The tiyanak (also tianak or tianac[1] Tagalog: [ˈtjɐnɐk]) is a vampiric creature in Philippine mythology that takes on the form of a toddler or baby.
Although there are various types, it typically takes the form of a newborn baby and cries in the jungle to attract unwary travelers.
Francisco de San Antonio, Cronicas (1738-44) "They have many other superstitions, as that of the patianac, a spirit or ideal being, whose employment or amusement consists in preventing, [41]by certain means peculiar to itself, the delivery of a woman in labour.
To counteract the malignity of this spirit, the husband, fastening the door, reduces himself to a state of complete nudity, lights a fire, and arming himself with his sword, continues to flourish it furiously, until the woman is delivered."
[8] In modern-day Philippines, this definition has extended to that of aborted fetuses that returned from death to seek revenge on those who deprived them of life.
Those that were led astray by the creature's cries are believed to be able to break the enchantment by turning their clothes inside out.
[2] It is also believed that giving a name to these lost souls will bring them peace, and offering a white candle will help guide its spirit to afterlife.
The Tiyanak is also featured as a monster, along with other Philippine folklore-inspired beings, in the Port Malaya patch of Ragnarok Online.