Siquijor is one of the Philippines gorgeous islands. It is located in the Central Visayas Region close to the islands of Bohol, Cebu and Negros. The island is the third smallest province in the country both in terms of population and land area.

Siquijor is mostly made up of limestone materials and fringed with mangrove trees, fine and white sand beaches, and coral reefs. The highest point of the island is Mt. Bandilaan, which rises at approximately 557 meters above sea level.

Dubbed as the next Boracay, the island is known for its scenic beauty and archaic churches. It is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers because of its numerous caves, springs and rivers. The coral reefs sorrounding the island are attractions to diving enthusiasts from all over.

HISTORY

Siquijor was discovered by the Spaniards in the 16th century. Perplexed by the trees aglow with fireflies, the Spaniards called the island "Isla del Fuego" or the Island of Fire. Its inhabitants, however, believed that the island rose from the sea amid fire, thunder, and lightning.
The island became part of Negros Oriental in 1892, and as a sub-province in 1901. It became indepedent in September 17, 1971 by virtue of Republic Act No. 6396. In 1978, the island was declared a marine reserve and tourist zone by virtue of Proclamation No. 1810. With the proclamation, the island had been developed into a major tourist destination under the auspices of the Philippine Tourism Authority.

PEACE & ORDER SITUATION

Siquijor is a very peaceful and quiet island with zero police report of carnapping, kidnapping or highway robbery. Despite this record and to maintain the peace and order situation in the island, the local government continues to give rigorous training to its police force including the barangay tanods to equip them with the necessary skills in combating illegal activities.

WEATHER CONDITION

The climate in the island like most of the rest of the country is very tropical. It is dry from January to May and wet the rest of the year. It has an average temperature of 28 degress celsius and humidity of 78%.

THE PEOPLE

The island's inhabitants are called Siquijodnons and are known to be very hospitable and friendly. Literacy rate is very high. Languages spoken are English, Tagalog and Cebuano.

ECONOMY

The island's economy grew in the past few years due in part to the commitment of its local leaders in pushing for more economic development in the island. Other contributing factors are the investments in tourism as well as remittances from its overseas workers.

COMMUNICATION

Like most of the islands in the country, Siquijor is connected to the world. At present, it has 3 long distance service providers, 7 cellular sites, 8 radio telegraphic stations, and 8 postal offices servicing the province. The 6 towns in the island have existing internet cafes. There is 1 cable television network and few providers of the daily paper. Express mail providers are the state run Philippine Postal Services and 2 other private operators such as LBC and JRS.

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation comprised mainly of mini buses, motor bikes (habal-habal), EZ rides, jeepneys, van, and other for rent cars. Unlike in other provinces, there is no taxi operating in the island.