BALETE DRIVE – Here are facts and stories about the alleged haunted street located in New Manila, Quezon City.
Balete Drive is known as one of the most haunted places in the area. The road was named after the large balete tree, is located in New Manila, Quezon City. Many people are afraid to pass through this place, especially at night.
There are numerous reports of sightings of various supernatural entities and spirits along this road. One of the most famous of these is the “White Lady,” which is said to be the spirit of a young woman who met a tragic end on Balete Drive.
According to the stories, the ghost of a woman, dressed in a long white gown, roams the street during the night. She is often seen by drivers, especially those who travel alone.
Numerous drivers have reported seeing the White Lady. She is usually described as having long black hair, pale skin, and a flowing white dress. Some accounts mention her appearing suddenly in the middle of the road, causing drivers to swerve to avoid hitting her.
Others claim she appears in the backseat of vehicles through the rear-view mirror, only to disappear when the driver looks back.
Those who encounter her often report feeling an overwhelming sense of dread and coldness. In some cases, drivers have mentioned the car stalling or experiencing mechanical issues after an encounter with the ghost.
The origin of this legend can be traced back to several stories and a couple of movies. One movie directed by Tor Villano in 1954 and another by Peque Gallaga in 1988 helped popularize this urban legend.
Balete Drive is named after the balete trees that line the road. These trees, known for their large, winding roots and eerie appearance, add to the mystical aura of the place. In Filipino folklore, balete trees are often associated with supernatural beings such as tree giants known as “Kapre” and other spirits.
While many believe in the stories, others dismiss them as mere urban legends. Skeptics argue that the sightings can be explained by psychological factors, such as the power of suggestion and the human mind’s tendency to see patterns in randomness.