The Alchemy of Balance: Rehabilitation and the Power of the “Maaram”

Introduction: Redefining Rehabilitation

In the modern world, rehabilitation is often viewed as a clinical process—a way to fix a broken body or a wayward mind. However, in the heart of Philippine tradition, rehabilitation is restoration. It is the act of bringing a person, a family, or a community back into a state of Harmony (Pagkakaisa) and Balance (Patas).

The Anatomy of Imbalance: Pasmo, Bughat, and Baldao Traditional healing recognizes that “damage” isn’t just physical. Baldao (Ilocano): A physical dislocation that requires the manual “resetting” of the frame. Pasmo: A thermal and energetic imbalance caused by the collision of “hot” and “cold,” often manifesting as tremors or weakness. Bughat/Binat: A spiritual and physical relapse. It is a reminder that the body is a temple that requires “sealing” and respect after a period of opening, such as illness or childbirth.

In these cases, the Hilot or Albularyo acts as the architect of recovery, using herbs, heat, and touch to reconstruct what was lost. The “Maaram” and the Neutrality of Knowledge At the center of this world is the Maaram (The Knower/The Wise). The etymology of the word—rooted in Alam (Knowledge)—parallels the English “Witch,” which comes from Wit (to know). A true Maaram is a Keeper of Ancient Mysteries.

They understand that knowledge is a neutral tool, like electricity or a blade. It has no inherent “color” until it is dyed by the Intention of the user. White Intent: Used for healing and protection.

Black Intent (Kulam): Traditionally defined by colonial history as “evil,” but philosophically viewed as the use of power to inflict consequence.

Kulam: The Tool of Restorative Justice Our discussion challenged the modern “demonization” of Kulam. Rather than a purely destructive act, Kulam can be viewed as a constructive tool for the oppressed.

A Self-Defense Mechanism: For those who are poor or powerless against the “rich” or the “mighty,” the cry for divine help awakens the Mangkukulam within.

A Teacher of Lessons: It serves as a spiritual classroom where pain is the medium for a lesson. It forces the offender to face their guilt and restore what they have stolen or broken.

The Universal Ki: This power is not reserved for “special” people. It is the Ki or Chi—the life force—within every individual. It is the manifestation of the human will to defend its own dignity and restore universal balance.

Conclusion: The Flow of Life The ultimate goal of all these mysteries is to ensure that life energy flows freely. Whether through the gentle touch of a healer or the sharp “correction” of a manifest intent, the purpose is the same: to maintain the harmony of the whole. The Maaram does not seek fame or fortune, but lives an ordinary life as a silent guardian of these laws. Knowledge, like Ki, must flow to give life to those who need it. When the “Mangkukulam within” awakens, it is not an act of evil, but the soul’s natural response to restore what is broken.

Hilot Then and Now: Autonomy, Community, and a Modern Framework for Continuity

By Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon (Apu Adman), Developer and Reviver of Hilot Binabaylan, Founder of Hilot Academy of Binabaylan

Overview

This article clarifies three intertwined questions:

Was hilot a “business” in pre‑colonial times?
How do “necessity” and “commodity” differ—and where does hilot belong?
Did manghihilot have formal groups and leaders in ancient times—and how does that history inform modern debates over legitimacy and leadership?

It closes with a Position Paper presenting the historical‑theological justification for the leadership of the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, and a peaceful indigenous response to critiques of legitimacy—grounded in culture, service, and spiritual calling.

I. Was Hilot a “Business” in Pre‑Colonial Times?

Short answer: No—not in the modern market sense. In pre‑colonial Philippine communities, hilot was a community health service embedded in spiritual practice, herbal knowledge, and manual healing, provided by manghihilot, albularyo, and babaylan. Compensation typically came through reciprocity—food, portions of harvest, help, or other gifts—rather than profit margins or standardized prices. The work was spirit‑led and community‑validated, not market‑driven.
Sources: Overviews consistently describe hilot as a holistic, culturally embedded practice rather than mere massage or commerce, emphasizing its role in childbirth, midwifery, herbalism, and spiritual healing. [beholdphil…ppines.com], [en.wikipedia.org], [nipino.com]

II. Necessity vs. Commodity—And Where Hilot Belongs

A. Definitions

Necessity: Goods or services essential to life and well‑being; demand is relatively inelastic because people need them regardless of price (e.g., food, water, shelter, basic healthcare). [difference.wiki], [fiveable.me]
Commodity: A good or service produced for trade, often fungible (interchangeable) and subject to market pricing and speculation (e.g., grains, metals, oil). [en.wikipedia.org], [merriam-webster.com]

B. Where Hilot Belongs

Pre‑colonial hilot functioned as a necessity: it was the primary healthcare for many communities—covering musculoskeletal care, prenatal and childbirth support, herbal medicine, and spiritual balance. Its demand derived from communal need and spiritual obligation, not price sensitivity or brand competition. [beholdphil…ppines.com], [nipino.com]

Modern hilot can be commodified (e.g., spa menus, wellness tourism, branded trainings) when offered through market channels with fees, packages, and certifications. That shift—from necessity to commodity—is a feature of contemporary market systems, not ancient practice. [insights.m…ourism.com]

