Chesa

Chesa is a feminine name of elusive origins, though its potential Filipino roots are most fascinating. Said to mean "celestial," Chesa is bound to the rich mythology of the Philippines, with the moon being one of the most cherished heavenly bodies. One story tells of the moon-eating dragon, Bakunawa, who symbolizes cycles, cosmic order, and eclipses. It is said that the sky was once home to seven moons, lovingly placed by the supreme deity Bathala to bring joy and illumination to the night. The serpent Bakunawa was so enamored by their radiant beauty that it rose from the sea to consume them one by one. The people of the Philippines cried out and demanded that Bakunawa not eat the final moon. Their spirit was so impenetrable and their voices so loud that Bakunawa relented and released the last moon. Though its exact origin remains somewhat of a mystery for now, Chesa offers something truly magical when considering Filipino tradition.