JOHANN ISAIAH B. MEREN REV. FR.

ARIS MARTIN, SVD

Irregular Associates Seminar – Filipino Philosophy

The Legend of Aswang – Aklan Folklore

By: Maximo Ramos

Narrative Background:
Aswang is a mythical Philippine folklore creature often depicted as a shapeshifting monster that

preys on humans, particularly pregnant women, and children. The legend of Aswang is

particularly prevalent in the Visayas region of the Philippines, and the town of Kalibo in Aklan

province has its own version of the legend. In Kalibo, the Aswang is said to take the form of a

giant bat with a wingspan of up to 10 feet. It is said to have sharp teeth and claws, and its eyes

are said to glow in the dark. According to legend, the Aswang is a powerful creature that can

control the elements and manipulate nature to its advantage. The legend of the Aswang in Kalibo

is a reminder of the power of myth and the enduring legacy of traditional storytelling in the

Philippines. Although the Aswang may be a fictional creature, its impact on the culture and

imagination of the people of Kalibo and the Philippines as a whole is very real.1

Exegesis of Aswang in Aklan

One of the key themes that emerge from the legend of Aswang is the fear of the unknown. The

creature is described as a shapeshifter that can take on many forms, which makes it difficult to

identify and defend against. This fear of the unknown is a common human emotion, and it is one

that has been exploited by storytellers throughout history to create compelling narratives.

Another important theme in the legend of Aswang is the idea of power and control. The Aswang

is depicted as a powerful creature that can control the elements and manipulate nature to its

1
Maximo Ramos, The Aswang Syncrasy in Philippines Folklore. Western States Folklore Society.
http://www.jstor.org/stable/1499218
advantage. This theme is particularly relevant in a region like Kalibo, where people are often at

the mercy of the elements and must work hard to eke out a living from the land.

Finally, the legend of Aswang also speaks to the importance of community and solidarity. In

many versions of the story, the creature is defeated by a group of people working together. This

emphasis on collective action and shared responsibility is an important aspect of Filipino culture,

and it reinforces the idea that people are stronger when they work together.2

Filipino Philosophical Reflection:

The legend of the aswang often portrays the creature as a threat to the community, preying on

vulnerable individuals such as children and pregnant women. In response, the community comes

together to protect themselves and their loved ones. This is an example of how the Philosophy of

Sakop by Mercado, plays out in the context of the legend of the aswang. The community

recognizes its mutual obligation to protect its members from harm and works together to do so.

The legend of the aswang highlights the consequences of failing to uphold the Philosophy of

Sakop as it preys on individuals who are not protected by the community. As individuals must

recognize their mutual obligation to each other and to the community as a whole. 3 By upholding

the philosophy, individuals can work together to maintain balance and harmony within their

communities, and prevent the negative consequences of self-centered behavior. 4 The legend of

the "Alamat ng Aswang" both emphasize the importance of social responsibility and mutual

obligation within a community, reflecting the cultural values and beliefs of the Filipino people.

2
Companion (Kuyog/Kasama/Kadua) seems to characterize the Filipino’ social orientation. Since the Filipino is
concerned for others, to ask somebody where he is coming from or where he is going is considered good manners.
(Elements of Filipino Philosophy, Leonardo N. Mercado, SVD. Pages 95 and 96 – Filipino Behavior).
3
Pakikisama (Conformism, Camaraderies) which is sacrificing one’s interest for the sake of the group manifests the
Sakop behavior. (Elements of Filipino Philosophy, Leonardo N. Mercado, SVD. Page 97 – Filipino Behavior).
4
Filipino is less individualistic because he wants to be in harmony with his fellowmen. (Elements of Filipino
Philosophy, Leonardo N. Mercado, SVD. Page 100 – Filipino Social Philosophy).