Anito

Anito (pronounced aa-NEE-toh) is the local word for the abundant nature spirits of Minata. With a reputation for being capricious and territorial, Minatans have customs to coexist with them, showing verbal courtesy to the unseen spirits and offering gifts and tribute. These spiritual observances are integral to daily life and are more common than deific worship.

History

Anito played a role in repelling would-be conquerors from the Minatan archipelago. The last one to try was the Teikoku Shogunate, which was defeated by the combined threat of dangerous reefs, warrior-kings, and territorial anito. After conceding battle, the Teikoku Shogunate declared Minata unconquerable.

External links

• Anito (real-world Philippine ancestor and nature spirits) on Wikipedia