The dwende are another well-known creature in Filipino folklore. Known for their tiny size and magical powers, these mysterious beings are believed to dwell in natural spaces like anthills, trees, and gardens.
Many regions of the Philippines have their own "versions" of dwende, such as nuno sa punso (translated to old man on the mound). The term dwende itself was brought over by the Spanish during their colonization.
Since dwende are nature spirits, they require respect from trespassers passing through their homes. Saying "tabi tabi, po" (translated to "excuse me") will grant the passerby permission to walk through without negative consequences. If the trespasser forgets to say "tabi tabi, po," they suffer strange illnesses such as pain or swollen parts of the body that can only be cured by healers like the arbularyo.
Some stories of the dwende explain that they can be mischievous, hiding little things around the house. (Have you ever put something down to do something, only to find it missing or elsewhere? It could have been a dwende!) Other stories speak of the good luck and fortune to those who befriend a dwende.
Would you greet a dwende if you met one? Just remember to say "Tabi-tabi po," and who knows—they might just bring you a little luck!