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| Map of Siquijor (photo from the web) |
The smallest province in Central Visayas and most likely one
of the smallest provinces in the Philippines
is the magical island of Siquijor also identified as “Isla de Fuego” (Island of Fire) by its Spanish colonizers, owing
to the swarm of fireflies that glow at night. It consists of six towns that ease
exploring the island in couple of hours with a ready transport.
Even with its small size, Siquijor is bewitching in more
ways one can imagine. It is pack with fairly tempting swimming spots like
natural springs, white sand beaches and multi-tiered waterfalls. Spelunking and
hiking trails are preferences just as fascinating.
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| "lumay" (photo from the web) |
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| "bolo-bolo" performed by a local healer |
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| old balete tree (photo from the web) |
The island itself is legendary for its way of life. The
lifestyle revolve in folk healing (like bolo-bolo), hushed talks of
supernatural and the rumored tradition of sorcery which keep Siquijor shrouded
in air of mystery. This quirky attraction in fact, contributes to the growing
tourism industry of the island and the locals benefit more in marketing lumay
(concoctions), trinkets and amulets to interested tourists.
Other intriguing activity that enthralled more tourists in
this island is prominent during holy week when faith healers and spiritualists
or shaman convene and perform certain rituals to rejuvenate and replenish their
healing power.
Visiting the mystical island
of Siquijor is trouble-free with the scheduled
trips coming from Cebu or Negros Oriental.
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