Here's what we know:
* Origins: The legend likely originated from the indigenous people of the Philippines, specifically those living near Mount Makiling in Laguna.
* Versions: Over time, the story has been told and retold, with variations emerging depending on the storyteller and region.
* Influence: Spanish colonizers also played a part in shaping the legend, incorporating elements of their own mythology and beliefs.
* Modern adaptations: Contemporary Filipino writers have reinterpreted the legend in various forms, including poems, novels, and plays.
So, while no single person can be credited with writing the Legend of Maria Makiling, it's a story that has been shaped by the collective imagination and experiences of generations of Filipinos.