Parasites and Healing: A Filipino Holistic Approach

What Are Parasites?

Parasites are organisms that live in or on a host, feeding off it and often causing harm. They include intestinal worms, protozoa, and ectoparasites like lice. Infection occurs through contaminated food, water, insect bites, or poor hygiene.

Common Symptoms of Infection

– Abdominal pain or bloating
– Diarrhea or constipation
– Fatigue and weakness
– Skin rashes or itching
– Weight loss
– Persistent fever
– Sleep disturbances or irritability

Filipino Herbal Remedies

Traditional Filipino healing uses herbs to cleanse the body of parasites:

– Niyog-Niyogan (Quisqualis indica) – Chewed seeds expel intestinal worms.
– Bawang (Garlic) – Antiparasitic and immune-boosting.
– Bayabas (Guava) – Antiseptic; used as tea or wash.
– Sambong– Detoxifying; supports kidney and liver function.

These herbs are often used with Hilot rituals for holistic healing.

Prevention Tips

– Wash hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
– Drink clean, filtered or boiled water.
– Cook meat and fish thoroughly.
– Avoid walking barefoot in contaminated soil.
– Use insect repellent and protective clothing.
– Maintain clean living spaces and personal hygiene.
– Deworm pets and avoid close contact with infected animals.

Spiritual Parasites and Cleansing

In Templong Anituhan, spiritual parasites are negative energies or entities that attach to a person’s aura, feeding on fear, trauma, or unresolved emotions. They may cause fatigue, emotional instability, or spiritual disconnection.

Spiritual cleansing includes:

– Tuob (herbal steam baths)
– Pagpapahid ng Lana (anointing with sacred oils)
– Pag-aalay (offerings to Diwata and Anito)
– Invocation of Diwatang Kilubansa and Sayum-ay for healing and harmony

Healing the Whole Being

True healing in Hilot Binabaylan practice restores harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Whether physical or spiritual, parasites must be addressed through both natural remedies and spiritual rituals to achieve Ginhawa—complete well-being.

Suggested Spiritual Cleansing Rituals

1. Tuob Ritual (Herbal Steam Bath)

– Purpose: Opens pores, releases toxins, and clears stagnant energies.
– Herbs: Bayabas (guava), Sambong, and Tanglad (lemongrass).
– Method: Boil herbs in water, place in a basin, and cover yourself with a blanket to inhale the steam. Chant invocations to Diwatang Kilubansa for elemental balance.

2. Pagpapahid ng Lana (Anointing with Sacred Oil)

– Purpose: Seals the aura and protects against energetic intrusion.
– Oil Base: Coconut oil infused with garlic, basil, or rosemary.
– Method: Apply to forehead, chest, and navel while invoking Diwatang Sayum-ay for peace and harmony.

3. Pag-aalay at Panalangin (Offering and Prayer)

– Purpose: Appeases spirits and invites divine healing.
– Offerings: Rice, flowers, water, and lighted candles.
– Invocation: Call upon Anito and Diwata, especially Diwatang Meketefu for refinement and Diwatang Tuhan for spiritual strength.

4. Pagpapalayas (Spirit Release Ritual)

– Purpose: Expels spiritual parasites or attachments.
– Tools: Bayabas leaves, salt, and a consecrated staff or ritual dagger.
– Method: Circle the person while chanting release prayers, then sweep the body with leaves and salt to absorb negative energies.

5. Dambana ng Ginhawa (Shrine of Comfort Ritual)

– Purpose: Reconnects the soul to its divine source.
– Setup: Create a sacred space with elemental symbols—earth, water, fire, air.
– Practice : Meditate, chant, and offer gratitude to Umli and the Diwata realms for restoration.

🌺 The Sacred Flow of Emotions and Feelings: A Path to Holistic Wellness and Spiritual Harmony

In the journey of healing and spiritual awakening, understanding the nature of emotions and feelings is essential. These inner experiences are not just psychological—they are energetic, spiritual, and deeply connected to our soul’s health.

🌿 What Are Emotions and Feelings?

Emotions are instinctive, automatic responses to stimuli. They arise from the limbic system and include reactions like fear, joy, anger, and sadness.
Feelings are the conscious interpretation of emotions. They are processed in the thinking brain (neocortex) and include states like peace, resentment, or gratitude.

In Hilot Binabaylan practice, emotions are seen as energetic movements of the soul, while feelings are the reflections of the soul’s condition.

🔥 Can Pain Be an Emotion and a Feeling?

Yes. Pain exists in both realms:

As a feeling, it is the conscious awareness of discomfort—physical or emotional.
As an emotion, it is a complex response involving sorrow, grief, or trauma.

In spiritual healing, pain is a signal—a call to restore balance in the soul, body, and spirit.

⚡ Is It Normal to Have Mood Swings?

Mood swings are natural when they reflect life’s changes, hormonal shifts, or spiritual transitions. However, extreme or frequent swings may indicate:

Emotional imbalance
Soul fragmentation
Elemental disharmony

Hilot Binabaylan offers rituals and healing touch to ground emotions and restore inner harmony.

🎶 How Sensory Stimulations Affect Emotions

Food nourishes both body and soul, influencing mood and elemental balance.
Music opens portals to memory, emotion, and divine connection.
Visuals (art, nature, colors) evoke peace, awe, or healing.
Touch, smell, and movement activate emotional release and spiritual flow.

