La Isla del Fuego

Kanheron Ranch: Exotic Old West American Experience

Our admiration of the antique is not admiration of the old, but of the natural. Antique things have an appreciation and worth, something can be old, but it can be timeless, therefore, it becomes an antique. If this antique is preserved and deemed precious, it could be passed down as a family heirloom.

Our passion evolved with efficacious western material. We looked for a rare exhibit that will lead us through glimpse from the past. Step from the exotic Philippine island of Siquijor into another world of American old west set. A unique setting for a learning experience which hopes to expand the horizons and enhances the academic studies of students and adults of all ages who never feel the need to leave the island. When you’re seeking a quintessential and most conveniently located Western Ranch-Style facility and museum in Siquijor… with a little bit of America and a whole lot of fun! KANHERON serves the best! One of the typical sights which is definitely must-see!

The group decided to visit unparalleled spot that is more convenient and offers impact which would become worth all the while. We weren’t anxious how far it would be as long we could gain insights and brims knowledge about western material antiques. Perhaps a trip through time, back to the wild, wild west--- cowboy hats and boots and all? Like, that truly remember us the movie “A million ways to die in the west”, we suggest you to watch or if you have watched it, then you feel us. Write a comment and let’s start a conversation. J

Well, Kanheron is located at Olo, Siquijor 6225, from the street it takes probably a few minutes to walk and you’ll be surprise with the place. It has a magnificent exterior with similar to wheel wagon design in both sides. A very nostalgic ambience filled in every corner with eco-green environment that is totally insolent together with cheerful western tunes. It displays artistic embellishments especially the chandelier that made from the horns of a reindeer, absolutely incredible! You don’t have to insist paying fifty (50) pesos for entrance, feel the conscience when the staff explicates almost a paragraph for just a hammer like they are so wordy and I suggest you to listen carefully and provide notes because assuredly your brain can’t process it all. The facility is a big open space featuring a soaring high-beamed cathedral ceiling and a dramatic architecture, Western Art, Native American, Cowboy Genre and other vintage collectibles. The staffs are gracious and friendly who shows patience to roam us around, will take a deep breath and enumerate every piece. Kanheron’s Tibs Trading Post and General Store showcases unusual museum-like quality finds in art, handmade collections with a twist, coffee mugs, t-shirts, postcards, accessories, home accents and other souvenirs. With its old world charm, every part of Kanheron has a unique piece of history and comforting, inviting atmosphere.

KANHERON is a coined Visayan word for “Kanhi ug Karon” meaning “Then & Now” thus the original name Kanheron came about. The property was initially purchased with just a lone century old Acacia tree standing but offers an inspiration to develop a stunning backdrop of Kanheron. Sensing the limitless potential of this empty palette land, it is now developed into a lush of native hardwood trees mainly tugâs & mahogany, picked for their durability, leaf color and providing welcome shade all year round. It was also a period of unparalleled activity, creativity, ingenuity, entrepreneurship and risk-taking. Five years later, to say that every part of this eclectic building design using indigenous materials was artistically made to Daryl’s perfection & satisfaction, is an understatement. It was built November 2015, and has now becoming progressive. Management says hopefully soon, it will have refuge to foreign, tourist, traveler or people who would love to stay there. Still, their main missions are the ff.

KANHERON is committed to enhance a strong community vitality, multicultural diversity and empower people from all walks of life, by inspiring, educating and engaging in a fun but authentic experience.
Dissemination of the history and culture of Filipino American in the United States.
We hope to make a difference to enrich lives by providing highest standard of affordable, enjoyable, high quality activities and services where all are valued and loved.
Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God. Live God loud!

This is a shared vision of a couple with Siquijódnon roots who assumed two citizenships but care so much for their mother country. Filipino American couple Daryl & Maribel’s love for art & western antiques grew into a passion to make the American frontier life accessible in a very personal way. They enjoy meeting people and optimistic to connect the local community and visitors from around the globe to the exciting history, heritage and culture of the American old west in style. They want the new generations to realize what the older generation has gone through for the future. Kanheron is honoring the enduring past contributions of the Siquijodnon sakadas, Filipino manual laborers who risked their lives in Hawaii circa 1906 to 1946 to pave the way for a better life to these new waves of Fil-Am balikbayans. Thank you Yôyô’s & Yâyâ’s--- you are not forgotten! They invested in the Philippines, not just to send money home – a practice that encourages handouts, but to empower the locals by creating rural employment opportunities for their own livelihood. There is hope for the future one family at a time. It’s about giving value about the time as we ages.

Different things gathered in an ordinary museum-alike preserved from 18^th-20^th century. From the entrance, a buffalo bison will chase you especially moose dear, their skin were well maintained. At the left side, there are collections of hammers, hanged horse saddle; camel saddle, sickle, wheel wagon and such. Actually, some things were unfamiliar to us since we have only seen it at the movies yet didn’t even know the origin name sort of that stuff. Indeed, felt like we traveled to western countries. There are rail truck, pulley, male chops, female chops, milk cans, beer cans and a treasure box which absolutely we wondered what’s inside, you’ll only find out if you’ll visit there. John Wayne felt honored when he saw us. We were totally amazed by the carved artworks of Mr. Daryl, we almost call him dad. We shouted “JUST WOW!” with our shocked eyeballs. They have also a cozy wine room for that very special occasion private dinner. For the more casual event, consider the the state-of-the-art Bubba Ryl’s bar for a private party after hours, which offers unparalleled views in a smaller setting and meeting space. Everything’s set in the Kanheron! These priceless treasures truly depicts rich cultural heritage, every old has story to tell. Whether you are visiting relatives or on a scheduled island tour, they provide an experience like no other. Kanheron is an ideal venue for young visitors and the entire family to explore together this one-of-a-kind attraction in a family friendly environment.

Hour-long guided tours are led by trained museum guides and offer extraordinary opportunities for your group to make the most of your visit. One guide is provided for every twenty-five to thirty people in advance. Larger groups can be accommodated on a case-by-case basis. Tours are available in Filipino or English (subject to guide availability). Groups are free to explore Kanheron on their own after the tour. A professional service staff oversees every detail so attendees can focus on the business at hand. Self-guided tours are available seven days a week (Sunday–Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.). Kanheron cannot guarantee access to all galleries at all times. It’s extremely awesome to be there. Don’t waste time and visit Kanheron!