ASWANG (BIKOLANO MYTHOLOGY)

 ASWANG IN BICOL MYTHOLOGY 

Aswang myths and folklore are considered apocryphal because they are based on oral traditions and cultural stories.

In Bicolano mythology, Asuang, the god of evil and chaos, ruled over the creatures of the night and the monsters of Ibalong. Asuang had two beautiful and powrful daughters, Oryol, half-serpent, and Magindara, half-eel. He also had a hord of creatures under his called ''Aswang'' command. Bestowing his powers upon mortal men and women, Asuang's dark gifts included blackbirds flying from his mouth, which, when consumed by worshippers, transformed them into creatures of the night with a penchant for feeding on humans. Asuang's attempt to steal fire from his brother Gugurang led to disastrous consequences, affecting the entire world and establishing him as the malevolent deity in Bicolano folklore.

Where do Aswangs come from? ( Bicol myths)

In Bicol mythology, there are two ancient types of Aswangs: those that come from the underworld, known as Gagamban, and mortal humans who are transformed after receiving dark gifts. These gifts, such as a black pearl or stone that turns into a black chick or bird, are given by the deity Asuang, who commands a legion of creatures collectively known as "aswang." Asuang sent these beings to spread fear and darkness, particularly in the Visayas region.

Aswangs are known for their nocturnal habits and supernatural abilities, driven by an insatiable hunger for human flesh, blood, or entrails. They typically dwell in cemeteries and forests, avoiding light and disliking noise. Despite their monstrous nature, they can blend into human communities, hiding in plain sight within villages and cities. Their behavior contrasts sharply with Filipino cultural values, as they often attack even their own family members, defying the strong kinship bonds valued in the culture.

Various countermeasures have been developed to protect against aswang, including the use of holy objects, salt, spices, and ash. Special rituals are performed during childbirth to prevent attacks, and anti-aswang oils or holy masses are used for detection and protection.

ANG PINAGMULAN NG MGA ASWANG

In Bicolano mythology, Asuang is the god of evil and chaos, ruling over the creatures of the night and monsters in Ibalong. Asuang's followers, the ancient people of Ibalong, were granted dark gifts, allowing them to transform into terrifying beings that caused destruction in the darkness. To his most loyal worshippers, Asuang gave special dark stones that turned into blackbirds, granting them the ability to fly and shape-shift.

However, these gifts came with a heavy price. Those who received Asuang's powers had to feed on human flesh, blood, or entrails and were forbidden from entering salt waters, the territory of the deadly mermaids known as Magindara. They also had to honor the full moon, paying tribute to Asuang’s close connection with Bulan, the lunar god.

The origin of the aswang in Bicolano mythology and Philippine folklore is deeply tied to the country's geography, oral traditions, and regional variations. These stories, often linked to deities like Gugurang and Asuang, reflect the fears and beliefs of the Filipino people

Aswang black stones and pearls

Aswang black chick – In Bicol mythology were originally  black pearls and black stones from the deity Asuang that turns into black birds black chicks used by the aswang race to pass-on their powers on a descendant

The Black Chick in Philippine Mythology: Aswangs, Black Stones, and Black Birds

In Philippine mythology, particularly within the Bicol region, the aswang race is one of the most feared and fascinating creatures. Aswangs, supernatural beings often depicted as shape-shifters, embody the dark and malevolent forces of the night. 

ASUWANG NA LAYOG - those who can take flight with or without wings
ASUWANG NA LAKAW - those who can not fly, those who walk on bipeal or four legs

Bag-ong Yanggaw

In stories Bag-ong Yanggaw refers to individuals recently transformed into aswangs. With a newfound and insatiable hunger for human flesh, they become vicious, though their attacks are often thwarted due to carelessness. Some may grapple with doubt and desperately cling to their fading humanity, seeking ways to rid themselves of this condition. In other parts of Visayas, this state is known as takud or salab.

THE DEITY ASUANG AND HIS ASWANG HORDE IN BICOL MYTHOLOGY

                     The god of Mount Milanao, brother of the good god Gugurang

In Bicolano mythology, the powerful deity Asuang, the god of evil and chaos, ruled over the creatures of the night and the monsters of Ibalong.

LIST OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF ASWANG 

Asuang (deity)

In Bicol mythology, Asuang is the god of evil and the brother of Gugurang, the good god who ruled Mount Mayon. Asuang, who lived on Mount Malinao, grew jealous of his brother’s power. One day, he tricked the guardians of the sacred fire, Linti and Dalogdog, and stole the fire from Gugurang. However, Asuang accidentally set the world on fire.

Gugurang quickly retrieved the fire and called on the heavens to send rain to stop the flames. To punish Asuang, Gugurang struck his mountain with a thunderbolt, destroying his home, and sealed him beneath Mount Malinao.

Evil god of Ibalong lord of all evil creatures and monsters. He had two beautiful daughters one was half serpent from waist down ( Oryol ) and the other was Magindara who was half eel from the waist down. He was sovereign of all the monsters. He also gave his powers to mortal men and women. From his mouth blackbirds flew and entered the mouths of his worshippers giving them powers to transform into creatures of the night that feed on humans. In some stories he also gave black eggs for mortals to swallow and gives power and thus turning a regular man or woman into an ''aswang'' Aswangs In Bicol mythology originating from the underworld called Gagambang or transformed mortal humans given dark gifts (black pear or stone that turns into black chick or birds) by the deity, navigate the night with supernatural abilities, emphasizing their insatiable need for human flesh, blood, or entrails. As the sovereign of monsters, Asuang commands a legion of creatures collectively known as "aswang," symbolizing fear and darkness in Filipino folklore.

