Witchcraft in Siquijor? Why Siquijor is known as the “Island of Witches”?

Siquijor is an island known as the “Island of Witches “. The question is how did Siquijor island get its name as the” Island of Witches ” in the first place? I Myself was so intrigued by this island a very long time ago. And hearing people say that Siquijor is a mystic island of witches kinda stop me from going to the place back then. So I did I little bit of research about the Island. I find out it all started during Spain’s colonization. For the record, Siquijor is actually called Isla de Fuego” or Island of fire due to the swarming of fireflies at night around molave trees that made them glow.

During the voyage of the Spaniard’s. Crew members of the ship started to get ill that force them to stop by at the nearest island which happens to be Siquijor Island. They Asked helped from the locals for a cure. But after witnessing the traditional healing method of the Siquijor people, Spaniards distance themselves from the so-called sorceries and witches. So that’s how Siquijor island gets its name as the Island of Witches. Some locals claimed that these people use magic in doing their jobs serving as shamans, Sorcerers, and witches for those who are seeking their services.

Sorcerers are locally referred to “mambabarang”. They use their power to inflict pain, disease, or even death on their client’s enemies. On the other hand, Shamans are locally referred to as “mananambal”. They are the healers who use their magic to heal diseases and illnesses that are caused by supernatural causes. They claimed that their powers are given by saints or the spirits of dead people.

Healing place

The people of Siquijor like the island to be referred to as a healing place. Many people have tried to document and explore what the mystery really is. And I am one of those. I wanted to see it for myself. I wanted to see the place that they call the Island of witchcraft.

This mystery is known throughout history. That until now older people from other islands are afraid when they hear Siquijor Island. Not until they were able to land their own feet and witness the beauty of this place. It’s the magic and the enchantress destinations are the reasons why people are very much interested in the province.

Trust me on this. You’ll quickly put all those hearsays behind your back and ask yourself “ Why in the first place people are afraid of this place?”. You’ll surely get amazed by the Island’s pristine white sand beaches, turquoise water, lush hiking trails, mysterious caves, incredible reefs, sublime snorkel spots, and dreamy waterfalls.

Vacationer’s Paradise

One thing that I love about the place is I got a sense of peace during my stay there. As with most islands in the Visayas, Siquijor is a vacationer’s paradise. Coming from a busy city life Siquijor was a true delight, From the moment you disembark the ferry you know, it’s going to be special. As a traveler you can feel the vibration of the place, The ambiance tells you the calmness of the island. You can’t find luxurious resorts yet, the nightlife is like chilling in the bars just by listening to island vibe music and chit chat with friends. As a traveler, it’s perfectly understandable to visit hyped places. But Siquijor will give you a fresh and authentic perspective of island life. It is a safe and remote island with charming people.

I would suggest you go around Siquijor with no real destination, chill, and take it all. Beautiful sights and spots await that’s worth to see.

Here are some awesome spots to check on :

Lugnason Falls

A trek in the forest takes you to a set of 12 waterfalls, that corresponds to one of the signs of the zodiac. Just taking a moment to immerse yourself in the tropical forest plus the place has no many people around.

Coco Grove Resort

Coco Grove Resort is the largest resort on the island with a 1 kilometer-long private beach and tropical gardens everywhere inside. That made it the best spot to watch the magnificent sunsets of Siquijor. The resort has its own marine sanctuary which you can snorkel at. It also organizes dive tours, diving courses, other water sports, and tours of the island.

Kagusuan beach

Kagusuan Beach is one of the most remote beaches on the island, kinda wild. You likely have the beach almost for yourself. The scenery is Instagram-worthy and the rocks make a great photo session. Kagusuan seawater is perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Century-Old Enchanted Balete Tree

The Balete tree in Campalanas is believed to be about 400 years old.
Another peculiarity of this tree species is that it is believed to be enchanted. They possess spiritual powers and are home to folklore spirits called Tikbalangs. Tikbalangs are said to play tricks on visitors!
Right next to it is a small pool where you can dip your feet ad enjoy a free feet spa session.

Salagdoong Beach

Salagdoong Beach is a public beach boasting crystal clear waters.
It is one of the most popular beaches in Siquijor. The main attraction though is the diving platforms embedded in the rock formation. It took me a lot of courage to jump off the 22 feet, high diving board. That was terrifying but once the jumping part is over indeed the best feeling ever.

Cambuhagay Falls

Make sure to try the Tarzan swing from one of the many vines. It is one of the most precious waterfalls in the Philippines. The waterfall consists of multi-layered cascading falls with clean, vibrant turquoise water originating from natural springs.

Paliton Beach

I love the uniqueness of Paliton beach. Are you a sunset lover? Sunset on this beach gives serenity and melancholic ambiance. Siquijor has one of the best sunsets ever. Paliton is known for its pristine waters, white fine sand, and amazing sunsets with the line up of huge palm trees. They also have these Insta worthy thingy props around where you can photoshoot.

Also, they do have this diving spot where you can see the school of barracudas, ask the locals where you can find it. I visited Siquijor island for the second time for the love of diving. it was superb! You might wanna check that spot too.
This remote island is a true delight to explore. It’s charming in every possible way.
Oh, and the people will greet you with a genuine smile on their face. I can sum up that Siquijor Island is witchcraft with majestic beauty.

Another place I enjoy visiting and it has a majestic power is Catanduanes.