Bridging Ethical Practice and Sacred Autonomy: A Reflection on Spiritual Healing

In recent days, a meaningful exchange took place between our institution—the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan under Templong Anituhan Inc.—and the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC).

What began as a simple letter expressing concern over certain healing methods has opened a deeper conversation—one that touches on ethics, responsibility, tradition, and the sacred nature of healing.

This moment invites reflection, not division.

A Shared Commitment to Ethical Healing

At the heart of our communication is a shared truth:

Healing must always be grounded in compassion, dignity, and non-violence.

We recognize and affirm the important role of PITAHC in:

  • Promoting safety and accountability
  • Establishing standards in traditional healing
  • Protecting communities from harm

These are necessary and valuable contributions to public well-being.

At the same time, our reflection arises from a deeper concern:

👉 That all healing—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—must never involve harm, coercion, or distress.

Healing is not domination.
Healing is not force.
Healing is the gentle restoration of balance.

The Distinction of Spiritual Healing

While many healing systems fall within the scope of regulation and certification, there exists a domain that is fundamentally different:

Spiritual Healing rooted in Indigenous and Sacred Traditions

Hilot Binabaylan, as practiced in our institution, belongs to this sacred domain.

It is not merely a technique.
It is not only a method.
It is a way of being, a calling, and a spiritual ministry.

It integrates:

  • The body (physical wellness)
  • The mind (awareness and intention)
  • The spirit (sacred connection and ancestral guidance)

In this sense, it transcends the framework of conventional healthcare systems.

On Regulation and Sacred Boundaries

In response to our letter, PITAHC kindly suggested applying for certification or recognition.

We receive this with respect.

However, it is important to clarify:

👉 Our intention was never to seek certification.

This is not out of resistance, but out of responsibility to the nature of our work.

Spiritual healing—particularly those rooted in indigenous traditions—belongs to a space that is:

  • Protected by freedom of religion and belief
  • Guided by ancestral knowledge systems
  • Sustained through initiation, formation, and spiritual lineage

To subject such practices to formal regulation in the same way as physical modalities risks something deeper:

❗ It may unintentionally limit, redefine, or diminish the spiritual essence of the practice.

Sacred traditions are not merely systems to be standardized.
They are living relationships—with spirit, land, and community.

Indigenous Wisdom and Ethical Responsibility

This position is not a rejection of accountability.

On the contrary, Indigenous spiritual traditions carry their own forms of responsibility:

  • Eldership and mentorship
  • Ritual discipline
  • Spiritual discernment
  • Community-based validation

These are not lesser forms of accountability—they are simply different in nature.

In fact, they demand:

  • Deeper humility
  • Greater integrity
  • And a lifelong commitment to ethical service

Toward a Framework of Shared Ethical Principles

Rather than viewing regulation and spiritual autonomy as opposing forces, we see an opportunity:

A space for dialogue and collaboration grounded in shared values

Such a framework may include:

  • Non-violence in all forms of healing
  • Respect for human dignity and consent
  • Protection of vulnerable individuals
  • Cultural sensitivity and Indigenous respect
  • Clarity between physical, therapeutic, and spiritual practices

In this shared space:

  • Government institutions can safeguard public welfare
  • Spiritual institutions can preserve sacred integrity

Both serve the same people.

A Living Conversation

This is not the end of a discussion—it is the beginning of one.

We remain open to meaningful dialogue with PITAHC and other institutions, not to conform or to control, but to:

🌿 Co-create a holistic and ethical landscape of healing in the Philippines

One that honors:

  • Science and spirit
  • Safety and sacredness
  • Regulation and freedom

Closing Reflection

As we continue our work in Hilot Binabaylan and the ministry of Templong Anituhan, we hold firmly to this guiding truth:

Healing is sacred.
And what is sacred must be protected—not only from harm, but from being reduced to something it is not.

May we move forward together—with wisdom, humility, and respect for all paths that lead toward healing.

From Healing Hands to Nation Building: The Evolving Path of Hilot Binabaylan

Yesterday, June 14, 2026, marked a significant milestone for the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan as we conducted the Assessment Day of our Hilot Binabaylan Alignment Program. Present during this important rite of passage were Gian Abian, Emel Pascua, and Wilan Silvan—three dedicated practitioners who are set to graduate on June 21, 2026.

Their graduation carries historic weight. They will become the last recipients of the Master’s in Ministry on Hilot Binabaylan Practice.

This transition, however, is not a downgrade of our program—it is a profound upgrade in our vision, structure, and responsibility.

A New Educational Horizon: The 2027 Degree Program

Beginning in 2027, the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan will strive to implement a more comprehensive academic pathway: the
Bachelor’s in Ministry on Indigenous Filipino Healing Arts and Science.

This four-year degree program is designed to strengthen both the intellectual and practical foundations of future healers. It will integrate certification tracks in:

  • Magtatawas (diagnostic ritual practice)
  • Spiritual Wellness Facilitation
  • Albularyo (traditional community healing)
  • Hilot Binabaylan Practice

The program will follow a blended (hybrid) learning model, where:

  • Theoretical subjects are studied online, allowing accessibility to students from various locations.
  • Practical training is conducted in person, under the direct guidance of our trained mentors—the Hilot Tanglaw.

This ensures that learning is not merely conceptual, but embodied.

Dunong Hilot: Beyond Knowledge, Toward Embodied Wisdom

The transmission of Dunong Hilot (Hilot Knowledge) is anchored in four essential pillars:

1. Knowledge

Understanding the theories, principles, and cultural context of Hilot.

2. Skills

The actual ability to perform healing techniques effectively.

3. Ability

The natural capacity and intuitive sensitivity that a practitioner brings into the healing process.

4. Attitude

The ethical foundation—how a healer treats patients, community, and the sacred responsibility of healing.

Through years of teaching, I have encountered students who excel in theory yet struggle in practice. This is why our evolving framework emphasizes integration—where knowledge must become action, and action must be guided by wisdom and compassion.

Honoring Lineage: Healing as Ancestral Continuity

As Indigenous Healers, Hilot Binabaylan practitioners are taught the sacred value of ancestral recognition.