Asuang 

ASUANG DEITY

In Bicol mythology, Asuang, the evil god of Ibalong, ruled over all creatures and monsters, with two daughters—Oryol, half serpent, and Magindara, half eel. He bestowed dark gifts upon mortals, symbolized by blackbirds flying from his mouth, enabling them to transform into night-dwelling creatures known as "aswang." Originating from the underworld Gagambang, these transformed mortals, granted dark gifts like black stones or eggs, roamed the night with supernatural abilities, driven by an insatiable appetite for human flesh, blood, or entrails.

Asuang deity

As the sovereign of monsters, Asuang commanded a legion of creatures collectively named "aswang," instilling fear and darkness in Filipino folklore. Described as tall and attractive, his true monstrous form is revealed in the moonlight. Asuang, once equal to Gugurang, the supreme deity, attempted to steal Gugurang's sacred fire but failed. Residing in Mount Malinao, Asuang, deemed a dark and evil god, shares an intriguing friendship with Bulan, the god of the moon, both worshipped by the cross-dressing priests called "Baylan" or "Asog."

Legend has it that Asuang led hordes of monsters, including flesh-eating, viscera-eating, and blood-drinking creatures named after him. Despite embodying darkness, Asuang's association with Bulan highlights a complex balance between good and evil. Aswangs, empowered by Asuang, exhibit strength under the full moon and are believed to be healed by moonlight.

The genesis of an Aswang involves a ritualistic transfer of power, marked by black stones or small birds emerging from Asuang's mouth. These objects carry the essence of the malevolent deity, transforming the host into an Aswang with supernatural abilities and strength, particularly potent in the cover of night.

ASWANGS IN ORAL MYTHS AND FOLKLORE

BANGKILAN

BANGKILAN

Bangkilan

Bangkilan

Bangkilan

the Bangkilan unlike most aswang are beautiful they are believed to be seductive and beautiful women with golden tan skin and small bat wings on their backs and razor-sharp claws. it is believed that a bangkilan can turn and ordinary human into an aswang by kissing him/her and transferring a dark stone from her body to the host thus turning him/her into an aswang(kiwig,asbo,abat,awok,abwak). In the Cuyunon tribe of Palawan, the Term Bangkilan means with fangs or fanged boar fierce pig or boar. Due to oral transfer  and corruption of stories all throughout the Philippines in some myths it is said that Bangkilan were beautiful women, priestess who worshipped Asuang, as a reward for their devotion and worship the god Asuang took them as his brides and gave kissed them in the mouth transferring blackbirds and eggs thought their mouths. Also, the deity gave them the power to create other lesser creatures of the night. 

In Bicol and over all Philippine mythology Bangkilan is a known aswang in oral myths and folklore always associated with beautiful women. 

Bangkilan

Bangkilan

BANGKILAN

MAGINDARA

Magindara

Magindara 

the Magindara are beautiful but vicious creatures of the sea they are like mermaids but unlike mermaids they eat human flesh. Aswang ng dagat, the Marindaga are half women from waist up and half fish from the waist below. They have colorful and sharp scales.They have enchanting voices that can draw fishermen to their deaths. In Bikolano myth the first Magindara was a demigoddess, beautiful as she was kind. She was the daughter of the evil god Asuang. Magindara had the power to summon storms with her voice. One time Asuang asked Magindara to destroy villages using her voice to summon storms. The kind demigoddess refused. Banished by her enraged father she dived into the sea, many years later beautiful half maiden half fishe creatures appeared from the spot where she was last seen. These lovely mermaids were vicious as they were beautiful, stories say that they would lure fishermen to devour, but their favorite snack were Visayan pirates. Some stories tell that they protect the waters of Ibalong from Visayan raiders and that they do not eat children for the innocence of children is poison to them. 

Magindara

ARAGAS

Agaras

Agaras are powerful yet cursed types of aswang. There are only a few Agaras among aswang. They are strong and fast, and other types of aswang despise them because Agaras feed on lower types of aswang and other beings such as fairies. There are few of this type of aswang because when an Agaras dies, its spirit or offspring lies dormant, waiting for a worthy successor or heir to inherit its dark power. They have the ability to command or control lower types of aswang.

When they bite a victim, the filth and toxins from their saliva spread infection. The toxins cause weakness and make it difficult for the victim to fight back. its favourite prey are weaker variants of aswang

Agaras

Agaras

HANAGOB 

Hanagob

Hanagob

In oral mythology and folklore, the Hanagob is a powerful male Aswang, often described as royalty due to his pure bloodline. As a pure-blooded Aswang, the Hanagob has the potential to become the Aring Aswang or "Aswang King." Other titles for this figure include Pinunong Aswang (Aswang Leader).

Some stories suggest that a Hanagob originates from the Bangkilan variant of Aswang, though he is male, unlike the usually female Bangkilan. According to certain legends, a Hanagob is an extremely rare offspring, born from the union of an ancient pure-blood female Bangkilan and a male Gabunan, both powerful Aswang types that are traditionally natural enemies. This unlikely combination of two opposing Aswang bloodlines makes the birth of a Hanagob a one-in-a-million occurrence, mixing powerful traits from both lineages.

Hanagob

The Hanagob, are the so called pure-blood ancient aswangs, is a superior type of aswang that can become a Haring Aswang (Aswang King), is the mythical supreme ruler of the aswang race. His bloodline is believed to be pure, descending from ancient aswang  who were as powerful as the datus or rajahs of old. Unlike human leaders, the Hanagob commands various types of aswang, such as the Awok, Kiwig, Asbo, Tiktik, and Wakwak. One of his unique traits is the ability to use black magic and cast curses, making him one of the most powerful and feared among the aswang. 

In some stories the Hanagob is actually a rare type of male Bangkilan (since most are female) mixed with a Gabunan. Since Bangkilan and Gabunans are btoh strong but are mortal enemy variants of the aswang race, The rarest is when an ancient Bangkilan mates with an ancient powerful Gabunan which results in a hybrid of ancient royal blood. a Hanagob. possesing all the qualities of the Gabunan and Bangkilan, thus superior in everyway and with blood from ancient aswangs.

