Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism.
QUEZON CITY (PIA) — First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, led the opening of the International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress (IHWTC) today, Oct. 14, at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
Agora Group CEO Hadi Malaeb and Taguig City Mayor Laarni Lopez Cayetano joined them in spearheading the inaugural Philippine event, aimed at positioning the country as a key health and wellness tourism hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
With the theme “Aruga: A Filipino-Inspired Gathering for Global Health and Wellness,” the IHWTC highlights the unique Filipino approach to wellness through the five senses.
The event brings together delegates from 38 countries, with the attendance of over 40 nationalities, to explore the potential of medical and wellness tourism in the Philippines, according to the DOT.
Following the ceremonial ribbon cutting for the event was a symbolic ringing of bamboo wind chimes, representing the organic and nurturing essence of health and wellness.
The congress also includes country and partner presentations, panel discussions, business-to-business networking sessions, and an exhibition area.
This second edition of IHWTC is open until Oct. 15, offering attendees a comprehensive look at the Philippines’ emerging health tourism industry.
It follows the earlier IHWTC event held in Düsseldorf, Germany.
The International Health & Wellness Tourism Congress links medical and wellbeing travel solution providers and other stakeholders from across the globe. (PIA DMD)
