The Department of Tourism (DOT) solidified the Philippines’ position as a key health tourism hub in the Asia-Pacific region with the launch of the International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress (IHWTC) on at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
The inaugural Philippine event, spearheaded by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, was officially opened by Philippine First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, alongside Agora Group CEO Hadi Malaeb and Taguig City Mayor Laarni Lopez Cayetano, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting followed by the symbolic ringing of bamboo wind chimes, representing the organic and nurturing essence of health and wellness.
Frasco emphasized the Filipino spirit of malasakit, or compassionate care, as a defining characteristic of the country’s wellness tourism.
“For those of you who have met Filipinos here or anywhere in the world, you would know that one of the defining characteristics of Filipinos is the inherent quality to exercise genuine care and compassion, always willing to go the extra mile to put the needs of others above one’s own,” she remarked.
This landmark event, themed “Aruga”—a Filipino term that embodies care and nurture—showcased the country’s unique blend of advanced healthcare services and deeply rooted wellness traditions, positioning the Philippines as a premier health and wellness destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
A unique attraction within the Philippines’ wellness offerings is hilot, an ancient Filipino massage technique known for its healing and restorative properties. Set in serene natural retreats, spas across the country offer hilot and other traditional treatments, complemented by modern medical facilities staffed with highly skilled healthcare professionals.
The congress brought together delegates from 38 countries, with the attendance of over 40 nationalities, to explore the potential of medical and wellness tourism in the Philippines.
The congress included an opening program, country and partner presentations, panel discussions, business-to-business networking sessions, and an exhibition area featuring the diverse aspects of Filipino wellness as well as partner trade exhibitors.
