THE Department of Tourism (DoT) hosted the second International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress (IHWTC) Monday at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Taguig City.
The conference, with the theme “Aruga: A Filipino-Inspired Gathering for Global Health and Wellness,” aims to reinforce the Philippines’ position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific health and wellness tourism industry.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, with Agora Group CEO Hadi Malaeb and Taguig Mayor Maria Laarni Cayetano, led the ceremonial inauguration, which featured a ribbon cutting and the symbolic ringing of bamboo wind chimes.
“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,” Frasco said.
The event brought together participants from 38 countries to learn about the future possibilities of medical and wellness tourism in the Philippines.
“Under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we have seen accelerated progress in improving health care systems and investments in infrastructure, all while fostering unprecedented growth in tourism,” Frasco said.
“This focus on inclusive health care not only benefits our people but also enhances our global reputation as a destination capable of providing top-tier medical services to international tourists seeking wellness and care,” she added.
The National Tourism Development Plan 2022-2028 recognizes health and wellness tourism as a significant development industry, with the goal of improving health care accessibility, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and providing world-class experiences.
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