While the story itself is considered a legend, the storytellers often mention specific places and events that align with actual locations and practices of the Ilocano people. Here are some of the key settings:
1. The Village of Nalbuan: Lam-ang's hometown, where his family and friends reside. This is the setting for many of the story's key moments, including his birth, his feats of strength, and his eventual marriage.
2. The River of the Great Sea: Lam-ang's journey to find his father's remains takes place on this river, which connects his hometown to the vast ocean. This river also acts as a symbolic journey, representing Lam-ang's journey to find his own identity and purpose.
3. The Sea: The sea plays a significant role in the story, acting as both a source of danger (in the form of sea monsters) and a source of wealth and livelihood (in the form of fishing). Lam-ang's encounter with the giant sea monster, as well as his father's death at sea, highlight the importance of this element in the Ilocano culture.
4. The Forest: The forest is depicted as a mystical and dangerous place, home to various creatures, both real and mythical. Lam-ang encounters these creatures during his journey, highlighting the importance of nature and the supernatural in the Ilocano world.
5. The Cave of the Ghosts: This location is where Lam-ang goes to find his father's bones, which he needs to perform a special ritual. The cave symbolizes the underworld and the realm of the dead, a place of mystery and danger that Lam-ang must overcome.
The settings in Biag ni Lam-ang are not only geographically specific but also carry symbolic meaning. They represent the Ilocano people's relationship with their environment, their beliefs about life and death, and their values of courage, heroism, and loyalty.