Siquijor, a small island province in the Philippines, has long been surrounded by myths and mysteries. Some people believe it is home to witches and supernatural beings, while others call it the “Healing Island” because of its ancient faith healing traditions. But what is the real story behind Siquijor’s reputation?
The Island’s History and Geography
Siquijor is the third smallest province in the Philippines, covering 343.5 square kilometers with a 102-kilometer coastline. It has six municipalities—Enrique Villanueva, Maria, Larena, San Juan, Lazi, and Siquijor—and is home to around 103,000 people.
During the Spanish colonial era, Spanish sailors traveling through the region often became sick and sought help from local healers. The natives’ ability to cure illnesses amazed them, but since the Spaniards could not explain these healing methods, they labeled the locals as “witches.” This misunderstanding led to Siquijor’s reputation as a mystical island.
Faith Healers: The True “Manananggal”
Many Filipinos believe that Siquijor is home to “manananggal,” terrifying creatures from folklore that detach their upper bodies to fly at night. However, tour guide Johnry Ina-an explains that the real “manananggal” on the island are not monsters but faith healers—or manananggal ng sakit (those who remove illnesses).
Before modern medicine, locals relied on mananambal (traditional healers) who used herbs, prayers, and rituals to cure diseases. They gathered medicinal plants from the mountains and forests, creating healing oils and potions.
The Art of Traditional Healing
Faith healers in Siquijor use several methods to cleanse the body of negative energy and sickness. Some of the most well-known practices include:
✅ Suob (Tuob) – Healing with Smoke
- The patient sits covered in a blanket while a clay pot filled with burning herbs releases medicinal smoke beneath them.
- The smoke is believed to remove bad energy and restore health.
✅ Tawal – Healing with Coconut Oil
- Special coconut oil, mixed with herbs, is used to draw out illness.
- The healer prays silently, blows on the patient, and applies the oil in a cross shape on their forehead.
✅ Bolo-Bolo – Water Cleansing Ritual
- A healer places a rock in clean water and uses a small bamboo pipe to blow bubbles.
- If the water turns dark, it means the patient has negative energy in their body.
- The process is repeated until the water remains clear.
The Power of the “Minasa” Healing Oil
During Holy Week, Siquijor’s faith healers gather over 200 types of herbs from the mountains, sea, caves, and even church candle wax. These ingredients are mixed and burned to create “puli,” which is later cooked to make minasa—a healing oil that lasts an entire year.
This secret recipe is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that Siquijor’s healing traditions live on.
Beware of Fake Healers and Scammers
Despite Siquijor’s rich healing culture, some individuals pretend to be witches or sorcerers to scam tourists.
Ina-an recalls a 2017 case where a tourist from Manila paid a so-called “mangkukulam” (witch) to curse someone. The scammer promised that the person would die within a month—but months later, the target was still perfectly healthy!
To spot a real faith healer, remember:
✅ They never demand money—only accept voluntary donations like food, coffee, or even a chicken.
✅ They do not claim to cast spells or curses.
✅ They suffer consequences if they accept direct payment, such as sleepless nights or sickness.
Aswang? No, But Siquijor Has a Jose Rizal Legend!
Though many believe in aswangs (evil shape-shifting creatures), Ina-an assures visitors that Siquijor has none.
However, there is a funny legend about Philippine national hero Jose Rizal:
- One night, an aswang family tried to attack a person in Siquijor.
- The next morning, villagers found the aswangs dead at the foot of a Jose Rizal statue!
- Because of this, some say Jose Rizal scared the aswangs away forever.
Siquijor: A Magical and Healing Destination
Siquijor continues to attract travelers who want to explore its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and unique healing culture.
Every Holy Week, tourists visit Mount Bandilaan, where faith healers perform rituals and prepare their powerful minasa oil. The Annual Healing Festival welcomes visitors to witness these ancient traditions firsthand.
Whether you seek spiritual healing, adventure, or just a beautiful island getaway, Siquijor remains an enchanting place full of mystical stories, fascinating traditions, and breathtaking scenery.
