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

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.

Pista ng Katutubong Gamutang Pilipino 2025: Honoring the Sacred Tradition of Hilot The Indigenous Healing Wisdom of the Filipino People

The Pista ng Katutubong Gamutang Pilipino 2025 presentation is a powerful celebration of Hilot, the indigenous Filipino healing tradition that has endured through thousands of years of cultural evolution. From prehistoric Kalinga to the modern wellness industry, Hilot has remained a vital expression of ancestral wisdom, spiritual resilience, and community-based care.

Tracing the Roots of Hilot

The presentation begins with archaeological evidence of early healing practices dating back 709,000 years ago, when ancient Filipinos used rhinoceros parts for food and medicine. It then highlights the role of Babaylan, Manghihilot, and Albularyo—spiritual healers who used herbal medicine, massage, and rituals to treat physical and emotional ailments.

Hilot Through the Ages

Hilot’s journey spans multiple historical eras:

Pre-Srivijaya and Pre-Islamic Periods: Rooted in animistic and shamanic traditions.
Islamization Era: Hilot adapted and coexisted with Islamic healing practices.
Colonial Periods: Despite marginalization, Hilot remained the primary healthcare system in rural communities.
Japanese Occupation and Liberation: Hilot served as a lifeline for guerrilla fighters and civilians.
Martial Law Era: Hilot survived underground, preserving indigenous knowledge through oral tradition.

Modern Recognition and Institutional Support

The passage of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act of 1997 (RA 8423) and the TESDA NC II certification marked a turning point in Hilot’s formal recognition. These milestones helped integrate Hilot into the national health and vocational systems, opening doors for professional practice in wellness centers, spas, and tourism.

🌀 Addendum: Reclaiming the Full Spectrum of Hilot Binabaylan Practice

While Hilot is now recognized as a wellness modality, key ancestral practices—such as spiritual healing, bone setting, and traditional midwifery—remain excluded from current regulations. This exclusion risks erasing the holistic essence of Hilot as practiced by our ancestors.

⚠️ Current Regulatory Gaps

Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) are prohibited from conducting home births in many localities due to safety concerns and lack of formal training.
Bone setting, a core skill of Manghihilot, is not included in TESDA’s Hilot Wellness Massage NC II curriculum or PITAHC standards.
Spiritual healing, though central to Hilot, is often sidelined in favor of clinical approaches. [Pista ng K…ipino 2026 | PowerPoint]

🌿 Why Inclusion Matters

To preserve the authentic form of Hilot Binabaylan, we must reintegrate these ancestral practices into a regulated, culturally respectful framework. This ensures that Hilot remains a complete healing system, not just a massage technique.

🔧 Proposed Integration Strategies

Expanded Curriculum and Certification
- Develop specialized modules on traditional midwifery, bone setting, and spiritual healing.
- Partner with institutions like Templong Anituhan and Hilot Academy of Binabaylan to offer culturally grounded training.
Community-Based Health Integration
- Recognize Hilot Binabaylan as community health workers, especially in underserved areas.
Multi-Agency Collaboration
- Utilize the mandate of RA 8423 to involve TESDA, CHED, DepEd, and PCHRD in creating short courses and degree programs.
Ethical and Safety Standards
- Establish guidelines to ensure safe practice while honoring indigenous knowledge.

✊ A Call for Cultural Justice in Healthcare

The exclusion of bone setting and traditional birth practices is not just a technical issue—it is a cultural justice concern. By reclaiming the full spectrum of Hilot Binabaylan, we affirm the value of indigenous wisdom and ensure its rightful place in the modern healthcare delivery system.

🌺 Closing Reflection

Hilot is more than a healing technique—it is a living embodiment of Filipino ancestral wisdom. As we move forward, let us ensure that Hilot remains whole, respected, and empowered. Through education, advocacy, and cultural preservation, we can continue to heal, educate, and uplift our communities with the sacred wisdom of Hilot Binabaylan.

