The 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. Like some other old churches in the Philippines, its convent served as the hiding place from the pirates and other invaders. Today, it is the center of Catholicism in the province but for a non-Catholic like me, this church is the living witness of the past survived by the province and its people.
Salagdoong Beach
Salagdoong Beach is a prominent beach destination in Siquijor, so expect tourists. I can't deny that this beach has crystal clear waters with a fine white sand shoreline but there are sharp stones and corals. Want a more thrilling experience? This beach has two cliff jump stations that you can try. The ambiance in the area is relaxing because of the man-made landscape which is also picture-perfect. Your day will end with a stunning sunset with the cool sea breeze blowing.
The Naked Island in Surigao
HIYOR-HIYORAN ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur
BOSLON ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur
Lazi Church and Convent
I was stunned by the appearance of Lazi Church and the Convent which are the main tourist destinations in Lazi, Siquijor. The parish became independent in 1857 but the current stone structure, with neoclassical art, was completed in 1884. It was built using the sea stones, coral stones and wood. In 1972, it was declared as a national cultural heritage. Today, it is newly renovated with the walls covered with white.
Century Old Balete Tree, Siquijor
The Century Old Balete Tree is one of the faces of Siquijor and must be visited in the province. It is a fig tree family or known as the "stranger tree" because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kills 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, this old tree, according to stories, is mythical.
Tierra Alta Lighthouse
It is part of Tierra Alta Residential Resort, one of the prime event destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental. This place is perfect for a wedding and other types of gatherings because of its breathtaking scenery, where the natural beauty and the man-made structures are combined with perfection. The lighthouse is comparable to the prominent lighthouse of Batanes, surrounded by well-maintained grass and ornaments.
Red Rock Hot Spring
A gorgeous view of the Red Rock Hot Spring. |
It is indeed another tourist destination in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It started as a family private pool but was expanded due to insistent demands. Red Rock Hot Spring became prominent to tourists and locals because it's a great place to relax. The temperature of the free-flowing spring water ranges from 37.5 to 39.5 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for tired muscles. Plus, the ambience inside the compound is very Asian because of the cottages and plants that surround the pool.