The Island of Fire Is Known for Witchcraft, but There’s More to the Story
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Siquijor, known as the Island of Fire, is a captivating province in Central Visayas, Philippines.
Its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and mystical aura have drawn curious travelers for centuries.
But beyond its natural beauty lies a rich tapestry of folklore, healing traditions, and “Siquijor witchcraft”.
I could still remember the time that an acquaintance of mine asked if Siquijor witchcraft was real when he found out that I lived an island away from the province.
I wasn’t sure how to answer that but I assured him that Siquijor has a charm that will enchant you when you visit it.
This effect makes you want to come back and be in a beautiful trance over and over again. I can vouch for that.
My words may not exactly answer his question but in this article, I’ll talk about my first-hand experience when I went to a faith healer in Isla del Fuego.
Let’s dive into the secrets of Siquijor witchcraft and explore the island’s enigmatic past.
History of Siquijor Witchcraft
Siquijor is often called the “Island of Witches.” But how did it earn this mystical reputation?
During Spain’s colonization, Siquijor was originally known as “Isla de Fuego” or the “Island of Fire.”
The name came from the mesmerizing sight of fireflies swarming around molave trees, creating a luminous glow at night.
But fate intervened when a Spanish ship’s crew fell ill during their voyage. Desperate for a cure, they sought help from the locals on the nearest island—Siquijor.
However, witnessing the islanders’ traditional healing methods, which involved “sorcery” and “magic”, made the Spaniards uneasy.
They distanced themselves from what they perceived as witchcraft, leading to the island’s new moniker: the “Island of Witches.”
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Types of Siquijor Witchcraft
1. Faith Healers 🕊️
Faith healers in Siquijor rely on the power of prayer to mend ailments.
They channel positive energy and invoke divine intervention to bring healing to those in need.
These healers have deep spiritual connections and are respected for their unwavering faith.
2. Herbal Healers 🌿
Herbal healers possess extensive knowledge of local plants and their medicinal properties.
Natural sources such as tree barks, roots, herbs, and even insects collected from the island’s enchanted forests.
These natural concoctions address modern health issues, proving that ancient wisdom still holds relevance.
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3. Bolo-Bolo Healers 🪨
The bolo-bolo healers offer a unique approach. They wield a glass of water containing a mysterious black stone.
This stone believed to hold special powers, becomes their tool for healing. The ritual combines elements of Roman Catholicism with ancient shamanistic traditions.
Where to Find the Healers?
While herbal healers reside around the mountainous regions of San Antonio and Cantabon, faith healers are scattered throughout Siquijor.
For an encounter with bolo-bolo healers, venture near Tulapos and Bitaug. Locals, ever friendly, can guide you to these authentic practitioners.
During our recent visit to Siquijor, while looking for a faith healer, we stumbled upon one in the most unexpected way—right on the road!
As we paused in the middle of the road, we asked a passing motorcycle rider if they could guide us to where we could find a healer.
Little did we know that we were conversing with one at that very moment!
Remarkably, this healer is also the source of the mystical healing potions displayed near the Old Enchanted Balete Tree.
Godofredo “Taloy” Umbalino is not only a faith healer but he is also a herbal healer.
We decided to go with them to experience their traditional healing method at Upper Cabancalan, Lazi, where his house is located.
We talked about the wood that they were carrying when we found them. They are woods from the Kaningag tree near Cantabon.
These woods are the main source of his herbal potions such as the “himag” oil, Manzanilla, and love potions.
My friend and I also experienced the ritual smoke or “palina”.
It is believed that this traditional practice has several effects including purification and cleansing, physical healing, spiritual connection, and psychological comfort.
Mang Taloy also did palm reading to me and my friend. I will not go into details about what he sees based on the marks on my palm but I hope the positive ones will come true.
We talked more about the concoctions that he has in his house and how to use them such as the Manzanilla that is commonly used for children when they’re ill.
The “himag” oil which I guess is an all-purpose medicine that you can apply to the area where it hurts (like a tummy ache) or drink a small amount of it.
For the love potions, the famous concoction that everyone seems to be interested in and always asked if effective, he told us that love potions don’t only serve for the romantic love aspect but it’s also used to attract fortune.
You have to apply some of the potions on the object that you want to be lucky.
For example, if my friend has a motor rental shop, she can rub some of the potions on some or all of the motorcycles that she owns to attract more customers.
He also gave each one of us a charm or amulet that is believed to protect us from danger, negative energies, and other unfortunate events.
Finally, we paid Mang Taloy’s potions for only Php 100 each, which is a very discounted price compared to the potions displayed in Siquijor souvenir shops or at the Old Enchanted Balete Tree.
The price range there is from Php 250 to Php 350 per potion.
We wrapped up half of our day with a hearty lunch at Hapitanan, a place where you can take a photo while riding a broom.
We talked about how good our experience was doing the traditional healing practice and how knowledgeable, friendly, and welcoming Mang Taloy and his family are.
Siquijor Healing Festival
Every Holy Week, Siquijor hosts the Healing Festival, a celebration where pilgrims flock to the island seeking cures for illnesses, emotional wounds, and spiritual cleansing.
❓ What’s the Buzz About ❓
- The Healing Ritual: Picture this: healers gather at the sacred foot of Mount Bandilaan during Holy Week. They bring along their precious herbs and potions. Hundreds of curious souls flock to witness this ancient magic firsthand. It’s like a cosmic pharmacy!
- A Blend of Faith: The festival kicks off with a Holy Mass, symbolizing the island’s fusion of indigenous ways and Catholic beliefs. Siquijor healers aren’t the wild-eyed witches you see in movies.
