duwende

the vengeful magician

Another famous figure in Philippine folklore and mythology are the Duwendes, a species of magical creatures that are short and typically invisible to the human eye. Because of this, Duwendes are often stepped on or stumbled over by people passing by their area, and they take offense to this.  Duwendes may be small but are very vengeful to those who they perceive as offensive or disrespectful. It is said that they can cause something simple from a fever or rash to something worse like paralysis, or sometimes even death to those who angers them.

The phrase "Tabi-tabi po!" is often used when passing by forests or possible dwelling sites to announce one's presence and avoid hurting or offending these creatures.