Kataw (Philippine mythology)

Infobox Philippine mythology


title = Kataw
description = Philippine merman
gender = Male/female
region = PhilippinesThe Kataw is one of the merfolk in the Philippine Mythology. In Visayan, "Kataw" was believed to have higher rankings than other water and sea creatures as those of "Sirena", "Sireno" and "Siyokoy". It is believed that the "Kataws" are the reigning rulers of the kingdom "Bantay Tubig". [cite book |last= |first= |authorlink= mella, aLfie vera|coauthors= |title=Mga Engkanto: A Bestiary of Filipino Fairies|year=2003 |publisher= eLf ideas Publication|location=Philippines |isbn= |pages = ]

Based on physical features, "Kataws", along the "Sirena" and "Sireno", were the "Bantay Tubig"-creatures that bear likeness to human while "Siyokoy" are those that resemble water-creatures. Unlike "Sirena", they have feet instead of tails but they have gills on their bodies and fins in their arms. These marine creatures disguises into fishermen asking for help. When approached by mortals, the "Kataws" drown them into the abyss. [cite web | last =| first = | title = Da Adventure of Pendro Penduko| url= http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=List_of_mythical_and_supernatural_beings_and_objects_in_Pedro_Penduko_%28TV_series%29| accessdate = 2008-10-09 ]

According to old folks, "Kataws" have the ability to manipulate and control water-type elements and related forces such as pressure, tides, waves, bubbles and the likes. Also, they can change water to ice . [cite book |last= |first= |authorlink= mella, aLfie vera|coauthors= |title=Mga Engkanto: A Bestiary of Filipino Fairies|year=2003 |publisher= eLf ideas Publication|location=Philippines |isbn= |pages = ]

References