Siquijor’s natural appeal

A perfect summer getaway combines a sense of heritage and a nature holiday.

The mystical island of Siquijor is a good choice with its proximity to Cebu.

The province has white sand beaches, waterfalls and cool springs that blend well with its old stone churches and convents.

Siquijor can easily be reached from Bohol, Cebu or Dumaguete City by a fastcraft for a price of P500.

The oldest church in the island built in 1783 is found in the town of Siquijor.

Although it has undergone several renovations, 90 percent of the structure of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish church with its thick walls of coral stone remain intact.

Its convent used to be a watch point for pirates and is now a museum for the church’s century-old religious items such as images, statues, old record books and Bible.

The St. Isidore Labradore Church is recognized by the National Commission for Culture and Arts as a good example of Baroque architecture in the country.

Its convent across the church is the oldest and largest in Asia. The ground floor is built on coral stones while the second floor is built with hard wood. It museum contains antique religious images and records of the church.

When you get tired of strolling, take a refreshing dip in white sand beaches in Siquijor, San Juan, Larena, Maria and Enrique Villanueva or visit Capilay Spring Park in San Juan town, 12 kilometers from Siquijor town.

Fully grown trees form a canopy above a flowing spring, free for everyone.

In Lazi town, the Cambuhagay waterfalls has 135 stones going downhill towards the falls. Budget accommodations are offered for local and foreign tourists for as low as P100 per night. /Carine Asutilla, Correspondent