Kataw

The Kataw is one of the kinds of merfolk in Philippine Mythology. In Visayan, Kataw was believed to be the highest ranking among the other merpeople or sea creatures, including the Sirena, Sireno, and Siyokoy.

Myths and Legends
It is believed that the Kataws are the reigning rulers of the kingdom Bantay Tubig, the guardians of the water. These marine creatures disguise themselves as fishermen asking for help. When approached by mortals, the Kataws drown them in the ocean depths.

According to old folks, Kataws have the ability to manipulate and control water-type elements and related forces such as pressure, tides, waves, bubbles and the likes. Also, they can change water to ice.

Appearance
Based on physical features, Kataws, along the Sirena and Sireno, were merpeople that are the most human-like in appearance, as opposed to the more monstrous Siyokoy. The Kataw have feet instead of tails like the Sirena, and they have gills and fins across their body.