The Magic of Siquijor

Used to be known as Island of Fire or Isla del Fuego, Siquijor is enveloped by mystic traditions which the growing tourism industry is capitalizing on. The mystical island of Siquijor is known to have magic potions, shamans, witches and sorcerers and for many Filipinos it is never safe to wander at night

Siquijor is generally safe, so there’s no reason not to go there for an enjoyable stay at one of its several nice resorts. However, use standard safety precautions one would use when in an unfamiliar place, since bad things do occasionally happen.

Siquijor Province is an island about 30 km southeast of Negros, south of Cebu and southwest of Bohol. During the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, the Spaniards called the island as Isla del Fuego or Island of Fire because the island gave off an eerie glow, which came from the great swarms of fireflies that gathered in the numerous molave tress on the island.

If you are planning for a trip to the island, read this first — my collection of photos and experiences.

Siquijor does not have an airport and no airplane is going there. In order to reach the island, you must take a ferry or a ship from Dumaguete City. It takes an hour for the ferry or two hours for the ship to arrive in Siquijor. You will experience sailing, and if you’re lucky, you can see dolphins along your way.

You will never see a bus like the Ceres Bus Liner waiting outside the port or a coaster that can take you to your resort or anywhere you want to go. But, there are lots of multicabs and tricycles waiting outside that can bring you to the resort safely. Also, if you know how to drive a motorcycle, you can rent a motorcycle for a couple of hours, a day or the length of your stay. Take note, you can explore the island on your own in a day.

Another one is the San Isidro Labrador Church at Lazi which was built on 1884 and was nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage. Across the church is the biggest convent in the country, the Lazi Convent. The convent is made of stones and was declared by the National Historical Institute as a National Historical Landmark. Other equally beautiful old churches you must visit are the Our Lady of Divine Providence Church in the town of Mariawas, which was built in 1880, and the San Agustin Parish Church in San Juan, which was established as a separate parish in 1863.

In spite of having white beaches that surround the island, Siquijor is much less crowded and more peaceful compared to Boracay. The beach resorts are perfect for a day to relax with nature. Some of the resorts like Salagdoong Beach sometimes has a live band, but most resorts keep the serenity of the place which guests love to experience. You can swim, dive, relax and have fun all day without worrying that it will become noisy, crowded and dirty.

One of the best travel memories I ever had is when I visit this place. You also need to experience this I promise that you are going to enjoy. Come and visit the beautiful place of Siquijor.