It is endemic to the Philippines, where it has been recorded on Bohol, Luzon (Camarines Sur and Rizal provinces), Marinduque, Negros, Panay, and Mindanao (in Surigao del Sur).

It was described as a new species in 1843 by English naturalist George Robert Waterhouse.

It is found mostly in caves and non-aquatic subterranean locations, along with general forests.

Though forestation and mining is harmful, it is now thought that the bats are more tolerant to disturbance than once believed.

Locally in the area, it is also hunted and trapped for food, though those actions do not heavily harm the species.