Tradition / Region: Philippines Mythology
Alternative Name: –
Category: Cow
The Myth
The Mantahungal is a terrifying creature from the folklore of the Tagbanua people of Palawan in the Philippines. It is said to dwell deep within remote mountain forests at high altitudes, far from human settlements.
The creature is usually described as resembling a gigantic hornless cow covered in long shaggy hair that hangs almost to the ground. Despite its cattle-like appearance, the mantahungal possesses a monstrous mouth filled with huge fangs and tusk-like teeth, including massive upper and lower tusks used to tear apart its prey.
According to legend, the mantahungal is a violent predator that hunts humans and animals in the mountain wilderness. It chases down victims through the forest before ripping them apart with its enormous teeth.
Stories describe it as a hidden and feared creature of the highlands, rarely seen but associated with danger, disappearance, and death in isolated forest regions.
Sources
Cryptid Archives. (n.d.). Mantahungal. Retrieved May 10, 2026, from https://cryptidarchives.fandom.com/wiki/Mantahungal
Bestiary.us. (n.d.). Mantakhungal. Retrieved May 10, 2026, from https://www.bestiary.us/mantakhungal/en/