Hilot is not a personal invention or a system for self-glorification. It is a living lineage—a continuation of the wisdom passed down by our ancestors, the original stewards of this land.

Preserving this lineage is not about demanding recognition for oneself, but about restoring honor to those who came before us. In doing so, we reclaim not only healing practices, but also cultural identity and spiritual sovereignty.

Hilot in Action: Healing Beyond the Physical

During our recent assessment, one graduating candidate shared a powerful insight:
that a simple pagtatawas (ritual diagnosis) is not limited to identifying the cause of illness—it can also become a bridge toward resolving deeper life concerns.

In one instance, this practice evolved into a form of life coaching and relationship counseling, helping strengthen the bond between a couple.

This is the essence of Hilot.

Healing is not confined to the body.
It extends into the emotional, relational, and spiritual dimensions of life.

The Hilot as a Nation Builder

This is the future we envision:

A generation of healers who are not driven solely by patients or profit, but by service to humanity.

A Hilot is:

  • A healer of individuals
  • A guide for families
  • A stabilizer of communities
  • A bridge between past and future

When practiced with integrity, Hilot becomes a force of social transformation.

By restoring balance in individuals, we restore harmony in families.
By strengthening families, we rebuild communities.
By empowering communities, we participate in the healing and rebuilding of our nation.

A Call to Purpose

As we prepare to graduate the final batch of Master’s-level Hilot Binabaylan practitioners, we also open a new chapter—one that calls for deeper commitment, broader learning, and greater responsibility.

The path of Hilot is not merely a career.
It is a calling.

And in answering that calling, we become more than healers—we become nation builders.

Compassion, Not Harm: Understanding True Healing in Hilot Binabaylan Practice

In recent times, a circulating video has raised serious concern within the healing community—a portrayal of a so-called “spiritual healer” using forceful and painful methods that appear violent, aggressive, and devoid of compassion. Such representations not only alarm the public but also mislead people about the true nature of traditional Filipino healing.

As practitioners and guardians of Hilot Binabaylan, it is our duty to clarify:
Authentic Hilot is not violence. It is healing grounded in care, alignment, and love.

Hilot Is Not Just Massage

One of the most common misconceptions is that Hilot is simply a form of massage meant for relaxation. This is not entirely accurate.

While massage focuses on soothing muscles and providing comfort, Hilot goes deeper. It is a traditional healing art that:

  • Identifies imbalances within the body
  • Restores alignment and energetic flow
  • Addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual disturbances

In Hilot Binabaylan, healing is intentional and corrective, not merely superficial.

Why Hilot Can Be Painful—But Only Briefly

It is true that Hilot can sometimes feel painful—but this must be properly understood.

The discomfort experienced during a Hilot session is not meant to harm. Rather, it is a natural response of the body when an imbalance is being corrected. When a part of the body is misaligned or blocked, the initial touch may trigger a moment of pain.

However, this follows a clear pattern:

  1. First stroke (unang hagod): discomfort or sharp sensation where imbalance exists
  2. Subsequent strokes: gradual reduction of pain
  3. Final phase: relief, lightness, and restored flow

The goal is not to inflict pain, but to reduce it until it completely disappears.

Gentleness Is Central to Hilot Practice

True Hilot is never executed through aggression.

A legitimate Hilot practitioner works with:

  • Controlled, gentle movements
  • Heightened awareness of the body’s response
  • Calm and focused intention
  • Respect for the patient’s limits

Healing is not achieved by force, anger, or punishment.
It is achieved through precision, sensitivity, and compassion.

The behavior shown in the viral video—violent striking, harsh handling, and use of instruments with aggression—does not represent Hilot Binabaylan.

Traditional Healing Tools: Purposeful, Not Harmful

Hilot does involve the use of tools, but always with therapeutic intention and care. These include:

  • Baso (glass cupping) for bentusa (suction therapy)
  • Leaves (dahon) used for scanning and diagnosing imbalances
  • Bamboo or guava sticks for controlled pressure application
  • Coconut midrib (tingting) used in gentle tapping techniques

For example, in the pa-tapik method using 13 coconut sticks, the tapping is light and rhythmic, designed to stimulate circulation—not to injure or punish the body.

Every tool in Hilot serves a healing purpose, never a destructive one.

Healing Is Rooted in Love and Care

The core principle of Hilot Binabaylan is simple yet profound:

Healing must come from love (pag-ibig) and compassion (pagmamalasakit).

Without these, any act cannot be called healing.

A true healer:

  • Does not dominate the patient
  • Does not inflict unnecessary pain
  • Does not act out of ego or anger

Instead, the healer becomes a channel of balance, care, and restoration.

Guidance for Patients Seeking Spiritual Healing

For those seeking the help of a spiritual healer, discernment is essential. Not all who claim to heal are legitimate practitioners.

Before entrusting your well-being, consider the following:

✅ Check for Ordination Credentials

A true spiritual healer should be ordained by a legitimate spiritual or religious institution, authorizing them to practice healing responsibly.

✅ Verify Legal Compliance

If they accept payments or donations:

  • Look for DTI Registration
  • Ensure they have a Mayor’s Permit

If they operate a chapel or organization:

  • Ask for SEC Registration
  • Confirm BIR Registration and official receipts

✅ Observe Their Conduct

A legitimate healer:

  • Works with calmness and respect
  • Explains the process clearly
  • Prioritizes your safety and consent

Never trust a healer who:

  • Uses fear, intimidation, or violence
  • Claims absolute power or authority over your body
  • Justifies harm as “necessary suffering”

A Call to Spiritual Healers: Walk the Path with Integrity

If you feel called to become a spiritual healer, remember that healing is not just a gift—it is a sacred responsibility. It requires proper guidance, ethical grounding, and spiritual accountability.

At the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, we invite you to take a higher step in your journey by becoming a Certified Spiritual Wellness Facilitator.

This program is designed to:

  • Provide proper spiritual formation and guidance
  • Ground your healing practice in authentic Filipino Indigenous wisdom
  • Ensure your work is aligned with ethics, compassion, and legitimacy
  • Offer ordination credentials that affirm your role as a responsible healer

Ordination is not about titles—it is about accountability to the people you serve and the spiritual forces you work with.