KARANIWANG ASWANG

karaniwang Aswang

Karaniwang aswang are simple called Aswang in general. Aswangs are physically much more like humans at daytime; they only change their figures at night when they feel they are in need of food. It has been said that if an aswang married a human, upon their wedding, their mate would become an aswang as well but seldomly can they reproduce. The couple may hunt together at night but will go in separate routes, either to avoid detection or because they do not like to share their meal.
These creatures are not harmed by sunlight. They are daywalkers. Aswangs can also be befriended, they can talk to you like any normal human being: they laugh, cry, get mad, jealous, hurt, and envy. These creatures do not harm their neighbors. Neighbors were said to be exempted from their target victims for food. They search for food in far away places that it would not be too obvious for them. Aswangs are said to be vulnerable during daytime because they do not have the excessive strength that they have in their nighttime prowl, therefore being weaker than ordinary people. When people know of their identity, they are hunted down and killed.

It is said that to spot an aswang at daytime, look at their eyes. The person in front of you is an aswang if your reflection is upside-down. Another way of knowing is looking in a tuwad manner. The person is an aswang if the image of the person is different.

AWOK

Awok

The Awok is a type of aswang that is an ordinary human by day that can transform into a vicious black boar at night, likes to feed on human intestines. the awok is one of the most common aswangs in Philippine mythology, the are also often confused with either a the Kiwig or with the Bangkilan because the bangkilan can also transform into a big black boar, with the difference that the Bangkilan can transform into other creatures of the night (Bird,Dog,Pig) on the other hand the Awok can only transform into a huge black boar. and is different from the Awok of Visayas.

AWOK IN TAGALOG AND BICOL MYTHOLOGY

the Awok in both Tagalog and Bicol mythology is a land Aswang that turns into a huge black pig or boar while the Awok in the Visayan mythology sharing the same name is very different that it can fly and has bath wings

AWOK IN VISAYAN MYTHOLOGY

The Awok in Visayan mythology is different from the Bicolano mythology Awok. The Visayan Awok has batwings while the Bicolano Awok is more pig or boar-like 

AMALANHIG

Amalanhig

Amalanhig, also known as Maranhig, are a type of undead Aswang in Philippine folklore. These creatures were once Karaniwang Aswangs who failed to pass on their dark powers

The dead Aswangs who weren't able to transfer their dark stones to another relative. A vampire-like creature that rises from the dead and feeds upon humans by biting their necks or wrists. Their power is transferable, just like that of Aswangs, by the use of a black stone. The heir will swallow the stone, and protrude it for the next generation.

Amalanhig

The term "Amalanhig," also known as Maranhig and Amaranhit, translates to "stiff one."

In Waray and Western Visayan folklore, the Amalanhig are flightless aswangs that have returned to life as vampire-like zombies after failing to pass on their power to a relative. These creatures rise from their graves and inhabit the woods, preying on nearby villages at night, using their sharp, pointed tongues to suck the blood of residents.

There are two types of Amalanhigs: those of aswang origins and those of human origin. The former are resurrected aswangs, while the latter are individuals who died with unfinished business or were murdered and seek revenge. Amalanhigs with unfinished business relentlessly pursue their chosen targets, while avenging Amalanhigs tickle their victims to death while draining their life force. The presence of these creatures is often accompanied by the foul stench of their rotting flesh.

Amalanhigs have stiff legs that cannot bend, yet aswang Amalanhigs are remarkably fast and cannot be outrun. Legend suggests that climbing a crooked tree or jumping into a river or body of water can thwart their pursuit. Water has the unique ability to turn an Amalanhig into a pile of worms and maggots, which must be destroyed before the creature can reform.

According to a legend predating the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, a chieftain once commanded his priestess to create an army of immortal warriors. These warriors were made by killing ordinary men, encrusting their bodies with dark soot, placing a peculiar pebble in their mouths, and performing rituals. After three days, the warriors came back to life as mindless, walking corpses, only meeting their demise after completing their assigned tasks.

Binaliw or Tigbaliw

Binaliw, a type of aswang, takes on the appearance of an everyday person. This sneaky creature infiltrates the house of a sick person without being noticed, as it possesses the skill to make itself invisible. Its intention is to whisk away the victim by substituting them with a banana trunk cleverly made to resemble the person. The term "Baliw" or "baylo" is aptly used, meaning "to change."

MANANAGAL

Mananagal


the Mananagal or the self-segmenters. The Manananggal butchers human prey and feasts on its heart and liver. Imagine seeing a half-bodied, flying creature with wild, flaming eyes and sharp teeth, hungrily searching for its next victim. A manananggal is a beautiful female by day who turns into a blood-devouring monster at night. At midnight, especially on a full moon, it applies a special oil on its body while chanting a prayer. Fangs, claws, and wings emerge until the manananggal separates from its upper torso, usually with its guts hanging out.

The manananggal (sometimes confused with the Wak Wak) is a mythical creature of the Philippines, an evil, man-eating and blood-sucking monster or witch. It is described as hideous, scary, often depicted as female, and capable of severing its upper torso and sprouting huge bat-like wings to fly into the night in search of its victims. The word manananggal comes from the Tagalog word tanggal (cognate of Malay tanggal), which means "to remove" or "to separate", which literally translates as "remover" or "separator". In this case, "one who separates itself". The name also originates from an expression used for a severed torso.
It is said that they mostly prey on sleeping, pregnant women, using an elongated proboscis-like tongue to suck the hearts of fetuses, or the blood of someone who is sleeping. The severed lower torso is left standing, and it is said to be the more vulnerable of the two halves. Sprinkling salt or smearing crushed garlic or ash on top of the standing torso is fatal to the creature. The upper torso then would not be able to rejoin itself and will die by sunrise

