The | Inside the world of Catholic exorcisms in the Philippines

In the predominantly Catholic nation of the Philippines, demand for exorcisms is booming. For believers, the religious practice involves priests expelling evil spirits from people and places believed to be possessed.

Filipino exorcists say there’s been a surge in cases — and that they are engaged in a spiritual war.

But health professionals warn exorcisms can be dangerous, with mental and physical health conditions at risk of being misdiagnosed as spiritual problems.

For 101 East, investigative journalist and presenter Sahar Zand gains rare and exclusive access inside the secretive world of Catholic exorcisms in the Philippines, investigating their impact on the faithful and the vulnerable.

December 2025

Al Jazeera English | 101 East