Pista ng Katutubong Gamutang Pilipino 2026 Download

Why Hilot Academy of Binabaylan Deserves National Recognition: A Call to PITAHC

In the heart of the Philippines, where ancestral wisdom meets modern wellness, the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan stands as a living testament to the enduring power of indigenous healing. More than just a school, it is a sanctuary of cultural memory, spiritual practice, and community empowerment. As we prepare for the Pista ng Katutubong Gamutang Pilipino 2026, it’s time to ask: Why hasn’t this academy been formally recognized by PITAHC?

Let’s explore why it should be.

🌿 Hilot: A Healing Tradition Older Than History

Did you know that evidence of healing practices in the Philippines dates back 709,000 years? In Kalinga, early humans butchered rhinoceros not just for food—but for medicine. This ancient wisdom evolved into what we now call Hilot, a holistic healing system practiced by babaylan, manghihilot, and albularyo across generations.

From the Srivijaya period to the Islamic era, through Spanish and American colonization, wartime resistance, and Martial Law—Hilot survived. It adapted, persisted, and remained deeply rooted in Filipino cosmology, spirituality, and community life.

🏛️ Legal Milestones That Paved the Way

Hilot’s journey toward formal recognition began with:

Presidential Decree No. 856 (1975) – regulating massage and sanitation.
RA 8423 (1997) – the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act, which created PITAHC.
TESDA Board Resolution 2008-19 – establishing Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II training standards.

These laws laid the groundwork. Now, it’s time to take the next step: recognize the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan as a formal educational institution under PITAHC’s guidance.

📚 Why PITAHC Should Recognize the Academy

Here are 9 policy recommendations, backed by historical and institutional data:

1. Institutional Recognition

Hilot is not spa massage. It’s a spiritual and therapeutic tradition. The Academy preserves this distinction and deserves formal acknowledgment.

2. Educational Integration

The Academy offers structured training aligned with PITAHC’s mandate to collaborate with TESDA, CHED, DepEd, and PCHRD for short courses and degree programs.

3. Accreditation and Licensing

Graduates of the Academy should be eligible for national accreditation, protecting them from being labeled “quack doctors.”

4. Research and Documentation

Hilot has survived through oral tradition. PITAHC can support the Academy in creating a National Archive of Indigenous Healing Knowledge.

5. Community-Based Health Programs

Hilot has always been the backbone of rural healthcare. Integrating it into barangay health programs will uplift underserved communities.

6. Cultural Preservation

Hilot is part of our Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Academy safeguards this legacy through ritual, education, and practice.

7. Economic Empowerment

TESDA-certified Hilot training empowers PWDs, solo parents, and OFWs. The Academy is a hub for inclusive livelihood development.

8. Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue

Hilot has harmonized with Islamic and Christian traditions. The Academy promotes respectful spiritual integration.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

PITAHC can lead a task force to ensure quality, impact, and sustainability of Hilot programs nationwide.

✨ A Living Temple of Healing

The Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, rooted in the teachings of Templong Anituhan, is more than an educational center—it is a living temple of Filipino healing arts. It embodies the spirit of Melchora Aquino, the revolutionary Hilot of the Katipunan, and carries forward the legacy of the babaylan who healed not just bodies, but communities.

📣 Call to Action

We urge PITAHC to:

Recognize the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan as a formal partner in traditional medicine education.
Support its programs through policy, funding, and collaboration.
Honor Hilot as a sacred tradition that continues to heal, educate, and empower.

Let us not wait another generation. The time to uplift our indigenous healing wisdom is now.

Healing the Breast: A Metaphorical and Spiritual Reflection on Cancer Prevention

In the sacred traditions of Hilot Binabaylan and other indigenous healing practices, the body is not merely a biological structure—it is a vessel of spirit, emotion, and ancestral memory. Among its many parts, the breast holds a special place as a source of nourishment, love, and life.

