By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
The remote island of Siquijor stands out not only in the Philippines but across Southeast Asia, renowned since ancient times as a center of witchcraft, magic, and folk healing. This mystic island, located in the Central Visayas region, captivates Filipino travelers, including those from abroad, who seek its unique therapies that blend Catholicism (introduced by the Spanish in the 16th Century) with shamanic practices like potion making, exorcism, and herbal fumigation. These natural and supernatural treatments are widely esteemed for their alleged powers to eradicate illnesses, believed to stem from one of three major factors.
The Influence of the Spirit World
"The first reason is an angry spirit world," says my guide Luis Nathaniel Borongan. "Evil spirits are all around us in the waterfalls, forests, and seas. If we intrude upon them, they may take revenge in the form of illness, curses, or even death."
The Power of Witchcraft
Borongan explains that the second cause is witchcraft. "There are many forms, including haplit (hexing someone with a voodoo doll) and barang (the manipulation of insects to harm others and their crops)."
Healing Natural Maladies
The third, more benign category involves "naturally occurring maladies," where any affliction, from a simple sore throat to an occult induced haunting, can be treated by visiting a mananambal (healer). The island's healers are revered for their abilities, attracting visitors far beyond the Philippines. "International travelers to the island just need to ask at the tourist office or a local taxi driver; they can show you where to find one," says Borongan. "Healers believe their talents are a gift from God, meant for everyone."
A Community of Healers
Siquijodnons, as the islanders are known, often visit the mananambal instead of regular doctors. "The healers often succeed where Western medicine fails," says Borongan. A key part of their treatment involves homemade herbal medicines derived from the 300 or so medicinal plants growing on the island. This abundance of curative vegetation has long been integral to island life.
A History of Enchantment
Spanish explorers Juan Aguirre and Esteban Rodriguez were the first Europeans to arrive on Siquijor in 1565. They named it Isla de Fuego (Fire Island) upon seeing it seemingly ablaze from afar, which was actually the light from fireflies swarming over molave trees. This natural phenomenon contributed to Siquijor's enchanted reputation, deterring locals from neighboring islands.
The Convergence of Shamanic Traditions and Catholicism
The Philippines converted to Catholicism in 1521, yet missionaries didn't arrive on Siquijor until the 1700s, likely deterred by rumors of witchcraft. "Shamanic traditions were deeply rooted in island culture by then, and the missionaries couldn't change that," says Borongan. Over time, these beliefs blended: healers recognized their skills as gifts from a higher power they eventually called God, adopted religious icons, and many settled in San Antonio, a village named after the saint of the lost.
Potions for Love, Lust, and Success
Herbal concoctions are widely used on the island and can be purchased in roadside shops. One popular potion, containing 20 natural ingredients including pangamay (a twig shaped like a hand), symbolizes beckoning for romance or good fortune. Potion maker Lilia Alom explains, "It's better for short term lust but can also attract success in business by boosting confidence and positivity."
Black Saturday Rituals for Spiritual Power
More than 200 ingredients compose the waxy black elixir minasa, used in the to ob ritual to expel spells and malign spirits. Healers gather elements during seven consecutive Fridays in Lent and cook them on Black Saturday, a day of mourning in the Philippines. This ritual highlights the island's deep spiritual connections.
Communication with Ancestors
Tigi is a practice for treating illnesses caused by a deceased relative's spirit. Healer Pascal Ogoc uses a stick to divine the dead person's identity and communicate with their spirit. "They often tell me they are unsettled because they've been forgotten," Ogoc says. The cure involves a donation to the local priest and a mass said in the departed's honor.
Removal of Spells and Spirits
Ruhelio Lugatiman practices bolo bolo, using a jar, straw, and magic stone to blow bubbles in water and remove spells and spirits. He has seen various objects materialize in the water, signifying the removal of curses. The process is repeated until the water remains clear.
Preserving the Healing Tradition
Healers do not charge for their treatments, requesting only small donations. "It's a caring vocation, not one for profit," says healer Juanita Torremacha. To reverse the decline in healer numbers, the annual Siquijor Healing Festival is held every Holy Week in Mt Bandilaan National Park, inviting locals and visitors to experience the rituals.
"Everyone can create their own love potions and experience the rituals," says Borongan. "Our healing is powerful and has made Siquijor unique for centuries. We don't want to lose that magic."