Anito (ᜀᜈᜒᜆᜓ) refers to spirits, deities, or ancestral entities in indigenous Filipino animistic beliefs. In pre-colonial Philippines, these spirits were seen as guardians or protectors, connected to the natural world, ancestors, or specific forces of nature. The term anito encompasses various supernatural beings, including:
- Ninuno (ᜈᜒᜈᜓᜈᜓ) – These are spirits of deceased family members who are believed to continue watching over and guiding their descendants. Ancestral anito were honored through prayers and offerings to seek protection and blessings.
- Diwata (ᜇᜒᜏᜆ) – Filipinos believed that spirits inhabited natural elements like rivers, mountains, trees, and fields. These spirits could bring either blessings or misfortune depending on how people treated them, so rituals were conducted to maintain harmony with these forces.
- Bathala (ᜊᜆ᜔ᜑᜎ) – Some anito were more powerful deities associated with elements like the sun, moon, harvest, and war. They were often at the top of the spiritual hierarchy, and people sought their favor for major life events or seasonal ceremonies.
The anito belief system emphasizes a close relationship with nature and the importance of honoring ancestors and the spirit world. In everyday life, Filipinos would make offerings, say prayers, and conduct rituals to show respect for anito and ensure blessings, protection, and peace within the community.