TIKTIK

LAND TIKTIK

Tiktik, a distinct type of Aswang found in the land, possesses a slim and elongated physique, enabling swift running and adept climbing. It is armed with an exceptionally long tongue, which serves as both a weapon and a tool for extracting blood. The modus operandi involves lowering its slender, tubular tongue to pierce the victim's abdomen, particularly targeting unborn children.

tik-tik

AIR TIKTIK

The Flying Tiktik, a winged variation hailing from the Visayas, boasts large wings and emits loud, high-pitched cries during flight. When seeking a slumbering pregnant woman, it infiltrates the house with the ability to crawl on walls, suspending itself inverted above the intended victim. Using its elongated tongue, it pierces the victim's abdomen to feed on the unborn child. Some accounts suggest that the Flying Tiktik is the companion bird of the aswang, assisting in locating target victims. The bird perches on the roof, emitting a distinctive call that lends its name. However, an alternate legend depicts the Tiktik as an adversary of the aswang. Its cry serves as a warning, alerting others to the presence or impending arrival of an aswang and thwarting the fiend's stealthy approach.

EKEK

Ek-ek

The Ekek (or Ek-ek) is a type of avian aswang, a birdlike human creature in Philippine folklore. These winged beings are said to hunt for victims at night, driven by their hunger for flesh and blood. Descriptions often depict the Ekek as a flying creature with a birdlike bill, distinguishing it from similar creatures like the Wak Wak, which lacks a beak.

At night, the Ekek transforms into a large bird-man monster  searching for its preferred prey—sleeping pregnant women. The creature uses its long, needle-like proboscis to pierce the womb and drain the blood of the unborn child, killing the fetus. During these attacks, a distinct "ek-ek-ek" sound is said to be heard. However, the Ekek can trick people by making the sound appear distant, when in reality, it is much closer

Ek-ek ( ikik)

These are bird-like humans, much like the Manananggal, except they cannot sever their torsos from their body. These shape shifting aswang monsters turn into large birds or bats and prowls at night. The Ekek is named appropriately, because in its attacking its victim, this monster produces an “ek-ek-ek” sound. In a similar manner
In Philippine mythology, Ekek (or Ek Ek) are creatures who are bird-like humans. They are winged-humans who search for victims at night. They hunger for flesh and blood. They are usually described by old folks as flying creatures that look like the Manananggal but are unable to divide or split their body. Apart from the Manananggal, they are also associated to the Wak Wak because of some similar characteristics. The only difference between a Wak Wak and Ekek is that Ekek has a bill like birds whereas the Wak Wak has none.


The Ekek can transform into a huge bird/bat at night and prowls. Similar to the Manananggal, the Ekek looks for sleeping pregnant women. Then it extends a very long proboscis into the womb and kills the fetus by draining its blood. It is said that while this is taking place, a "ek-ek-ek" sound is often heard. The Ekek fools people into thinking it is far by producing a faint

KIKIK

Kikik

Kikik is  an over-sized black bird, but you will know when it's near you when you hear a soft "Kikik " sound. When it's far from you, you will hear a very loud "Kikik" sound.

WAK-WAK

The Wak Wak is often described as a bird-like creature with wings and sharp talons, resembling either a bat or a large crow. It is sometimes depicted as a human-bird hybrid, featuring a human-like body with the wings of a bird. The name "Wak Wak" comes from the sound it is said to make while flapping its wings—a chilling "wak-wak" noise that signals its presence. This sound is believed to be deceptive: the louder it seems, the farther away it is, and the quieter it sounds, the closer it is to its victim. Some stories describe it as a humanoid creature with crow or bat wings and sharp talons, identifying it as a type of Aswang.

wak-wak

According to folklore, the Wak Wak has long, sharp talons and wings similar to those of a bat or crow. It uses its talons or claws to slash its victims and extract their hearts. Additionally, its wings are said to be as sharp as a knife, enhancing its fearsome reputation.

WAK-WAK

wakwak

WAKWAK

Wak-wak

Wak-wak
                        
The Wakwak  is a vampiric, bird-like creature in Philippine mythology. It is said to snatch humans at night as prey, similar to the Manananggal and the Ekek in rural areas of the Philippines, due to its ability to fly. The difference between the Mananggal and the Wakwak is that Wakwak cannot separate its torso from its body while the Manananggal can. Some believe it is also a form a vampire takes. Other people contend that a "Wakwak" is a Philippine night bird belonging to a witch.

The sound of a Wakwak is usually associated with the presence of an Unglu (vampire) or Ungo (ghost or monster). It is also believed that this monster is called "Wakwak" due to this sound it makes when it flaps its wings while flying. When one hears the Wakwak, it is looking for possible victims. If the sound of the Wakwak is loud, it means it is far from you. Otherwise, it is near and worse yet, it is about to attack. It slashes and mutilates its victims and feeds on their hearts.

WAKWAK

WAK-WAK

WAKWAK

GABUNAN

Gabunan 

Gabunans are the apex predators among aswangs, possessing unparalleled experience, strength, and cunning. Unlike other aswangs, they prefer not to shape-shift into animals and maintain their formidable power even in daylight. Gabunans are known for their swift and stealthy attacks on humans, often pouncing on their victims before sunset, strangling them or breaking their necks with lethal efficiency.

These creatures exhibit extraordinary speed, making their approach nearly imperceptible. Surprisingly, gabunans can fly without wings, allowing them to move silently through the air. One of their notorious abilities is the stealthy abduction of infants. They can snatch a baby without being noticed, substituting it with a piglet or a large fish cleverly altered to resemble the missing infant.

accodring to stories In their true form, the eldest gabunans are characterized by coal-black skin, bloodshot eyes, protruding fangs, and long, disheveled white hair. Despite their ferocity, gabunans consume human flesh sparingly, indulging in this gruesome feast only once or twice a year.

