In Barangay Guiwanon, in the historic municipality of Baclayon, Bohol, a massive balete tree stands as both a natural landmark and a source of persistent dread. Locals have long attributed a pattern of vehicular accidents along the stretch of road near the tree to supernatural entities dwelling within its tangled aerial roots.
The balete tree — known scientifically as Ficus indica — holds a unique position in Filipino supernatural belief. It is considered the preferred dwelling place of engkantos, duwende, kapre, and tikbalang. The tree's labyrinthine root structure, its tendency to grow enormous and swallow other trees, and its eerie appearance in moonlight have made it the most supernaturally significant tree species in the Philippines. To cut down a balete is to invite catastrophe; to pass one at night without showing respect is to court disaster.
The Guiwanon balete is said to be particularly active. Motorists driving past the tree after dark report sudden disorientation — a feeling that the road has shifted or that their vehicle is being pulled toward the shoulder. Some describe seeing a figure standing at the base of the tree that disappears when headlights sweep across it. Others report their engines stalling inexplicably within a few meters of the tree, restarting only after the driver has moved a safe distance away.
The accidents that have occurred near the tree range from minor collisions to fatal crashes, and while road conditions and driver error are practical explanations, the concentration of incidents near a single balete has reinforced the community's conviction that the spirits within are responsible. Local officials have placed additional safety signage along the stretch, but Boholano tradition holds that the only truly effective protection is to quietly say "tabi-tabi po" — "excuse me, please step aside" — as you pass, acknowledging the unseen residents of the tree.