Getting To Know: SIQUIJOR

Suqijor's white sand and sapphire water

SIQUIJOR, an island believed to have risen from the ocean in an immense storm is also considered the land masked with mysteries and unusual religious beliefs. The Spanish called it the Fire Island or Isla del Fuego. Black art is a famous practice for most people in the island, where many of them take pride in their mystical powers. During holy week, several rituals combined with Christian faith are performed to enhance their supernatural skills.

Siquijor sunset

The island is famous for mangkukulam, healers or sorcerers-individuals who treat ailments and cast maleficent spells. For a certain amount, you can order them to cast a spell against a rival or an enemy; or in contrary one can have a curse reversed or have the effect of spell removed. Each of these sorcerers or commonly called mangkukulam has his own methods during such act, and each of them sell amulets or locally called anting-anting to give a wearer a certain power to avoid him/her from harm. The places where to find them are Siquior town, San Juan or San Antonio.

Apart from these unexplained assets of Siquijor, there is another form of magic enchanting enough to place your mind in peaceful paradise. For travelers who are simply escaping from the fast urban life, the island is a perfect laid back getaway. It is surrounded by uncrowded beaches, unexplored caves, picturesque sunset and varying colors of the sea filled with mysterious sites to discover.

Siquijor Beaches

Magical in every angle, Siquijor in general is an idyllic tropical paradise purely sustained by nature itself. It is a destination far beyond the standard of traveling and reaching places.

The Church of St. Assisi in Lazi town

The best way to discover these scenic spots is by following the 102 km coastal road that rings the whole island by motorcycle or by tricycle. These bikes can be found easily in Larena, the main port of entry for travelers, or in resorts anywhere in the island. Boundless strips of white sand beaches covering every angle of Siquijor are ideal spots for swimming and relaxing. Visit all the stretching coasts of Larena, San Juan, Lazi and other towns. All of which are covered with beaches sheltered under towering coconuts and resorts that are offering varieties of water activities.

Lazi Waterfalls

To get there, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have daily flights from Manila to Dumaguete. Access to Siquijor is via ferry from Dumaguete’s main pier. Although expensive, hiring a private boat is a more convenient option.