GABUNAN

Contemporary tales often depict gabunans as dark-skinned, fierce creatures with a taste for consuming other types of aswangs. Alternatively, some narratives take a more European approach, portraying gabunans with attributes reminiscent of Western werewolves. Regardless of the variation, gabunans stand as the epitome of aswang power and malevolence in the realm of folklore.

Tupong-tupong

 A humanoid creature in ancient Bicol that could stretch its body. It could be as tall as a tree or as short as a child if it wanted.

UWAK-UWAK

Uwak-uwak

The Uwak-uwak, sometimes referred to as Tiyango, is a rare and elusive type of aswang in Filipino folklore. It is known for its terrifying combination of traits that resemble both a crow and a witch. This creature is often described as somewhere between a large, monstrous bird and a humanoid being with distinct crow-like features, including black wings.

uwak-uwak

In the oral folklore of Masbate, an island province in the Bicol Region, the Uwak-uwak is a well-known figure. The people of Masbate believe this creature is capable of shape-shifting, taking on the appearance of a large crow to stalk its prey or a more human-like form to blend in with ordinary people. Its presence is feared, as it is said to come out at night, preying on the weak, the sick, or unsuspecting children.

uwak-uwak

Similar stories of the Uwak-uwak can also be found in Northern Samar, specifically in Allen, where locals share legends of this eerie creature. The connection between these two regions highlights the shared beliefs in supernatural beings that bridge the Bicol and Visayas areas.

Uwak-uwak

Manonopsop

 creature with strong sucking tongue that can extend meters long so it can suck blood from the stomachof a sleeping victim. It will only stop sucking when the victim is already drained of blood. Usually the mononopsop positions itself from the roof of a house, and lets its thread-like tongue extend to the stomach of its unsuspecting victim.

PATIYANAK

Patyanak, a spooky fusion of an untimely discharged human fetus and a tiny black bird. Picture it with large round ears, a completely bald head, and an eerie, mournful wail resembling that of an infant. Legend has it that if a pregnant woman hears its cry during the night, a miscarriage might be on the mystical horizon!

PATIYANAK - Patyanak in Bicol folklore is a frightening entity, is a fusion of an untimely discharged human fetus and a tiny black bird. Upon reaching maturity, it exhibits distinctive features such as large round ears and a completely bald head. Its eerie, mournful wailing closely resembles that of an infant, and if heard during the night by a pregnant woman, it is believed to induce a miscarriage.

TIYANAK

The Tiyanak is a creature that looks like a baby but is actually a monster that eats the living and scares children. According to some stories, Tiyanaks are the souls of aborted fetuses or babies who died without baptism. After death, they end up in Limbo, a part of Hell, and return as evil spirits in the form of goblins to eat their victims.

Tiyanaks can also be the offspring of a woman and a demon or the spirit of an aborted baby seeking revenge on its mother. Most Tiyanaks are said to live in forests. They often trick people by appearing as a normal crying baby, but once someone comes close, they reveal their true form and attack.

Though they resemble innocent infants, some say Tiyanaks look more like dwarves. They can be killed using sharp, pointed objects, especially ones made of silver. If you hear a baby crying in the forest, it’s best to stay away, as it might be a Tiyanak, waiting to strike. These creatures are vampiric, feasting on their victim’s organs and blood.

ASBO 

In Philippine mythology, the Asbo is a type of aswang known for turning into Huge rabid and wild dogs (bigger than a carabao) These creatures always hunt in packs and are never alone, making them particularly dangerous. If you see one Asbo, there are surely more nearby.

Asbo

By day, Asbos look like ordinary people, but at night they transform into wild, fierce dogs. They have a unique craving for human intestines, which they eat with savage delight. Their pack behavior allows them to attack in a coordinated and strategic manner, making them formidable and deadly hunters.

IWIG

Iwig

Iwig is a type of Aswang that turns into a wild dog similar to an Asbo but smaller.

ANDUDUNO

The Anduduno is a vampire like aswang that tracks and feeds on the scent and blood of women in labor, the sick, and the dying. It takes pleasure in this grim sustenance. This creature transforms into a large bat and drains its victim by using a long, thread-like tongue, targeting the back to feed.

ABWAK

Abwak is a type of aswang where the male transforms into a huge carnivorous lizard, while the female becomes a black bird that makes frightening sounds. This fearsome creature is rooted in the folklore of Panay Island, especially in Antique, Aklan, and Capiz, and is known for its sinister partnership in hunting humans.

Abwak

The Male Abwak: The Lizard

The male Abwak turns into a massive lizard that burrows underground, using its claws to dig tunnels. It waits patiently for hours, sensing vibrations above before bursting forth to catch unsuspecting victims by surprise.

Abwak

Abwak (Female)

The Female Abwak: The Black Bird

The female Abwak transforms into a large black bird, resembling a crow or raven. With sharp talons and a keen eye, she flies silently, tracking potential prey and signaling her underground partner when a target is spotted.

Numpugot / Numputol

 similar to a mananagal the Numpugot however decapitates itself and takes flight. It grows small batlike wings on the back of its head though it doesn’t flap for the Numpugot floats. The Numpugot has shark-like teeth that I uses to rip its victims flesh

MANGALO

Mangalyo - Mangalo are ancient small beings, a type of duwende (goblin) aswang that drink human blood and eat internal organs. folklore says they have a lot of gold and give gold to people they favour. They are a kind of duwende that consumes the blood and internal organs, they prefer to eat animals. In Bicol they are short but muscular dwaves that drink blood

In the Visayan tales, it is believed that they changed and no longer eat humans. The Mangalo or Mangalyo are duwende that are fierce and possess a lot of gold. Their behavior changed, and they no longer eat humans but only animals.

