Damiana L. Eugenio was a renowned Filipino folklorist and professor known as the "Mother of Philippine Folklore." She received her bachelor's degree from the University of the Philippines cum laude and had a prolific academic career, publishing several landmark anthologies of Philippine folktales, myths, and oral traditions. Eugenio received many honors over her career, including being designated professor emeritus at the University of the Philippines, and awards from the Manila Critics Circle, Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas, and the University of the Philippines, in recognition of her contributions to documenting and preserving Philippine folklore.