These are sacred tools in Binabaylan rituals, used to awaken the soul and invite the Diwata.

🌈 Emotions That Support Optimum Health and Spiritual Wellness

To live in holistic wellness, one must cultivate:

Joy – for vitality and soul expression
Peace – for grounding and clarity
Love and Compassion – for healing and connection
Gratitude – for humility and abundance
Hope and Faith – for resilience and divine trust

Even emotions like sadness or anger are sacred when processed with awareness and transformed through ritual and reflection.

🌀 Conclusion: Emotions as Sacred Messengers

Emotions and feelings are not weaknesses—they are sacred messengers of the soul. They guide us toward healing, connection, and spiritual growth. In the path of the Binabaylan, we do not suppress emotions—we honor them, listen to them, and transform them into light.

🙌 Call to Action

If you feel emotionally imbalanced, spiritually disconnected, or simply curious about your soul’s journey:

🌟 Join the Hilot Binabaylan Alignment Training Program
🕊️ Learn how to heal through touch, ritual, and soul wisdom
🌿 Reconnect with your seven souls and elemental energies
📍 Held every Sunday at Templong Anituhan ng Luntiang Aghama, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan

Let your emotions become your guide. Let your feelings become your prayers. Let your soul awaken to its sacred purpose.

Join our Hilot Binabaylan Alignment Program

Statement from Hilot Academy of Binabaylan

Hilot Academy of Binabaylan is an autonomous educational institution established under the spiritual authority of Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc., now known as Templong Anituhan Inc. As such, we uphold a distinct identity and purpose, separate from government-regulated bodies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC).

Our practice of Hilot Binabaylan is not merely clinical—it is ministerial and spiritual. We reclaim the sacredness of healing by restoring the spiritual dimension of healthcare, making our approach truly holistic. While Hilot has been commodified in spas, resorts, and cruise ships as part of the hospitality and tourism industry, we remain rooted in the ancestral wisdom that views Hilot as a sacred duty of service and compassion.

We recognize the belief that Hilot should be accessible to all. While we do not offer our services for free, we strive to make them affordable and equitable, honoring the tradition of community-based healing. Our standards are guided by the sacred ordination and teachings of Templong Anituhan, not by external institutions or organizations.

Recently, questions have been raised regarding our activities in Hawaii, particularly concerning the cost of a 9-day retreat priced at USD 5,000 (₱291,050). We clarify that this event was organized by a legally established business in Hawaii, and we were invited guests, not the organizers. The pricing was determined by the host organization, based on their expertise and local context. We respect their autonomy as much as we expect ours to be respected.

It is disheartening to be judged as “greedy” or “money-faced” by those who were not present during the founding of Luntiang Aghama, the establishment of Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, or the transition into Templong Anituhan Inc. Autonomy means we walk our own path—not dictated by others, even those who claim to be kapwa. True kapwa walks with you, not ahead of you to judge, nor behind you to criticize.

We affirm our right to receive abundance as a reflection of the value we bring. To assume otherwise is to deny the dignity of our work and the sacredness of our calling. We invite those with concerns to engage in dialogue, not in condemnation.

For clarity, the official websites we maintain are:

hilotacademy.com
landasnglahi.com
siadtala.com
anituhan.org
buymeacoffee.com/filipinomagick

Any other site using our name or image without consent does not represent us.

We remain steadfast in our mission. This is but a wave in our journey. We will not be colonized again—not by systems, not by opinions, and not by fear. We walk with the ancestors, guided by the Diwata, and rooted in the sacred land of our people.

Rev. Rolando Gomez Comon
Chief Priest, Templong Anituhan Inc.
Founder, Hilot Academy of Binabaylan

A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE ENROLLMENT PROCEDURE FOR THE MASTER’S IN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM ON HILOT BINABAYLAN PRACTICE AND INTRODUCING THE HILOT TANGLAW MENTORSHIP PROGRAM UNDER BAHAY SIADTALA BINABAYLAN INC.

BOARD RESOLUTION NO. 08-1, SERIES OF 2025

WHEREAS, the Hilot Binabaylan Training Program has been elevated to a Master’s in Ministry Degree Program on Hilot Binabaylan Practice, reflecting its comprehensive curriculum on Indigenous Filipino Health Care Practices;

WHEREAS, Bahay Siadtala Binabaylan Inc., a Ministerial Center of Templong Anituhan Inc., has assumed full jurisdiction over the said training program;

WHEREAS, the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan recognizes the need for continuing professional development and mentorship to sustain and elevate the practice of Hilot Binabaylan;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, that the Board of Bahay Siadtala Binabaylan Inc. adopts the following amendments and additions:

I. Master’s in Ministry Degree Program on Hilot Binabaylan Practice

Program Title and Jurisdiction
The training shall be officially known as the Master’s in Ministry Degree Program on Hilot Binabaylan Practice, administered by Bahay Siadtala Binabaylan Inc., located at No. 88 Pres. Quirino St., Brgy. South Signal Village, Zone 6, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
Eligibility for Enrollment
- Open to individuals of any nationality with the capacity for independent decision-making.
- Must possess basic healthcare knowledge, including Human Anatomy and Physiology and Vital Signs Taking.
Mode of Delivery
- Conducted in-person and face-to-face, requiring physical attendance.
Enrollment Fee and Inclusions
- Standard fee: USD 1,250.00 or local equivalent.
- Includes:
  - Hotel accommodation
  - Five meals per training day
  - Learning materials
  - Certificates of completion and ordination
Curriculum Requirements
Completion of the following modules is required:
- Hilot Diagnostics: Finger Alignment, Tudluan, Himulsuhan, Pasubay, Hilot Profiling
- Hilot Cleansing Rituals: Internal and External
- Hilot Repair Treatments
- Hilot Strengthening Methods
- Hilot Maintenance
Credentialing and Recognition
Graduates shall receive:
- Certificate of Completion
- Ordination Credentials
- Title designation of Lakan or Dayang, signifying membership in Templong Anituhan Inc.

II. Hilot Tanglaw Mentorship Program

Program Overview
The Hilot Tanglaw Program is a continuing professional development initiative of the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan, designed to elevate qualified Hilot Binabaylan Practitioners into Hilot Binabaylan Mentors.
Mentor Responsibilities
As Hilot Tanglaw, mentors shall:
- Provide Guidance and Advice
- Offer Support and Encouragement
- Facilitate Skill Development
- Assist in Goal Setting and Accountability
- Enable Networking and Opportunities
- Serve as Role Models of integrity and professionalism
Enrollment and Application
- Applicants must fill out a Mentorship Application Form, declaring:
  - Subjects they wish to mentor (may select all)
  - Number of students to be mentored
  - Scheduled training dates
Fee Structure and Remittance
- Each student pays USD 1,250.00 for a 9-day mentorship program
- Mentor receives USD 875.00 as stipend
- USD 375.00 (30%) is remitted to the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan
Validation and Graduation
- Upon completion, mentors shall schedule their protégés for online validation
- Validation fee: USD 100.00, paid to the Hilot Binabaylan Council
- The Council shall:
  - Conduct validation
  - Schedule graduation and ordination
  - Issue signed certificates and official seals

RESOLVED FURTHER, that this resolution shall take effect immediately and be disseminated to all concerned parties for implementation and compliance.

APPROVED this 16 day of August, 2025 at Bahay Siadtala Binabaylan Inc., Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Certified True and Correct:

Rev. Alvin L. Sentin D.D.Min. IFS IFM Co-Founder/Director on Local Community Affairs Relations/ Hilot Binabaylan Council

Rev. Rolando G. Comon D.D.Min. IFS IFM Co-Founder/ Program Director/ Hilot Binabaylan Council

Rev. Maria M. Haswell D.D.Min. IFS IFM Co-Founder/Director on International Affairs Relations/ Hilot Binabaylan Council

Hilot: A Sacred Path to Wellness in Filipino Culture

In the heart of Filipino ancestral wisdom lies a sacred tradition that continues to transform lives—Hilot. More than just a healing technique, Hilot is a spiritual calling, a way of life, and a commitment to serve others with compassion, integrity, and respect.

As the world seeks deeper, more holistic approaches to wellness, Hilot stands as a beacon of hope—reminding us that healing begins from within and is nurtured by the wisdom of our ancestors.

Why Hilot Matters Today

Modern healthcare often focuses on symptoms, but Hilot looks deeper. It recognizes that illness can stem from emotional, spiritual, and environmental imbalances. Through intuitive diagnostics like Tawas, sacred rituals, and personalized care, Hilot practitioners help individuals restore harmony in body, mind, and spirit.

But with this sacred power comes great responsibility. That’s why every Manghihilot must uphold the Hilot Code of Ethics and Healing Principles—a living covenant that guides our practice and protects those we serve.

🌿 The Hilot Code of Ethics: A Sacred Commitment

As a Manghihilot, you are not just a healer—you are a steward of life. The Code of Ethics ensures that your practice is rooted in:

Compassionate Care: Facilitating healing, not controlling it.
Respect for Individuality: Every soul is unique; every treatment is personalized.
Professional Integrity: Referring patients when conditions are beyond your scope.
Cultural Wisdom: Honoring ancestral knowledge while embracing modern insights.
Non-Discrimination: Serving all people regardless of background, identity, or status.

This code is not just a guideline—it is a spiritual vow to uphold the dignity and well-being of every person who seeks your help.

✨ Healing Principles That Guide the Manghihilot

Hilot is more than technique—it is philosophy. As a practitioner, you will learn to:

Recognize that healing begins within.
Understand that illness may be spiritual, emotional, or physical—and often all three.
Use cleansing rituals to remove the source of illness and replace it with positive energy.
Respect the natural environment as a vital part of healing.
Accept death as a transition, not an enemy, and help others live meaningfully.

These principles empower you to become a healer who not only treats symptoms but transforms lives.

🎓 Why You Should Enroll in Hilot Training

Whether you are a healthcare professional, spiritual seeker, or someone looking for a meaningful path, Hilot offers a journey of healing, purpose, and connection.

