Syokoy Allegedly Attacked Grade 12 Student in Masbate
The body of a Grade 12 student was found in Barangay Marcella, Uson, Masbate, six days after he fell off a motorized boat while fishing.
The “syokoy” is a creature from Filipino folklore, often described as a type of merman or sea monster. In Filipino mythology, syokoy are said to inhabit the waters, particularly in the seas and oceans, and are sometimes portrayed as malevolent beings.
Syokoy are typically described as having humanoid features combined with aquatic traits. They might have greenish skin, scales, webbed hands and feet, and sometimes fins or other fish-like attributes.
Folklore suggests that syokoy can be dangerous to humans. They are sometimes believed to attack fishermen or swimmers, dragging them underwater.
On Wednesday afternoon (June 12, 2024), the body of the victim, Arnel Mijares, was discovered in a mangrove area, partially decomposed. Arnel had fallen from the boat while fishing with two friends on June 5, 2024.
According to reports, only half of Arnel’s body remained intact. This led his family to believe he was attacked by a “syokoy,” a mythical sea creature known in Filipino folklore. They noted the severe damage to the soft parts of his body.
The Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Uson provided a more scientific explanation. They stated that the prolonged exposure to seawater likely caused the body’s decomposition, which could explain the missing flesh.
Arnel had recently graduated from Senior High School and was a significant help to his single mother in supporting their family. His tragic and untimely death has left the community in shock and mourning.
This incident points out the dangers faced by those who rely on the sea for their livelihood and the importance of safety measures during fishing trips.
In a similar report, 3 residents allegedly attacked by hairy, yellow sea creature in Digos City
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