Philippine Mythology

Mythical Creatures

Philipines Mythology

Mythical Creatures

Philippine folklore, unlike Greek, Norse or Egyptian mythologies, has not been organized into a formal pantheon, does not generally contain long epics, nor has it been relegated to history. To this day, Philippine myths still have an active role in the lives of rural Filipinos. The countless myths circulating throughout the Filipino countryside contain a large variety of mythical creatures. Although there is no scientific evidence for any of these creatures, there is also no shortage in the rural parts of the Philippines of people who believe firmly in their existence. This discrepancy is sometimes rationalized by the explanation that only pure and good mortals are able to see these creatures. Although there is no scientific evidence that this creatures exist some people still believe that they are still alive up to this day especially in rural area.

List of Creatures

Berberoka - The people from Apayao, Abra and Ilocos Norte believe and fear a swamp creature called Berberoka. It lures victims by sucking water in the pond enough for a number fish to come into surface. When the potential victims get attracted to the school of fish, the Berberoka drowns them by hosing water and swallowing them afterwards. Despite all their powers, these water ogres have a morbid, ironic fear of crabs. They were compared to the Greek naiads, the nymphs of water elements. They have the ability to suck all the water in a swamp or lake. Also, many old folks believed that they use water to attack their enemies. They discharge a large amount of water (just like a fire extinguisher) to their victims until they drown.
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