Siquijor is a province of the Philippines located in the Central Visayas Region (Region VII) of the Visayas. The province covers roughly 337.49 square kilometers and is composed of 6 municipalities and a total of 134 barangays. The capital of the province is Siquijor, which also serves as the provincial center. The name Siquijor is believed to have been derived from the Spanish term 'Isla del Fuego' (Island of Fire), referring to the island's mysterious glow at night caused by the abundance of fireflies in the molave trees.

History

Siquijor, a small island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, has a rich and unique history shaped by indigenous cultures, foreign influences, and its geographic isolation. Before Spanish colonization, the island was inhabited by Malay settlers and Negrito groups who engaged in fishing, farming, and barter trade with neighboring islands. Its early communities were organized into small barangays led by local chieftains. When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they integrated Siquijor into the colonial system under the jurisdiction of Cebu. The Spanish period saw the introduction of Christianity, with the construction of churches, schools, and public infrastructure, while local traditions and animist beliefs persisted. The island became known for its mysticism, herbal medicine, and healing rituals, blending indigenous practices with Catholicism, which continues to be a hallmark of Siquijor's cultural identity today. During the American occupation in the early 20th century, Siquijor underwent administrative reorganization and improvements in education and healthcare, although it remained relatively isolated. After World War II, the island became part of Negros Oriental until 1971, when it was officially established as a separate province. Siquijor has since developed its local governance, tourism, and agricultural economy, famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and mystical heritage. Despite modernization, the island preserves its unique identity through local festivals, folk healing traditions, and the strong sense of community among its residents, making it both a cultural treasure and a scenic destination in the Philippines.