Phenomenon Friday: The Aswang
- Ashlyn D
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
Today, we’re traveling to the lush, shadowy corners of the Philippines to meet a creature so feared, its name is whispered rather than spoken. This week’s terrifying tale: The Aswang.
What Is the Aswang?
At first glance, the Aswang might seem like your average neighbor: quiet, unassuming, maybe even kind. But as the sun dips below the horizon, they undergo a gruesome transformation. The Aswang is a shapeshifter, often said to morph into a dog, a large bird, or even a bat-like monster by night.
These creatures are deeply rooted in Filipino folklore, and different regions have their own spins on what an Aswang looks like—or what it wants. Sometimes it drinks blood like a vampire. Sometimes it prefers eating human organs. And sometimes... it’s after unborn children.
Terrifying Traits
Split Personality: By day, the Aswang is human blending in with society. By night, they shed their disguise and hunt.
Long, Hollow Tongue: In some stories, they use this grotesque appendage to suck out fetuses through the mother’s belly button. You read that right.
Bizarre Sounds: An Aswang’s cry gets quieter as it gets closer, making you think it’s far away… until it’s too late.
Fear of Spices and Salt: Want to stay safe? Keep garlic, salt, and a bolo knife handy. (Or just never sleep again. That works too.)
Origins and Fear
The legend of the Aswang dates back centuries, possibly even to pre-colonial times. Spanish colonizers noted how widespread the belief was—and may have even used the fear of the Aswang to keep rural populations in check.
But this isn’t just an old legend tucked away in a dusty book. Many people in the Philippines still believe in the Aswang. Some claim to have seen one. Others say they’ve lost loved ones under mysterious circumstances. In many provinces, it’s not uncommon for a sudden illness, miscarriage, or strange death to be blamed on an Aswang’s midnight visit.
Want to learn more?
The Aswang isn’t just one monster—it’s a terrifying category of folklore that shifts, evolves, and adapts to its environment. That’s what makes it so chilling. It could be anyone. It could be anywhere. And when the sun goes down… it could be coming for you.
Sleep tight.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and form their own opinions. The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts of That Sounds Terrifying or That Sounds Terrific Productions.
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