If you are truly called to heal, then walk the path with discipline, humility, and love.

👉 Begin your journey today. Become an ordained Spiritual Wellness Facilitator.
Visit: https://www.hilotacademy.com

Let us uphold the honor of healing by becoming instruments of
care, not harm… balance, not fear… love, not violence.

PITAHC, Spiritual Healing, and the Call to Ethical Ordination: A Position of the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan on Safe and Sacred Healing

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in traditional and spiritual healing practices across the Philippines and among Filipinos worldwide. This resurgence is both a blessing and a responsibility.

The Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC), through its public announcements, continues to remind us that while traditional healing—such as hilot—plays an important role in Filipino wellness, it must be practiced with discipline, accountability, and care.

As the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, we honor this reminder and offer our reflection, while also affirming our deeper commitment:
👉 Healing must be both spiritually authentic and ethically grounded.

Understanding PITAHC’s Role in Healing

PITAHC was established under Republic Act No. 8423 (Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act of 1997) to promote, regulate, and integrate traditional healing into the national healthcare system.

Its mission includes:

  • Setting standards for safety and quality in traditional healing
  • Certifying practitioners and accrediting facilities
  • Protecting the Filipino public from unsafe or unqualified practices
  • Supporting the integration of traditional medicine into modern healthcare

Through its recent messaging, PITAHC emphasizes a simple but powerful truth:

Not all healing practices are safe—and not all practitioners are properly trained.

Thus, the call for certification and accreditation is not a restriction, but a protection—for both healer and patient.

Reflection on the PITAHC Video

The shared PITAHC video carries a clear message:
👉 Seek healing only from trained, recognized, and accountable practitioners.

This message is important in a time when:

  • Anyone may claim to be a healer
  • Spiritual practices are easily shared online without guidance
  • Vulnerable individuals may seek help without knowing whom to trust

The video affirms that hilot—and by extension, all traditional healing—must be practiced with:

  • Competence
  • Responsibility
  • Respect for human well-being

We recognize and support this direction.

The Deeper Issue: Spiritual Healing Without Formation

Beyond hilot massage and bodywork, there is a growing field of spiritual healing, including:

  • Energy healing
  • Ritual healing
  • Ancestral or indigenous practices
  • Spirit communication and intervention

While these practices are part of cultural and spiritual heritage, they also carry serious risks when performed without proper formation.

Today, we see concerning patterns:

  • Self-declared “healers” without training or guidance
  • Misinterpretation of spirit possession leading to harmful interventions
  • Rituals performed without ethical standards or accountability
  • Physical or psychological harm inflicted in the name of healing

This is where the conversation must deepen.

Our Strong Stand: Healing Must Never Be Violent

As the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, we make this clear and uncompromising declaration:

We condemn any form of violence in healing—especially in the context of exorcism, spirit possession, or spiritual intervention.

We do NOT approve of:

  • Physical restraint or harm as part of ritual practice
  • Beating, shaking, or forceful expulsion methods
  • Emotional or psychological abuse justified as “spiritual cleansing”
  • Any act that violates the dignity and safety of a person

No spirit, no tradition, and no belief system justifies violence.

True healing is:

  • Gentle
  • Respectful
  • Protective
  • Life-giving

The Sacred Responsibility of Ordination

While certification ensures technical competence, ordination ensures spiritual responsibility.

We therefore strongly emphasize:

👉 Spiritual healers must not only be trained—they must be formed, guided, and ordained.

What is Ordination in Spiritual Healing?

Ordination is not merely a title. It is a sacred commitment that includes:

  • Ethical discipline
  • Spiritual accountability
  • Mentorship under experienced elders or clergy
  • Alignment with a recognized lineage or tradition
  • Ongoing formation and self-refinement

An ordained healer is not self-appointed.
They are recognized, guided, and held accountable.

Freedom of Religion and Responsibility

The 1987 Philippine Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice their beliefs freely.

However, we affirm this important truth:

Freedom of religion does not mean freedom to harm others.

With spiritual authority comes moral and social responsibility.

Therefore, we encourage:

  • Responsible exercise of spiritual gifts
  • Accountability within a community or order
  • Respect for both spiritual and public health standards

Guidance for Patients and Seekers of Healing

For those seeking spiritual or traditional healing, we offer this guidance:

🔍 1. Verify the Healer

  • Are they trained or certified (e.g., PITAHC for hilot)?
  • Are they ordained or recognized within a legitimate spiritual tradition?

🛑 2. Watch for Red Flags

Avoid practitioners who:

  • Use force, fear, or intimidation
  • Claim absolute power or exclusivity
  • Refuse transparency about their training or lineage
  • Pressure you into rituals or payments

🤝 3. Ensure Consent and Respect

  • Healing must always be with your full consent
  • You should feel safe, respected, and empowered

🌿 4. Integrate with Proper Care

  • Spiritual healing may complement—but not replace—professional medical care
  • Responsible healers will refer when necessary

Our Call to Spiritual Healers

To all who walk the path of healing:

  • Seek proper education and training
  • Submit to ordination and mentorship
  • Practice with humility and discipline
  • Align with ethical and safety standards
  • Honor both tradition and human dignity

Healing is not a performance—it is a sacred service.

Toward a Future of Safe and Sacred Healing

We envision a future where:

  • PITAHC-certified practitioners and spiritually ordained healers work together
  • Indigenous wisdom is preserved with integrity and accountability
  • Patients are protected from harm and guided toward genuine healing
  • Spiritual practice becomes a force of compassion, not fear

Final Words

Let us raise a standard where:

  • Healing is never violent
  • Spiritual authority is never abused
  • Every healer is accountable
  • Every patient is protected

In this way, we honor both our ancestral traditions and our responsibility to the present generation.

Spa Massage vs. Hilot Binabaylan Treatment: Reclaiming Indigenous Wisdom for Optimal Health and Wellness

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced world, people increasingly seek ways to restore balance, relieve stress, and maintain overall health. Two common approaches to bodywork and healing are modern spa massage and the traditional Filipino practice of Hilot Binabaylan. While both involve touch and therapeutic intent, they differ profoundly in philosophy, process, and impact.