III. Did Ancient Manghihilot Have Groups and Leadership?

A. Autonomy and Place‑Based Calling

Pre‑colonial healers (manghihilot, babaylan/katalonan, mumbaki, walian, etc.) were typically autonomous, place‑based, and lineage/apprenticeship‑trained. Their recognition flowed from efficacy, ritual authority, and the community’s trust, rather than from a centralized guild or national hierarchy. [en.wikipedia.org], [centerforb…tudies.org]

B. Functional Differentiation, Not Bureaucratic Hierarchy

Communities often distinguished roles—e.g., bone setting and soft‑tissue manipulation (manghihilot), herbal pharmacopeia (albularyo), and ritual leadership (babaylan). This was functional diversity, not a top‑down chain of command. [en.wikipedia.org]

C. Spirit‑Led Leadership

Authority was relational, situational, and spirit‑led. Healers “bowed” to Divine/Diwata/Anito and served communal welfare. Their “leadership” was service‑based: respected because their practice worked, their counsel guided, and their rituals healed. [en.wikipedia.org]

Conclusion: Your understanding is correct. Ancient healers were independent and community‑anchored; modern inter‑group competition is largely a post‑colonial/market phenomenon.

IV. Why Do Modern Legitimacy Conflicts Arise?

Marketization & Branding: As hilot enters market frameworks (pricing, certifications, brand identities), groups understandably advocate for their models and standards—sometimes sliding into competitive claims. [insights.m…ourism.com]
Colonial & Post‑Colonial Disruptions: Historic suppression of indigenous spiritual healing fractured lineages, creating a vacuum later filled by new institutions seeking validation—occasionally through gatekeeping or delegitimization. Scholarly descriptions of babaylan roles and suppression across the archipelago contextualize this dynamic. [en.wikipedia.org]

V. The Role of Hilot Academy of Binabaylan (HAB)

The Hilot Academy of Binabaylan is not a “supreme authority.” It is a modern container—a learning community that preserves, organizes, and passes on indigenous healing knowledge responsibly. HAB provides structure for continuity amidst contemporary realities (urbanization, fragmented lineages, global students), while honoring spirit‑led autonomy and community service as the core of hilot. [beholdphil…ppines.com], [nipino.com]

VI. Position Paper

Historical‑Theological Justification of Leadership in the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan

A. Premises

Historical Continuity: Pre‑colonial hilot thrived as a necessity embedded in communal life, stewarded by healers recognized through efficacy and service, not bureaucratic titles. [beholdphil…ppines.com], [en.wikipedia.org]
Disruption and Need for a Modern Framework: Colonial/post‑colonial disruptions fragmented lineages and ritual ecologies, necessitating contemporary educational structures to safeguard and transmit knowledge. [en.wikipedia.org]
Theological Grounding: In indigenous perspectives, calling (tawag) originates from the Divine/Diwata/Anito. Leadership is diakonia (service), not dominion: a covenant with community well‑being and spiritual balance. [en.wikipedia.org]

B. Claim

HAB leadership is an instrumental guardianship—a service mandate to preserve and cultivate Hilot Binabaylan as living tradition within modern contexts. It organizes curricula, mentorships, and ethics not to supplant community healers but to support, strengthen, and transmit the practice responsibly.

C. Justification

Historical Justification: Establishing an academy aligns with historical patterns of apprenticeship and communal validation, translated into a modern educational container because the original village matrices are often unavailable. [beholdphil…ppines.com]
Theological Justification: Leadership is vocational—rooted in a call to serve. As with babaylan, authority is measured by healing efficacy, ethical conduct, and faithfulness to the spirits and community, not by claims of supremacy. HAB’s leadership adopts this servant‑covenant model. [en.wikipedia.org]
Cultural Justification: HAB functions as cultural stewardship against commodification without context—ensuring that when hilot enters modern venues (spas, tourism, global education), it carries its cosmology, ethics, and community orientation intact. [insights.m…ourism.com]

D. Principles of HAB Leadership

Service over Supremacy: Leadership exists to equip, not to dominate.
Spirit‑Led Autonomy: Honor practitioners’ place‑based callings and local lineages. [en.wikipedia.org]
Community‑First Ethics: Measure success in community welfare and healing outcomes, not in market share. [beholdphil…ppines.com]
Scholarly Integrity: Teach hilot’s history, techniques, and cosmology with rigor and respect. [en.wikipedia.org]
Reciprocity and Respect: Maintain mutual recognition across diverse hilot traditions and regions. [centerforb…tudies.org]

VII. Peaceful Indigenous Response to Critiques of Legitimacy

When confronted with questions about legitimacy or leadership, HAB offers this peaceful, culturally rooted response:

Affirm the Shared Ground “We honor all who respond to the call of healing. Our ancestors recognized many paths—manghihilot, albularyo, babaylan—each serving the people.”
Rationale: Pre‑colonial healing was plural, autonomous, and community‑validated. [en.wikipedia.org]
Clarify HAB’s Role “We are an academy—an educational home—built to preserve, teach, and responsibly transmit Hilot Binabaylan amidst modern realities. We do not claim supremacy; we offer structure for continuity.”
Rationale: HAB is a container, not an empire. [beholdphil…ppines.com]
Invite Reciprocity “Let us collaborate on standards that protect communities and learners—grounded in cosmology, efficacy, ethics, and service—so hilot remains a necessity, not merely a commodity.”
Rationale: Collaboration resists commodification without context and prioritizes community health. [insights.m…ourism.com]
Return to Calling and Outcomes “Authority in hilot arises from calling, conduct, and healing outcomes. Where practice heals and uplifts, legitimacy follows.”
Rationale: Spirit‑led, outcome‑based validation mirrors ancestral norms. [en.wikipedia.org]
Keep the Conversation Sacred > “We offer dialogue with respect, mindful that hilot is a sacred trust. May our words and works serve the people and honor the spirits.”
> Rationale: Ritual respect maintains cultural integrity. [centerforb…tudies.org]

VIII. Practical Implications for Modern Practitioners and Groups

For Practitioners: Cultivate efficacy, ethics, community relationships, and ongoing learning. Let your legitimacy arise from service and outcomes. [beholdphil…ppines.com]
For Schools/Groups: Build curricula that embed cosmology, herbal knowledge, manual techniques, ritual respect, and community‑first ethics—not just marketable skills. [en.wikipedia.org]
For the Public/Students: Seek training that honors hilot’s identity as necessity (health service) rather than commodity (brand alone). Verify community impact and cultural grounding. [difference.wiki], [en.wikipedia.org]

IX. Summary Table (Conceptual)

Dimension	Pre‑Colonial Hilot	Modern Hilot (Market Context)
Economic Nature	Necessity (community health)	Commodity (when branded/sold)
Validation	Community & Spirits (efficacy, ethics)	Market & Certification (branding, fees)
Leadership	Autonomous, spirit‑led	Institutional roles (school, org leaders)
Core Aim	Healing & Balance	Healing + structure for continuity
Risk	None (market)	Commodification without cultural context

Sources across sections: [beholdphil…ppines.com], [en.wikipedia.org], [nipino.com], [insights.m…ourism.com], [en.wikipedia.org], [centerforb…tudies.org], [difference.wiki], [en.wikipedia.org], [fiveable.me]

X. Closing

Hilot Binabaylan is not a brand to win a market contest; it is a living covenant between healer, community, and the spirits. The Hilot Academy of Binabaylan stands as a modern sanctuary—preserving, teaching, and transmitting a tradition whose legitimacy rests upon calling, conduct, and healing. In dialogue and collaboration, may we ensure that hilot remains what it has always been at heart: a necessity of communal life, not merely a commodity on the shelf.

References

Behold Philippines, Hilot: The Ancient Filipino Art of Healing (Aug 14, 2024) – overview of hilot as holistic tradition and community healthcare. [beholdphil…ppines.com]
Wikipedia, Hilot – origins, practices, and relation to shamanic traditions. [en.wikipedia.org]
Wikipedia, Filipino shamans (babaylan) – roles, spiritual mediation, and community significance. [en.wikipedia.org]
Center for Babaylan Studies, What is Babaylan? – descriptions of indigenous spiritual leadership and healing roles. [centerforb…tudies.org]
Medical Tourism Magazine, The Ancient Practice of Hilot: Traditional Healing in the Modern World – modern integration and wellness contexts. [insights.m…ourism.com]
Nipino.com, Hilot: Nurturing Body, Mind, and Spirit in Traditional Filipino Healing – historical roots and holistic principles. [nipino.com]
Merriam‑Webster, Commodity – definitions and market framing. [merriam-webster.com]
Wikipedia, Commodity – economic features and fungibility. [en.wikipedia.org]
Fiveable, Necessities – Principles of Economics Key Term – demand inelasticity and essential goods. [fiveable.me]

Is Hilot Filipino, or Is Hilot Human? A Manifesto and Practical Guide for Ethical Practice

Hilot is often asked to define itself.
Is it Filipino, or is it human?

This question does not seek to divide—it seeks clarity: Who may carry the wisdom of Hilot? How is it practiced with integrity today? And how do we safeguard it from appropriation while allowing it to heal beyond borders?

The answer is both simple and sacred:

Hilot is Filipino in ancestry, human in service, and Divine in origin.

Hilot: Filipino in Origin, Human in Purpose

Hilot is undeniably Filipino in origin, born from the land, the ancestors, and the cosmology of the Philippine archipelago. Its rituals, medicines, and ethics were shaped by our relationship with nature and the unseen world.

Yet Hilot is also human in purpose.
Healing does not discriminate. When someone comes before a healer, we do not ask if they are Filipino or foreigner, wealthy or poor, male, female, lesbian, gay, transgender, or cisgender, religious or non‑religious, left or right in politics.

We see first a soul in need of care.

And Hilot reminds us of a profound truth: the medicine we need is where we live. The healer’s task is to restore right relationship with place—learning from the plants in the yard, the trees in the neighborhood, the waters, winds, and soils that hold the wisdom of our locality. In this way, Hilot is rooted, not replicated; contextual, not colonial.

Who Is a Cultural Bearer Today?

In our time, being a bearer of indigenous wisdom is not only a matter of birth—it is a matter of devotion, discipline, and continuity.

History shows that some who were not indigenous by birth nonetheless served as careful documentarians and allies of Filipino lifeways. But their contributions never replace indigenous voices; they demonstrate that calling and responsibility sometimes transcend ancestry—provided that practice remains accountable to community custodians, elders, and ethical boards.

We also face a poignant reality: many are disconnected from indigenous lifeways due to colonization, modernization, and survival pressures. Meanwhile, some sacred roles—Babaylan, Mumbaki—are sometimes reduced to performance rather than vocation. Authenticity demands daily discipline, ethical responsibility, and living relationship with the ancestors, the Diwata, the land, and community.

The invitation is not to gatekeep healing, but to guard its integrity.

Foundational Manifesto of the Hilot Path

*For Hilot Academy of Binabaylan • Templong Anituhan • Bahay SiAdtala Binabaylan*

Preamble

Hilot is Filipino in ancestry, human in service, and Divine in origin.*
We affirm Hilot as a sacred healing tradition entrusted to humanity through ancestral wisdom and relationship with place. We commit to carrying it as a living vocation—never as spectacle—so its compassion endures and its integrity is preserved.

Vision

A world where ancestral healing is practiced with dignity, ecological reciprocity, and spiritual integrity—bringing balance to individuals, families, and communities across cultures, while honoring Hilot’s Filipino roots.

Core Premises

1. Ancestry & Universality: Hilot’s origin is Filipino; its service is human; its source is Divine.
2. Place‑Based Medicine: Healing begins with the medicine of one’s own land—plants, elements, and local ecology.
3. Relational Ethics: Hilot is sustained by right relationship with elders, community, land, spirit, and the person seeking care.
4. Consent & Sovereignty: Knowledge custodians and communities hold the right to decide how, when, and by whom sacred teachings are shared.
5. Guardianship of Knowledge: Rites, names, language, symbols, and cosmology are protected against exploitation and misuse.
6. Economic Justice: We reject profiteering and extractive commerce; we practice fair exchange and prioritize community benefit.
7. Ecological Reciprocity: We take only what is needed, replant and restore, and leave no harm in our healing.
8. Accountability: We welcome feedback, submit to ethical review, and repair trust when harm occurs.

Commitments (Practitioner Oath)

As a bearer of the Hilot Path, I pledge to:
– Serve all who seek healing, without discrimination or gatekeeping.
– Honor elders and cite teachers, sources, and lineages.
– Practice with place—prioritize local plants, elements, and ecology.
– Seek consent from community custodians before sharing sensitive rites.
– Name Hilot as Filipino ancestral medicine; never erase its origin.
– Avoid appropriation: no rebranding, repackaging, or commercialization of sacred rites.
– Maintain fair pricing and community care provisions (scholarships, clinics).
– Keep ritual discipline—study, supervision, reflection, and service.
– Uphold safety and competence, referring out when needed.
– Respect interfaith diversity and spiritual autonomy.
– Build global solidarity without diluting the tradition.

Operational Standards

– Training Pathways: Study via Hilot Academy of Binabaylan programs—Hilot Binabaylan Training, Aghamic Divinity & Ministry, and the Master’s in Ministry on Hilot Binabaylan Practice.
– Supervision: Maintain mentorship under recognized practitioners and engage in peer review.
– Practice Protocols: Use thorough assessment, place‑based pharmacognosy, ethical bodywork, and culturally rooted ritual.
– Community Protocols: Offer free/low‑cost clinics; respond to disaster recovery with trauma‑informed care; contribute to local public health.
– Safeguarding: Establish ethics boards to protect sacred rites, names, and symbols; require consent for publication or teaching.

Public Pledge (Publishable)

I recognize Hilot as Filipino ancestral medicine gifted by the Divine. I vow to study with integrity, practice with humility, honor the elders, protect sacred knowledge, and serve all who seek healing. I will not exploit, rebrand, or commercialize rites. I will learn from the land where I stand, give credit where due, share benefits fairly, and remain accountable to community and spirit. So I pledge, as a guardian of the Hilot Path.

How to Walk the Hilot Path—Without Appropriation

*A Practical Guide for Seekers, Practitioners, and Allies*

Why This Matters

When Hilot is shared without context or consent, its integrity is eroded and communities are harmed. When it is learned responsibly—through relationship, study, and reciprocity—Hilot lives and heals across generations.

What Is Cultural Appropriation?

– Appropriation is taking elements of a tradition without permission, context, or benefit to its source community—often for profit or prestige.
-Respectful participation means practicing with consent, mentorship, proper attribution, cultural context, and fair benefit‑sharing.

12 Practical Steps to Walk the Path Responsibly

1. Self‑Location: Name who you are (ancestry, location, privilege, purpose). Know your motivations and limits.
2. Relationship First: Seek elders, recognized practitioners, or community leaders. Prioritize listening and service over performing.
3. Formal Study & Supervision: Enroll in Hilot Academy of Binabaylan programs; commit to ongoing mentorship and peer review.
4. Place‑Based Practice: Use local plants and ecology; avoid importing materials to claim authenticity.
5. Learn the Language & Cosmology: Study terms (Diwata, Anito), prayers, ethics, and context.
6. Consent & Boundaries: Ask before teaching or sharing rites; honor restrictions and lineage‑specific practices.
7. Transparent Attribution: Always credit teachers, elders, communities, and sources. Never rename Hilot into your brand.
8. Fair Exchange & Community Benefit: Price ethically, offer scholarships, and reinvest in community health initiatives.
9. Safeguard Sacred Rites: Distinguish public vs. restricted ceremonies; avoid filming or publishing sacred moments without consent.
10. Accountability Mechanisms: Join an ethics circle, invite feedback, and repair harm with humility and tangible action.
11. Responsible Storytelling: Avoid sensationalizing “exotic” elements; share narratives that uplift dignity and context.
12. Sustainable Ecology: Harvest respectfully, replant, and favor non‑extractive methods; the land is a teacher, not a resource.

Before You Offer a Hilot Service (Checklist)

– Have you completed recognized study and secured mentorship?
– Do you understand assessment, contraindications, and safe practice?
– Have you obtained consent for any ritual or cultural element you’ll use?
– Is your pricing aligned with fair exchange and community benefit?
– Are your materials sourced ecologically and locally when possible?
– Do you have a plan for referrals and ongoing supervision?

Red Flags vs. Green Flags

– 🚩 Red Flags: Rebranding Hilot; selling sacred rites as workshops; using imported herbs to claim authenticity; no elders credited; filming rituals without consent; “instant certification.”
– ✅ Green Flags: Clear lineage and teachers; consent protocols; place‑based medicine; ethics policy; mentorship; fair pricing; community clinics.

Scenarios & Guidance
– Diaspora Filipino: Reconnect through study, language, and local ecology; serve your local Filipino community with consent and accountability.
– Non‑Filipino Practitioner: Name Hilot’s Filipino ancestry; commit to mentorship and benefit‑sharing; avoid rebranding; listen more than you speak.
– Wellness Entrepreneur: Build models that prioritize community benefit over profit; never commodify sacred rites; maintain transparent attribution.
– Content Creator: Obtain permission; avoid filming sacred rites; credit sources; educate without sensationalism.
– Academic Researcher: Practice ethical review; co‑author with community where applicable; share results and benefits transparently.

How to Start—Today

1. Enroll in Hilot Academy’s orientation and foundational training.
2. Join a mentorship circle with recognized Hilot Binabaylan practitioners.
3. Map local plants and ecological allies where you live.
4. Draft your personal ethics statement aligned with the Foundational Manifesto.
5. Offer one community service per month (clinic, class, or garden day).
6. Set a learning plan: cosmology, language, ritual, clinical safety.

From Curiosity to Commitment: A Convincing Call to Action

Do not merely learn Hilot.
Live it.

Do not consume indigenous wisdom.
Serve it.

Do not ask what Hilot can give you.
Ask what you are willing to give—time, humility, discipline, and respect—to ensure its survival for generations to come.

If you feel called to:

– study Hilot beyond technique,
– honor Filipino indigenous spirituality with integrity,
– and practice healing rooted in responsibility, not entitlement—

then the door is open.

Answer the Call

– Sign the Manifesto: Publicly pledge to ethical practice and guardianship.
– Join Mentorship: Enroll in Hilot Academy of Binabaylan programs and secure supervision with recognized Hilot Binabaylan mentors.
– Build Local Practice: Create community clinics, plant medicine gardens, and ethical service models where you live.
– Protect the Sacred: Form or join a local ethics circle to safeguard rites, names, and symbols.

📩 Ready to begin?
Reply with “Hilot Orientation” to receive your introductory session, the Foundational Manifesto signatory form, and the mentorship pathway through Hilot Academy of Binabaylan and Templong Anituhan.

🌱 The ancestors are calling. The Diwata are watching.
Will you carry this medicine with integrity?

🌸 New Year Message from Templong Anituhan & Hilot Academy 🌸

Happy New Year 2026!

As we welcome this new cycle of life, we reaffirm our sacred mission: to revive and nurture the optimum health and wellness of our people through the wisdom of Hilot Binabaylan.

Today, we share an important truth:

Hilot Binabaylan Practitioners are not mere healers—they are Ordained Clergy of Templong Anituhan.Our ministry is rooted in the divine covenant of life. We do not serve “patients” in a commercial sense; we serve devotees of life itself—those who honor the sacred gift of existence bestowed by the Divine.

This distinction matters:

– Devotees are not required to be temple members. Anyone who seeks harmony and wellness is welcome.
– Health care is not a commodity. It is an essential aspect of life, a sacred responsibility, and a spiritual act of service.
– Our work is not commercialized; it is a ministry of love, care, and balance, guided by ancestral wisdom and divine purpose.

In a world where health is often treated as a business, we stand firm in our belief:

Wellness is a birthright, not a product. Through Hilot, we restore not only the body but the spirit, reconnecting each devotee to the rhythms of nature and the divine source of life.

As we step into 2026, let us embrace this calling with humility and strength. May this year bring you healing, harmony, and holistic well-being.

Mabuhay ang buhay! Mabuhay ang Hilot!

🌿 Templong Anituhan & Hilot Academy of Binabaylan

From Tradition to Transformation: Elevating Healers as Leaders in Holistic Global Wellness

San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan – January 1, 2026
As we welcome the new year, Hilot Academy of Binabaylan proudly announces its theme for 2026:
“From Tradition to Transformation: Elevating Healers as Leaders in Holistic Global Wellness.”

Why This Theme Matters

Hilot is more than a healing art—it is a living tradition deeply rooted in Filipino culture and spirituality. For centuries, Hilot has nurtured communities through its holistic approach to health and well-being. Today, the world is seeking authentic, natural, and integrative healing systems. This is where Hilot steps forward—not just as a practice, but as a global movement.

From Tradition to Transformation

This theme reflects our commitment to preserve the wisdom of our ancestors while embracing innovation. Hilot Academy continues to teach the sacred knowledge of Hilot Binabaylan, integrating it with modern wellness principles to meet the needs of a changing world.

Elevating Healers as Leaders

Our graduates are more than practitioners—they are leaders and advocates for holistic health. Through ministerial education, ethical standards, and continuous learning, Hilot Academy empowers healers to take leadership roles in global wellness communities. Professionalization in holistic health does not depend solely on secular academic degrees; it thrives on competence, ethics, and cultural authenticity—values that Hilot Academy upholds.

Major Initiatives for 2026

This year marks a significant milestone for Hilot Academy as we launch programs and partnerships that embody our theme:

✅ Hilot Tanglaw Mentorship Program
We are introducing Hilot Tanglaw, a continuing professional development initiative designed to elevate Hilot Binabaylan practitioners into mentors and leaders. This program strengthens our network and ensures that the wisdom of Hilot is passed on with integrity and excellence.

✅ Global Expansion: Bahay International Hilot Centre
In line with our vision of global wellness leadership, we have passed a resolution to establish the Bahay International Hilot Centre in Toronto, Canada. This center will serve as a hub for Hilot education and practice for Filipinos and international students seeking authentic indigenous healing.

✅ Negotiations for London Training Center
We are also in active conversations to open a Hilot Training Center in London, bringing Hilot Binabaylan practice to Europe and expanding our reach to a global audience.

Holistic Global Wellness

The future of healthcare is holistic. By elevating Hilot into the global wellness conversation, we offer a unique contribution: a healing system that honors body, mind, spirit, and culture. Our mission is clear—to transform healers into leaders who inspire wellness worldwide.

Join us in this journey of transformation.
For enrollment and partnership inquiries, visit www.hilotacademy.com or email us at hilotacademy@luntiangaghama.org

Practice Hilot Diagnosis at Home with Our New eBook!

Exciting news for our Hilot Academy community!
We’ve just launched a mini-lesson eBook on Gumroad that brings the sacred science of Hilot diagnostics right to your fingertips. This is your chance to continue learning and practicing at home—whether you’re a graduate of our training or someone eager to explore the wisdom of our ancestors.

What’s Inside the eBook?

Our latest publication is more than just a guide—it’s a doorway into the heart of Hilot Binabaylan tradition. You’ll learn three powerful diagnostic techniques that form the foundation of holistic Filipino healing:

Pantay Daliri (Finger Length Alignment): Discover how the pinky fingers reveal elemental and spiritual imbalances, guiding you toward harmony of body, mind, and spirit.
Tudluan (Finger Poking Analysis): A tactile method to sense elemental disharmony through the fingers and toes, connecting physical health with ancestral wisdom.
Tawas for Wellness: Learn the art of smoke, wax, and egg reading to uncover hidden energetic blockages and restore balance.

These methods are simple, practical, and culturally authentic, designed for home practice while maintaining the integrity of Hilot philosophy.

Why This Matters for Our Graduates

If you’ve completed our Hilot Binabaylan training, this eBook is your latest update—a way to refresh your skills, deepen your understanding, and integrate these techniques into your daily life. It’s perfect for those who want to stay connected to the tradition and expand their diagnostic mastery beyond the classroom.

Why You’ll Love It

Accessible: Practice anytime, anywhere.
Authentic: Rooted in indigenous Filipino healing wisdom.
Empowering: Gain confidence in performing Hilot diagnostics for yourself and your loved ones.

Get Your Copy Today!

Don’t miss this opportunity to bring Hilot home.
👉 Download the eBook now on Gumroad and start your journey toward holistic wellness.

Step into the circle of healers. Honor the wisdom of our ancestors. Elevate your practice with Hilot Academy.

The True Essence of a Healer: A Creed for Hilot Binabaylan Practitioners

In a world where healing is often measured by degrees, diplomas, and monetary value, I stand firm in the belief that the gift of knowledge entrusted to me through Hilot is overflowing—not because of wealth or status, but because of the love and compassion that move me to serve.

I do not claim that I can heal every illness a person may suffer. My heart and mind simply tell me to help and share my energy with every individual who genuinely seeks healing. Like all traditional folk healers, I acknowledge this truth: we are not the ones who heal. We are instruments of the Divine, channels through which healing flows.

Traditional medicine teaches that every individual has the innate ability to heal themselves. We, as healers, are catalysts—facilitators of that process. This wisdom was echoed by Doctor Ruben M. Galang Jr., who taught us that healing is a partnership. Even if I were the greatest healer in the land, if the person does not participate in their own healing, no true healing can occur.

As a Hilot Binabaylan, I am deeply grateful to every patient who knocks on my door. Their trust is a sacred gift. I am equally grateful to the Anito and the Diwata for entrusting me with this ability to care—not only with compassion but also with the little knowledge of human science that complements our ancestral wisdom.

Today, I realize that being a healer is not about academic degrees, certificates, or diplomas. It is about the degree of love and care that moves you to heal an individual. Healing is priceless because it springs from the heart.

Why I Heal on a Donation Basis
This afternoon, I spoke with Cris, our custodian who tends to our chickens. I asked him why he thinks I offer Hilot on a donation basis or sometimes for free. He guessed that I do so because I earn through teaching Hilot. While that is partly true, it is not the whole story. Teaching does not always guarantee income—this year, I only had one class in Hawaii last August and one enrollee this December. What they pay is a small amount, enough to sustain our work at the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan.

The real reason is this: if I charged the same rates I once did in Makati—₱1,800 to ₱2,500 per hourly session—many in my community could not afford it. And what I give is priceless. Healing is not a commodity; it is a sacred act of service.

The Creed of Hilot Binabaylan
From this reflection, I offer these guiding principles for all who walk the path of Hilot Binabaylan:

1. We are instruments of the Divine. Healing flows through us, not from us.
2. Healing is a partnership. The patient must actively participate for true healing to occur.
3. Love and compassion are our greatest credentials. Degrees and certificates do not define a healer—the heart does.
4. Gratitude is our foundation. We honor those who seek our help and the spiritual forces that guide us.
5. Healing is priceless. It cannot be measured by money but by the transformation it brings.
6. We serve with humility. Our work is not for fame or fortune but for the well-being of all.

Final Thoughts
To be a healer is to embody love, care, and service. It is to walk with humility, guided by the wisdom of our ancestors and the grace of the Divine. May this creed inspire every Hilot Binabaylan to uphold the sacred calling of healing—not as a profession, but as a lifelong mission of compassion.

Manghihilot: The Lifeline Between Tradition and Modern Healthcare

In the heart of Filipino communities, the manghihilot stands as a trusted figure—a healer, a guide, and now, a vital connector between the people and the formal healthcare system. Rooted in centuries-old wisdom, Hilot is more than a therapeutic practice; it is a cultural bridge that fosters trust and accessibility in times of need.

Ethics That Empower

The Hilot Code of Ethics reminds us: “We do not treat patients with conditions beyond our understanding. We refer them to proper healthcare professionals as necessary.” This principle reflects humility and responsibility. Yet, it does not mean turning away those who seek help. Instead, manghihilot practitioners perform initial assessment and relief care, ensuring comfort while facilitating access to advanced medical treatment.

Why This Role Is Crucial

For many Filipinos—especially in rural areas—healthcare is not just a matter of distance; it’s a matter of trust. Hospitals can feel intimidating, and financial constraints often delay treatment. Here, the manghihilot becomes a bridge of trust, guiding patients toward modern care without abandoning cultural values.

By offering first-line care, stabilizing conditions, and educating families, manghihilot practitioners help overcome fear and mistrust. They make the transition from traditional healing to modern medicine smoother, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Integration, Not Opposition

The future of healthcare lies in collaboration. Manghihilot practitioners complement modern medicine by:

Providing culturally sensitive care.
Acting as first responders in remote areas.
Facilitating referrals to hospitals and clinics.

This synergy creates a holistic approach where tradition and science work hand-in-hand for the well-being of the community.

A Call to Action

To strengthen this role, we need support from both the public and healthcare institutions:

Recognize manghihilot practitioners as vital partners in community health.
Provide training and resources for proper referral systems.
Promote integration programs that respect cultural heritage while ensuring safety.

By supporting this collaboration, we empower communities, preserve tradition, and improve healthcare access for all.

✅ Join the Movement! Advocate for the integration of Hilot into public health programs. Share this article, start conversations, and help build a healthcare system that honors both tradition and modernity.

Freedom Over Restriction: Rethinking Public Health Policies in the Philippines

In the Philippines, government agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH) often resort to bans and prohibitions as their primary tool for addressing public health concerns. From smoking restrictions to regulations on vaping and sugary drinks, these measures are typically justified as necessary for the greater good. But while the intention may be noble, the approach raises a critical question: Are we sacrificing freedom for safety in ways that undermine trust and progress?

The Problem with Restrictive Governance

Bans and prohibitions are quick fixes. They create an illusion of control and immediate compliance, but they rarely address the root causes of public health issues. Worse, they often breed resentment and resistance. When people feel their autonomy is curtailed, they are less likely to cooperate willingly. Instead of fostering a culture of responsibility, restrictive policies can lead to a cycle of enforcement and evasion.

Consider the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (RA 9211), which prohibits smoking in public places and bans tobacco advertising. While this law contributed to reducing smoking prevalence from 29.7% in 2009 to 19.5% in 2021, enforcement challenges persist, and smoking remains a leading cause of death in the country. Similarly, the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act (RA 11900) introduced strict rules on e-cigarettes, including age restrictions and flavor bans. Yet, youth vaping surged by 110% between 2015 and 2019, showing that prohibition alone cannot solve behavioral health issues. [academic.oup.com] [global.lockton.com], [publications.aap.org]

These examples illustrate a pattern: restrictive policies may reduce harm in the short term but fail to build long-term health literacy and voluntary compliance.

