Many Filipinos grew up hearing superstitions from parents, grandparents, titos, and titas.
Some sounded serious. Some sounded funny. Some made us scared as children. Others became traditions we still follow without thinking too much about them.
Filipino superstitions are often passed down through family stories. They can be connected to luck, health, safety, respect, spirits, pregnancy, weddings, funerals, food, and everyday behavior.
One familiar superstition is avoiding sweeping the floor at night. Some believe it can sweep away blessings or good luck. Even if people no longer fully believe it, they may still hesitate because they heard it so many times growing up.
Another common belief is saying “tabi tabi po” when passing through unfamiliar places, especially near trees, fields, or quiet outdoor areas. It is a respectful phrase asking unseen spirits to move aside and not be disturbed.
Many Filipinos also grew up being told not to go straight home after attending a wake or funeral. This practice is sometimes called “pagpag.” The idea is to stop somewhere first so that spirits do not follow you home.
There are also food-related beliefs. Some families say you should not sing while eating because it may bring bad luck. Others say dropping utensils means a visitor is coming.
Pregnancy superstitions are especially common. A pregnant person may be told not to look at certain animals, not to attend funerals, or not to satisfy strong cravings too late.
Whether people believe these fully or not, many still remember them because they were part of family life.
Superstitions also show how Filipinos value caution, respect, and connection to the unseen world. They reflect a culture where elders pass down lessons in the form of warnings, stories, and sayings.
For younger generations, these beliefs may feel old-fashioned. But they still carry memories.
We remember who told us the superstition. We remember how serious they sounded. We remember following it because our lola or mom said so.
That is why Filipino superstitions continue.
They are not only about fear or luck. They are part of culture, family, storytelling, and the way traditions survive.
Do you still follow any Filipino superstitions?