Unmasking Halloween in the Philippines: Ghosts, Ghouls, and Traditions from the Archipelago

“Unmasking Halloween in the Philippines - Ghosts, Ghouls, and Traditions from the Archipelago” likely delves into the unique blend of cultural influences that shape Halloween celebrations in the Philippines. Let’s explore some key points:

1. Historical Context:
   • Halloween, locally known as “Undas” or “Araw ng mga Patay” (Day of the Dead), has deep roots in Filipino culture.
   • It combines pre-colonial indigenous beliefs with elements from Spanish Catholicism.
2. All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day:
   • These two days (November 1st and 2nd) are significant in the Philippines.
   • Families visit cemeteries to honor their departed loved ones.
   • They clean and decorate graves, light candles, and offer prayers and food.
3. Superstitions and Folk Beliefs:
   • Filipinos have various superstitions related to spirits during this time.
   • For instance, it’s believed that spirits roam freely during Undas, so people avoid whistling or making loud noises.
   • Some families leave out food for the souls of the departed.
4. Costumes and Parades:
   • While not as elaborate as Western Halloween costumes, some Filipinos dress up in spooky attire.
   • Schools and communities organize parades, where kids wear costumes and collect treats.
5. Traditional Filipino Ghosts and Creatures:
   • The book explores local supernatural beings:
     • Aswang: A shape-shifting monster that can appear as a human during the day but transforms into a fearsome creature at night.
     • Tiyanak: A vampiric baby spirit that lures victims into the forest.
     • White Lady: A ghostly woman in white who appears near bodies of water or dark roads.
     • Kapre: A giant tree-dwelling creature with glowing red eyes.
     • Manananggal: A female vampire who detaches her upper body to fly and hunt at night.
6. Food Traditions:
   • Special food is prepared during Undas, including “kakanin” (sticky rice cakes) and “bibingka” (rice cake cooked in clay pots).
   • Families share meals at the gravesites.