Just as a cell can be likened to a room in a house, the breast can be seen as a pantry or kitchen—a place where nourishment is prepared and offered. When this room is clean, organized, and filled with love, it supports the health of the entire house. But when it is filled with spoiled food, clutter, or emotional toxins, it can become a source of disease.

Breast cancer, in this metaphor, is not just a physical illness. It is a reflection of emotional and spiritual imbalance. Sama ng loob—resentment, grief, hatred—when stored in the chest, can energetically spoil the sacred vessel of the breast. The nurturing space becomes a container of pain, and this emotional toxicity may feed the energy of cancer.

In Hilot Binabaylan, healing is holistic. It involves not only physical cleansing but also emotional release and spiritual restoration. Through rituals, prayers, and acts of humility, one can clear the breast of hatred and refill it with love.

Spiritual Insight:
“Kung ang dibdib ay sisidlan ng pag-ibig, huwag hayaang mapuno ito ng galit. Dahil ang galit ay lason sa gatas ng buhay.”

“If the chest is a vessel of love, do not let it be filled with anger. For anger is poison to the milk of life.”

Call to Action: Preventing Cancer Holistically

Release Emotional Burdens – Practice forgiveness, humility, and open-heartedness. Let go of sama ng loob.
Nurture Your Body – Eat nourishing food, exercise, and rest. Treat your body as a sacred home.
Connect Spiritually – Engage in rituals, meditation, and prayer to restore balance.
Seek Early Detection – Regular check-ups and self-examinations can save lives.
Educate and Empower Others – Share this wisdom with your community. Healing is collective.

Let us reclaim the breast as a vessel of love, not pain. Let us clean the rooms of our body and spirit, so that life may flow freely and abundantly.

Preventing Unnatural Death: A Hilot Binabaylan Perspective

In the sacred teachings of Hilot Binabaylan, we recognize two distinct types of death: Natural Death and Unnatural Death.

Natural Death occurs due to aging or illness. It is part of the life cycle and often comes with signs and spiritual preparation.
Unnatural Death, on the other hand, happens suddenly—through accidents, murder, warfare, or hate crimes. It disrupts the natural rhythm of life and the soul’s journey.

While natural death can be delayed or prevented through healing and spiritual alignment, the question arises:
Can we prevent unnatural death?

From the lens of Hilot Binabaylan, the answer is yes—but it requires conscious spiritual practice, community awareness, and elemental harmony.

1. Maintain Elemental Balance

The human body is composed of the elements—Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. Imbalance among these can lead to confusion, weakness, and vulnerability to accidents. Through Hilot healing, Bato Omo assessment, and rituals invoking Diwatang Kilubansa, we restore harmony and strengthen the body’s resilience.

2. Strengthen the Soul’s Shield

Spiritual protection is essential. Binabaylan practitioners use:

Blessed oils (lana) and herbal poultices (tapal)
Prayers and offerings to Anito and Diwata
Consecrated amulets or agimat that serve as spiritual guardians

These tools help shield the soul from harmful energies and sudden spiritual disconnection.

3. Avoid Spiritually Dangerous Places and Activities

Some locations are known to harbor malevolent spirits or chaotic energies. Binabaylan are trained to sense these places and perform ritual cleansing or protective markings. Awareness and respect for these spaces can prevent misfortune.

4. Strengthen Community Bonds

Unnatural death caused by violence or war often stems from social disconnection and unresolved anger. Hilot Binabaylan teachings promote peace, unity, and mutual respect. By fostering harmony within the community, we reduce the risk of conflict and harm.

5. Recognize and Prevent Hate Crimes

Sometimes, unnatural death arises from hate crimes—acts of violence driven by prejudice, discrimination, or intolerance. These are especially tragic because they target individuals based on identity, belief, or background.

Examples of Hate Crimes That May Lead to Death:

Racial or ethnic violence
Religious persecution
Gender-based violence
Attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals
Political or ideological assassinations
Cultural erasure and indigenous targeting

How Can We Prevent and Lessen Hate Crimes?