By enrolling in our Hilot training program, you will:

✅ Learn authentic Hilot techniques from certified practitioners
✅ Receive spiritual and cultural education rooted in Filipino traditions
✅ Be part of a movement to preserve and elevate Indigenous healing arts
✅ Earn credentials that recognize your role as a traditional healthcare provider
✅ Transform your life—and the lives of those you serve

🌕 Enrollment for 2026 class is Now Open!

Join the Hilot Academy of Binabaylan and become a certified Manghihilot.
Let your hands be instruments of healing. Let your heart be a vessel of compassion.
Let your spirit carry the wisdom of our ancestors into the future.

📩 Message us today to reserve your spot.
🌿 Limited slots available. Begin your journey now.

Understanding the Seasons and Health Risks During Habagat in the Philippines

The Philippines, a tropical archipelago, experiences only two distinct seasons—the Dry Season and the Wet Season—unlike countries above and below the equator that enjoy four.

Dry Season: November to May
Wet Season: June to October

These seasons are largely influenced by monsoon winds:

Amihan (Northeast Monsoon): Brings cooler air and less rainfall, typically from November to February.
Habagat (Southwest Monsoon): Brings warm, moist air and heavy rains, usually from June to October.

You might notice that March to May isn’t covered by either monsoon. This period is known as the Inter-Monsoon Period, which marks the Philippine summer. During this time, another wind system called the Easterlies—part of the global trade wind system—blows from the Pacific Ocean toward the eastern parts of the country, contributing to hot and humid weather.

🌧️ What Happens During the Habagat Season?

As of this writing, we are in the Habagat season, when typhoons are more frequent. The wind blows from the southwest to the northeast, carrying warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. This results in:

Heavy and frequent rainfall
Thunderstorms and typhoons
High humidity and cloudy skies
Flooding, landslides, and increasingly, storm surges

🩺 Common Health Risks During Habagat

The wet conditions during the Habagat season create an environment that fosters several illnesses. Here are the most common health risks:

🦟 1. Dengue Fever

Cause: Mosquito bites (Aedes aegypti)
Why it spreads: Stagnant water from floods becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes
Symptoms: High fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, bleeding

💧 2. Waterborne Diseases

Caused by contaminated water due to flooding and poor sanitation:

Cholera: Severe diarrhea and dehydration
Hepatitis A: Jaundice, fever, abdominal pain
Typhoid Fever: High fever, weakness, stomach pain
Prevention: Boil drinking water, maintain proper hygiene, and dispose of waste properly

🐀 3. Leptospirosis

Cause: Contact with floodwater contaminated by rat urine
Symptoms: Fever, muscle pain, vomiting; severe cases may lead to kidney or liver damage
Prevention: Avoid wading in floodwaters; wear protective boots if necessary

🤧 4. Influenza-like Illnesses

Cause: Viral infections spread in crowded, damp environments
Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, body aches
Prevention: Practice good hygiene, avoid crowded places, and maintain proper nutrition

Stay safe and informed during the Habagat season. Understanding the weather patterns and health risks can help you prepare and protect yourself and your family.

TOUCH THE WORLD WITH HILOT

When we start Hilot Academy of Binabaylan on 2016, I know from that time that our Hilot will be different from what the people know about it and even on how the Philippine Government promote it to the Public. I would say that our Hilot reflects the vision of my Teacher, Dr. Rueben M. Galang Jr., MD who is the founder of the School of Alternative Medicine at St. Francis Divine College in Novaliches, Queson City that he says:

The power of Health to the hands of the People and one manghihilot in every Filipino Home.

In the Philippines, we have approximately 116.79 million as our total population this 2025 and if the average household compose of 4 to 5 persons, then we will have approximately 28.5 million families. And aside from the Philippines Filipino can also be found in the United States of America, which according to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are approximately 4.45 Million Filipinos living in USA especially in:

California that has 1,705,090 Filipinos
Hawaii that has 369,479 Filipinos
Texas that has 231,992 Filipinos
Washington that has 194,965 Filipinos
Nevada that has 184,225 Filipinos
Florida that has 178,012 Filipinos
Illinois that has 174,442 Filipinos
New York that has 160,566 Filipinos
New Jersey that has 152, 507 Filipinos
Virginia that has 119,497 Filipinos

Though this map only shows the number of Filipino that can be found in the United States of America, this will also serve as our road map in reaching out to our Kababayan in remembering our Indigenous Healing Arts and Science. Mostly Filipinos in United States of America are immigrants and either 2nd to 3rd Generation Filipino American.

Next to the United States of America, there are also large Filipino Community that can be found in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia mostly Overseas Filipino Worker that works in Construction Firm, Health Care and House Hold Services. In general, there are 898,014 Filipinos in the entire kingdom that can be distributed on the following provinces:

Riyadh there are approximately 250,000-300,000 Filipinos
Jeddah there are approximately 150,000 – 200,000 Filipinos
Al Kobar and Dammam (Eastern Province) there are approximately 120,000- 150,000 Filipinos
Mecca and Medina there are approximately 50,000 – 70,000 Filipinos

Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia are increasingly diversified, with many now employed in private sector jobs, including healthcare, education, retail, and even small business ownership.

