Siquijor Province, Philippines

People of Siquijor

• As of the 2020 Census, Siquijor Province had a population of 103,395.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 95,984, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 7.7% over five years.
• Siquijor is historically home to the Ati and other Negrito groups, though most of the current population are Visayan settlers. The island is known for its rich folklore, traditional healing practices, and mystical heritage.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, with English and Tagalog also widely understood. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Siquijor

• Siquijor is located in the Central Visayas region (Region VII), southeast of Negros Island and southwest of Cebu. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.22°N latitude and 123.53°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 337.49 square kilometers, comprising 6 municipalities. Its terrain includes coastal plains, limestone hills, and forested interiors. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November.
• The capital of Siquijor Province is Siquijor Municipality. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Poblacion, Siquijor town.
• Most people reach Siquijor via sea travel. Ferries connect the island to Dumaguete City (Negros Oriental), Cebu, and Bohol. The nearest airport is Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport, approximately 1 hour away by ferry. Local ports include Siquijor Port and Larena Port.

Tourist Attractions of Siquijor

• Salagdoong Beach: A popular white-sand beach known for cliff diving and turquoise waters.
• Cambugahay Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall with natural pools ideal for swimming and relaxation.
• Century-old Balete Tree: A mystical tree in Lazi with a natural spring and fish spa.
• St. Isidore de Labrador Church and Convent: Located in Lazi, this 19th-century structure is one of the oldest and largest convents in Asia.
• Siquijor Healing Festival: Held every Holy Week, this unique event showcases traditional healing rituals, herbal medicine, and spiritual practices passed down through generations.

Economy of Siquijor

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Tourism: Eco-tourism, heritage sites, and wellness retreats attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Agriculture: Key products include coconut, corn, root crops, and fruits. Livestock and poultry farming are also practiced.
  • Fisheries: Coastal communities rely on fishing and aquaculture for livelihood.
  • Crafts and herbal products: Local artisans produce woven goods, herbal oils, and traditional remedies.
• As a 5th-class province, Siquijor has a modest economic base but ranks high in tourism potential and sustainability initiatives. Its GDP is among the lowest in the region but shows steady growth driven by eco-tourism and local enterprise.

Educational Institutions of Siquijor

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Siquijor State College (SSC): Located in Larena, SSC offers programs in education, agriculture, business, and technology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades across the province.
  • Public high schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs, including academic and technical-vocational tracks.

History of Siquijor

• Siquijor was originally known as “Isla del Fuego” or “Island of Fire” by Spanish explorers due to the eerie glow from fireflies that lit up its molave forests. The island was part of Negros Oriental until it became a separate sub-province in 1901 under American rule.
• On September 17, 1971, Siquijor was officially established as an independent province through Republic Act No. 6398. The law recognized its distinct cultural and geographic identity, separating it from Negros Oriental.
• Throughout its history, Siquijor has been known for its mystical reputation, with stories of healers, shamans, and spiritual rituals passed down through generations. While these traditions remain part of its cultural heritage, the province has embraced modern development and tourism.
• Today, Siquijor is celebrated for its peaceful communities, natural beauty, and cultural resilience. It continues to promote sustainable tourism, heritage preservation, and inclusive growth across its municipalities.

Elected Officials of Siquijor

• As of the 2025 elections, Siquijor Province is led by:
  • Governor: Jake Vincent Villa (PFP)
  • Vice Governor: Dindo Tumala (PFP)
  • Representative – Lone District: Jecoy Villa (Lakas)
  • Board Members: Brylle Tumarong-Quio, Junnie Jumawan, Rene Woo, General Digal, Ed Mark Baroy, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
  • Municipal Mayors: Ruth Aque (Enrique Villanueva), Cyrus Vincent Calibo (Larena), Phil Moore Largo (Lazi), Roselyn Asok (Maria), Rubilyn Ragay (San Juan), Adam Duhaylungsod (Siquijor).
• For full election results and updates, visit: Siquijor Election Results.

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