Do you still remember Lily? Ang “ungo” sa Tuburan. The famous urban legend that reached the entire Visayas and Mindanao.
The legend of Lily is one of Cebu’s most chilling urban tales, passed down through generations to keep both children and adults wary of staying out late at night. According to the story, Lily was a witch cursed by her grandfather, transforming into a mythical creature at night to hunt for her next victim.
The fear of Lily kept many on edge, especially kids who would rush home before 6PM to avoid crossing her path. For some, like the storyteller, the fear wasn’t just about encountering her—it was also her stealing things like slippers, a quirky yet terrifying detail that added to the myth’s grip on the imagination.
Lily’s elusiveness added to the mystery. Despite the community’s best efforts to track her down, she always vanished before she could be caught, keeping the legend alive and the fear palpable. Her story wasn’t just confined to Cebu—it spread across Visayas and Mindanao. Embedding itself in the cultural fabric of the region.
MOVIE BASED ON THE URBAN LEGEND
A movie based on Lily was released in 2016, directed by Keith Deligero. It stars Shaina Magdayao as Lily. The movie was in Bisaya. Despite her Manila upbringing, Shaina took on an entirely Bisaya-speaking role, supported by a speech coach.
Keith Deligero’s personal connection to the legend inspired the film, which offered a nuanced perspective on Lily. The film asks whether she is a misunderstood victim or a true aswang, adding depth to her infamous reputation as a midnight predator.
Ultimately, the film is like a love letter to Cebu’s urban legend, artistry, and people, celebrating the region’s vibrant storytelling tradition and creative potential.
Though the origin of Lily’s tale remains unclear, her legend continues to be one of the most fascinating and bizarre myths that Cebuanos have shared, a mix of fear, humor, and mystery that still sparks conversations today.
Were you one of the kids who rushed home to avoid her, too?