Next will be in Canada which many Filipinos have Migrated for permanent residency, work and Education. It is estimated that there are around 1 million Filipino migrated in Canada which is shown below:

Ontario: There are 363,655 Filipinos
British Columbia: There are 216,710 Filipinos
Alberta: There are 174,280 Filipinos
Manitoba: There are 94, 320 Filipinos
Saskatchewan: There are 43,760 Filipinos
Quebec: There are 44,880 Filipinos
Nova Scotia: There are 6,615 Filipinos
New Brunswick: There are 5,190 Filipinos
Newfoundland and Labrador: There are 2,265 Filipinos
Yukon: There are 1,945 Filipinos
Northwest Territories: There are 1,665 Filipinos
Prince Eduard Islands: There are 1,760 Filipinos
Nunavut: There are 310 Filipinos

Fourth in our list is the United Arab Emirates where there are significant numbers of Overseas Filipino Workers which approximately in 700,000 making up 6.8% of the country’s population.

In Dubai, there are already 450,000 Filipinos which roughly accounts to 21.3% of Dubai’s population. Filipinos here work in hospitality, healthcare, retail, construction, and other service industries.
Abu Dhabi: Estimated ~150,000 Many are employed in government services, oil and gas, and education.
Sharjah, Ajman, and other emirates: ~100,000 combined These areas host Filipinos working in manufacturing, logistics, and domestic services.

Next is in Japan, where Filipinos work in caregiving, entertainment and technical fields. There are many Filipino Japanese Families. Approximately there are 341,518 Filipinos Living in Japan.

As shown, the largest Filipino communities are in:

Tokyo (~72,000)
Aichi (~42,000)
Kanagawa (~39,000)
Osaka (~36,000)
Saitama (~31,000)

Nest to Japan is Australia which has a growing population of Filipino, especially in Sydney and Melbourne due to skilled migration and education. Approximately 361,860 Filipino-born people living in Australia, making them the fifth-largest migrant community in the country. This represents about 1.4% of Australia’s total population.

State/Territory	Filipino-born Population
New South Wales (NSW)	98,510
Victoria (VIC)	75,480
Queensland (QLD)	60,360
Western Australia (WA)	35,120
South Australia (SA)	18,740
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)	4,880
Northern Territory (NT)	2,800
Tasmania (TAS)	1,700

After Australia we are also in the United Kingdom on which Filipinos work in healthcare, especially as nurses and caregivers. As of 2025, there are approximately 165,000 to 200,000 Filipinos living in the United Kingdom

1. This includes both:

Philippines-born residents: Around 164,962 as of the 2021/22 census 1
Ethnic Filipinos (including those born in the UK or with Filipino ancestry): Estimated to be over 200,000

🇬🇧 Filipino Population by Region

Here’s a breakdown based on available data:

Region	Filipino Population
England	149,474
Scotland	6,245
Wales	5,542
Northern Ireland	3,701

🏙️ Areas with Significant Filipino Communities

London: Home to about 40% of the UK’s Filipino population
English Midlands
North West England
South East England

Filipinos in the UK are active in sectors such as healthcare (especially nursing), hospitality, education, and domestic services.

HONGKONG

As of January 2024, there are approximately 201,104 Filipinos living in Hong Kong, most of whom are employed as foreign domestic helpers (FDHs)

1. This makes Filipinos the largest ethnic minority in Hong Kong, comprising 55.6% of the total FDH population.

🇭🇰 Filipino Presence in Hong Kong

Primary Occupation: Domestic work, caregiving, hospitality, and retail
Community Hubs: Central (especially around Statue Square), Victoria Park, and areas in Kowloon and the New Territories
Support Services: Numerous Filipino churches, consular services, and community organizations are active in Hong Kong

SINGAPORE

As of 2025, there are an estimated over 220,000 Filipinos living in Singapore, based on growth trends from previous years

1. This includes:

Work permit holders (majority)
Permanent residents
Singapore citizens of Filipino origin (though not officially counted separately)

🇸🇬 Filipino Presence in Singapore

Occupations: Domestic work, healthcare, education, IT, finance, hospitality, and retail
Community hubs: Lucky Plaza (Orchard Road), East Coast, and areas near churches and consular services
Cultural footprint: Active Filipino churches, community groups, and events like Independence Day celebrations

SOUTH KOREA

As of 2025, there are approximately 70,000 Filipinos living in South Korea

1. This includes:

Permanent residents: Around 6,000
Undocumented individuals: Estimated 14,000–15,000
Temporary workers and students: The majority of the population

🇰🇷 Filipino Communities in South Korea

Filipinos are primarily concentrated in:

Seoul – Especially in areas like Hyehwa-dong and Dongsung-dong in Jongno-gu
Busan – A growing community of workers and students
Incheon, Daegu, and Daejeon – Smaller but active Filipino populations

Filipinos in South Korea are engaged in:

Manufacturing and industrial work
Healthcare and caregiving
Education and entertainment
Religious and community services

ITALY

As of 2025, there are approximately 165,000 Filipinos living in Italy, making them one of the largest non-EU foreign communities in the country

🇮🇹 Filipino Population by Region

According to the Italian Ministry of Labour and Social Policies:

Lombardy: ~34.8% of the Filipino population (~57,420 people)
Lazio: ~27.4% (~45,210 people), including Rome
Emilia-Romagna: ~8.6% (~14,190 people)
Other regions include Tuscany, Veneto, and Piedmont with smaller but active Filipino communities.