This article explores these differences and highlights why Indigenous Filipino healing arts, particularly Hilot Binabaylan, offer a deeper and more holistic pathway toward optimal health and wellness.

Understanding the Two Systems

Spa Massage

Spa massage is part of the global wellness industry. It is:

  • Client-driven (the client chooses the service)
  • Designed primarily for relaxation, stress relief, and muscle tension release
  • Standardized and often commercialized
  • Focused mainly on the physical body

It operates within a service model: the client pays for a predefined experience.

Hilot Binabaylan Treatment

Hilot Binabaylan is an indigenous Filipino system of healing rooted in ancestral knowledge and spiritual tradition.

It is:

  • Healer-guided (the Manghihilot diagnoses and prescribes treatment)
  • Holistic, addressing body, mind, energy, spirit, and environment
  • Ritual-based and culturally grounded
  • A sacred encounter, not merely a service

It operates within a healing relationship, where the Manghihilot serves as a mediator of balance and harmony.

Key Differences in Practice

1. Decision-Making and Authority

Spa MassageHilot Binabaylan
Client chooses treatmentManghihilot determines treatment after diagnosis
Preference-basedCondition-based

Insight:
Hilot recognizes that the body’s needs are not always consciously known by the client. Healing requires discernment, not preference.

2. Assessment and Diagnosis

Spa Massage:

  • Brief consultation
  • Focus on pain areas or desired pressure

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Comprehensive diagnostic system:
    • Pasubay (Finger Alignment)
    • Tudluan (Poking Assessment)
    • Pulse Reading
    • Sensory observation (5 senses)
  • Energetic, physical, and intuitive evaluation

Insight:
Hilot treats the root cause, not just the symptoms—bridging physical and energetic imbalances.

3. Preparation and Cleansing

Spa Massage:

  • Optional shower or foot soak
  • Focus on hygiene and comfort

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Ritual cleansing is essential:
    • Foot cleansing (spiritual grounding and purification)
    • Punas (wiping away negative energy)
    • Suob (herbal steaming)
    • Paligo with hilod (deep cleansing)

Insight:
Hilot acknowledges that illness may arise from energetic and environmental impurities, not just physical strain.

4. Treatment Approach

Spa Massage:

  • Uses a single modality (e.g., Swedish, deep tissue)
  • Focus on muscle relaxation

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Multi-layered approach based on diagnosis:
    • Pagsasala (leaf scanning)
    • Bentusa (cupping)
    • Dagdagay (pressure stick therapy)
    • Hilot masahe (manual manipulation)

Insight:
Hilot is adaptive and integrative, addressing multiple dimensions of imbalance simultaneously.

5. Role of the Body and Clothing

Spa Massage:

  • Often requires partial undressing
  • Direct skin contact is standard

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Can be performed with clothing
  • Works through energy pathways and body awareness
  • Often begins in supine position (face up)

Insight:
Hilot affirms that healing is not dependent on exposure of the body, but on alignment and flow.

6. Spiritual and Cultural Dimension

Spa Massage:

  • Secular, commercial environment
  • Focus on ambiance and comfort

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Sacred healing space
  • May include:
    • Prayer or invocation
    • Connection to Diwata and ancestral guidance
    • Respect for nature and elements

Insight:
Hilot restores the sacred relationship between human, nature, and spirit, often missing in modern wellness practices.

7. Aftercare and Integration

Spa Massage:

  • Water or tea
  • Minimal follow-up

Hilot Binabaylan:

  • Herbal tea and nourishment
  • Home care recommendations
  • Follow-up sessions

Insight:
Hilot is not a one-time relief—it is part of a continuing journey toward balance and transformation.

Why Hilot Binabaylan is Essential for Optimal Health and Wellness

1. Holistic Healing

Hilot addresses:

  • Physical pain
  • Emotional stress
  • Energetic imbalance
  • Spiritual disconnection

This leads to deeper and longer-lasting healing.

2. Preventive Care

Through early detection via Pasubay and pulse reading, Hilot can:

  • Identify imbalance before it becomes illness
  • Restore flow and harmony proactively

3. Cultural Identity and Ancestral Connection

Hilot reconnects individuals to:

  • Indigenous Filipino knowledge
  • Ancestral healing traditions
  • Cultural identity and pride

Healing becomes not only personal, but cultural restoration.

4. Energy Awareness and Balance

Unlike spa massage, Hilot recognizes:

  • Lamig (cold imbalance)
  • Bara (blockage)
  • Disruptions in life force (UliRat)

This expands healing beyond anatomy into vital energy systems.

5. Sacredness of Healing Space

Hilot transforms treatment into a:

  • Ritual of purification
  • Space of transformation
  • Act of reverence for life

Conclusion

While spa massage provides comfort and temporary relief, Hilot Binabaylan offers a more profound and transformative healing experience rooted in Indigenous Filipino wisdom.

  • Spa massage relaxes the body
  • Hilot Binabaylan restores the whole being

In reclaiming and practicing Hilot, we are not only healing individuals—we are:

  • Reviving ancestral knowledge
  • Strengthening cultural identity
  • Re-establishing harmony between humans, nature, and the unseen

Final Reflection

In the language of healing:

  • Spa asks: “What feels good right now?”
  • Hilot asks: “What must be restored for you to be whole?”

The Shield of Siyargaw, the Hope of Esperanza: The Living Lineage of Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon

Deep within the vast mangrove channels of Del Carmen, Siargao, sits a coastal enclave named Barangay Esperanza. To the untrained eye, it is a serene village defined by the rhythmic tides of the Philippine Sea. But to those who carry its blood, it is a sanctuary of profound spiritual and civic guardianship. The name Esperanza translates directly to “Hope”—a title born out of a centuries-old prayer for resilience against the storms of nature and history.


