Superstition in the Philippines

Knocking on wood

A gesture performed by Filipinos in response to a negative comment or remark. It is refers to a gesture commonly made by Filipinos as a reaction to an unpleasant, offensive, or negative statement made by another person. The gesture is sometimes accompanied by knocking on wood, a practice believed to repel bad luck or prevent a negative outcome from coming true.

Tabi-tabi po

A commonly spoken phrase used when passing through places believed to be inhabited by spirits, such as cemeteries or haunted grasslands. It is meant to show respect and consideration toward the spirits and supernatural entities believed to reside in these places. The practice is intended to express respect and reverence toward the spirits and supernatural beings that are believed to dwell in or around these locations. It reflects the belief that such entities should not be disturbed or treated disrespectfully, as doing so may lead to unwanted consequences or supernatural encounters.

Pagpag

It would be best not to return home immediately, as it is believed that the deceased person's soul may follow someone back to their house. Instead, one can pause at any place before finally going home.

Sukob

It is believed that when two siblings, or in some cases first cousins, get married during the same year, one or both unions may experience misfortune. Such bad luck is thought to bring financial hardship, illness, or even death. ^[1]

If a child gets married in the same year that a parent or grandparent dies, it is also considered bad luck, as it is believed to bring misfortune to the family.^[1]

This superstition may have originated from practical concerns rather than supernatural beliefs. In older times, families often had limited resources, and hosting two weddings in the same year could lead to financial strain. It could also be linked to Filipino cultural values that emphasizes respect for the mourning period after a family member's death.^[1]

Sukob a Filipino superstition about a forbidden or unlucky circumstance, it was also the inspiration for the 2006 horror film of the same name, which popularized the superstition among younger generations.^[1]

Kapre

Kapres are described as giant beings that often perch on tall trees while smoking cigars. They are also believed to be drawn to attractive young women and may visit them in their bedrooms or appear in their dreams while they sleep.

Tikbalang

The Tikbalang is depicted as a creature resembling a horse with human-like characteristics, believed to wander through mountainous areas and forests. It is a mythical Filipino creature typically described as a tall, horse-headed being believed to live in mountains and forests.

Tiyanak

Tiyanaks are believed to be unborn babies that take on the form of a newlyborn baby monster in distress to attract people toward them. They may be encountered in remote locations or places where people are unlikely to come across others, making their appearance particularly disturbing.

Nuno sa punso

Nuno sa punso They are portrayed as small, dwarf-like supernatural beings that are believed to inhabit mounds, hills, or other earth formations, where they are thought to remain hidden from ordinary people.

Manananggal, Aswang, and Tiktik

Aswangs are one of the most feared monsters in the Philippines. They are shape-shifting, flesh-eating monsters that can blend in with the townspeople during the day, but prey on them at night. The manananggal and tiktik commonly prey on pregnant women. These creatures are said to possess unusually long tongues, which they use to draw blood from women and consume the fetus developing inside the womb.

Diwata

Diwata is a deity or spirit believed to appear in human form and inhabit various parts of nature. They are described as beautiful and compassionate beings, leading Filipinos to compare them to diwatas. They are also regarded as superior spiritual beings who provide guidance to their communities and are believed to bring prosperity, protection, and good fortune to the people they watch over.

Pagkukulam

A Filipino witch or mangkukulam is a person who casts spells, curses, or black magic on the people they want to take revenge on. This practice involves the use of a voodoo doll and a needle along with the candle-lighting rituals and anything performed on the doll will also be felt by the victim.

Gayuma

Gayuma is as a form of magic designed to enchant or attract a person, often taking the form of a love potion. It is often connected with romantic intentions and may involve the use of a love potion or other magical practices believed to encourage someone to develop affection, attraction, or love.

Albularyo

Albularyo or faith healers are very common in the Philippines, especially in the rural areas. They use herbs as their main healing instrument, often preparing them as traditional remedies to treat various ailments and promote healing. Their healing abilities are believed to be remarkably powerful, because they are said to treat illnesses using only their hands, accompanied by traditional chants, spiritual rituals, and prayers.