DoT seeks more investments in medical, wellness tourism

The Department of Tourism (DoT) is encouraging greater private-sector investment in medical and wellness tourism, seeking to create jobs, expand regional healthcare capacity and strengthen the Philippines’ competitiveness as a destination for health-related services.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay made the appeal at the 15th Arangkada Philippines Forum on 9 October, urging businesses and investors to develop services that connect healthcare, hospitality, infrastructure and technology.

“We want to develop a stronger health and wellness sector that attracts investment, creates jobs, expands regional capacity, and improves services for Filipinos,” Angara-Mathay said.

Provide patients with seamless care

She identified opportunities across hospitals, diagnostic services, digital health, rehabilitation, wellness facilities, hospitality and long-stay communities, emphasizing the need to connect these services to provide patients with more seamless care.

As of September 2026, the DoT’s accreditation network included 13 hospitals, 21 ambulatory clinics, 10 dental clinics and 63 spas. The country also had six hospitals accredited by Joint Commission International, providing a foundation for further expansion into the international health tourism market.

The department does not directly provide medical services but works with industry stakeholders to address gaps in tourism infrastructure and healthcare support through public-private partnerships.

Integrated model

Angara-Mathay said an integrated model could allow international patients to receive specialized treatment, undergo rehabilitation, stay in quality accommodation with their families and access appropriate nutrition, wellness and recreational services. Such an approach could generate business opportunities for hospitals, hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and digital health companies.

The Global Wellness Institute reported that the Philippines’ wellness economy reached $47.3 billion in 2024, ranking 23rd globally and eighth in the Asia-Pacific region.

Investments in traditional hilot

To capture more of this market, the DoT is promoting investment in traditional hilot, locally sourced wellness products, physical therapy, preventive healthcare, longevity services, fertility and reproductive health, dental care and eye care.

The department has also partnered with private-sector stakeholders to establish a Medical Concierge and Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. The facility assists arriving medical tourists with information on health and wellness services and connects them with DoT-accredited tourism and wellness experiences.