In Philippine mythology, a siyokoy (syokoy) is an aquatic humanoid creature with scales, webbed limbs, and fins. Most folklore accounts describe the siyokoy as being hostile to humans, and are often associated with drownings.
While the siyokoy is often compared to the Western mermaid due to the Philippines' colonial history, its etymology suggests that it is actually of Chinese origin, which is highly plausible given that China-Philippines relations go as far back as 982 AD ), predating Western colonization of both countries.
Etymology
The term siyokoy came from the Hokkien shui gui. In Chinese folklore, shui gui are the spirits drowned people who drag unsuspecting victims underwater and drown them to take possession of their bodies.
Distinguishing characteristic
Compared to Sirena, Sireno, and Kataw who have human features, Siyokoys are of animalic in physical form and structure. Some people describe Siyokoy as...
Intimidating aquatic animals such as eels, octopus, rays and squids usually swim along with Siyokoy.