Marilagbundok (ma.ˈɾi.laɡ.bun.ˈdok)

"The view from Marilagbundok is one of the finest in Kapuluan. I can spend hours here painting. But eventually the mountain begins to groan, and I lose my concentration."

— Princess Sining

Marilagbundok is the highest point on Alitaya. Its name means Beautiful Mountain, which applies equally to the peak itself and the view from the summit. On a clear day, an observer can see several islands, including Duhan, Kabkay, Tunyag, and the southeastern coast of Pulo. It is one of Princess Sining's favorite places to paint, and she has produced a dozen landscapes inspired by its vistas. Marilagbundok is also a popular spot for the local youth to gather and socialize, and mountaintop picnics are common in good weather.

Notable Spirits

Despite its beauty and popularity, the Anito of Marilagbundok is a tragic figure. She is known as Ulilangputi, a name which means Bereft in Pananalita. She is one of the Diwati, the nature spirits among the Anitos. Once, long ago, Ulilangputi had a mortal lover, a young woman who loved the mountain and was loved in return. But the pairing of mortals and gods cannot last, and Ulilangputi was left to face eternity alone. Now the Diwati wanders the mountain, draped in mourning white, and the stones of Marilagbundok groan with her pain as she passes by. Though she bears no malice to most, she will fly into a rage if she meets a faithless lover. According to the tales, the thought of someone treating love so callously is a crime she cannot abide, and she will hurl them over the nearest high cliff.