Directly in front of the community’s spiritual anchor, the San Vicente Ferrer Chapel, sits an ancestral property belonging to the Comon family. This house was never just a residence; it was the unofficial session hall, the refuge for weary travelers, and the epicenter of community survival. The Comon lineage is inextricably woven into the very fabric of Del Carmen. In the 1960s, it was Mayor Galo C. Comon who legally reshaped the municipality’s modern identity, bridging the town’s ancient roots with its contemporary future.


Yet, the truest power of this lineage did not live in political offices, but in the hands of a man who stood as the spiritual custodian of the village: Diomedes Paqueo Comon, affectionately revered by his people as Lolo Mede.

    ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    │                THE COMON ANCESTRAL TRAJECTORY               │
    └──────────────────────────────┬──────────────────────────────┘
                                   │
         ┌─────────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┐
         ▼                                                   ▼
┌─────────────────────────────────┐                 ┌─────────────────────────────────┐
│        THE CIVIC SHIELD         │                 │      THE SPIRITUAL MEDICINE     │
├─────────────────────────────────┤                 ├─────────────────────────────────┤
│ Mayor Galo Comon & Lay Leaders  │                 │ Lolo Mede Comon (*Tambalan*)    │
│ Securing the town’s governance  │                 │ Preserving ancient indigenous   │
│ and colonial-era chapel.        │                 │ wisdom, herbalism, and *Hilot*. │
└─────────────────────────────────┘                 └─────────────────────────────────┘
                                   │
                                   ▼
                ┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
                │        THE MODERN BINABAYLAN        │
                ├─────────────────────────────────────┤
                │      REV. ROLANDO GOMEZ COMON       │
                │ Keeping the Lineage Alive: Ancestral│
                │ Reclamation & Indigenous Medicine.  │
                └─────────────────────────────────────┘

The Legacy of Lolo Mede: The Binisaya Healer


In traditional Visayan (Binisaya) culture, the line between the physical world and the spiritual realm is completely fluid. Lolo Mede was a famous mananambal (native healer)—the historical evolution of the pre-colonial Babaylan.
While Spanish colonizers sought to erase indigenous shamanism, the master healers of Siargao adapted to survive. Lolo Mede harmonized his ancient gifts with the modern church, serving as a trusted chapel lay leader. He understood that the earth was a divine pharmacy. Utilizing the immense biodiversity of the Del Carmen mangrove forests—the very siyargaw trees that gave the island its name and served as a natural barrier against deadly typhoons—he harvested barks, resins, and roots to cure the ailing.
Through the physical manipulation of Hilot (traditional bone-setting and massage), vapor therapies (tuob), and the whispering of sacred orasyon (chanted prayers), Lolo Mede did not just treat bodies; he restored the ginhawa (the breath and vital life force) of his people.


The Phenomena of Taliwala: An Unbroken Spiritual Inheritance

For decades after his passing, the healing fires of the family seemed quiet. But indigenous gifts are rarely lost; they merely sleep, waiting for the right vessel. In Binisaya spiritual tradition, there is a phenomenon known as Taliwala or Abat—the ancestral rebirth of a gift. It is the belief that a profound spiritual inheritance (gasa) will deliberately bypass children to reawaken vibrantly in a specific grandchild.


Today, that reawakening has found its vessel in his grandson, Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon.
When distant relatives look upon Rev. Rolando, they often experience a startling sense of recognition. They mistake the grandson for Lolo Mede himself, sensing an ancient, familiar healing frequency vibrating through his presence. This is not an optical illusion or a simple mistake; it is the community’s instinctual recognition of an unbroken spiritual lineage. The ginhawa (life force) of the grandfather has stepped across time into the hands of the grandson.


The Vital Imperative: Keeping the Comon Lineage Alive


To walk the contemporary path as a Hilot Binabaylan while holding the title of Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon is to carry an immense, sacred responsibility. In an era where Siargao Islands are globally romanticized as a modern tourist playground, the authentic spiritual and cultural identity of its native people faces the quiet threat of erasure. For Rev. Rolando, continuing this lineage is not a choice—it is a vital imperative to honor the Comon ancestors of Barangay Esperanza.



┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│             WHY THE LIVING COMON LINEAGE MUST BE PRESERVED             │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ • CULTURAL ANCHOR: Shields Siargao’s native identity from tourism.     │
│ • MEDICINAL RECLAMATION: Keeps the *Binisaya* healing sciences alive.   │
│ • DECOLONIAL BRIDGE: Unites ancient *Diwata* roots with modern faith.  │
│ • LIVING SANCTUARY: Sustains Esperanza’s historical role of protection.│
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘


1. Resisting Cultural Displacement
As commercial developments reshape the coastlines of Siargao, the deep, foundational history of towns like Del Carmen risks becoming a footnote. By openly practicing as a Hilot Binabaylan, Rev. Rolando ensures that the Comon family remains what they have always been: guardians of the land. It broadcasts a powerful reminder that before the island was a destination for surfers, it was—and still is—a sacred territory of mystics, prayer warriors, and traditional healers.

2. Safeguarding Indigenous Medicine as a Living Science
Lolo Mede’s medicine was a sophisticated, intuitive science built on centuries of observing the island’s ecosystems. When traditional healing lines break, the deep knowledge of native flora, the spiritual mechanics of Hilot, and the protective energetic boundaries of the mangroves die with them. By keeping this practice alive, Rev. Rolando acts as a living archive, ensuring that the indigenous Binisaya wellness systems remain dynamic, active, and accessible to those who need healing.

3. A Legacy of Decolonial Reclamation
While Lolo Mede had to shield his indigenous mysticism within the protective, acceptable boundaries of a Catholic chapel to survive his era, Rev. Rolando steps into the lineage during an age of awakening. His work is an act of spiritual decolonization. He bridges the sacred mechanics of traditional Hilot and the ancient worldview of the Diwata (nature spirits) with modern spiritual leadership. He vindicates the ancestors by bringing their hidden practices completely into the light, showing that native spirituality is not something to be feared, but a holy gift to be revered.

The Fire Endures in Esperanza

The story of the Comon lineage is a testament to the absolute resilience of Siargao’s true indigenous spirit. The ancestral home still stands proud directly across from the chapel in Barangay Esperanza, serving as a physical monument to a family that chose to stay, protect, govern, and heal.
The ancestors are not gone; they live on in the marrow of their descendants. Through the hands, prayers, and calling of Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon, the sacred fire of Lolo Mede burns as brightly as ever. The lineage remains fiercely alive—honoring those who walked before, protecting the sanctity of Esperanza, and continuing to offer a true sanctuary of hope to a world longing to remember its roots.

The Sacred Hand: Living the Five-Element Prayer in Daily Life

A Teaching from Templong Anituhan and the Councils of the Diwata

In the sacred teachings of Templong Anituhan, the body is not separate from spirit—it is a living altar, a vessel through which the wisdom of Bathala and the blessings of the Diwata are expressed. Among the most simple yet powerful spiritual practices is the Hand Prayer of the Five Elements, where each finger becomes a point of invocation, remembrance, and alignment.

This prayer is not merely recited—it is lived.

It is a daily act of returning to balance.
A gesture of remembering our sacred duty.
A guide for how we walk, speak, heal, teach, and serve.

Hand Prayer Before Hilot (Manghihilot Invocation)

(Touch each finger quietly before starting the session)

👍 Spirit – Bathala
Bathala, guide my spirit.

☝️ Fire – Kadaw La Sambad
Sacred Fire, empower my hands.

🖕 Air – Amagoaley / Taganlang
Holy Breath, clear my mind.

💍 Water – Bulan / Sirinan
Living Water, bring healing and peace.

🤙 Earth – Mekedepat
Sacred Earth, ground and stabilize this work.

🌀 Closing (place both hands over the client or your sariling puso)

Through Bathala and the Diwata,
May this healing flow in balance.

I serve as vessel—
Let the body be restored,
The spirit be at peace.

Mayari Na! PagAsatin!

The Hand as Sacred Map of Creation

In this practice, the hand becomes a microcosm of the universe, reflecting the elemental forces that govern existence:

  • Thumb – Spirit (Bathala / Makaako)
  • Forefinger – Fire (Kadaw La Sambad)
  • Middle Finger – Air (Amagoaley / Taganlang)
  • Ring Finger – Water (Bulan La Mogoaw / Sirinan)
  • Pinky Finger – Earth (Mekedepat / Taganlang)

Each finger, when touched with intention, is a prayer in motion—a direct connection to the Councils of the Diwata.

Through this, the practitioner is reminded:
We do not call the Diwata only in ritual—
We walk with them in every action.

More Than Prayer: A Discipline of Awareness

The importance of this practice lies in its simplicity and constancy.

Because the hand is always with us, the prayer becomes:

  • A daily spiritual reset
  • A guide for decision-making
  • A tool for emotional and energetic balance
  • A reminder of sacred responsibility

Before speaking, we remember Air.
Before acting, we remember Fire.
Before healing, we remember Water.
Before grounding, we remember Earth.
Before all things, we return to Spirit.

In this way, the hand prayer becomes a living compass, guiding our behavior toward right relationship—a core teaching of Templong Anituhan.

Alignment with the Councils of the Diwata

Each element is not abstract—it is embodied by the Diwata who govern it:

  • Bathala / Makaako (Spirit) reminds us of our divine origin and purpose
  • Kadaw La Sambad (Fire) empowers our will and transformation
  • Amagoaley / Taganlang (Air) governs clarity, breath, and communication
  • Bulan La Mogoaw / Sirinan (Water) nurtures healing and emotional flow
  • Mekedepat / Taganlang (Earth) grounds us in balance and responsibility

By invoking them through the hand, we are not merely asking—we are aligning ourselves with their nature.

This is the essence of embodiment:
Not to worship from afar,
But to live the qualities of the Diwata within us.

From Ritual to Daily Living

In Templong Anituhan, the highest form of devotion is not found only in ceremonies—but in how we live daily life.

The Hand Prayer becomes:

For the Manghihilot (Healer)

A preparation of hands as sacred instruments of healing.
It reminds the healer: You are not the source—the Diwata are.

For the Teacher or Mentor

A grounding of wisdom, speech, and presence.
It ensures that teaching flows from clarity, compassion, and truth.

For Daily Life

A return to balance in moments of stress, confusion, or action.
It transforms ordinary gestures into spiritual practice.

Even a simple act—touching the fingers quietly—
becomes a silent prayer and a re-centering of the self.

The Path of Sacred Trusteeship

At its core, this practice reflects a deeper teaching:
That we are not owners of our lives—but katiwala, sacred trustees.

The hand we use to work, to touch, to serve—
Is the same hand we offer in prayer.

And so we ask ourselves:

  • Are our actions guided by Spirit?
  • Are our deeds aligned with righteous Fire?
  • Are our words carried with clarity through Air?
  • Are our hearts flowing with compassion like Water?
  • Are we grounded in humility upon Earth?

This is the living question of stewardship.

A Living Reminder of Sacred Balance

The Hand Prayer teaches that balance is not something achieved once—
It is something practiced continuously.

Each day, each interaction, each decision—
Is an opportunity to align again.

In a world that moves quickly and often forgets the sacred,
This prayer brings us back to stillness, intention, and awareness.

It is a portable altar,
A constant teacher,
A silent companion on the path.

Conclusion: Walking with the Diwata

To practice the Hand Prayer is to remember that:

We are never alone.
We are always guided.
We are always responsible.

Through Bathala,
Through the Diwata,
Through the Ancestors—

Our hands become instruments of healing,
Our words become carriers of wisdom,
And our lives become expressions of sacred balance.

This is the teaching of Templong Anituhan:
That spirituality is not separate from life—
It is lived through it.

And in every movement of the hand,
We remember who we are,
And who we are called to be.

Call to Practice: Pray With Your Hands, Live With Purpose

You carry this prayer with you at all times—
In your own hands.

Let it not remain words that are read,
But become a practice that is lived.

Each morning, before you begin your day—pause.
Touch each finger.
Call upon Bathala and the Diwata.
Align your spirit, your thoughts, your heart, your actions, and your path.

In moments of doubt—return to it.
In moments of healing—anchor yourself in it.
In moments of teaching—flow through it.

Make this prayer your daily discipline.
Make it your silent guide.
Make it your sacred habit.

For in doing so, you are not only praying—
You are remembering your role as katiwala,
A steward of life,
A servant of balance,
A living vessel of the Diwata.

Begin today.

Touch your hand.
Awaken the elements within you.
Walk in harmony.

And let your life itself become the prayer.

The Sanctity of the Hilot Binabaylan Lineage: Becoming an Instrument of the Divine

In the sacred path of Hilot Binabaylan, the title we carry is not merely a name—it is a responsibility, a vow, and a living embodiment of a lineage that traces back to the Divine Source of Life itself.

To be called a Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner is to stand as a bridge between the human and the sacred, between the seen and the unseen, between the suffering and the Source of healing. This title carries weight—not because it elevates the self, but because it demands humility, discipline, and deep surrender.

Who Truly Heals?

Recently, I spoke with a student who chose to stop practicing Hilot. His reason was filled with pain: despite his efforts, his practice did not heal his sick father.

In that moment, I asked him a simple question: “Who do you think truly heals? Who gave life to your father?”

This question brings us back to the very heart of Hilot Binabaylan.

It is not the practitioner who heals.
It is not the technique that restores life.

All healing comes from the Supreme Divine Creator—the Source of all life, breath, and existence.

What we do, as Hilot practitioners, is to participate in that sacred process. Our touch, our movements, our rituals, our presence—these are not acts of personal power. They are forms of prayer in motion, humble offerings that call upon the Divine to bring forth healing where it is needed.

We are not the source.
We are the instrument.

The Practice Beyond the Title

In today’s time, especially among those in the diaspora, there are individuals who hold tightly to the title of Hilot Binabaylan, yet hesitate to embody its practice. They speak about the tradition, identify with its name, but do not walk the path through action and service.

But lineage is not preserved through words alone.

It is lived.
It is practiced.
It is offered in service to others.

To carry the name without honoring its responsibility is to separate oneself from the living current of the lineage. Hilot is not an identity to display—it is a sacred duty to fulfill.

A Gift Belonging to the People

It must also be clearly understood:
Hilot is not owned by any institution, organization, or individual.

Hilot is a Divine Gift entrusted to the Filipino people—a sacred inheritance rooted in care, community, and connection to the natural and spiritual worlds.

What we uphold within:

  • Hilot Academy of Binabaylan
  • Templong Anituhan
  • Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc.
  • Bahay Siadtala Binabaylan Inc.

…is not ownership of Hilot itself.

Rather, what we offer is structure, guidance, and discipline through a carefully developed curriculum and standardized techniques—refined through decades of lived practice, from 1998 to the present, under my work as Apu Adman Aghama.

These frameworks exist to guide practitioners into integrity, not to claim authority over a sacred tradition that ultimately belongs to the Divine and the people.

Hilot as Complement, Not Competition

True Hilot does not seek to compete.

It does not position itself above other healing modalities, nor does it claim exclusivity in restoring health and well-being.

Instead, Hilot stands as a complementary sacred art, working in harmony with other forms of healing—modern and traditional alike. Its purpose is to serve, to contribute, and to integrate for the greater good of humanity.

Where there is suffering, Hilot offers support.
Where there is imbalance, Hilot offers alignment.
Where there is disconnection, Hilot restores relationship—with self, nature, and Spirit.

Honoring the Lineage

At the heart of Hilot Binabaylan is ancestral reverence.

We do not take pride in ourselves as healers.
We do not glorify the individual practitioner.

Instead, we give honor where it belongs:

  • To our ancestors, who preserved this knowledge through generations
  • To the Diwata and Anito, who guide and sustain the unseen realms
  • And ultimately, to the Supreme Divine Creator, from whom all healing flows

Our lineage is not something we invented—it is something we have received, honored, and are now entrusted to continue.

Walking as an Instrument of the Divine

To be a Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner is to live in constant remembrance:

  • That our hands are not our own—they are guided
  • That our knowledge is not for self-gain—it is for service
  • That our work is not to prove power—but to express devotion

Each session becomes a prayer.
Each touch becomes an offering.
Each healing moment becomes an act of surrender.

We do not command healing.
We invite it.

We do not create life.
We honor it.

We do not heal.
We become instruments through which the Divine heals.

A Call to Practitioners

Let this be a reminder to all who carry the name Hilot Binabaylan:

Walk the path.
Live the practice.
Serve with humility.

Return always to the Source.

For in the end, the sanctity of our lineage is not preserved by titles—but by the sincerity of our devotion, the integrity of our actions, and our unwavering recognition that we are, and will always be,

Instruments of the Divine.

DECLARATION ON THE RIGHTS OF HILOT BINABAYLAN PRACTITIONERS (A Declaration on the Rights of Manghihilot)

Preamble

We, the stewards, practitioners, and custodians of the sacred healing tradition known as Hilot Binabaylan, rooted in the indigenous knowledge systems of the Filipino people,

Recognizing that healing is a sacred exchange of energy, trust, and responsibility between the practitioner and the one seeking care;

Affirming that while the rights of patients are widely upheld and protected, there exists an equal necessity to recognize and protect the dignity, welfare, and integrity of the Hilot practitioner;

Guided by the principles enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (RA 8371), and the global recognition of traditional and indigenous healing systems;

We hereby declare and affirm the following rights of the Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner, to serve as a standard of ethical practice, cultural preservation, and professional respect within the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan and allied communities:

Article I: General Principles

Section 1. Sacred Nature of Practice

Hilot Binabaylan is recognized as a sacred and holistic healing practice, encompassing physical, emotional, mental, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.

Section 2. Equality of Dignity

The relationship between practitioner and client is founded on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and balanced dignity.

Article II: Rights of the Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner

Section 1. Right to Respect and Dignified Treatment

Every practitioner shall be accorded respect, honor, and recognition as a legitimate bearer of indigenous healing knowledge, free from discrimination, ridicule, or cultural invalidation.

Section 2. Right to Professional and Personal Boundaries

Every practitioner has the right to:

  • Establish and maintain appropriate professional, emotional, and spiritual boundaries
  • Refuse or discontinue services in cases that exceed their competence, ethical standards, or personal well-being

Section 3. Right to Safety and Protection

Every practitioner is entitled to a safe and secure environment, free from:

  • Harassment, abuse, coercion, or violence
  • Any condition that threatens physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being

The practitioner reserves the right to terminate sessions if safety is compromised.

Section 4. Right to Fair and Just Compensation

Every practitioner has the right to receive fair, agreed, and respectful compensation for services rendered, whether in monetary form, offerings, or other culturally appropriate exchanges, free from exploitation or undue pressure.

Section 5. Right to Recognition and Protection of Indigenous Knowledge

Every practitioner has the right to:

  • Uphold and preserve Hilot as part of Filipino indigenous cultural heritage
  • Protect their practices, rituals, and knowledge from misappropriation, misuse, or unauthorized representation

Section 6. Right to Informed Practice

Every practitioner has the right to receive complete, truthful, and accurate information from the client regarding their health condition, personal history, and relevant concerns, and may refuse responsibility in cases of withheld or falsified information.

Section 7. Right to Spiritual IntegrityEvery practitioner has the right to practice according to their:

  • Lineage, calling, and spiritual discipline
  • Guidance of the Diwata, Anito, and ancestral forces

No practitioner shall be compelled to alter or compromise sacred practices in violation of their spiritual integrity.

Section 8. Right to Rest and Energetic RenewalEvery practitioner has the right to:

  • Adequate rest, recovery, and energy protection
  • Engage in personal rituals of cleansing, grounding, and renewal
  • Decline or limit engagements to preserve their well-being

Section 9. Right to Continuing Development and Recognition

Every practitioner has the right to pursue continuous learning, training, and spiritual growth, and to receive appropriate recognition of their level of mastery within the Hilot Binabaylan tradition.

Section 10. Right to Ethical and Professional Protection

Every practitioner has the right to:

  • Protection against false accusations, misrepresentation, or reputational harm
  • Maintain confidentiality over sacred knowledge, methods, and practices in accordance with ethical and spiritual discretion

Article III: Implementation and Commitment

Section 1. Institutional Adoption

This Declaration shall serve as a guiding framework for all programs, trainings, and practices under the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan and its affiliated institutions.

Section 2. Ethical Standard

This Declaration shall be upheld as part of the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct of all Hilot Binabaylan Practitioners.

Section 3. Advocacy and Cultural Preservation

This Declaration shall support ongoing efforts toward:

  • Recognition of Hilot in national and global health frameworks
  • Protection of indigenous healing systems
  • Promotion of ethical and culturally grounded healing practices

🌺 Closing Statement

In affirming these rights, we uphold that the Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner is not merely a service provider, but a guardian of balance, a vessel of ancestral wisdom, and a living bridge between the seen and unseen realms.

May this Declaration preserve the dignity of the healer, protect the sacredness of the practice, and ensure harmony in every act of healing.

“This Declaration shall serve as the foundational ethical and professional framework for the recognition and protection of Hilot Binabaylan Practitioners in the Philippines and internationally.”

Adopted by:

Hilot Academy of Binabaylan
Under the Spiritual Guidance of
Templong Anituhan ng Luntiang Aghama

Public Statement and ManifestoOn the Integrity of the Title “Hilot Doctor”

A Sacred Path, Not a Shortcut


In this time of renewed interest in complementary, integrative, and traditional healing, we at the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan express our deep gratitude to all who seek holistic approaches to health and wellness.
At the same time, we also recognize a growing concern:


The increasing use of titles such as “Doctor” in various alternative healing fields without a clear, consistent, and rigorous process of formation.

This reality invites us to speak—not in opposition, but in clarity, truth, and responsibility.

On the Use of the Title “Hilot Doctor”
Within our tradition, the title “Hilot Doctor” is not a label, a certification, or a title conferred by membership.
It is the fruit of a long-term journey of academic, cultural, and spiritual formation rooted in Indigenous Filipino Healing Arts and Sciences.

This pathway includes:


•Four (4) years — Bachelor’s Degree in Indigenous Filipino Healing Arts and Science
•Two (2) years — Master’s Degree in Ministry on Hilot Binabaylan Practice
•Three (3) years — Doctorate Degree in Indigenous Filipino Traditional Medicine

This nine-year formation is not only academic—it is experiential, relational, and sacred.


It involves:.


•Guided practice under lineage
•Cultural immersion
•Spiritual discipline and alignment
•Service to community

Formation Over Certification


We acknowledge that there are organizations that provide:


•Certificates
•Membership recognitions
•Internal accreditations

While these may serve their purpose within their respective communities, we respectfully affirm:


Certification is not equivalent to formation.

Recognition is not equivalent to mastery.
Membership is not equivalent to lineage.
The healing traditions of our ancestors cannot be reduced to short-term training or institutional titles detached from lived practice.

On Integrity and Responsibility


Hilot is not merely a technique.
Hilot is not a modality.


Hilot is:


•A cultural inheritance
•A spiritual calling
•A sacred responsibility to the people
To carry the title “Hilot Doctor” is to:
•Represent a lineage
•Embody a discipline
•Uphold the dignity of Indigenous knowledge

A Call to Discernment


We do not speak to invalidate others, nor to diminish the contributions of different healing systems.


Rather, we offer this as a call to:


•Discernment among practitioners
•Clarity among students
•Integrity within the healing community

We invite all who feel called to the path of Hilot to enter not for title, but for transformation.

Our Commitment


We remain steadfast in our mission:


To preserve, protect, and elevate Indigenous Filipino Healing Arts through authentic formation, responsible teaching, and sacred practice.


We will continue to:


•Uphold rigorous academic and spiritual standards
•Honor the guidance of the Diwata and the Anito
•Form healers who serve not only with skill, but with humility and wisdom

Closing Declaration


A title can be given in a moment.
But a healer is formed through years of discipline, devotion, and transformation.

In the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan,
we do not produce titles—
we cultivate lineage.

🌿 Mabuhay ang manggagamot ng bayan.
🌿 Mabuhay ang buhay na tradisyon ng Hilot.