DaBaddest Radio - Episode Summary: Educating Yall on Filipino Monsters (Aswang)

Release Date: October 24, 2024
Host: Dear Media (Bretman Rock)

Introduction

In the Halloween-themed episode titled "Educating Yall on Filipino Monsters (Aswang)," DaBaddest Radio delves into the rich tapestry of Filipino folklore, exploring the myriad forms of the legendary Aswang. Hosted by the charismatic Bretman Rock, alongside co-hosts Ms. K and Princess, this episode aims to educate listeners about these mythical creatures, blending cultural insights with engaging storytelling.

Understanding Aswang: An Umbrella Term for Filipino Monsters

Bretman kickstarts the episode by introducing the concept of Aswang, clarifying that it serves as an umbrella term encompassing various shapeshifting, bloodthirsty evil spirits in Filipino mythology.

Bretman Rock [26:06]:
“Aswang, a swang is an umbrella term to describe shapeshifting, bloodthirsty evil spirits. They usually are in a form of human beings and sometimes will adapt into a normal human lifestyle.”

Types of Aswang Explored

The hosts unpack different types of Aswang, each with unique traits and stories:

1. White Lady

The White Lady is one of the most renowned Aswang variants, often depicted as a vengeful spirit seeking justice for past wrongs.

Ms. K [28:32]:
“A white lady is formed by a lady who either got murdered or assassinated or betrayed by their loved ones. And a white lady is a lady who seek revenge and looks for the killer.”

One of the most famous tales discussed is the White Lady of Balete Drive, a haunting narrative where a grieving husband encounters his wife's spirit.

Bretman Rock [29:25]:
“He saw a lady. And the lady turned out to be the wife... She was trying to convince him to take her in a car... he kept driving and driving over like 100 miles per hour and then crashed.”

2. Manananggal

A more sinister Aswang form, the Manananggal is typically a female vampire that detaches her upper body to hunt for victims, especially pregnant women.

Bretman Rock [44:35]:
“Manananggal is kind of the more well-known Aswangs that we have. It's usually a female. It's a vampire creature with wings.”

The hosts discuss the creature's deadly methods and vulnerabilities, such as garlic salt and sunlight, which can immobilize and ultimately kill it.

3. Duende

Duendes are akin to gnomes or fairies, varying in nature from mischievous tricksters to malevolent beings depending on their type.

Ms. K [49:00]:
“Duendes are very playful, very tricky. They like to play with kids and women.”

Different Duende types are categorized by color, each representing distinct behaviors:

• White Duende: The kindest and most benevolent.
• Black Duende: Malevolent and harmful.
• Red and Green Duende: Playful yet unpredictable, often causing minor inconveniences.

4. Other Aswang Variants

Additional Aswang types are acknowledged through shout-outs, enriching the episode's exploration of Filipino folklore:

• Capre: A giant, tall man-like creature that smokes and preys on humans.
• Tikbalang: A horse-faced humanoid that leads travelers astray.
• Mangkukulam: Traditional sorcerers or witches who cast curses and spells.

Ms. K [62:22]:
“Shout out to the Bungie Sneeze, a smiling one-eyed giant with large teeth... Shout out to Damanananga's little sister, the sorcerer that uses beetles and insects to curse its victims.”

Personal Anecdotes and Cultural Insights

The episode seamlessly weaves personal stories into the folklore discussion, adding depth and relatability.

Ms. K's Experience with Mankukulam

Ms. K shares a harrowing family tale about a curse inflicted by a jealous neighbor, demonstrating the real-life belief in these mythical beings.

Ms. K [54:23]:
“My mom went to her house in the middle of the forest and knocked on her door and asked for forgiveness... after that she came home and all the bumps went away.”

Bretman's Encounter with an Albular

Bretman recounts his encounter with an Albular—a witch doctor—who performed a ritual to cure him of rabies, highlighting traditional healing practices intertwined with folklore.

Bretman Rock [57:55]:
“The Albular grabbed a goat tusk and he slices my bite... He sucked out the rabies and I didn't die from it.”

These anecdotes not only illustrate the pervasive influence of folklore in everyday life but also emphasize the community's reliance on traditional remedies to combat supernatural threats.

Shout-Outs to Lesser-Known Aswangs

Towards the episode's end, the hosts give shout-outs to additional Aswang types that didn't receive in-depth discussion, broadening the listener's understanding of Filipino mythical creatures.

Bretman Rock [61:27]:
“Shout out to the Tik Balangs out there, creatures with the face of a horse and the body of a man who lead travelers astray.”

Ms. K [62:03]:
“Shout out to the Bungie Sneeze, a smiling one-eyed giant with large teeth.”

These acknowledgments serve as a nod to the diverse and intricate nature of Filipino folklore, encouraging listeners to explore further.

Conclusion and Audience Engagement

Wrapping up, Bretman invites listeners to share their own cultural myths and experiences with Aswangs, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage.

Bretman Rock [72:37]:
“Tell us about monsters, Aswangs, healers, witches, mythical creatures, folklore, anything from your culture or from. If you're Filipino like us, share with us.”

The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude towards the audience and a teaser for the upcoming Halloween finale, ensuring listeners remain engaged and anticipating future content.

Key Takeaways

• Aswangs are multifaceted creatures in Filipino folklore, each with unique attributes and stories.
• Personal experiences shared by the hosts provide a tangible connection to these myths, illustrating their impact on daily life and cultural practices.
• Audience engagement is encouraged, inviting listeners to contribute their own folklore tales and experiences.

Notable Quotes

1. Bretman Rock [26:06]:
   “Aswang, a swang is an umbrella term to describe shapeshifting, bloodthirsty evil spirits.”

2. Ms. K [28:32]:
   “A white lady is a lady who seek revenge and looks for the killer.”

3. Bretman Rock [44:35]:
   “Manananggal is kind of the more well-known Aswangs that we have. It's usually a female. It's a vampire creature with wings.”

4. Ms. K [49:00]:
   “Duendes are very playful, very tricky. They like to play with kids and women.”

5. Ms. K [54:23]:
   “My mom went to her house in the middle of the forest and knocked on her door and asked for forgiveness... after that she came home and all the bumps went away.”

6. Bretman Rock [57:55]:
   “The Albular grabbed a goat tusk and he slices my bite... He sucked out the rabies and I didn't die from it.”

Final Thoughts

"Educating Yall on Filipino Monsters (Aswang)" successfully intertwines cultural education with engaging storytelling, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Filipino mythical creatures. Through vivid descriptions, personal anecdotes, and dynamic interactions, DaBaddest Radio not only entertains but also preserves and celebrates Filipino folklore.

For those unfamiliar with the rich traditions of the Philippines, this episode serves as an enlightening introduction to the Aswang and related mythical beings, highlighting the enduring power of folklore in shaping cultural identity and community narratives.