The Spaniards who colonised the archipelago more than 300 years ago called it Isla del Fuego (Island of Fire) because of the eerie glow cast by millions of fireflies that swarmed around the molave trees at night.
Feared by many Filipinos for its sorcerers, known locally as "mambabarangs," the island has also earned a reputation for the apparently incredible powers of its local healers, or "mananambals".
A 30-minute ferry ride from Dumaguete City on central Negros Island, the tiny, pristine island skirted by white beaches and surrounded by clear blue water has become a major draw card for believers and the curious alike.
Among Siquijors better known clients is said to be Imelda Marcos, the former first lady and widow of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Locals tell of how a curse was put on her in the 1970s during the building of the San Juanico bridge that connects the central islands of Samar and Leyte and which was a pet project of the late dictator... full story here
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