These motion comics on Netflix feature Filipino mythical creatures

Mga Kwentong Epik: Animated series on Filipino mythology are out on Netflix | Stills from “Mga Kwentong Epik” installment trailers on YouTube

Let’s be real: When it comes to relevance or awareness, Filipino mythology has always taken a backseat. Greek (or Roman) gods and goddesses have seemingly become more omnipresent among Filipinos than the creatures in our own lore—from classroom discussions to books available in libraries.

Even in today’s digital age, foreign myths still captivate the minds of Filipino youth. Take a stroll through social media, and you’re bound to encounter an inundation of posts about the latest TV series adaptation of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.”

Now, there is nothing inherently wrong with appreciating the epic narratives of Mount Olympus. However, it got us thinking: When will our own mythical figures get the spotlight they deserve?

Cue “Mga Kwentong Epik,” a three-installment motion-comic series created by Epik Studios—a modern mixed-media creative hub that co-created 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Penduko.” It aims to push local mythical figures to the forefront of entertainment through easy-to-digest storytelling and animated visuals.

All three installments originally aired on local free TV in 2022, and are now available for streaming on Netflix. Curious? Here’s a peek into each story:

“Mga Kwentong Epik: Maria Makiling”

Narration by Bodjie Pascua and voice acting by Ryza Cenon

What if Maria Makiling was oblivious of her power?

This six-episode series follows a woman in search of an elusive community of babaylans (or local shamans) she wants to join in. Upon arrival, the head shaman dishes out tasks that ultimately lead to heavy revelations about her true identity: She’s Maria Makiling—the diwata (a.k.a. guardian spirit) of the mountain. Can she handle the magical mayhem?

“Mga Kwentong Epik: Osyana”

Narration by Jerald Napoles and voice acting by Kylie Verzosa

A sea siren who has to save her people from evil—that’s who Osyana is.

After a dangerous encounter with pirates that left her (and her tribe) in peril, she receives a supernatural power from the sea goddess that can help her protect her fellow sea creatures. What comes next is a series of deep-blue action adventures, attempts to preserve her culture, and self-discovery.

“Mga Kwentong Epik: Bernardo Carpio”

Narration by Candy Pangilinan and voice acting by Marco Gumabao

What happens when a giant with super strength lives among mortals?

In this installment, Bernardo Carpio faces a curse that diminishes his might. Banished to live among mortals, he goes on a mission to defy the spell and reclaim his power. He must battle ancient evils and unravel secrets from his past—all while dealing with the struggles of mortal living. Will he succeed?