My quick ballpoint drawing of one of the Philippine Folklore Creatures, the “Manananggal”.

Philippines is wealthy when it comes to culture and beliefs because of Filipinos' creative minds.

Most of the beliefs incorporated from various sources. Some of it originated during the pre-Hispanic era, from pre-Christian religion which was influenced by the Hinduism and probably with colonial Catholic Christian myths and superstitions.

But before we talk about the "Manananggal", let us first know what is folklore.

Folklore

According to Dr. Damiana Eugenio(a renowned Filipina folklorist), says, there is still no universally accepted definition of the word "folklore".

But any form knowledge and information which have been passed from generation to generation, that shows the beliefs, culture, lifestyle of the ancestors of a chosen ethnic group and is rendered unique to that group then it is considered as folklore. It is usually transmitted through Oral Traditions which is very common in the Philippines, until now.

Philippine folklore is divided into five major parts, namely:
Myths and Legends
Fables
Tales of the Supernatural
Heroic Tales
Tales of Laughter

Since I am a filipino, I can really say that ever since i was a child I've always been fond of listening stories about creatures in the Philippines, beliefs, superstitions and the Philippines itself which the tales are gathered to share the enjoyment, charm, lessons, information and many more of what makes me a Filipino.

So let's now talk about one of the Philippine mythical creatures.

Manananggal

Image source: http://www.wheninmanila.com/top-10-scariest-monsters-creepers-and-creatures-in-the-philippines/

Manananggal or also known as "aswang". It is called manananggal fom the tagalog word of ‘’ tanggal’’ means to split. They split or separate half of their body, to hunt for food.

It is believed that during daytime, they are just like a normal person who go to work and interact with other people. But when the midnight comes, they'll form into a scary monster with a sharp claws and teeth with big wings to fly.

Before splitting up, the manananggal first put oil all over its body which is believed to be the source of it's power.

The lower part of the body left standing on the ground. They then fly and go hunt for food. Their usual targets are pregnant women.

The Manananggal avoids garlic, tail of a sting ray, salt or they also die from sunlight. It should go back to it's normal form before sunrise otherwise, they will die.

It can also pass it's power to anybody. Manananggal become immortal unless the power is given to another member of the family. It is believed that there is a living chick inside it's body.