Iloilo eyes new economic engine: Health & wellness tourism

ILOILO CITY—Local officials are betting big on a new growth frontier as the city convened key players from healthcare, tourism, business, and government on Monday to push health and wellness tourism as Iloilo’s next major economic driver.

Speaking at the city’s first Health and Wellness Tourism Conference, Mayor Raisa Treñas said Iloilo is already evolving into a destination where travelers can seek both rest and medical care—powered by rising investments in hospitals, specialty clinics, and cutting-edge technology.

“Tourism grows faster when there are quality health services. People travel where they feel safe, comfortable, and well taken care of—and Iloilo is stepping into that role,” Treñas said, noting that machines and medical technologies once exclusive to Manila and Cebu are now accessible in the city.

She added that Iloilo’s steady adoption of advanced medical practices in recent years shows that “the city has been preparing for this moment all along.”

Treñas called on the Iloilo City Health and Wellness Tourism Council and its Technical Working Group to accelerate the implementation of programs that will position Iloilo as a premier medical and wellness hub.

Executive Assistant for Medical Tourism Dr. Candice Tupas said the city aims to capture at least 30 percent of tourists seeking medical and wellness services by 2030. Tupas, who authored the proposed Medical Tourism Ordinance during her term as city councilor, said doctors in Iloilo are already serving patients from across Panay and returning Filipinos who prefer the city for its quality care and modern facilities.

“Medical tourism means traveling abroad for treatment—whether for lower costs, better service, or specialized procedures—while wellness tourism focuses on preventive health, from yoga retreats to spa therapies and holistic programs,” she said.

With modern hospitals rising, private players expanding, and a government eager to diversify its tourism offerings, Iloilo City is positioning itself to become the country’s next powerhouse in health and wellness travel.