The Aswang: Philippines’ Shape-Shifting Nightmare

 

The Aswang: Philippines’ Shape-Shifting Nightmare

In the heart of the Philippine archipelago, beyond the palm-lined beaches and bustling cities, lurks a tale as old as the islands themselves—whispered in hushed tones by villagers and passed down through generations. It’s the story of the Aswang, one of the most feared creatures in Filipino folklore. A shape-shifting, bloodthirsty being, the Aswang is said to live among us—disguised as your kind neighbor by day, and transforming into a ghastly predator by night.

The term Aswang is a catch-all for various evil supernatural entities in Philippine mythology, but its most popular form is that of a vampiric, ghoulish creature that preys on the weak. Pregnant women, children, and the sick are its favorite victims. According to legend, the Aswang uses a long, thread-like tongue to suck the blood or unborn child from its prey—often without leaving a trace.

What makes the Aswang even more terrifying is its ability to blend in. During daylight hours, it appears completely normal—sometimes even charming or helpful. But as the sun sets, it reveals its true nature: wings, claws, and glowing eyes, slinking through forests or gliding through the air, hunting silently under the cover of night.

One of the creepiest features of the Aswang myth is the tik-tik sound it makes. Contrary to logic, the louder the tik-tik, the farther away the creature is. When the sound becomes faint? That’s when you should worry—it means the Aswang is near.

Villagers in rural provinces have long used folk remedies to ward it off. Salt, garlic, and the tail of a stingray (buntot ng pagi) are said to repel the creature. Old rituals and chants still echo in some mountain communities, carried out to protect pregnant women or purify homes where an Aswang is suspected to be nearby.

While some dismiss the Aswang as just a spooky story meant to scare kids into behaving, others swear they’ve encountered it—seen shadows dart across their windows, heard the soft tik-tik in the silence of midnight, or found lifeless animals in the morning with no clear cause of death.

Myth or not, the tale of the Aswang has etched itself deeply into the Filipino psyche, inspiring horror films, books, and even public health campaigns (yes, seriously). It’s more than just a ghost story—it’s a symbol of fear, of the unknown lurking in familiar places.

So if you ever find yourself in a remote Philippine province, and the night is unusually still—listen closely. If you hear a faint tik-tik, don’t look out the window. You might not like what you see. 

 

I decided I would start this series with this creature since I have Filipino ancestry. I will be doing a series of stories about different cultures beliefs in various monsters/cryptids so stay tuned for more Monster Monday’s!

🖤Miss Wicked 🖤