Kansilay: The Legend of Silay

Kansilay is the most beautiful and obedient maiden of her village. She is the daughter of the good-natured and righteous ruler of the tribe, Bubog. Kansilay's fiancee is Lawa-an, brave, strong, industrious, vigilant and intelligent. Both have agreed to marry on the next full moon.

The tribe of Kansilay was attacked by Lunok, leader of thieves, while Lawa-an and his friends were out hunting for wild animals. His [Lunok's] men burned the houses, looted the properties, and raped the women. Lunok treacherously killed Bubog.

Kansilay asked help from the fairy, Diwata. Diwata provided Kansilay with a sword to be used against Lunok but warned Kansilay that she might die in the battlefield.

Lunok seriously wounded Kansilay during their encounter. Lawa-an arrived to help Kansilay and was successful in slaying the villain.

Lawa-an embraced the dying Kansilay thus affirming her everlasting love. Kansilay died in the arms of her lover. She was buried on top of the hill. Her people mourned for several weeks. Several years later, the villagers found a plant growing on top of Kansilay's burial place. The plant became a sturdy tree bearing beautiful purple-pink flowers.

The tree provided shade and protection to many travelers and farmers. Villagers confirmed that they stayed under the tree. Once again, they are reminded that "once there was a beautiful, brave and loving princess who offered her life so that freedom and justice may live."

Today, there is a mural based on this story on the side of a building by the Silay Plaza.