“The Mystic Island”
The whole island of Siquijor was declared a marine reserve and tourist zone in 1978 by virtue of Proclamation No. 1810. As such, the island-province will be developed into a major tourist destination under the supervision of the Philippine Tourism Authority.
Known for its scenic beauty and archaic churches, Siquijor is also blessed with natural and historical attractions. Its unspoiled environment and the warm hospitality of its people never fail to beckon visitors from all over. The serenity of the whole province makes it ideal for a perfect getaway.
To say that Siquijor is the most bewitching island in the country is stating the very obvious. This mystic land of fire is not only famous for magic potions, sorcerers, and witches. It’s also famous for it’s white sand beaches, entrancing waterfalls, fascinating caves, and centuries-old churches.
DID YOU KNOW THAT?
- The Spaniards (who tried to take over the Philippines) used to call Siquijor “Isla del Fuego” or the “Island of Fire”. This is because of the large swarms of fireflies found in the island.
- Siquijor holds a “Healing Festival” once a year. This is a great time to visit and witness faith healers as they heal different illnesses with nothing but prayers and rituals.
- Siquijor is known as the island of spells and black magic so prepare yourself for hearing lots of scary stories!
- Before it was called as such, Siquijor was dubbed by the first Spaniards who saw it as “Isla de Fuego” which literally means “Island of Fire”. That was because of the eerie glow the island gave off when viewed from afar – this was actually caused by the swarms of fireflies that are currently living on the molave trees on the island. A crew from Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s expedition led by Esteban Rodriguez departed and landed on the island. Upon landing there, they met the island’s ruler, King Kihod.Due to a misunderstanding, they treated the king’s introduction as the name of the island itself – King Kihod uttered the words “Si Kihod” which means “I am Kihod”. Thus, the island was then named as “Sikihod” spelled as “Siquijod” in Spanish. It was then changed into Siquijor because the Spaniards found it hard to pronounce the said name.In 1783, Siquijor(not the province but the town) officially became the first municipality and parish on the island. It was governed by the archdiocese of Cebu but was under Bohol when it came to civil administration. More parishes were created in the island after the arrival of the Augustinian order. Every municipality in Siquijor were established as parishes by 1877 with the exception of Enrique Villanueva.Before the Americans came, Siquijor was part of Negros Oriental. It became a subprovince on 1901.
The Curious Minds 