The aswang is a class of supernatural creatures deeply embedded in Philippine folklore. Unlike vampires or werewolves from Western lore, the aswang is a cultural mash-up of witches, ghouls, shapeshifters and demons from across Southeast Asia and other global influences.
Spanish colonists noted these terrifying creatures as early as the 16th century, with missionaries like Juan de Plasencia writing about “osuangs” that stalked the archipelago’s rural villages. Some aswang were said to appear fully human by day, only revealing their terrifying nature under cover of night.
Often described as having bloodshot eyes and a ghastly appetite, the aswang is believed to use a proboscis-like tongue to suck the blood of its victims, particularly targeting young and helpless prey. Some tales describe them sneaking into homes to reach a pregnant woman and feast on her unborn child.
That’s some grade-A nightmare fuel.
