As you visit its top destinations, you will be under a spell of its beauty. Siquijor Province is known as the "Esla del Fuego" or the "island of fire" because of the mystical fireflies. It is believed that if you see these luminous lights, it is an indication that a magic is taking place. By the way, if the province of Capiz is known for their "aswang" and "manananggal," this province is commonly known as "Siquihorror" because of the shamanism and witchcraft. Regardless if it's true or not, I was enchanted by this mystical province.
I met Kuya Leo at the port, a habal driver forward slash a tour guide, as referred by Jay - my friend. From the port, we walked to the main gate where he parked his motorcycle. Maybe because I'm bald and was wearing a stripe pink sando, a magenta colored bag and a shade, we captured the attention of the people we passed by the streets. Anyways, the sun was hot until we reached our first destination.
1. Capilay Spring Park
CAPILAY SPRING PARK is a few minutes from the port and it is where I was welcomed with a strong thunderstorm. Had no choice but to bring out and use my rain coat. Capilay spring park has a pool with three chambers. The free flowing fresh water is cool that can quench the heat of the striking sun and can help tired muscles. This place serves as a venue for family gatherings. The landscape are beautiful with cottages and shops.
2. Tori's Backpackers Paradise
Before we started my adventure, we headed to TORI'S BACKPACKERS PARADISE and checked in. It was off-season, so I was the only one occupying the dorm with 8 double deck beds. We waited for the thunderstorm to stop and headed to the next destination.
3. Century Old Balete Tree
The CENTURY OLD BALETE TREE is one of the faces of Siquijor province. A "balete" is a fig tree family or known as the "stranger tree" because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kill the host tree by strangling them. In Philippine folklore, balete is the house of the tikbalang (horse demon), dwende (elves) and diwata (fairies). Having said that, the old balete tree, according to stories, is mythical like the other balete trees. On its base, there's a pool filled with cool and crystal clear spring water where the fish doctors swim around. If you dip your fee, they will eat your dead skin. Potion and souvenirs are available. Entrance fees are to be collected.
4. Lazi Convent
5. Lazi Church
The LAZI CHURCH is in front of the Lazi Convent. The parish became independent in 1857 but the current stone structure, with neoclassical art, was built in 1884. It was built using the sea stones, coral stones and wood. Today, it is newly renovated with the walls covered with white.
6. Cambugahay Falls
CAMBUGAHAY FALLS is another gem of Siquijor. It is a 3-tiered waterfall with a free flowing cool and crystal clear waters. The area is surrounded with luscious greens that create a relaxing ambiance. And, if you want a thrilling experience, you can try the "tarzan swing." Get a water massage! Water raft can be rented, with a local, to go to the spot where the waters are falling. The locals are also great photographers. Entrance fees are to be collected.
7. Maria Church
8. The Witch Broom
PHOTOSHOOT WITH THE WITCH BROOM is one of the newest tourist spots and destinations. As previously mentioned, the province is known for its witchcraft, so a private residence built a platform where tourists can take a snap photo riding on a witch broom.
9. Salagdoong Beach
SALAGDOONG BEACH is a prominent beach destination, so expect for people. I can't deny that this beach has a crystal clear waters with fine white sand shoreline but there are sharp stones. Want more thrilling experience? Salagdoong has two cliff jump stations that you can try. Restaurant, rooms and toilet and baths are available here. Before reaching this gorgeous place, you will be passing by the beautiful Molave forest.
10. Guiwanon Spring Park
GUIWANON SPRING PARK RESORT is a man made resort situated in the middle of a mangrove forest. Tourists need to walk on the pathway made of wood, passing by some of the cottages that can be rented. The picturesque in the area is good because of the greens, accentuated by the trunk and roots of the mangrove plants. The end of the park is an open hall where you can stay and relax with the cool sea breeze. Entrance fees are to be collected.
11. Siquijor Church
SIQUIJOR CHURCH greets all the visitors as it is situated near the port. It was established in 1783 by the secular priests. It was built using coral stones and initially used cogon for roofing. What's unique about this church is the bell tower built a few meters away from the church and its convent served as the hiding place from the pirates.
After the tiring expedition, Kuya Leo dropped me off at Tori's Backpackers Paradise. Tidy up and enjoyed the serine ambiance of the resort. The rain stopped, so I had a chance to witness the stunning golden sunset. Had my dinner at Tori's restaurant.
Ph: 09354434400
Tori's Backpacker's Paradise
Contact: 09663296863
Location, How to Get to Here, Backpacking Guide: From Manila, you can either take a flight to Dumaguete Airport or Tagbilaran Airport. I highly recommend Manila to Dumaguete Airport because it's cheaper. From Dumaguete Airport, charter a trike to Dumaguete Port. Then, a fast craft ferry. If in Tagbilaran, you need to ride on the shuttle to Island City Mall (ICM) and then charter a trike to the port. Ride a ferry.