The Philippine Isles are home to thousands of endemic creatures of great exotic beauty and diversity, including, of course, the weird and wonderful monsters that stalk its fast-diminishing rainforests, coconut-lined horizons, and corrugated-iron roofs. This coming All Souls’ Day weekend, take a road-trip into the twilight zone, with this guide on how to spot these mythical creatures in their natural habitat, and how to survive if the encounters become too close for comfort.
Words by Chiara Cui
Illustrations by Vandy Pesarillo
1. Aswang
Siquijor, Central Visayas
Modus Operandi Aswangs are shapeshifters. They trick you into thinking they’re meek, submissive, folksy people, and then strike when you least expect it.
What’s for dinner? Unborn fetuses and little children. They use their proboscis to suck them out of their mothers’ womb. They’ve got dibs on the liver and heart!
Pet peeves Salt can cause an Aswang’s skin to burn, so pass the bagoong!
Travel Tip Drop by Salagdoong Beach, the breathtaking scenery and limestone outcrops are enough to take your mind off any aswangs that might be lurking in the darkness.
Although Siquijor may be well-known for its mystical qualities, reputed faith healers, and mangkukulams, its natural beauty is also undeniable. The Bandilaan Butterfly Range and Breeding Farm is one attraction you shouldn’t miss. And if that’s not up to snuff, quell any curiosity you might have about the magical properties of the island by checking out what the locals refer to as “the sorcerers” that gather at the foot of Mount Bandilaan. Their wares include amulets for healing, herbal potions, and magical charms and oils. After you’ve had your fill of all things mystical, check out Cambugahay and cool yourself in its multi-tiered waterfalls and crystal clear pools.
(Ready to explore the Philippines? Check out EYP’s showcase on the D.O.T.)
2. Manananggal
Capiz, Western Visayas
Modus Operandi Able to detach itself from the lower half of its body, it takes to the skies at night to hunt for its prey, primarily pregnant women.
What’s for dinner? Just like the Aswang, they’ve got a hankering for the flesh of the unborn.
Pet peeves Rub garlic on the exposed lower torso flesh and POOF! Manananggal be gone. However, it is also said that for people in the Western Visayas, salt is the more popular defense against the manananggal. Sprinkle salt on the lower half of her body, and the upper half will not be able to connect with it. The manananggal then dies when the sun rises.
Travel Tip Go spelunking in one of the many caves that Capiz is home to, or visit the mussel farm for some tasty bi-valvic treats.
Sta. Monica Parish Church in Capiz is home to the biggest bell in Asia, and the 3rd biggest bell in the world. Built by Don Juan Reina in the 19th century, it measures 7 feet in diameter and 5 feet in height, and weighs about 10 tons. If that isn’t impressive enough, Roxas City in Capiz is hailed by many as the seafood capital of the Philippines so be sure to drop by Baybay Beach, which houses the best restaurants in the area, and partake of the freshest seafood in all the land.
(Craving for seafood? Get your hands on some now!)
3. Diwata
Mount Makiling, Laguna
Modus Operandi These beautiful and ageless beings reside in the mountains or by the sea, guarding them from environmental bad guys.
What’s for dinner? She feasts on the hearts and minds of the young men that fall in love with her. Not quite sure if that’s meant to be taken literally, actually.
Pet peeves People who litter get on Maria Makiling’s sh*t-list.
Travel Tip Check out the mud springs, with temperatures that go up to 80 degrees Celsius—just be sure not to fall in.
Thousands have flocked to popular hiking destination Mount Makiling for its eco-tourism, friendly and easily negotiable trails, and the breathtaking view of southern Luzon, but it isn’t the only natural wonder Laguna has to offer. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at bass fishing or extreme water sports, Lake Caliraya is the place to visit. If you’re not the sporty type, eat your way through the province: there’s more than enough buko pie, kesong puti and ginataang hipon to go around.
(Headed to Laguna? Check out these places to eat along the way.)
4. Tiyanak
Antique, Western Visayas
Modus Operandi Tiyanaks are said to be babies that died before they could be baptized. After passing through Limbo, they transform into evil spirits that prey on human flesh.
What’s for dinner? They lure their victims with their ability to mimic the cry of a human baby.
Pet peeves Fashion faux pas. Turn your clothes inside out and they leave you alone.
Travel Tip For adrenaline-junkies, climb Mt. Nangtud. It offers a great view of the place they refer to as “where the mountains meet the sea”.
Get to Antique by RORO (Roll-On, Roll-Off ferry) from Manila via Caticlan and visit Batabat Coral Reef, which boasts an impressive display of various colored corals seen through clear blue waters. Go snorkeling or scuba diving at Nogas Island, a 24-hectare government naval reservation island 3 miles from the shoreline of Anini-y town. For more cultural immersion, participate in the 3-day Binirayan Festival of Antique, held every January 11-13.
(Start planning that beach trip! Search through EYP’s list of resorts.)
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