Kahagas

Kahagas is a legendary creature or monster prominent in Visayan folklore in the Philippines, specifically in the province of Negros Occidental. It is described as a gigantic, winged being with a human-like face and a voracious appetite for human flesh, particularly pregnant women and unborn children.

The Kahagas is often said to inhabit deep forests or caves, emerging at night to hunt. Its presence is associated with ominous sounds, such as the flapping of immense wings or a chilling screech. Belief in the Kahagas serves as a cautionary tale, warning people to be wary of venturing alone into remote areas, especially during the night.

While accounts vary across different communities, common features of the Kahagas myth include its monstrous size, aerial capabilities, and its horrifying consumption of human fetuses. The legend serves as a cultural explanation for miscarriages and stillbirths, attributing them to the supernatural predation of this creature.

As with many folklore creatures, the Kahagas legend is passed down through oral tradition. Modern skepticism challenges the literal existence of the Kahagas, but the story remains a significant part of Visayan cultural heritage and a testament to the enduring power of folklore in shaping beliefs and anxieties within a community.