Siquijor, often referred to as the “Healing Island,” was recently recognized as one of the premier destinations for international travelers to the Philippines, according to Agoda’s latest New Horizons list.

This recognition highlights the island’s growing appeal, with its unique charm and natural beauty, becoming increasingly popular among local and international visitors.

Arlene Mack, the owner and operator of Royal Cliff Resort for over 25 years, as well as chair of the Pollution Control Officers Association and the San Juan Association of Resorts and Restaurants, has witnessed, firsthand, this tourism boom.

“When my husband and I got married, we traveled to many places—even abroad—and when he asked where I would want to live, I chose Siquijor. Why Siquijor? Because when I stepped onto this island, I felt a deep sense of comfort. The people were friendly, their honesty and the beauty of the nature and culture here truly struck me. It’s truly a healing island,” she said.

Over the years, Mack said the occupancy rates in the island’s hotels and resorts has reached 95 to 100 percent.

“Now, with tourism booming, I hope visitors can experience what I did 25 years ago—the warmth, honesty, and the beauty that make Siquijor so special. I want them to feel the heart of Siquijor and its people,” Mack added.

Foreign tourists are also charmed by the island’s natural wonders. Yeongnim Gwang, a free diver from Korea, shared why he loves the island’s pristine marine environment.

“I’m a free diver, so I like the sea, and many sea animals, and many sea nature in the Philippines and Siquijor. So today, I had a lot of fun diving with turtles,” said Gwang.

He also marveled at the almost untouched natural beauty of the island.

“Siquijor is so nice, and it seems like the natural environment here is preserved more, so I like it even more,” he added.

Michael from England also praised Siquijor’s underwater world. “Three or four turtles, one really big and large fish, lots of corals and very good visibility. Really good visit, easy to get to, definitely love to go back. It’s one of our favorite islands,” he said.

For Nicolas from France, the island’s untouched natural beauty simply amazed him.

“It’s quite a ‘savage’ island, like more natural. Here, people are more wandering in nature and in the sea, so it’s more for nature. It’s a great place,” he said.

With Siquijor attracting more local and foreign visitors, Governor Jake Vincent Villa is optimistic about the island’s future as a top-tier tourist destination.

“Once an island shrouded in mystery and seldom mentioned, Siquijor is now a thriving business and global tourism center. We are on track to become the next premier tourism investment hub in Southeast Asia,” he said.

With its growing recognition and booming tourism industry, Siquijor is well on its way to becoming the next big hotspot in the Philippines, offering both healing and adventure for visitors seeking a truly unique experience.