 BONGGO

Bonggo

Bonggo, the feared minister of the deity Aswang. With sunken eyes flashing fire, this ferocious, large, and muscular black humanoid strikes terror with long, black hair, an ugly hairy face, and sharp claws. Vengeful and utterly cruel, Bonggo embodies fear itself.

Bonggo

Bonggo in Bicol mythology is the dreaded an ancient type of Asuang minister of the deity Aswang, instilled fear with its fiery, sunken eyes. This formidable being was a massive, muscular black humanoid, adorned with long, black hair and a repulsively hairy face. Armed with razor-sharp claws, Bonggo embodied ferocity and cruelty, displaying vengeful tendencies that struck terror into the hearts of those who encountered it.

EBWA

Ebwa

Ebwa Aswang

Ebwa - Ebwa or Ibwa (sometimes called Ayong) is a type of aswang that looks human but can transform into a strong and large aswang that the big body resembles a big monkey or gorilla. The Ebwa prefers to eat the corpses of humans rather than fresh flesh. They are known as the aswang of the North.

Paraduno - Corpse eater, senses people about to die. 

MANDURUGO

the mandurugo is a type of Aswang in Bicolano mythology are beautiful females by day that transforms into birds of prey with faces of beautiful women by night, seeking blood.

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

MANDURUGO

Mandurugo

Mandurugo

the Mandurugo are pretty young women who taken flight by night. They transform into monstrous flying creatures with the head of a woman and the body of a bird of prey

Mandurugo

Mandurugo

Mandurugo

Anduduno

 Anduduno is a terrifying Filipino ghoul, a type of aswang, known for feasting on corpses. It has an incredibly strong sense of smell and can detect when someone is terminally ill. When a sick person starts to smell like ripe langka (jackfruit) to the Anduduno, it means that the person's death is near. The creature then lingers around the house, waiting for its "meal" to die. After the sick person is buried, the Anduduno digs up the grave and devours the corpse.

Tiyuan

Tiyu-an, a variation of the manananggal hailing from Capiz, is a unique kind that lacks wings and doesn't split its body in half. Instead, this creature leaps onto the roof of its victim's house or enters unnoticed. Once there, it extends its tongue into a very long and thin proboscis, piercing the belly of a pregnant woman to suck the blood of the fetus inside. In some instances, it will lick and sniff a severely ill person, draining their life force until the victim succumbs. The tiyu-an is exclusively female and possesses a perpetual puppy companion that never ages. Passed down through generations, this canine companion is believed to be the source of the tiyu-an's powers. When the puppy licks the tiyu-an, it signals that it's hungry, prompting her to embark on a hunting expedition.

BalBal

Bal-bal

a Bal-Bal is a monster that steals corpses whether it is in a funeral or grave and feeds on them. It has a strong sense of smell for dead human bodies. It also has claws and teeth sharp enough to rip the clothing of the dead. Since it eats nothing but corpses, it has a foul breath. Once this monster has spotted and eaten the corpse, it will leave the trunk of a banana tree in the coffin creating an illusion of the stolen body to trick people.
Bal-Bal was also associated to Aswang, Amalanhig, and even to Busaw, which were all flesh eaters. They were classified to one of the most fearful creatures in thePhilippines because of their appearance. 

YASAW

yasaw

Yasaw in Bicol mythology, the Yasaw are mischievous creatures resembling dark-skinned small children, known for their playful pranks that aim to create fear and amusement. Despite their mischief, they do not harm humans. it hides under the shadows of trees during moonlit nights, delighting in scaring people. If seen simultaneously with a cry resembling that of an infant, it is believed that someone is destined to die soon, as an Aswang is on the prowl. Moreover, the Laki, or Laqui, is a type of Asuang that was once a Yasaw that tasted human blood. Initially playful pranksters, they transform into flesh-eating monsters after indulging in human blood. As punishment for laziness in scaring people, the Yasaw morphs into the Laki, featuring hooves and goat-like skin with an ugly human face. Appearing at night, the Laki surprises night travelers with its shrill, piercing sound, although it is incapable of causing harm.

LAKI or LAQUI

LAKI

The Laki or Laqui In Bicol mythology A Laki is a creature with an upper body that resembles that of a human. It boasts a well-defined chest, muscular arms, and a human-like, albeit ugly, face. The lower body of the Laki is distinctly goat-like, characterized by hooved legs and a fur-covered hindquarter. A Laki  originates from the mischievous Yasaw, a dark-skinned entity resembling small children known for its playful nature and love for pranks. When a Yasaw is punished by Aswang, a deity in Bicolano mythology, for perceived laziness in scaring people, it undergoes a transformation into the fearsome Laki or Laqui. In other stories is a type of Asuang that are once Yasaw who have tasted human blood. The once playful pranksters will become flesh eating monsters once they taste human blood

LAQUI

LAKI

LAQUI

The Laki possesses distinct characteristics, featuring hooves resembling those of a goat, skin mirroring the texture of a goat, and an ugly human face. Despite its nightmarish appearance, the Laki is incapable of directly causing harm to humans. Instead, it startles night travelers with its shrill, piercing sounds, creating an atmosphere of eerie surprise. The Laki's existence and transformation unfold within the mythical realm of Bicolano folklore, showcasing the intricate relationships between divine retribution, mischief, and supernatural consequences.

Sigbin 

The Sigbin (or Sigben) are said to suck the blood out of its victims from the shadows. The Sigbin are usually invisible to its victims, but the humans can usually tell a Sigbin’s presence from its nauseating stench. This creature resembles that of a hornless goat, and is connected to the Aswang as a type of familiar, not so much a similar creature.

ITIM NA SISIW AT ITIM NA IBON

The black chick is not merely a symbol; it is an active agent in the perpetuation of the aswang lineage. When an aswang nears death, the black chick is believed to be passed on to a relative or another chosen person, thereby continuing the cycle of terror. This aspect of the mythology highlights the hereditary nature of the aswang curse and the inevitable passage of darkness from one generation to the next.

