer namens Banog, der seine täglichen Runden zu den Häusern machte, genau wie der Milchmann im fernen Amerika. Doch statt eines klappernden Wagens hatte er nur einen langen Bambus, aus dem er das Getränk einschenkte, und anstelle der süßen Milch ließ er den Saft des Kokosnussbaums übrig.

Der schlechte Brauch, Tungud, eine Art rote Rinde, mit dem Saft zu mischen und daraus einen starken Alkohol zu machen, war noch nicht bekannt, daher wurde Banog, obwohl arm, respektiert, und die Menschen versuchten auf jede erdenkliche Weise zu helfen er und seine Tochter Catalina.

Catalina war ein wunderschönes Mädchen von sechzehn Jahren, sehr brav und fleißig, aber mit vielen seltsamen Manieren. Sie sprach kaum ein Wort und verbrachte die meiste Zeit damit, auf das Meer hinauszuschauen. Manchmal stand sie plötzlich aufrecht und blickte lange Zeit mit gefalteten Händen in den Himmel, als würde sie etwas sehen, das niemand sonst sehen konnte. Aufgrund dieser seltsamen Manieren hielten die Leute sie für ein wundervolles Mädchen und ihr wurden geheimnisvolle Kräfte nachgesagt.

Eines Tages kamen viele Schiffe von der Insel Mindanao herauf und Hunderte wilder Moros landeten. Sie brüllten und schwangen ihre schrecklichen Messer, fielen über die friedlichen Menschen her und töteten viele, darunter auch den armen Banog. Dann plünderten und brannten sie die Häuser nieder, ergriffen alle Frauen, die sie finden konnten, und segelten zu ihrer großen Südinsel. Unter den Gefangenen war Catalina. Mit zum Himmel gerichteten Augen saß sie ganz still und still im Bug eines der Boote, und obwohl ihre Gefährten oft mit ihr redeten, gab sie keine Antwort.

Plötzlich sprang sie ins Wasser und etwas Wunderbares geschah, denn anstatt zu versinken, ging sie leichtfüßig über die Wellen zum fernen Ufer. Die Moros waren so erstaunt, dass sie nicht versuchten, sie aufzuhalten, und sie erreichte das Land sicher.

Viele Menschen, die sich in den Wäldern versteckt hatten, rannten ihr entgegen, aber sie sprach mit niemandem. Mit immer noch nach oben gerichtetem Blick ging sie durch die brennende Stadt und entlang der Straße nach Dalugdug, dem Donnerberg, der hinter Dumaguete liegt.

Auf Dalugdug lebte ein schrecklicher Sigbin. Sein Körper ähnelte dem einer monströsen Krähe, aber direkt unter seinem Hals befanden sich zwei lange Beine, die denen einer Heuschrecke ähnelten, was es ihm ermöglichte, große Entfernungen zu springen, ohne seine Flügel zu benutzen. Es fraß jeden, der sich seinem Zuhause näherte, und als die Leute sahen, wie Catalina begann, den Berg zu besteigen, flehten sie sie an, zurückzukommen. Sie achtete jedoch nicht auf ihre Schreie, sondern stieg immer höher, bis ihr weißes Kleid nur noch ein Fleck am Berghang zu sein schien.

Plötzlich schien sie innezuhalten und die Hände zu heben. Dann war ein furchtbarer Schrei zu hören, und der wilde Sigbin stürmte den Berg hinunter. Es schien große Angst zu haben, denn es machte gewaltige Sprünge und schrie wie vor Angst. Es sprang über die Köpfe der Menschen hinweg, erreichte das Ufer, überquerte den schmalen Kanal und verschwand zwischen den Bergen der Insel Cebu.

Als die Leute sahen, dass die Sigbin verschwunden war, rannten sie den Berg hinauf und suchten überall nach Catalina, konnten aber keine Spur von ihr finden. Betrübt kehrten sie in ihre Häuser zurück und machten sich daran, neue Häuser zu bauen und ihre Stadt wieder schön zu machen.

Mehrere Jahre vergingen in Frieden und dann kamen wieder die Moro-Boote von Mindanao herauf. Die Männer versammelten sich eilig am Strand, um sie zu treffen, und die Frauen und Kinder versteckten sich in den Kokosnusshainen.

Diesmal errangen die Moros keinen schnellen und einfachen Sieg, denn die Visayas, bewaffnet mit Bolos und im Gedenken an ihre verlorenen Frauen und Schwestern, kämpften erbittert und trieben den Feind eine Zeit lang vor sich her. Aber noch mehr Moro-Boote trafen ein und die Anzahl der Verteidiger teilte mit. Langsam aber sicher fielen sie im Kampf, bis nur noch wenige übrig blieben.

Plötzlich breitete sich eine Wolkenbrücke von Dalugdug zur Stadt aus, und über sie kam die verlorene Catalina mit einem Bienenstock in ihren Händen. Dann sprach sie und Tausende von Bienen flogen aus dem Bienenstock auf die Erde. Wieder sprach sie und wedelte mit der Hand, und die Bienen verwandelten sich in kleine schwarze Männer mit langen, scharfen Speeren, die auf die Moros losgingen und jeden einzelnen von ihnen töteten.

Dann ging Catalina, den Bienenstock immer noch in ihrer Hand, zurück über die Brücke und verschwand erneut im Berg.

Die Leute kamen aus ihren Verstecken, drängten sich um die kleinen schwarzen Männer und befragten sie, aber sie erhielten keine Antwort. Stattdessen versammelten sich die kleinen Krieger und rannten in den Wald und den Berghang hinauf, wo sie bald nicht mehr zu sehen waren.

Das ist die Geschichte von Catalina. Seitdem ist Dumaguete vor den Moros sicher. Der Sigbin ist nie nach Negros zurückgekehrt. Es lebt immer noch in den Bergen von Cebu und die Menschen haben solche Angst davor, dass sie sich nach Einbruch der Dunkelheit in ihren Häusern einschließen und kaum dazu gebracht werden können, herauszukommen. Oben in den Bergen von Negros leben die kleinen schwarzen Männer. Sie werden Negritos genannt und sind sehr wild und wild.

Der Retter von Dumaguete lebt noch immer in Dalugdug und wird von den Menschen verehrt. Und in der Stadt, die mittlerweile zu einer geschäftigen Großstadt herangewachsen ist, werden die alten Leute noch viele Jahre lang ihren Enkelkindern die Geschichte von Catalina erzählen.

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