The remote island of Siquijor is unique among all other islands of the Philippines. Yes, the topography of Siquijor may be similar with the other islands. Its reputation, though, stands out. It is widely known since ancient times as a stronghold for witchcraft, magic, and folk healing.

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Known as the Mystic Island of Central Visayas, Siquijor is the smallest of the four provinces of Central Visayas. Siquijor is the southernmost island in the Visayas Group of Islands. It is around 30 kilometers southeast of Negros Island and about 50 kilometers from the closest point of northwestern Mindanao. Siquijor is composed of six municipalities namely Enrique Villanueva, Larena, Lazi, Maria, San Juan, and Siquijor – all located on the narrow flood plains and deltas around the coast. The interior portion of the island is either hilly or mountainous, rising to a central peak is Mount Bandilaan at 557 meters above sea level.

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Discovered by Esteban Rodriguez and Juan Aguirre of the Legazpi Expedition in 1565, it was known to the Spanish conquistadors as Isla del Fuego or Island of Fire. Story has it that the Spaniards were mesmerized by thousands of flickering lights that enveloped the island’s shoreline. The sailors might have thought the island was ablaze with mystical fire but in reality, the light was emanating from fireflies swarming the foliage of Molave trees.

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Siquijor may be small in size, but the island province is huge on adventure. It is a haven for divers, hikers, bikers, adrenaline junkies, and nature lovers. White sandy beaches cover the 102 kilometers of shoreline surrounding the island while mangroves and marine sanctuaries are aplenty, providing a safe haven for its pristine marine life. Siquijor’s crown jewel, however, is Cambugahay Falls and is the island’s most sought after natural attraction.

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Siquijor has a notorious reputation for Barang or sorcery and Kulam or witchcraft. While this may be true, the island is also home to Mananambal who channel the healing powers of rituals, prayers, and herbal medicine to do good. Centuries old tradition of concocting potions and folk healing are still being practiced to this day and used as alternative medicine. Every year, folk healers would gather at Mount Bandilaan to “renew” their connection with nature and put together fresh brews of potions. People from all corners come in search of healing from negative energies brought by pride, envy, and hatred, and expel sickness and evil spells, or to attract love and food fortune.

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Visit Siquijor, the magical island of fire and enchantment!