Behavioral Characteristics of Aswangs

Aswangs are nocturnal by nature, preferring the cover of night to carry out their gruesome activities. They are often found in cemeteries, woods, or other secluded places, but they also have the uncanny ability to infiltrate human communities. This adaptability makes them particularly terrifying, as they can live undetected among humans, posing a constant threat.

Inverting traditional Filipino values, aswangs exhibit overtly evil behaviors, often targeting their own kin. This stark contrast to the strong familial bonds valued in Filipino culture serves to underscore their malevolence. Aswangs are also characterized by their fear of light and noise, which can be used to repel them. Various countermeasures, including the use of holy objects, spices, salt, and ash, are employed to protect against aswang attacks. Rituals during childbirth and remedies for miscarriages are also devised to prevent these creatures from preying on the vulnerable.

Asura in Hindu mythology 

In Hindu mythology, an "Asura" refers to a class of powerful and sometimes malevolent supernatural beings or demigods. The term is often translated as "demon" or "anti-god" in English, but it is essential to note that the characterization of Asuras in Hindu mythology is nuanced, and not all Asuras are inherently evil.

Agaras Aswang Variant

The Aswang Entities: A Taxonomy:

The term "Aswang" encompasses a broad spectrum of entities, each with its unique characteristics and methods of predation. The classification includes Aswang na Layog, capable of flight, and Aswang na Lakaw, those who traverse on two or four legs. Further categorization involves humanoid, canine, porcine, avian, feline, and aquatic variations. These entities demonstrate the diversity and complexity of the Aswang myth across different regions of the Philippines.

The Aswang Characteristics

Aswang, demonic beings with shape-shifting capabilities, exhibit traits similar to humans during daylight, concealing their true nature. They are carnivorous and cannibalistic, with a preference for human liver and blood, and a notorious inclination towards unborn children. As close mimics of humans, they share physical appearances and intelligence but differ in their inner biology, mentality, and diet.

The Aswang are known for their ability to transform repeatedly, with common forms being a cat, bat, bird, boar, or, most frequently, a dog. Their stealth, speed, and silence make them formidable predators. Some emit deceptive noises like Tik-Tik and Bubuu to confuse their victims. They are also associated with replacing live victims or cadavers with doppelgangers made from plant materials, leading to sickness and death.

Harimodon Aswang variant

Regional Variations and Names

The myth of the Aswang is widespread throughout the Philippines, with regional variations in names such as "tik-tik," "wak-wak," and "sok-sok." The term "Aswang" is often used interchangeably with "manananggal," both usually depicted as female entities. Despite variations, common themes such as shape-shifting, nocturnal predation, and a preference for unborn children persist across different regions.

Deeper into Aswang Entities: Bangkilan and Magindara

Among the diverse Aswang entities, two stand out—Bangkilan and Magindara. Bangkilan, unlike most Aswangs (that are ugly), is portrayed as beautiful and seductive women with bat wings and razor-sharp claws. They are believed to have the power to turn ordinary humans into Aswangs through a dark stone transfer.

Magindara, on the other hand, are sea creatures resembling mermaids but with a vicious appetite for human flesh. Legends tell of their enchanting voices luring fishermen to their demise. The first Magindara, a demigoddess, was banished by her father, Asuang, and transformed into these creatures as punishment. Despite their ferocity, some myths portray them as protectors of Ibalong's waters against invaders.

Bangkilan

Bangkilan

The Humanoid Aspect

Aswangs are unique in that they closely resemble humans during the day, only revealing their true forms at night when seeking sustenance. Contrary to typical vampire myths, Aswangs can befriend humans, displaying emotions and interactions akin to regular people. However, this dual nature also makes them vulnerable during the daytime, lacking the strength they possess during nocturnal activities.

Identification and Beliefs:

Identifying an Aswang can be challenging, as their descriptions and behaviors vary widely. However, common themes include shape-shifting, a preference for human liver and blood, and nocturnal activities. Folk beliefs suggest observing their eyes—reflection in a mirror may be upside-down, or looking in a tuwad manner may reveal a different image.

Hanagob Aswang variant

ASWANG AS AN  UMBRELA TERM IN BICOL MYTHOLOGY

Aswang, a term encompassing diverse shape-shifting creatures in Filipino folklore, parallels Western entities like vampires, ghouls, witches, viscera suckers, and werewolves. In Bicolano mythology, they served the evil god Asuang, who granted his worshippers dark gifts. These gifts included the power to transform into creatures of the night, empowered by the night itself. The most devoted received stones that transformed into blackbirds, allowing flight and transformation, while others transformed into animals like dogs and boars, gaining strength. However, these dark gifts came with a price—feeding on entrails, flesh, or blood, avoiding salt waters, and venerating the full moon in remembrance of Bulan, Asuang's lunar deity friend.

Aswangs, demonic beings, possess the ability to repeatedly transform, often adopting bestial forms at night. Carnivorous and cannibalistic, they closely resemble humans but differ in biology, mentality, and diet. Their main diet consists of human liver and blood, with a particular affinity for unborn children. Known for preying on children and the sick, aswangs are feared mythical creatures in Filipino folklore, noted by Spanish colonists as the most dreaded among the Philippines' mythical entities during the 16th century.

ASWANG IN WESTERN VISAYAS MYTHOLOGY 

The Aswang, as per Philippine folklore, is a nocturnal creature with a penchant for human flesh and blood. It possesses the ability to shape-shift into various animals and wields supernatural powers such as witchcraft. The etymology of the term "aswang" remains a subject of ongoing debate. With the advent of Catholicism, the creature was demonized, rendering it susceptible to religious symbols like crosses and holy water.

