thumb|right|Depiction of Lam-Ang, the protagonist of [[Biag ni Lam-Ang, an Ilocano epic.]]
Philippine epic poetry is the body of epic poetry in Philippine literature. Filipino epic poetry is considered to be the highest point of development for Philippine folk literature, encompassing narratives that recount the adventures of tribal heroes. These epics are transmitted through oral tradition using a select group of singers and chanters.
A study revealed that the Philippine folk epics, like those found in Asia, are often about a quest for a wife as well as the various ordeals linked to the founding of a family, hamlet, tribe or a kingdom. The narratives would include voyages - on earth, sea, sky, and the underworld - to allow the hero or heroine to overcome the challenges faced. After their ordeals, the protagonists - through improvement of their personal qualities – would become ideals for their genders.
- Narratives of sustained length
- Based on oral tradition
- Revolving around supernatural events or heroic deeds
- In the form of verse
- Either chanted or sung
- With a certain seriousness of purpose, embodying or validating the beliefs, customs, ideas, or values of the people
Within folk epic poems, common themes can be observed.
Epic singing and singers
Epics are generally sung during folk festivals and recreational gatherings such as weddings, baptisms, wakes, prestige rites, peace agreements, and the like.
Cycles
There are multiple epic texts that can be found in the Philippines, owing to its diverse cultural background. To date, over twenty have been collected, transcribed, and published by academic scholars.