SIQUIJOR: Guiwanon Spring Park

Guiwanon Spring Park is a popular destination in the island of Siquijor. It is located at Luyang, Siquijor. It is a mangrove preservation and protection area that is managed by the fisherfolks and environment organization in this community.  With a little help from the ADB or Asian Development Bank, the community was able to construct this spring park and start a mangrove seedlings bank that they sell to encourage other fisherfolks to conserve and preserve the coastal area by planting mangrove trees. This coastal area is fed by spring water that gushes from the roots of surrounding trees located along the road.  This spring water joins the sea water.

The reception cum office area, as well as the rest of the cottages, are held by several stilts or posts that are made of wood and bamboo.  Underneath is the water or part of the sea.  So, you can just imagine that you will be walking on wood and bamboo bridges.  

A few meters from the office are native-designed cottages that can be rented for an overnight stay.   As you continue the walk, the bridge will lead you to the seminar hall that can accommodate from 30-40 participants.  Because it is a bit far from the road and the township, this seminar hall is ideal for group activities like workshop, lectures or even holding a small gathering for a wedding, birthday, baptism, and others.  The hall offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the constant blowing of the breeze can lull you to sleep. 

An entrance fee is requested by the staff manning the reception area in order to help the organization maintain the place. 

Guiwanon Spring Park is also a nice place for honeymooners.  Just be sure to bring your own food and drinks if you plan to stay overnight or several days there.  You can also make an advance arrangement with the management for your meals.  

For me, Guiwanon is more ideal for seminar and training activities, although, as I have said, it can also be a good place to stay overnight. I wish I can come back to conduct a lecture and experience an evening at Guiwanon...haha...

The members of the association can also discuss how this community-based organization was able to put up this facility that helped their members conserve and preserve the coastal area by planting mangroves.  The small farmers of this community are also benefited since the mangroves serve as a breeding ground for several species of fish and other aquatic animals.  

This mangrove tree planting area is located at the coastal area of Enrique Villanueva.  A common sight as you pass by this town on the way to Larena Town. 

I passed by the township of Larena where another port serviced the ships that ply the routes between Dumaguete and Siquijor Island.

Just be sure that you pass by this bakery for "pasalubong" items like bucayo bread, a tourist attraction in itself.