S1 E92 | Ferry Ride Oslob to Siquijor – The Island of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Leaving Sharky Hostel in Oslob, we boarded a bus that would take us onto a ferry bound for Dumaguete. The process was a little confusing — even though the bus drives onto the ferry, passengers still need to buy separate tickets. With some help from locals and a few laughs along the way, we managed to sort it out and soon found ourselves sailing across the water.

After arriving in Dumaguete, we grabbed some quick snacks (donuts seemed like the perfect choice!) before continuing our journey to the island of Siquijor. This place carries quite the reputation — often called the “Island of Witchcraft and Wizardry.” Some locals say it’s cursed, while others insist you can find healers, shamans, and even “good witches” who help people with traditional remedies. The stories alone were enough to make us both curious and slightly nervous.

By the time we reached San Juan in Siquijor, the sun was beginning to set. The views were incredible — golden light spilling across the ocean on one side and the silhouettes of the Philippine islands on the other. The beauty of the scene was balanced with a strange energy in the air, almost as if the myths of Siquijor were whispering in the wind.

We checked into a small guesthouse, took a much-needed shower, and set out again in search of dinner. Walking through the quiet streets, we noticed something interesting outside almost every home — candles lit at small shrines with figures of Jesus Christ. It seemed to be a unique local custom, blending spirituality and everyday life in a way that added to the island’s mysterious charm.

Siquijor had already surprised us on our very first evening — with its mix of folklore, faith, and stunning natural beauty. Tomorrow, we’d begin exploring deeper, eager to discover what lies behind the stories of this island.