Filipinos in Italy are primarily employed in:

Domestic work and caregiving
Hospitality and services
Healthcare and education

SPAIN

As of 2025, there are approximately 200,000 Filipinos living in Spain

1. This includes:

Filipino citizens: Around 40,000 officially registered in municipal records
Filipino-born residents: Estimated 57,498
Spanish citizens of Filipino ancestry: Making up the rest of the estimated total

🇪🇸 Filipino Population by Region

Here’s a breakdown of Filipino citizens by region:

Region	Filipino Population
Community of Madrid	17,471 (43.39%)
Catalonia	12,239 (30.40%)
Andalusia	3,372 (8.37%)
Balearic Islands	2,357 (5.85%)
Canary Islands	1,782 (4.43%)
Valencian Community	1,011 (2.51%)

Filipinos in Spain are active in sectors such as domestic work, caregiving, hospitality, education, and healthcare, and many are long-term residents or descendants of earlier migrants due to historical ties between the Philippines and Spain.

Through these, we envision to reach out all Filipino in Diaspora and call them back to walk to the Path of our Race on which Hilot can be a doorway in reconnecting them back to their ancestral root by embracing our own heritage and culture.

Embracing Life and Death: A Manghihilot’s Perspective

In our Code of Ethics, we have mentioned that we are Healthcare providers whose goals consist of prevention of premature death and disability, maintenance or improvement of life, maximization of
personal growth and development, and preparation for a good death.

As a manghihilot, our role is not to promise a long life to our patients. Instead, we offer something deeper—we help them embrace life fully, with all its challenges and transitions. We guide them to find comfort, meaning, and joy in every moment, no matter how difficult.

We do not see death as an enemy to be fought. Rather, we recognize it as a gentle guide—one that reminds us to live with purpose, to cherish our relationships, and to find peace in the present. In our healing practice, death is not the end, but a companion that helps us appreciate the beauty of life.

“It has been taught to us as Manghihilot, our role in caring is from the time of conception to the moment of transition from this plane of existence to the next life.”

In our tradition as Manghihilot, healing is not just a profession—it is a sacred calling. We are taught that our responsibility begins at the very start of life, even before birth, and continues until the final breath. Our care spans the entire human journey, from conception to transition, from the womb to the world beyond.

More Than Healing the Body

Our work is not limited to treating physical ailments. We are called to listen deeply—to the body, the spirit, and the emotions. We understand that true healing involves the whole person, and that pain can come not only from the body, but also from the heart and mind.

Honoring Life and Death

As Manghihilot, we do not fear death. We do not see it as something to fight or avoid. Instead, we recognize it as a natural part of life’s sacred cycle. We walk with our patients through every stage of life, including the final one, offering comfort, peace, and dignity.

A Tradition That Evolves

Our practice is rooted in the wisdom of our ancestors, but it is not stuck in the past. We continue to learn, grow, and adapt—bringing Hilot into the modern world while staying true to its spiritual essence. We believe that healing is a lifelong journey, and our presence is a gift of love and service from beginning to end.

Recently, a graduate of the Hilot Academy asked me whether we have any documented cases involving palliative care or end-of-life care within the practice of Hilot. Regretfully, I had to respond that we do not. The graduate pointed out that other traditional healing modalities have such documentation, while Hilot appears to lack it.

This absence is not due to a lack of experience or wisdom among Manghihilot, but rather a reflection of how our tradition has been preserved. Most Manghihilot have not been formally educated in colleges or universities. Their knowledge is deeply rooted in oral tradition and lived experience. They act rather than write. Their learning is carried in the mind and heart, passed down through narration and demonstration, not through modules or modern training materials.

This way of transmission is sacred and powerful, but it also means that much of our healing work remains undocumented. As we move forward, perhaps it is time to begin bridging the gap—honoring our oral traditions while also finding ways to preserve them in written form, so that future generations may continue to learn, grow, and share the wisdom of Hilot.

**“In the sacred silence between life and death, the Manghihilot does not surrender—he pleads, he prays, and he offers his soul in service, asking for one more chance to heal.”**

For the sake of documentation, I want to share a personal experience on how I, as a Manghihilot, have cared for a dying patient.

First and foremost, it is never our intention for a patient to die under our care. If that were the case, why would we devote time, energy, and spirit to preserving life? Our role is rooted in the belief that life is sacred and worth fighting for—even in its most fragile moments.

When a patient is facing a serious illness, it may seem that death is near. But as Manghihilot, we do not simply accept this. Instead, we plead with death—asking it to grant the patient another chance to live. It is a spiritual negotiation, a bargaining of life with death.

And if death allows the patient to stay, a promise must be made and fulfilled. This promise is not just a ritual—it is a sacred commitment to honor the life that was spared. In this way, our healing practice becomes not only physical but deeply spiritual, rooted in reverence for both life and the mystery of death.

**“In the quiet moments before farewell, the Manghihilot becomes not just a healer—but a guide, preparing the soul for its sacred journey home.”**

I remember my 80-year-old neighbor, Tata Piyo, who was undergoing dialysis for a kidney condition. His daughter, Ate Belen, came to me one day and asked for help in caring for her father. Despite his age and fragile condition, we chose to fight for life. As a Manghihilot, I did everything I could to ease his suffering—applying hilot pahid to relieve his pain, performing suob and paligo, and even designing a special diet to support his condition.