Education and Awareness: Teach respect for diversity and the sacredness of all life.
Community Dialogue: Create safe spaces for interfaith and intercultural conversations.
Spiritual Advocacy: Use rituals and teachings to promote compassion and understanding.
Protection of Vulnerable Groups: Offer spiritual and emotional support to those at risk.
Empowerment through Identity: Encourage people to embrace their heritage and spirituality without fear.

In Hilot Binabaylan, we believe that every soul carries divine essence. Hate crimes are not just physical attacks—they are spiritual wounds that affect the collective soul of humanity. Healing these wounds requires both ritual and action.

6. Listen to Nature and the Diwata

The Diwata often send warnings through dreams, visions, or intuitive feelings. Being attuned to these signs allows us to avoid danger before it manifests. Binabaylan are trained to interpret these messages and guide others accordingly.

7. Care for the Body and Mind

Physical weakness and mental confusion can lead to accidents. Hilot Binabaylan emphasizes proper nutrition, movement, and mental clarity. A strong body and focused mind are less likely to fall victim to sudden harm.

A Call to Ritual and Reflection

As spiritual healers and leaders, we are called not only to heal but to protect life. Perhaps it is time to create a Ritual of Protection Against Unnatural Death, invoking the blessings of Diwatang Balantay, Kilubansa, and other guardian spirits. This can be integrated into the ceremonies of Templong Anituhan and offered to the community as a sacred shield.

Would you like to collaborate on crafting this ritual and its invocation? Together, we can empower our people to walk safely and consciously in both the physical and spiritual realms.

Advocating for the Recognition of Hilot and Manghihilot

As we celebrate Philippine Traditional and Alternative Medicine Month, I invite you to reflect on a vital question: How well do Filipinos—both here and abroad—truly understand Hilot? For many of us, Hilot is a memory passed down from our lolo, lola, nanay, tatay, tito, and tita. It is a healing tradition rooted in our homes and communities. Yet today, Hilot is often mistaken for mere massage therapy offered in luxury spas, stripped of its deeper wisdom and purpose.

Let me ask: Do we still remember what “Pilay” is? Do we still recognize the Manghihilot as the community’s first line of defense in health care?

Sadly, our Traditional Healing Arts and Sciences are being commercialized and standardized in ways that leave ordinary Filipinos disconnected from their own healing heritage. Once, the Manghihilot was a trusted health care provider in the barangay. Now, even prescribing herbal remedies requires a medical license.

I have been monitoring the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) from 2020 to 2023, and I ask: Where is the support for Hilot? As of this year, only 27 Manghihilot practitioners are listed in PITAHC’s registry. Compare this to other modalities:

Certified Acupuncture Practitioners: 1,099
Certified Chiropractic Practitioners: 87
Certified Naturopath Practitioners: 249
Certified Hilot Practitioners: 27

This disparity is alarming. PITAHC’s mandate clearly states its goal to promote safe, effective, and culturally consistent health care modalities. But where is the Indigenous Traditional Medicine of the Filipino people in this promotion?

Our elder Manghihilot are aging. If we do not act now, their wisdom will be lost forever.

I respectfully call on PITAHC to:

Recognize Manghihilot in the barrios without charging registration fees.
Make Hilot Congress attendance free, especially for grassroots healers.
Allocate government funds toward Filipino traditional medicine—not just foreign modalities.
Extend PITAHC’s reach to regional, provincial, city, and municipal health centers to identify and support Manghihilot in every barangay.
Issue a memorandum circular to protect Hilot practices, just as one was issued to regulate Hilot Paanak.
Include accredited Hilot Healing Centers in PhilHealth coverage, just like birthing centers.

To all Manghihilot—whether certified by TESDA, PITAHC, or trained through ancestral lineage—you have the right to be recognized.

Join me on November 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a Free Online Webinar via Google Meet. Let us come together to reclaim our healing traditions and advocate for their rightful place in our national health care system.

Maraming salamat po, at nawa’y pagpalain tayo ng ating mga ninuno at ng mga Diwata ng Kagalingan!