Back to Events
Aswang
The most feared creature in Filipino folklore. By day, they appear human. By night, they transform—hunting pregnant women, eating the unborn, and replacing corpses with banana trunks. Oil and garlic repel them.
Ancient - Present
Philippines
10000+ witnesses
The Aswang is the most feared supernatural creature in Filipino folklore—a shapeshifting monster.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Aswang:
- Appears human by day
- Transforms at night
- Hunts pregnant women
- Eats the unborn
- The most feared Filipino monster
Types
Several varieties exist:
- Manananggal: Body separates at waist
- Tik-tik: Bird-like, long tongue
- Wak-wak: Similar to tik-tik
- Vampire type: Blood drinkers
- Regional variations
Appearance
By night:
- Can become animals
- Dogs, pigs, cats
- Large birds
- Or hideous monsters
- Eyes often glow red
Hunting Behavior
The Aswang:
- Targets pregnant women
- Uses long hollow tongue
- Enters through roofs
- Sucks out the unborn
- Replaces bodies with fakes
Detection
Signs of an Aswang:
- Bloodshot eyes (daytime)
- Reflection appears inverted
- Cannot look at you directly
- Avoids garlic and religious items
- Oil in house becomes cloudy
Protection
Defenses include:
- Garlic and salt
- Holy water
- Stingray tail whip
- Vinegar
- Religious objects
- Staying indoors at night