Mikael Daez' 'Isla' travel guide to mystical Siquijor

Learn more about the island featured on GMA-7's summer special, "Isla," hosted by Solenn Heussaff and Mikael Daez.

"Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling isla!" (Don't be a stranger on one's own island!)

That was the battle cry of "Isla," GMA-7's 2014 summer special. Hosted by travel junkies Mikael Daez and Solenn Heussaff, the show set out to show off the beauty of the Philippines' islands. "Each year, travel websites and magazines come up with lists of must-see places for tourists," says Mikael. "One thing they have in common is they always mention the Philippines."

So forget Boracay. Here's an underrated island we should be proud of.

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This is part of a series on the islands featured on “Islaâ€Â. Read about other featured destinations: Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental; Lobo, Batangas; Dumaguete, Negros Oriental; El Nido, Palawan; Oslob, Cebu; Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental

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Magical, mystical, and mysterious: These words are often used to describe Siquijor Island. While the place is known for its traditions of sorcery, visitors agree that Siquijor's friendly people and breathtaking natural features are as enchanting as the island's folklore.

What to see

The only way to get to this province is via a one-hour boat ride from the pier of Dumaguete City. Dumaguete can be reached by a one-hour flight from Manila or via ferry or ro-ro bus from Cebu.

One of the accessible attractions in Siquijor is Capilay Spring Park, situated right in the middle of the town of San Juan. This natural cold spring was converted to resemble a swimming pool. It is open to the public 24 hours a day. Capilay is also surrounded by trees and greens, making it a perfect picnic spot.


Ocean-lovers can visit Salagdoong, a white sand beach in the town of Maria, only 30 minutes away from San Juan by jeep, tricycle, or private van. Its beautiful sights and affordable rates make Salagdoong appealing to both tourists and locals. If you're adventurous, try taking a leap off Salagdoong's famous cliff diving site.



If you prefer quiet time and seclusion, Cambugahay Falls is the place for you. Cambugahay Falls is located just a few steps from the main road of the town of Lazi. Locals believe that bathing here relieves the weary. Enchanted or not, Cambugahay's curtain-like waterfalls and shady trees will charm you.

What to do

Some tourists visit Siquijor to consult with the local folk healers. Annie Ponce, a folk healer from San Antonio, Siquijor, shares that she has inherited her traditional healing practices from her father. Annie uses prayers, oils, herbal teas and smoke to cure people's illnesses.

During his visit, Mikael met Francoise Greenacre, a Spanish tourist who often experiences stomach pain. To address Francoise's concern, Annie prayed, gave the tourist a massage, wrapped her in a blanket, and surrounded her with smoke. The healing ritual is concluded with a mug of herbal tea.

"I do feel like something magical is going on. It seems like she really knows what part of me needs attention," Francoise shared. "I feel relaxed for the moment. I hope I feel even better effects later on."

[RELATED: 48 Hours in Siquijor: A "Biyahe ni Drew" itinerary]



Folk healers like Annie are easy to find once you're in Siquijor since many of them have banners and signs that are posted right outside their houses.

Where to stay



As its name implies, Salamangka Beach and Dive Resort in San Juan promises visitors a magical experience. This resort offers large pools, spacious rooms, a dive shop, gym, and spa. Salamangka is also famous for its mouthwatering brick oven pizza. Accommodations range from P2,480 to P8,960 a night.

Where to eat

For a more traditional gastronomic experience, visit Lilibeth's Pan Bisaya at Barangay Binoongan, Enrique Villanueva. Prepared by Lilibeth Alce, the pan de bisaya sold here is said to be famous all throughout Siquijor. This tasty pastry is stuffed with bokayo and cooked using a wood-fired oven.



Pastry lover Mikael recommends eating pan de bisaya with coffee. "It's happiness. It's the bomb."

Lilibeth's Pan Bisaya also sells bokayo, ensaymada, and bibingka.

What to buy for pasalubong

Other than pastries like pan de bisaya, bokayo, ensaymada, and bibingka, Siquijor is also famous for its bulul statues. These wooden statues were originally carved by early Filipinos to ensure an abundant harvest. Today, bulul sculptures are sold all over Siquijor as souvenirs. –Lara Gonzales/PF, GMA News

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This is part of a series on the islands featured on "Isla." Read more:
Solenn Heussaff's "Isla" travel guide to Lobo, Batangas
Mikael Daez's "Isla" travel guide to laid-back Dumaguete
Solenn Heussaff's "Isla" travel guide to stunning El Nido, Palawan
Mikael Daez's "Isla" travel guide to 'glamping' in Oslob, Cebu
Solenn Heussaff’s ‘Isla’ travel guide to pristine Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental