The film received negative reviews from critics. Mario Hernando, film critic for the television program
Movie Magazine, gave the film two stars out of five. Meg Mendoza of the
Manila Standard was more negative, writing that the film had predictable and manipulative horror scenes, as well as tedious pacing, though she commended the special effects and the performances of Villarroel and Manaloto. Overall, Mendoza expressed disappointment, stating that "we could hardly believe it was directed by award-winning director Peque Gallaga, who gave us the magnum opus
Oro, Plata, Mata. However,
Lav Diaz, who also wrote for the
Manila Standard, gave high praises to the film, stating that "films like
Tiyanak, even when it is horror, are the ones that will save or contribute quality to the development of Filipino cinema.... One thing that elevates this film is its success in achieving its ambition – to scare. [It is] really scary." In 2000, historian
Ambeth Ocampo stated that "[
Tiyanak] is a horror film so camp and funny it is downright memorable." ==Accolades==