The "aswang" is a legendary creature in Philippine folklore, particularly in the Visayan regions of the Philippines. It is often depicted as a shape-shifting monster or witch that can transform into various forms, such as a bat, a dog, a pig, or even a beautiful woman. Aswangs are believed to be night-dwelling creatures that feed on human flesh or blood, and they are often associated with malevolent activities like kidnapping, causing illness, and other supernatural occurrences. It has been among the people of Philippines for centuries but became truly horrifying after Spanish colonizers enforced the Christian beliefs onto the indigenous people. Stories recount aswangs living as regular townspeople. Usually they are quiet, shy and elusive.
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| Illustration of Aswang (Image credit: Wikipedia) |
The myth of the aswang is known throughout the Philippines, except for the Ilocos area. This myth is very popular in western Visaya areas such as Capiz, Iloilo and Antique. Some regional names for the aswang are "tik-tik", "wak-wak" and "soc-soc".
One of the most famous origins of the term Aswang came from the aswang tradition in the Bicol region during the sixteenth century. The Bicolanos believed in the God named Gugurang, who was the good God that acted as the beneficent of their region, the defender and guardian of their homes, and their protector against the evil of the God Asuang (Aswang). The God Asuang, however, was the evil God and rival, who attempted to always cause harm to Gugurang and found pleasure in doing so. Gugurang was always praised by the Bicolanos, and Asuang shunned and cursed.
However, in another story, Gugurang is portrayed as a fire-wielding God who, if displeased with the humans, would cause Mt. Mayon to erupt. The aswang had no control over the people and became jealous of Gugurang's power. As the aswang begged for Gugurang's fire, Gugurang felt that the aswang was only trying to have fire to win the favor of the people, and the two began to argue for centuries. But the aswang was able to steal fire by turning himself invisible and hiding the fire in a coconut shell. However, the aswang was unable to control the power and caused the entire world to catch flames. Gugurang followed the flames which led him to the aswang and took the fire back. He called the Gods to help him put out the fire with rain and take revenge on the aswang by making thunder and lightning to strike the mountains. The act brought upon all the evils and destruction in the land, which the people had never forgotten the aswang for.
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| Photos of the Aswang Family that are viral on TikTok, family photos with scary figures behind them cause fear and curiosity for many people. However, actually this photograph is fake/edited for entertainment purposes only. (Image credit: konteks.co.id) |
The aswang legend has many variations and stories associated with it, making it a complex and diverse part of Filipino folklore. Some common traits and characteristics attributed to aswangs include:
- Shape-Shifting: Aswangs are known for their ability to change forms, allowing them to blend in with humans and animals.
- Feeding Habits: Aswangs are often portrayed as bloodsuckers or flesh-eaters, preying on unsuspecting victims, particularly pregnant women, children, and the weak.
- Vulnerability to Salt and Garlic: Traditional beliefs suggest that salt and garlic can repel or harm aswangs. This has led to practices like scattering salt around homes or wearing garlic as protection.
- Nocturnal Behavior: Aswangs are typically active during the night, which adds to their mysterious and sinister reputation.
- Fear Factor: The aswang legend has been used to explain various unexplained occurrences and illnesses, creating a sense of fear and caution among people.
There are several remedies and countermeasures to drive away or slay aswang. The different countermeasures often vary depending on the cultural and symbolic significance of each tool. Holy objects, spices, salt, ash, the tail of a sting-ray, large crustaceans, vinegar, betel nut chew, and urine are all listed as tools for protection against aswang. The reversal of a ladder leading to the house was also said to be a countermeasure against aswang.
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| Mysterious Black Dog. Aswang? (Image credit: The Sun) |
Scratching noises heard from the ceiling of a house is often a sign of a nearby aswang. Aswang in disguise can be detected by seeing if your reflection in the creature's eye is inverted. Additionally, dogs, cats, and pigs with no tails are said to be aswang in disguise. During holy masses, aswang will also attempt to dodge the blessings.
To kill a witch aswang, a bolo knife can be used to strike the middle of the witch's back; if that area is not struck, the witch can lick its wounds to heal its injuries. After slaying an aswang with a bolo, the bolo must be planted under the ground. Firearms are not advised for killing aswang and it is useless to stab and slash at an aswang while it is in the form of an animal. Magic prayers can be used to make the aswang vulnerable; while it is in this helpless state, its body must be cut into pieces. If the aswang is cut into two pieces, each piece must be separated and taken to opposite river banks.
It's important to note that while the aswang is deeply ingrained in Philippine culture and has a significant presence in local folklore, it is a mythological concept and not an actual creature. The legend of the aswang has evolved over time and has been influenced by a variety of cultural factors.
The aswang legend has also been a popular subject in literature, movies, and other forms of media in the Philippines, contributing to its enduring presence in the country's cultural landscape.
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