One day, Tata Piyo was in great pain. Ate Belen rushed to my house, asking me to attend to him. When I entered his bedroom, he looked at me and said in Tagalog, “Ihatid mo na ako.” I responded in a light-hearted way, “Where do you want me to send you? Don’t worry, when you regain your strength, we’ll go to Jollibee.” He laughed, gathering all his remaining strength, and replied, “Hindi, ihatid mo na ako sa ating Ama sa langit.”

I wasn’t prepared for those words. But I kept my composure and gently asked Ate Belen to call the rest of the family. I told them that Tata Piyo was asking to rest, and that the decision must come from them—not from me.

Together, we discussed whether to continue fighting for his life or to let him go peacefully. The family, acknowledging his age, his weakened body, and their readiness to accept his passing, decided to let him go. They remained composed, not wanting Tata Piyo to see them cry.

Everyone began preparing his clothes—underwear, socks, pants, t-shirt, and barong. I clipped his fingernails and toenails and gave him his last bed bath, ensuring he was clean and dignified for his journey.

At exactly 6:00 PM, Tata Piyo took his final breath.

This experience reminded me that as Manghihilot, our care extends beyond healing—it reaches into the sacred space between life and death. We do not just treat the body; we honor the soul. And in moments like these, we become witnesses to the most profound transitions of life.

Working with Hilot out of Love

Last May 18, 2025- we have shared to our Hilot Binabaylan Alignment Trainee the Hilot Treatment which everyone knows as Bentusa Fire Cupping. Everyone had the opportunity to place bentusa cup on their own skin by sharing different methods on how to apply it. What I emphasize how to make vacuum using fire.

Coin and Paper Method

In this procedure, the manghihilot prepare an old coin and tissue paper. Then wrap the tissue paper along the old coin. The coin will serve as a stand and place it on the area you are to place the bentusa cup. then burn the paper and as it burn carefully place the bentusa cup in order to create vacuum to suck the skin.

2. Cotton and Ginger Method

In this procedure, you will need to slice a ginger which is wide enough to fit the mouth of our bentusa cup. Then soak a piece of cotton to 70% ethyl alcohol (which I prefer to recommend rather than Isopropyl alcohol). Then place the ginger slice on the area where you are going to place the bentusa cup and the soaked cotton. After that light it on fire and gently place the bentusa cup on the area to be treated.

DISADVANTAGE OF PAPER AND GINGER METHOD

Aside from safety concerns, the burnt paper or cotton placed over the area will produce smoke. That will be trapped inside the bentusa cup when it already created a vacuum or reverse pressure. It is said that burning tissue paper releases several chemicals including carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide which both contribute to air pollution. additionally, burning paper can produce dioxins, which are highly toxic and can have harmful effects on human health and the environment.

While burning soaked cotton on 70% Ethyl Alcohol have a health hazards such as:

Respiratory Issues – Inhaling the fumes can cause irritation to the lungs, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Prolonged exposure may contribute to respiratory damage.
Skin and Eye Irritation – Ethyl alcohol and its combustion byproducts can cause skin irritation or eye discomfort, especially if direct contact occurs.
Toxic Exposure – Incomplete combustion can release carbon monoxide (CO), which is highly toxic and can lead to headaches, nausea, or even unconsciousness in high concentrations.
Carcinogenic Risk – Burning organic materials may produce aldehydes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which have been linked to long-term health risks
Neurological Effects – Exposure to high concentrations of ethanol vapors can cause dizziness, confusion, or impaired coordination

Health Hazards of Burning Tissue Paper.

Burning tissue paper can pose several health hazards, including:

Respiratory Issues – The smoke contains fine particles and harmful gases that can irritate the lungs, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and asthma.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – Incomplete combustion releases carbon monoxide (CO), which can cause dizziness, headaches, and even unconsciousness in high concentrations.
Toxic Chemical Exposure – Burning paper can release dioxins, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may contribute to long-term health risks.
Skin and Eye Irritation – The smoke and ash can cause eye discomfort and skin irritation, especially in enclosed spaces.
Carcinogenic Risk – Some chemicals released during burning, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), have been linked to cancer.

There are other methods which Manghihilot employ in order to place the Bentusa Cups over the body but the one that Hilot Academy recommend is the Torch Method. In this method you will need a forceps, cotton, 70 % Ethyl Alcohol, Kidney Basin, Lighter or lighted candle. Before you place the bentusa cup over the body, be sure to lubricate it with Lana healing oil. Then soak the cotton with 70 % Ethyl Alcohol clipped with a forceps then put it in fire then place it inside the bentusa cup which is positioned near the area to be treated and manually place the cup over the area to be treated.

Since the torch method also involve burning of cotton which has biochemical health hazards, let us explore other form of bentusa cupping.

