Old Enchanted Balete Tree Fish Spa

The 400-year old enchanted Balete tree of Siquijor

Balete tree (also known as balite or baliti) are several species of the trees in the Philippines from the genus Ficus that are broadly referred to as balete in the local language. A number of these are known as strangler figs wherein they start upon other trees, later entrapping them entirely and finally killing the host tree. Also called hemiepiphytes, initially, they start as epiphytes or air plants and grow several hanging roots that eventually touch the ground and from then on, encircling and suffocating the host tree. Some of the baletes produce an inferior quality of rubber. The India rubber plant, F. elastica were earlier cultivated to some extent for rubber. Some of the species like tangisang-bayawak or Ficus variegata are large and could probably be utilized for match woods. The woods of species of Ficus are soft, light, and of inferior quality, and the trees usually have ill-formed, short boles.

In some areas of the country, some people believe that balete trees are dwelling places for supernatural beings like kapre or tikbalang. In some places, sorcery rituals are known performed inside the chambers formed by the tree.[20] Also among others, some superstitious folks suggest not bringing in balete as decorative plants inside a house as they allegedly invite ghosts.

A 400-year-old balete tree in Barangay Campalanas in the town of Lazi, in Siquijor province is believed to be the oldest and the biggest in the province. What is also unusual about this tree is the spring that emanates from the base of the tree and flows straight into a man-made pool. Few species of fish is found and offers a foot spa for tourists both local and foreigners alike. 

The balete tree is believed to be enchanted for its healing powers. Old folks say that the roots hanging from above the tree and which touches the water in the spring can be a cure to many forms of illnesses. However, awakened by a dream that seemed true, an old lady said that spiritual dwellers of the tree warned anyone to take a piece of the roots or any part of it, not even a folk healer (Albularyo).

BALETE BISTRO

Tucked away in the charming town of Lazi, Siquijor, lies a culinary gem that will transport you to a world of tranquility and wonder. Welcome to Balete Bistro, a serene oasis nestled at the foot of an ancient, enchanted Balete tree, where the boundaries between nature and nurture blur.

As you step into our bistro, you'll be enveloped by the soothing ambiance of a lush garden, where the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds create a symphony of relaxation. Our friendly staff, warm and attentive, will greet you with a smile, making you feel right at home.

Indulge in our delectable menu, carefully crafted to showcase the freshest local ingredients and traditional Filipino flavors with a modern twist. Savor each bite of our signature dishes, such as the mouthwatering Grilled Fish with a hint of Siquijor's famous mangosteen, or our tender and juicy Lechon Kawali, slow-cooked to perfection.

But what truly sets Balete Bistro apart is its unique setting. As you dine, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing view of the ancient Balete tree, its gnarled branches stretching towards the sky like nature's own work of art. Watch in wonder as colorful fish swim lazily in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the tree, their gentle movements a testament to the serenity of this enchanted spot.

Simply treat yourself to a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

At Balete Bistro, we're not just serving food – we're offering an experience. Come and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Siquijor, where the warmth of our hospitality and the magic of our surroundings will leave you feeling refreshed, renewed, and enchanted.

Join us at Balete Bistro, where every meal is a taste of paradise.

Duran's Banana Products

Duran's Banana Products

It is a good run indeed for Alejandro “Butch” Duran, the maker of Siquijor’s best banana products.

Starting with a capital outlay of P2,000 in1999 and with a mere 30 kilos of banana crackers daily production, which he sold locally in the province.

Duran is now producing an average of 120 kilos, two to three times a week to meet outside orders from Bohol, Dumaguete, and Bacolod. To keep with the increasing sales and orders, Duran ably hired 10 workers from what used to be a husband-and-wife endeavor.In 2005, Duran was one of the DOST’s SETUP (Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program) beneficiaries of which a total of P863,000 in project fund was released to all beneficiaries for equipment acquisition: Vacuum sealer, mechanized banana sticks cutter, banana chips cutter, stainless tables, basins, trays and a digital thermometer, for Duran that upgrade his processing capability.

Laboratory analysis, shelf-life testing, training's and consultancy services were also some of the technical assistance he and other beneficiaries enjoyed. To cite the local DOST has initiated the development of packaging and labeling design of Siquijor products which were showcased in the yearly Halad Siquijodnon Trade Fair and Exhibits that highlighted the Araw ng Siquijor celebration.

Going beyond Siquijor Island, Duran’s products were exposed to a number of national and international exhibits. He recalled having declined an order from a foreign buyer of 42,000 kilos of banana fritters a month during an International Food Expo in the Mall of Asia in Manila. Too small working area, production equipment and supplies of raw materials were just a few of the major constraints, he said.

But this time around, Duran is aiming high. While thanking the DOST and other government line agencies, Duran said he would like to show them that he can penetrate markets abroad.

Now already finish DOST-SETUP, Duran, his wife and his 10 workers are undergoing a series of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP training), Already have License to Operate and CPR issued by FDA with the help of Department of Trade and Industry and leading to ISO.

Duran has made the first, second or third runs and still willing to do more to get to the finish line.

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