18/07/2026
From Katugasan to Siquijor: The Historical Journey of the "Island of Fire"
Long before Siquijor became known for its folklore and mysticism, it was a thriving island community with a rich history shaped by indigenous traditions, Spanish colonization, and later American administration.
According to local historical records, the island was once called "Katugasan", meaning a place abundant in "tugas" or "molave" (Vitex parviflora) trees, reflecting the area's once-forested landscape. Another tradition attributes its early name to "Sikihor", after a native ruler named "Kihod", whom early Spaniards are believed to have encountered upon their arrival. Unable to pronounce the native term accurately, the Spaniards gradually transformed "Sikihor" into "Siquijor", the name that endures today. In 1565, Spanish explorers Esteban Rodríguez and Juan Aguirre reached the island and famously named it Isla del Fuego ("Island of Fire") after witnessing thousands of glowing fireflies illuminating the forests at night.
Amazing, right?
Spanish rule brought lasting political and religious changes to the island. On February 1, 1783, Fr. Eustaquio Ruiz, the island's first parish priest, founded the town of Siquijor, making it the island's first organized municipality and the administrative center during the Spanish period. The construction of the St. Francis of Assisi Church and its adjoining bell tower symbolized the establishment of Catholicism, while the tower itself also served as a lookout against Moro raids. Other surviving historical landmarks include the former priest's residence—today known as the Andres Cortes House—and the remnants of old parochial school buildings near the church. During this period, the town was governed by local leaders such as Capitan Panong, Capitan Besin, Capitan Julian Selim, Capitan Kekoy Gemines, and Capitan Colas Jumawan, while a succession of parish priests strengthened both the religious and civic life of the community. In 1892, Siquijor was administratively attached to Negros Oriental, marking another important stage in its political history.
Like many Philippine communities, Siquijor also experienced resistance, transition, and recovery. During the Spanish era, a local uprising led by Bolongon attempted to challenge colonial authority, with its followers placing great faith in their anting-anting (protective amulets) under the slogan,
"Garapang panggapos, Garoting pamospos."
Although ultimately defeated, the movement reflects the persistence of indigenous beliefs and local resistance. Under American rule, Conrado Fabugais became municipal president, while Lieutenant Governor James Fugate introduced public infrastructure projects, including roads connecting the island's towns and improved water systems for Siquijor and Larena. During the Japanese occupation in the Second World War, guerrilla resistance was first organized by Lt. Iluminado Jumawan, and later reorganized by Lt. Pedro Fabugais after Japanese forces reoccupied the island. The occupation reached one of its darkest moments on June 28, 1943, when numerous civilians were killed and properties were destroyed. Following liberation, reconstruction efforts led to new roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and community facilities that laid the foundation for the island's postwar development. Finally, on September 17, 1971, Siquijor achieved another historic milestone when it became an independent province through Republic Act No. 6398.
The history of Siquijor reminds us that places are shaped not only by legends but also by the resilience of their people. Behind its reputation as the "Island of Fire" lies a story of environmental heritage, colonial encounters, religious transformation, resistance, war, and rebuilding. At the same time, many aspects of its early history—particularly the origins of the names Katugasan and Sikihor, the identity of Kihor, and details of pre-colonial society—remain based largely on oral traditions and local historical accounts rather than contemporary primary sources. Likewise, some events from the Spanish and early American periods rely heavily on municipal histories compiled decades later. These gaps remind historians to interpret local traditions alongside archival records, archaeological evidence, and documentary sources to build a more complete understanding of Siquijor's past.
Siquijor's history teaches that a community's identity is built through adaptation and perseverance. Despite colonization, conflict, and war, the island preserved elements of its indigenous heritage while embracing new institutions that shaped its development. Its story reminds us that historical memory is strongest when local traditions are studied alongside documentary evidence, allowing future generations to appreciate both the richness and complexity of their heritage.
But, did you know?
Beyond its prized timber, molave has long been used in traditional medicine. Ethnobotanical studies report that different parts of the tree possess antibacterial and antifungal properties and have been traditionally used as a carminative (to relieve gas), digestive aid, and anthelmintic (to help expel intestinal worms). These medicinal uses reflect the deep ecological knowledge of early Filipino communities, where native trees were valued not only for construction but also for their healing properties.
References:
National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (n.d.). Siquijor historical markers and local history. https://nhcp.gov.ph
Republic Act No. 6398. (1971). An Act Creating the Province of Siquijor. Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph
Municipality of Siquijor. (n.d.). History of the Municipality of Siquijor. Municipal Government of Siquijor.
Provincial Government of Siquijor. (n.d.). History of Siquijor. https://siquijor.gov.ph
National Archives of the Philippines. (Various records). Spanish-era ecclesiastical and municipal records relating to Siquijor. See less