Though using Plastic Bentusa cups does not burning paper or cotton, it still has health hazard because of the plastic meterials being used. So, here are its health hazards:

Chemical Leaching – Some plastics contain Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which can leach into the skin when exposed to heat, potentially disrupting hormones.
Microplastic Exposure – Over time, plastic cups may release microplastics, which can be absorbed by the body and may contribute to inflammation and toxicity.
Skin Irritation – Certain plastics may cause skin reactions, especially if they contain chemical additives that interact with heat or oils.
Reduced Effectiveness – Plastic cups may not create a strong vacuum compared to glass or silicone, leading to less effective therapy.
Environmental Impact – Disposable plastic cups contribute to plastic waste, which can harm ecosystems and increase exposure to pollutants.

So, if all of these have health hazards, what other material we can recommend using?

But before we go further, bentusa has primary purpose of stimulating blood flow, relieving muscle tension and promote healing. Other health benefits of having bentusa are the following:

Muscle Pain Relief – Helps alleviate chronic muscle pain, stiffness, and tension.
Improved Blood Circulation – Enhances oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles, speeding up recovery.
Detoxification – Draws toxins to the skin’s surface, aiding in their removal through the lymphatic system.
Relaxation & Stress Relief – The gentle suction and warmth reduce stress and promote relaxation.
espiratory Benefits – Can help with asthma, colds, and respiratory infections by loosening tight muscles around the chest.
Skin Health – May improve skin conditions like acne and eczema by increasing circulation.
Headache & Migraine Relief – Helps relieve tension headaches and migraines.
Holistic Healing – Addresses emotional and energetic imbalances, promoting overall well-being

Thats how powerful bentusa can be specially paired with Hilot Pahid or Massage.

In the video above, we have seen that the material being used for cupping is Carabao horn. This kind of cupping treatment is known as Tandok,though it seems similar to Bentusa, it has different purpose which is to remove venom, rabies and tetanus from wound using animal horn, such as those from deer, goat or carabao.

It is said that Tandok has the following health benefits for the receiver of the treatment:

Detoxification – Practitioners believe it helps remove toxins from the body.
Pain Relief – Some claim it alleviates muscle pain, arthritis, and joint stiffness.
Improved Circulation – The suction effect may stimulate blood flow Removing blood may stimulate the production of new red blood cells, potentially improving circulation
Traditional Healing – Used in rural areas where modern medicine is less accessible.
Iron Regulation – Bloodletting can help reduce excess iron levels in the blood, which may be beneficial for individuals with hemochromatosis.
Lower Blood Pressure – Some studies suggest that donating blood regularly may help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Detoxification – Traditional practitioners believe bloodletting helps remove toxins from the body.
Migraine Relief – Some historical accounts suggest bloodletting was used to alleviate headaches and migraines.

TAWAK

We could say that Tawak is the mother of all these treatment method that requires suction. This treatment involve direct suction by the mouth of a traditional medicine practitioner known as mananawak, to remove venoms, toxins or infections from wounds caused by animal bites. But these technique or treatment method also has been used by poor people who has no money to send their children to proper medical care facility to remove mucus from their infant child by directly sucking the mucus that obstruct the passage of air to provide relief.

Uses and Beliefs

Practitioners believe Tawak can help extract poison from snake bites, rabies from dog bites, and toxins from wounds.
It is often used as an alternative to modern medical treatments, especially in areas where access to hospitals and vaccines is limited.
Some communities still rely on Tawak due to cultural beliefs and the high cost of medical care

Concerns and Risks

Medical experts warn that Tawak is not scientifically proven to cure rabies or venomous bites.
Direct suction can expose both the healer and the patient to infections and diseases.
Delaying proper medical treatment can lead to serious health risks, including untreated rabies, which is fatal

HILOT BINABAYLAN ALIGNMENT TRAINING PROGRAM FOR HILOT WELLNESS NC2

Are you a Hilot Wellness Nationally Certified? Would you like to level up your Career and ranked up to the Level of our International Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner and serve your community in Autonomy? Well, this is your chance to align your practice by enrolling to our alignment Training program on becoming a Hilot Binabaylan practitioner.

Join us every Sunday starting on March 23, 2025 from 1:00 PM t0 6:00 PM for our weekly learning session on becoming a Hilot Binabaylan. Our goal in this Training program is to level up the practice of Nationally Certified Hilot Wellness Massage provider into the International Standard of Hilot Binabaylan Practitioner in providing Philippine Indigenous Traditional Health Care to become Autonomous & Self Reliant Indigenous Traditional Filipino Healer by equipping them with the Skills, Knowledge and ability on the following competencies:

Fundamentals of Hilot Practice
Hilot Diagnostic Procedures
Hilot Treatment Methodologies
Family Care Hilot Treatments ( Hilot for Special Needs)
Hilot Healing Center Management & Administration.

There will be 13 weekly learning session that will only cost you Php 500.00/session. It is almost the same price of availing a Massage Treatment on a Day Spa and much cheaper when you avail a luxurious spa treatment. The advantage of taking these lesson that we provide is that you will acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, abilities and attitude on providing Philippine Indigenous & Traditional Health Care which is now in demand in the Global Market.

Since Hilot Academy of Binabaylan is an Educational Ministry of Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc., we are proud to say that we are an Affiliate Member of Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines Inc. as a Training Provider.

Our Training Session will happen at Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc. ground which is now known as Templong Anituhan at Lot 79 Phase A, Brgy. Francisco Homes Narra, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan or you may email us at hilotacademy@luntiangaghama.org for inquiries and question.

Enroll Now!