Nuno sa Punso

Sources present the nuno sa punso not as a single narrated cosmogonic origin but as a class of localized spirits; the name literally links an elderly/ancestor figure (nuno, "old man" or "grandparent") with a mound (punso), framing these beings as ancestral or elder presences inhabiting and protecting particular spots on the land. They appear in folk explanations that marry ancestor-respect, land guardianship, and social etiquette—people are taught to ask permission before passing or altering the site and to make offerings or petition an albularyo if illness follows a perceived transgression.

Described in the sources as small and dwarf-like, typically taking the form of a small old man often said to have a long beard. Informants and summaries characterize the nuno as a mound-dweller but note they may occupy anthills/termite mounds (punso) and also locations 'underneath large rocks, trees, riverbanks, caves, or a backyard.' Detailed iconography is sparse in the supplied materials, but the consistent motif is a diminutive, elderly male figure associated with a specific natural feature.

The nuno functions as a territorial guardian and punitive spirit: it is said to harm or curse people who damage or disturb its mound or territory. Specific afflictions recorded include swelling or pain of any part of the body, vomiting blood, urinating black liquid, excessive hair growth on the back, and swollen feet or genitals depending on the transgression. A cited mechanism is that the nuno can spit on a trespasser's body if in close proximity, producing localized aches or soreness. Sources also state nunos are "said to be able to sense goodness and evil," revealing themselves to those who 'radiate purity' and avoiding or making ill those with skepticism or cynicism. When landscapes are modernized or urbanized, nunos are reported in sources to 'often flee, die, or go further down into the earth.' An account also records a violent neutralization—catching and crushing the nuno's head between fingers or thighs will remove its spell—though sources caution this is often not recommended because of possible retaliation by the nuno's kin or companions.