wind elemental - tawong Lipod

Tawong Lipod is a general term of unseen spirits in modern-day Bicol

Tawong Lipod - were beautiful wind spirits and nymphs who came down from the heavens and turned into ulgy and grotesque malevolent and dark beings. Ugly and evil they turned invisble causing malice.

Tawong Lipod  are the invisible wind elementals or the wind people in Philippine (Bicol) folklore

"Tawong Lipod" refers to ancient mythical beings in Philippine folklore, initially perceived as gentle and beautiful female spirits associated with clouds and waters in Bicolano culture. Over time, their portrayal shifted, and they transformed into malevolent entities known as Engkanto in contemporary times. While originally described as slender and beautiful, with the power to control winds, they are now depicted as dark and harmful invisible creatures. In present-day Philippines, Tawong Lipod is often negatively portrayed in horror stories, causing illnesses and distress to people, diverging from their original benevolent image. This transformation reflects a change in cultural narratives and perceptions of these mythical beings over time.

 They were described as attractive and lithe human looking creatures.  has the power create or control winds. In Bicolano Mythology they are the surfs and handmaiden of the lunar god Bulan. and also the main reason why the lunar gods Haliya and Bulan descended into the waters of Bicol.

tawong lipod

In Bicol they are believed to help people in need if they deserve it and punish the wrong by sending strong gust of winds.

Horror stories of invisible malevolent  Dark Engkanto in modern folklore

The transformation of Tawong Lipod from benevolent wind maidens to malevolent beings in contemporary stories reflects a dynamic relationship between folklore and cultural context. In modern horror tales, Tawong Lipod is often portrayed as invisible and malevolent Engkanto causing harm and fear. The shift towards horror storytelling involves highlighting the darker and more menacing aspects of the Tawong Lipod folklore. This evolution aligns with the conventions of horror narratives, where mysterious and ominous beings create tension and fear. In these stories, Tawong Lipod appears as dark, malevolent, and invisible Engkanto, taking on scary forms like dark shadows or ugly beings when they manifest.

encanto

Engkanto (from Spanish: encanto, "spell, incantation, charm")

Environmental spirits, known as Engkanto, possess the intriguing ability to manifest in human form and are often intertwined with the ancestral spirits (umalagad) in Filipino folklore. Primarily associated with forest spirits or elves, belief in their existence spans centuries and persists in contemporary culture.

Engkanto exhibit parallels with humans, aging, displaying distinct genders, and susceptible to illnesses and mortality, making them integral figures in Filipino mythology. They are envisioned as ethereal beings, often depicted as slender, aesthetically pleasing individuals with features such as crystal-blue eyes, fair complexion, and golden hair. Some accounts suggest peculiar traits like leaf-shaped ears, heightened noses, and the absence of a philtrum. Additionally, they are described as towering over humans and possessing a captivating radiance, particularly under direct sunlight, with some tales portraying them with sharpened teeth when provoked.

Various manifestations of Engkanto exist, showcasing sexual dimorphism such as the Bagobo spirits, differentiated into the female tahamaling and male mahomanay, with distinctive complexion traits. These spirits typically reside in natural formations like large rocks or trees, although they may reveal grand palaces to trusted individuals. Descriptions of different Engkanto groups, such as the Dalaketnon, highlight contrasting physical features based on gender.

Engkanto exhibit diverse behaviors across narratives, emphasizing the need for respectful and cautious interaction. Their capricious nature demands careful treatment, as they can bestow blessings or curses based on perceived treatment. They hold the capacity for vengeance, even for perceived slights, yet can be generous to those who treat them well, offering wealth or power. However, failure to reciprocate their affection may result in abduction or other consequences, underscoring the complex dynamics between humans and Engkanto in Filipino folklore.