DUMAGUETE - SIQUIJOR: A Place Where Paranormal Phenomena Abound

Everyone knows what Siquijor is – or so everyone says. It is known as the mystic Land of Fire (Isla del Fuego) – and as the popular tales say – it’s a remote island where paranormal phenomena abound. According to old stories, the island of Siquijor used to be illuminated at night with swarms of fireflies. Another version says this island rose out of the ocean, amidst thunder and lightning, hence the monicker.

Siquijor is more than just witchcraft, love potions, and voodoo dolls! Siquijor offers great beaches, historical churches and amazing waterfalls! And these had triggered me and my friends (Ailyn, & Rubejie) to explore this mystical island last mid-summer of May, 2016. 

It was during that time that we found ourselves not yet too busy with our respective working places and of course to spend time also with our summer vacation together. It was a just a 2-day quick escape/vacation where we stayed at Diamond de Siquijor Beach House. This staycation we had wouldn't be more exciting and successful without the idea of our friend, Ailyn who already knew the place, so, we gave credits to her.

HOW WE GET THERE

From Cebu City, we rode a bus in at least 4 hours to Santander pier/port and from there we took a ferry trip to Sibulan Port in Dumaguete. When we arrived there, we went straight to Dumaguete City Port to buy a ticket to Siquijor. But suddenly, our expected time of the trip to depart was missed due to our error, so we just strolled around the city of Dumaguete first while waiting for the next trip.

We just had our time eating a meal at the Sans Rival, took pictures at still stood and renowned places like Silliman University, Rizal Boulevard, Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres monument, and the streets of Dumaguete. 

After more than an hour of waiting, we then finally rode a ferry to Siquijor and chartered a multicab to take us to Diamond de Siquijor Beach House. It was a peaceful staycation where we also grab the chance to get a wifi connection. And on the next day, we immediately hired a tricycle to take us to an island tour. Yes, it's actually a whole-island land trip where we really explored all the places in Siquijor. Really unbelievable!

When we arrived in Siquijor, One of the things I immediately noticed was that it wasn't as uncrowded as is often said.The roads were mostly empty, but the tourist attractions are a different matter, with their own fanfare. 

During our tour, I did see the appeal of Siquijor: its tranquility and nature attractions. It also smelled the way farm provinces do… with a mixed scent of unkempt grass, trees and animals.

Of the places we've visited here, three were my favorites: Cambugahay Falls with its jungle-like feel and tarzan swings, the Salagdoong Beach, and Guiwanon Spring Park, a lesser-known gem. 

The beaches in San Juan in Siquijor are peaceful but swampy, and my feet are got itched to dip on the refreshing water of cool-blue beaches.

Places We Visited in Siquijor

1.Capilay's Spring Park

2. Old Enchanted BALETE TREE & FISH SPA

3. San Isidro Labrador Church & Lazi Convent

4. Cambugahay Falls

5. Guiwanon Spring Park

6. Paliton Beach

7. Maria Forest and Salagdoong Beach

Siquijor used to be infamous for its legends and has always been described as a mystical island. Now it has been rebranded, reinvented.  For me, I have never really considered Siquijor as superstitious or otherworldly – this island is a synergy of natures beauty and mystery. This small island is one of the most underrated destination where I love the beaches, amazing dive sites, beautiful waterfalls and their historical places.

Somehow, this trip reminded me of my jaunt to Camiguin and Boracay with friends. Though we did see some nicer and astonishing sights there, it was still a trip I'd look back too.