The Story of Loku

There is a lizard found in the islands of the Philippines which calls out the name 'loku loku' all the time. 

This is its story

Once upon a time there was a king. The king's name was Loku.

The king was unjust and very often he put the people, who did not do his bidding, to death. 

He had a huge army and he also attacked all the neighbouring countries and kingdoms. He always looked to conduct more and more war against all the other kingdoms. 

One day God saw all the massacre and wanted Loku to mend his ways. 

God sent his angel to meet Loku and to give up his old ways. 

However, the arrogant Loku did not listen to the words of the angel. "You are only a messenger. I will not listen to you. I am the great Loku. I am feared everywhere because I am Loku.”

Suddenly the entire palace was shaken by a thunderous voice. "All you know is your name. So that is all that you will call out from every single crevice for the rest of your life."

The other ministers ran to the king's room hearing the voice and after seeing the palace shake. 

The royal clothes of the king lay scattered everywhere. 

But the king was nowhere to be found. 

All they saw was a lizard.

Though the ministers looked everywhere the king was never to be found again. 

However, that lizard is found in the place even now and it calls out the name ‘loku’ as per the curse it had.

Adapted from folktales of Philippines