Legend says , many years ago , when the enchanting island of Siquijor was still no where to be found, a great storm hit the visayan region and a super strong earthquake  shook the earth and sea. In the middle of lightning and thunder suddenly appeared an island from the depths of the sea. 

This is it! – I guess this would be the best way to start an article. 

They say the Island of Siquijor is known through out the country as an enchanting island with full of mysteries. Out of curiousity and to make it more interesting . I took a trip around the Island of Siquijor trying to scare myself . *wink

They say , Siquijor has a number of healers and witches, but we chose to stay a little bit longer. Regardless of its dark reputation , there are so many things to see  and experience in this tiny , peaceful and enchanting island. 

Our itinerary started with a visit to St. Francis of Assisi Church , which is just so close to to the pier. We also went to the Lazi convent which gives you a distinct feeling of traveling back to the days when the province of Siquijor was a concrete image of an  old traditions and rural tranquility. Church’s entrance welcomes you its massive doors and greets you with an old musty smell which will remind you at once of its long ago richness and splendor.

The building used to be the place of recreation by the friars . Built with a ground floor  made of a thick stone layer and the second level made of hardwood . The construction began in 1887 and finished in 1891. Lazi Convent is known as the biggest convent in Asia.

And since we are talking about dark tourism and to add eeriness, spookiness and scariness. Check out the biggest Balete tree , not in the whole world but the biggest Balete tree in Siquijor .

Our group would not enjoy the tour if we miss the falls in Siquijor. We love Philippine water falls so good thing there is Cambugahay Falls . Taking a 20 minute short trek is the only way to get to the area . The area has a several small and multi level falls inviting you to swim or just simply dipping your legs to it. 

The Island of Siquijor is located in the central visayas , Philippines and the main town is called Siquijor Town.

Other Things to do in Siquijor:

Caving- The island has 6 caves  and Cantabon is well known. It is easy to explore and anyone will surely enjoy the thrill of spelunking in Siquijor.

Today Siquijor invites everyone to visit a real paradise in central visayas. The island is continously trying to get rid of the common misconception that it is an island of sorcery and witchcraft and instead emphasizing its natural landmarks and attractions.

The Spaniards called Siquijor Isla del Fuego or “Island of Fire,” because the island gave off an eerie glow.Siquijor is considered by many Filipinos to be a mystical island, full of witches and other supernatural phenomena.

Island of Siquijor was also attacked during the world war II. Japanese soldiers arrived and occupied the island form 1942-1943. In year 1943 japanese forces  abandoned the island when the liberation forces came in year 1944. Local filipino soldiers fought against Japanese forces at the end of world war II.

Siquijor island is very laidback and an island forgotten by time. Great place of white sand beaches, old balete trees and virgin forests, real people and genuine paradise. A perfect place for a weekend holiday. A perfect island for a magic. Yes , in Siquijor  magic does exist. 

I was hoping that the island of Siquijor becomes a major travel destination. The island is relatively rich in natural resources and unspoiled tourist landmarks. Siquijor is not a place to be feared. What we should be feared of is when a clean and clear waters and well kept beaches would be littered  with plastic wrappers and junks all over the place. Look at what’s happening to Boracay now. Beautiful forests being scraped to the ground and the entire beaches being paved over. Imagine the whole cliffs being pulled down. That’s even more scary that all those tales of strange happenning in the island of Siquijor.