Dr. Maximo D. Ramos, in his book "The Aswang Syncrasy in Philippine Folklore," classifies the aswang into five categories. These include the blood-sucking vampire (Mandurugo), the viscera-sucker or self-segmenter (Manananggal), the weredog capable of transforming into a dog or boar, the malevolent witch with an evil eye, and the ghoul that steals and consumes corpses.

The belief in the aswang is deeply ingrained in Philippine culture, predating Spanish colonization. Despite scientific and modern advancements, Western Visayas continues to harbor this belief. Urban legends, occasional news reports, and historical suspicions of newcomers perpetuate the fear of encountering the aswang in both rural and urban settings.

Notable stories from the region contribute to the aswang folklore. Teniente Gimo of Dueñas and Maria Labo from Iloilo are infamous figures associated with alleged aswang activities. These tales have permeated popular culture, inspiring films and cementing their place in local lore.

In Capiz, numerous tales and persistent rumors have labeled the province as the "aswang capital of the Philippines." Aswang communities are rumored to exist, although the veracity of such claims remains uncertain. Aklan, on the other hand, has its own classification system for the aswang, detailing variations such as the flying Aswang Lupad and the self-segmenting Aswang Hubot.

ASWANG NA BANGKILAN

The Bangkilan: A Unique Aswang Variant

Among the various types of aswang, the Bangkilan stands out as a particularly formidable and unique variant. Unlike typical aswangs that possess a single black stone and perish after transferring it to a successor, the Bangkilan has multiple black pearls and chicks within her body. This ability allows her to produce more black stones and chicks without facing death, making her an exception among her kind.

Bangkilan

By day, the Bangkilan appears as a beautiful maiden, seamlessly blending into human society. However, by night, she transforms into various terrifying creatures, showcasing her shape-shifting prowess. This duality enhances her ability to deceive and prey upon unsuspecting victims. The presence of multiple black pearls and chicks within the Bangkilan signifies a heightened level of power and danger, as she can perpetuate her dark legacy indefinitely.

Bangkilan

The Bangkilan's existence further enriches the aswang mythology, emphasizing the diversity and complexity of these supernatural beings. Her ability to survive and continue her predatory ways despite transferring her dark gifts sets her apart, underscoring the perpetual threat she poses to human communities.

ASWANG NA GABUNAN

The Gabunan: Apex Predator of Aswangs

The Gabunan, an apex predator among aswangs, tales often depict Gabunans as dark-skinned, fierce creatures with a taste for consuming other types of aswangs. This trait makes them the natural enemies of the Bangkilan, as they hunt and devour the black pearls and chicks that reside within these powerful aswangs. 

Gabunan

possessing unparalleled experience, strength, and cunning. Unlike other aswangs, Gabunans do not rely on shape-shifting into animals to augment their powers. Instead, they maintain their formidable strength even in daylight, preferring to operate with lethal efficiency. Gabunans are known for their swift and stealthy attacks on humans, often striking just before sunset. They are capable of strangling their victims or breaking their necks with deadly precision.

Gabunan and Bangkilan

Gabunans exhibit extraordinary speed, making their approach nearly imperceptible. They can fly without wings, moving silently through the air, which enables them to carry out their stealthy abductions of infants. They can snatch a baby without being noticed, substituting it with a piglet or a large fish cleverly altered to resemble the missing infant. In their true form, the eldest Gabunans are characterized by coal-black skin, bloodshot eyes, protruding fangs, and long, disheveled white hair. Despite their ferocity, Gabunans consume human flesh sparingly, indulging in this gruesome feast only once or twice a year.

Gabunan

Contemporary Alternatively, some narratives take a more European approach, portraying Gabunans with attributes reminiscent of werewolves. Regardless of the variation, Gabunans stand as the epitome of aswang power and malevolence in the realm of folklore.

(honorable metion not an Aswang but famous in Philippines)

Tikbalang

  Tikbalang is a tall, thin and dark creature that is half human and half horse. While it may have the entire stature of a man, its upper body and face are unmistakably akin to a horse. During full moon he goes out to take a bath and dips his long legs in the river. The tikbalang is a horse-like man. This tall creature has long bony limbs that are disproportioned. When squatting, its knees are taller than its head. It has clawed feet and long hair, with a large mouth, teeth, and huge testicles. The tikbalang is the culprit behind people who get lost in the woods or in the forest. When the tikbalang misleads people in the forest, they are, more often than not, not found again. A person who gets hold of one of the tikbalang’s spines can use it as an anting-anting and makes the tikbalang his slave.

The question of whether the aswang is a tangible threat or a remnant of a bygone era lingers, leaving the truth shrouded in the mystique of Philippine mythology.

The Aswang myth of shape-shifting creatures, each embodying unique attributes and tales across the diverse regions of the Philippines. Rooted in Bicolano mythology, Aswang reflects the intricate interplay between deities, dark gifts, and the ominous consequences of seeking power from malevolent forces. As a symbol of the supernatural, Aswang continues to captivate the imagination, transcending time and cultural boundaries. The evolution of this folklore serves as a testament to the enduring allure of mythical tales in Filipino culture.

REMINDER THIS BLOG IS BICOL MYTHOLOGY AND FOLKLORE 

POINT OF VIEW FROM BICOLANO.  MAY INTERTWINE WITH TAGALOG AND VISAYAN MYTHOLOGY AND FOLKLORE BUT THIS IS MORE ON BICOLANO MYTHS. 

REMINDER

The orally transmitted mythology of the Philippines is intended for sharing and understanding, not for appropriation, commercial exploitation, or the promotion of foreigners and foreign products. It is a dynamic narrative tradition that evolves over time, distinct from the standardized mythologies found in Western and European cultures. Unlike these established mythologies, the Philippine government has not mandated standardized versions of stories and legends.

Orally transmitted stories undergo variations and evolve over time, resulting in numerous different versions. There are many different version told by Filipinos,and retold by Filipinos.