Entering the Land of Faith Healing – Siquijor, Siquijor
As we docked and disembarked into the port of Siquijor, Siquijor, what immediately got my attention is how clean the water is.
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The Land of Faith Healing: strange as it seems, travelling to the island of Siquijor will raise eyebrows once mentioned because of its reputation for the black arts. Even the older generations still practices and believes in witchcraft and sorcery; although at present time it is still practiced in a less prevalent scale.
Let Transit Pinas take you on a journey of unveiling what hides behind the peculiar stories and legends surrounding the mystic island of Siquijor and why you should start packing your bags and discover for yourself what awaits inside the Isla Del Fuego.
Siquijor, Siquijor
I tried to catch some zzzz’s inside the fast craft to provide me with the energy I need for the Siquijor day trip. As soon as the vessel departed from the Port of Dumaguete, I tried to catch some sleep. After an hour, they announced that we are nearing the island of Siquijor.
The shallow sea water was more than beautiful than any other port that I have seen so far (Also include the boat port in Biri, Northern Samar). From the both sides of the concrete causeway, the waters are so inviting that I could go in for a swim anytime. The port beach in the town of Siquijor in Siquijor is really more than enough.
Contrary to trash ridden piers in the country, this one is clearly a stand out. The fine white sand along the beach is devoid of any litter and floating plastic and garbage. Moreover, it was full of kids playing and locals tending to their daily activities.
Welcome To Siquijor!
Not from afar our tour guide, Kuya Raul Gom-os waived his hands in the air as we talked over the phone checking out where his location is.
We rode the tricycle and ventured out into the nearby Welcome To Siquijor Sign. The St. Francis de Assisi Church looming in the background of the sign is the first stop of the usual Siquijor Tricycle Tour.
As we waited for our turn to have our photos, tourists started to flock the little plaza where the sign stood. The Sunday gospel in the usual Cebuano language boomed from inside the small church across the street.
Simbahan ng Siquijor
Siquijor Church as the locals call it is located just a few meters away from the port where a convent also stands. According to the NHI marker posted on the right side of the coral stone church, it was said to be built in 1783 and is said to have a Nipa roof back then before being converted into the present galvanized iron roofing.
I was not able to fully appreciate the interiors of the church due to the ongoing Sunday Mass. The church facade is a little subdued and petite but once you looked inside, it goes pretty deep.
The interiors are very basic without any grand chandeliers, intricately carved woodworks nor elaborate paintings. It is just pure white with a basic cruciform plan.
Not far away from the church is the Bell Tower or campanaryo made from Adobe stones. It stands on top of the hilly part of the plaza that is said to be used by the natives to watch out for marauders.
The morning sun is clearly blinding and starting to get really hot. After spending a few minutes around the area, we carried on to the next part of the tricycle tour to the town of San Juan.
Onwards!
Towering Palms and Creamy White Sands – Paliton Beach, Siquijor
How To Get There
- This is part of the Siquijor Tricycle Day Tour hosted by Kuya Raul Gom-os (09355965465)
- Santa Fe St, Siquijor, 6225 Siquijor
- Entrance Fee: None
- Tricycle Tour: 1000php Standard Rate/Day Tour
Demystifying Isla del Fuego: From Black Magic Maria, love potions, Voodoo Dolls, broomstick rides, century old churches and convent, up to the stunning waterfalls and beaches. Let Transit Pinas take you on a day trip across SIQUIJOR as he uncovers the brighter side beyond the esoteric and peculiar charm of the province. Follow this adventure series into the Land of Faith Healing, as I ventured into my 56th province last September 09, 2018. Umari kamo niing matahum nga dapit!
Demystifying Isla del Fuego – Siquijor 2018 Series
Siquijor Travel Guide
Entering the Land of Faith Healing – Siquijor, Siquijor
Towering Palms and Creamy White Sands – Paliton Beach
Hauntingly Beautiful – Lazi’s Century Old Balete Tree
From Broomsticks to Eerie Convent Halls – Lazi Church and Convent
Tarzan Swings and Enchanting Cascades – Cambugahay Falls
Taking A Leap of Faith – Salagdoong Beach, Siquijor
Black Magic Maria – Siquijor’s Our Lady of Divine Providence Church