- Rules of the Game: During the festival, some strict rules apply. No liquor, no smoking, no burning garbage or leaves. Plastic? Forget it! Even cooking with firewood is a no-no. Why? Well, the spirits that inhabit the island don’t take kindly to such shenanigans.
- Spiritual Prep: Healers start their preparations right after Ash Wednesday. They venture into the mountains, forests, and seas of Siquijor to gather herbs, bark, and wood. Coconut oil is a star ingredient, but it must come from a coconut tree that faces the Eastern sun.
- Seven Sacred Fridays: Healers can only collect their potion ingredients on the seven Fridays between Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. It’s like a secret dance with nature, respecting the lost spirits that wander the island.
Is Siquijor Known for Love Potion?
Yes, Siquijor is famed for its love potions.
Locals believe these elixirs can ignite passion, mend broken hearts, or bind lovers forever. Whether you seek romance or curiosity, love potions are part of Siquijor’s allure.
But for singles and very career-oriented people, love potions also attract fortunes.
As I said, if you have a love potion, you can rub some of it on any object that you want to attract luck.
If you’re curious about what’s inside this potion, it consists of herbs, pieces of rolled paper with writings on them, and very fragrant perfume.
You can choose any perfume or colognes you want to add to this potion.
Siquijor Witchcraft in the Modern Days
During the Spanish colonization, Siquijor was dubbed as the “Island of Witches” due to the Spaniards’ discomfort with the Siquijor’s traditional practices.
Fast forward to today, and Siquijor remains a haven for traditional healers known as “mananambal”.
These wise souls carry forward the ancient healing arts, a testament to their rich cultural heritage.
Tourists are drawn to this mystical island, where modern life coexists with age-old practices.
How to Experience Siquijor Witchcraft?
- Visit a Healer: Seek out a faith healer or herbalist. Listen to their stories and learn about traditional remedies. I recommend Mang Taloy of Lazi, Siquijor.
- Attend the Healing Festival: If you happen to be on the island during the Holy Week, join the annual festival and witness the convergence of faith and mysticism.
- Explore Nature: Wander through Siquijor’s forests, beaches, falls, and caves. Feel the ancient energy that permeates the land.
How to Get to Siquijor Island?
⛴️ From Dumaguete
From Dumaguete to Siquijor, hop on the fast craft by OceanJet or take the ferry by Montenegro Shipping. Alternatively, consider the ferry and fast craft services provided by Aleson Shipping. There’s also the new HS Star Marine Shipping Corp. (MV “Anika Star”). Dumaguete is also the most ideal gateway if you’re coming from Manila.
⛴️ From Cebu
Catch the Oceanjet ferry with a connecting route from Cebu to Tagbilaran, and then proceed to Siquijor. Another option is taking a ferry from Liloan Port, Cebu directly to Siquijor. The journey typically lasts around 6 hours before arriving at Siquijor Port. For a more detailed guide, read my post on “The Best Way to Get from Cebu to Siquijor“.
📢 GOOD NEWS! Starting December 15, 2025, Sunlight Air company will launch its new route from Cebu to Siquijor 4 times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday).
⛴️ From Bohol
Opt for the Oceanjet ferry departing from Tagbilaran to reach Siquijor. Alternatively, consider the Lite Ferry service from Tagbilaran to Larena port.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts: Siquijor Witchcraft
The stories of Siquijor witchcraft are a fascinating part of the island’s culture and history.
While some may dismiss them as mere superstition, these tales are deeply ingrained in the local identity and continue to intrigue visitors from around the world.
Whether or not one believes in the supernatural, the stories of Siquijor’s witchcraft are a reminder of the rich and diverse traditions that make the Philippines such a unique and captivating destination.
So, if you want to visit Isla del Fuego and have a unique experience while on the island, seek a traditional healer and learn about the traditional healing practices and folklore of Siquijor.
It’s a chance to dive into the mystique of the island’s culture and gain a deeper understanding of its traditions.
🏝️ Travel Resources for Your Siquijor Trip
Here’s everything you need to book your trip to Siquijor—ferries, places to stay, local transport, and more.
How to Get to Siquijor – Book ferry tickets to Siquijor from Dumaguete, Bohol, or Cebu using 12Go, which shows updated routes, schedules, and prices from trusted ferry and flight operators.
Where to Book Your Stay – Find beach resorts, guesthouses, and budget hostels in San Juan or Larena through Booking.com, Agoda, Vrbo, or Airbnb, with options for every budget.
Getting Around the Island – Rent a motorbike (₱300–₱500/day), hop on a tricycle for short rides or full-day tours, or ask your hotel to arrange private transport for longer routes.
Book Tours and Activities – Explore waterfalls, caves, and beaches by booking guided experiences on Klook , GetYourGuide, or Viator, or simply ask locals once you’re on the island.
Stay Connected – Use an Airalo eSIM for reliable data, rent pocket WiFi from Klook if you’re in a group, or grab a Globe or Smart SIM card before you arrive.
Cash, ATMs, and Payments – Bring enough pesos before heading to the island, as ATMs are limited and card payments are rarely accepted outside major resorts.
Travel Insurance – Protect your trip with coverage from SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads, especially if you’re riding motorbikes or joining outdoor tours.
Check Out These Recommended Articles:
- What Language Do They Speak in Bacolod?
- Top 7 Festivals in the Visayas: The Ultimate Guide
- 17 Amazing Siquijor Tourist Spots You Can’t Miss
About the Author
Hi! I’m Kristine (aka KR). I’m the main developer of Philippine Hidden Gems. My work includes going to places to cover events and places that I’m happy to share with the readers.
Even though I’m an introvert who loves to read and stay indoors all the time, I love to travel outside the country (at least once a year) and nearby regions within PH.
My recent hobbies include learning Japanese culture and exploring the world of K-Pop as a Carat.
