Siquijor, An Island Paradise

In the blink of my eye and thought, the safest and most peaceful place I have ever known is Siquijor. Since we were young, it is been the only place where we could freely explore, Bayli (dancing) everywhere under Petromax lights, swimming in the sea anywhere we liked, and catching fish or crabs anytime, anywhere.

It is the reason why we always looked forward in going home to our grandparent’s ancestral house during summer breaks and Christmas, even if getting there was difficult.

We had to ride a motorized bangka (public pump boat) from Dumaguete City to the shores of Solong-on or Tambisan ports in Siquijor. From there, we would wait for the rarely passing public transport (Reynante Jeep) in going to crossing Gabayan , then walk about two kilometers to reach our home. But even with all that effort, Siquijor was and still is a paradise. Clean beaches, crystal clear waters  and stunning natural views are all free for everyone to enjoy.

It is also where we learned so much in life. The traditions taught us how to be self-sustaining, how to live simply, work hard, and make the most out of what we had ( pamaol, tanum ug mais , kahoy ug oban pa, panglawig ug hayop, , .)

Life on the island was not easy back then. Most people do farming or fishing to survive. There were few job opportunities. Some areas had no electricity, and getting clean water was not always easy.

Sadly, when we traveled to other places, we often heard people saying bad things about Siquijor. That is when I realized, we need to speak up for our island and to let others know the truth: Siquijor is safe, beautiful,  and full of kind, hardworking people.

Those negative beliefs are not true.

With everything we have learned and experienced, the best way we can give back to our beloved island is by sharing our knowledge and helping our fellow Siquijodnons grow and thrive.

By: Gwyn Tumulak Balolong   

Nakasakay mi ug Don Martin 7 gikan sa Larena Port, Siquijor padulong sa Dumaguete City Port niadtong tuig 1991. Dagko kaayo ang balod , unya napalung  ang makina samtang naa mi sa tunga tunga sa dagat. Hapit pa jud mi nalunod. Maayo gani naka bakwi ra balik ang barko paghuman hapak ug dako nga balod. Ang biyahe nga unta 1 ½ ka oras ra, nahimong 2 ½ ka oras tungod sa dagko sa balod .

Pero karon, lahi na gyud. Daghan na og fast ferries ug dagkong barko nga mas paspas ug mas luwas. Bisan kinsa, bisan kanus-a, puwede natang mo uli sa Siquijor nga in Worry Free Travel.