Why Freedom Matters in Public Health

Freedom is not the enemy of health; it is its ally. When individuals are empowered to make informed choices, they become active participants in their well-being. Public health thrives in an environment where education, transparency, and trust replace coercion.

Countries that prioritize empowerment over restriction often see better long-term outcomes. Why? Because informed citizens adopt healthy behaviors voluntarily—not because they are forced, but because they understand the benefits.

A Better Way Forward: Empowerment Over Enforcement

Instead of implementing limiting factors, government agencies should embrace strategies that promote freedom while safeguarding health. Here’s how:

Education Over Prohibition
Launch comprehensive education campaigns that explain the risks and benefits of certain behaviors. For example, rather than banning sugary drinks outright, teach communities about nutrition and provide healthier alternatives.
Incentives for Healthy Choices
Replace bans with positive reinforcement. Countries like Indonesia and Cameroon have experimented with performance-based grants and incentives to improve health and education outcomes, proving that rewards can drive behavior change without coercion. [worldbank.org]
Community Engagement and Co-Creation
Involve communities in policy-making. When people feel heard and included, they are more likely to support and comply with health initiatives.
Transparency and Trust
Communicate the rationale behind every policy clearly. Trust grows when citizens understand the “why” behind the “what.”

International Best Practices

Global health authorities emphasize empowerment-based approaches. The WHO Global Framework on Well-being advocates for health promotion strategies that integrate education, community participation, and equity rather than punitive measures. Similarly, the OECD Guidebook on Best Practices in Public Health highlights interventions that prioritize effectiveness, equity, and evidence-based education over restrictive enforcement. [cdn.who.int] [oecd.org]

The Health-Promoting Schools Initiative by WHO and UNESCO is another example. Instead of banning unhealthy behaviors, it creates environments where students learn health skills, access nutritious food, and engage in physical activity—empowering them to make lifelong healthy choices. [who.int], [unesco.org]

Freedom and Responsibility: A Balanced Approach

Promoting freedom does not mean abandoning responsibility. It means creating a system where individuals are trusted and empowered to make decisions that benefit both themselves and society. A government that prioritizes liberty while fostering accountability will not only protect public health but also strengthen democracy.

The Call to Action

It’s time for the Philippine government to shift from a culture of restriction to a culture of empowerment. Citizens should demand policies that respect their autonomy and promote informed decision-making. Public health should be a partnership, not a dictatorship.

We call on the DOH and other agencies to:

Review existing bans and evaluate their necessity and effectiveness.
Invest in education and community-based programs that encourage voluntary compliance.
Create incentive-driven initiatives that make healthy choices accessible and attractive.

Freedom is not a privilege; it is a right. And in the realm of public health, it is the foundation for lasting change. Let us move beyond fear-driven policies and embrace a future where health and liberty coexist harmoniously.

Policy on Enrollment for Specialized Programs

At Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, we uphold the sacred responsibility of preserving and promoting Authentic Indigenous Filipino Traditional Healthcare Practices. Our programs are designed not merely as technical training but as a spiritual and cultural journey rooted in the wisdom of our ancestors.

Why We Require Initiation Before Advanced Programs

The Family Care Hilot Treatment Program is a Continuing Study Program exclusively offered to graduates of our Hilot Binabaylan Practice Master Degree Program. This prerequisite ensures that every participant:

Embodies the Core Values of Hilot Binabaylan
Our 9-day initiation and training program equips practitioners with the knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitude necessary to uphold the integrity of Hilot.
Protects the Authenticity of Our Tradition
We do not allow the integration of Hilot techniques with Western or other modalities. Combining Hilot with foreign practices risks cultural dilution and dishonors the uniqueness of each healing art.
Advances Our Advocacy, Not Commercialization
Our mission is principle-driven, not profit-driven. Enrollment decisions are guided by our commitment to cultural preservation and spiritual integrity, not financial gain.

Our Stand Against Cultural Colonization

Modern spas often offer “Combination Massage,” blending different modalities without respect for their origins. We reject this approach. Hilot is a complete and holistic system that stands on its own—just as our ancestors practiced it for generations.

Policy for International Students

It is our established policy that international students enrolling in the 9-day Hilot Binabaylan Training Program are required to stay with us at our designated accommodation. This includes food and lodging, provided for the following reasons:

Safety and Comfort
As visitors to the Philippines, we prioritize your well-being and security throughout your stay.
Focus on Learning
Classes begin at 8:00 AM and may extend until 8:00 PM. Commuting daily would consume energy and distract from the immersive learning experience. Staying onsite ensures that students can fully concentrate on the training and spiritual journey.

This policy reflects our commitment to creating a safe, comfortable, and focused environment for all participants.

Our Commitment

By maintaining these standards, we ensure that Hilot remains authentic, genuine, and deeply rooted in Filipino Indigenous Wisdom, empowering practitioners to serve their communities with integrity.