Prepare to witness the extraordinary beauty of an island long associated with mystique and folklore in the upcoming special of the multi-awarded documentary program The Atom Araullo Specials, hosted by award-winning journalist Atom Araullo.
Titled Magic Island, the episode airing this Sunday, November 30, uncovers Siquijor’s stunning transformation, from a place known for ancient incantations and legends to what the Department of Tourism now hails as the Philippines’ fastest-growing tourist destination.
“Siquijor is now considered a rising star of Philippine tourism because so many people are visiting. According to the Siquijudnons, since 2022, when the pandemic was nearing its end, the number of visitors has been increasing by 50 percent every year. It’s unusual and a good thing that so many are coming to such a small island, so we want to see what the island’s magic really is,” says Atom.
Atom explores the wonders of the Bitaug Marine Protected Area, Siquijor’s largest marine sanctuary spanning 149 hectares. Beneath its crystal-clear waters thrive vibrant corals, schools of fish, and green sea turtles, whose populations are steadily increasing, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This flourishing ecosystem is one reason Bitaug is celebrated as a world-class dive site.
But progress comes with challenges. On the beaches and in small seaside eateries, Atom meets young locals who fear their island’s quiet charm may fade amid the tourism boom. He also speaks with visitors from Manila who are captivated by Siquijor and are now part of its evolving story.
Finally, Atom meets the island’s protectors, community leaders and residents committed to safeguarding their home through initiatives such as waste management and marine conservation.
The episode reveals that Siquijor’s true magic is no longer a secret. It lives in the people who love, protect, and nurture the island every single day.
Don’t miss Magic Island on The Atom Araullo Specials this Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 3:15 PM on GMA.
