FILIPINOS were always known to believe in different superstitions, known as pamahiin. These beliefs and practices have become a guiding tool for many Filipinos in their everyday lives to achieve their goals, maintain good relationships with other people, and become self-aware of their actions and their surroundings. Our ancestors have passed down these superstitions and beliefs from one generation to another.

 Many Filipino superstitions continue to be practiced in the provinces and indigenous tribes. For example, in the province of Siquijor, it is a common practice to lock the door at night so that evil spirits cannot surprise you in the dark. Often, it is also a common practice in small towns or barrios to put onions and garlic around their houses as protection against manananggal and aswangs at night. It has become an integral part of the culture and tradition of the Filipinos since then. 

Superstitions have always been part of Filipinos’ unique identity, and many still practice them. THE BEDAN HERALD interviewed four students from Tertiary schools to share the superstitions they continue to practice and believe in, as well as how these beliefs have influenced their everyday lives.

What goes around comes around.

For Divine Sta. Juana (IV-BAP), she believes in karma. "[I] still believe until now is the concept of karma na babalik sayo kung anong ginawa mo (that what you did will come back to you), " she expressed. This belief has helped her to be kinder to other people and always treat people how she wants to be treated by everyone. "Karma" is a guiding principle for Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism; it originated in ancient India. It came from a Sanskrit word, karman, which means "action" or "deed."  Filipinos have adapted and practiced this belief until today due to the influence of the Hindus when they arrived in the Philippines during the pre-colonial period.

An itchy palm for luck

Therese Yap (III-BSBA-FM) still practices scratching her palm whenever it is itchy, as she always believes that wealth is coming her way. It has been one of her ways of coping with the fact that there is hope. The tradition of scratching your palm as a sign of luck dates back to the Saxons and Celts of medieval Europe. Until now, many individuals from different parts of the world have adapted to this superstition.

A Glimpse into Usog

As for Aira Paula Dominique Tongga (III-BSA), she still practices the belief in Usog, a popular superstition from the Aetas. Many believed that you would instantly feel sick when you directly stared at a person with an evil eye. It convinced her to subscribe to that, as she shared her first-hand experience staring at someone with an intense hunger, and as a result, she felt a headache and stomach ache. Believing in that superstition has helped her to become more attentive and avoid making eye contact with strangers.

Doing the Pagpag

Claudia Sophia Francisco (IV-BAIS) has emphasized practicing Pagpag wherein you do not return home immediately to prevent negative spirits from following you after you visit a funeral. She recognized this practice as a significant element of Filipino culture, believing that continuously practicing this tradition would contribute to its preservation and the reinforcement of Filipino heritage. The term Pagpag means “to dust off the dirt” in Tagalog.  The practice of doing the Pagpag dates back to its origin during the pre-colonial era. Many people consider it one of the most well-known superstitions in the Philippines; until now, the majority still adhere to it. 

Guides or Truths?

Numerous Filipinos have relied significantly on superstitions when making decisions, impacting their lives in various ways. Fear of potential misfortunes and a desire for prosperity drives most of these beliefs. While their strong faith in these superstitions often arises from personal experiences, it's crucial to acknowledge that they may not apply to everyone and should not be considered universal truths. Although there is nothing wrong in believing in superstitions, they shouldn’t use them to determine solely their fate or destiny, but they should only serve as guides. 

As Bedans, we must recognize and appreciate the significance of Filipino superstitions and beliefs deeply rooted in our culture and traditions. We should uphold and respect these practices as they hold a special place in our heritage.