Iloilo City Inaugurates Landmark Health and Wellness Fair to Promote Tourism
Iloilo City has officially launched its first-ever Health and Wellness Fair, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to position itself as a premier destination for health and wellness tourism. The event commenced on March 26, 2026, at the SM City Iloilo Activity Center and will run through March 28, 2026, offering a comprehensive three-day experience for attendees.
Mayor Treñas Champions Wellness Tourism Initiative
Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized the fair's role in the city's broader "RISE & Feel Great Iloilo: Health and Wellness Tourism Campaign," which was launched last year. "Through this initiative, we aim to establish Iloilo City as a growing hub where visitors can not only explore our attractions but also prioritize their health, recharge, and achieve optimal well-being," she stated. The campaign underscores the city's commitment to integrating wellness into its tourism offerings.
Grand Opening Ceremony with Key Dignitaries
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a collaborative effort led by Mayor Treñas, the Iloilo City Health and Wellness Tourism Council, and its Technical Working Group. Distinguished guests in attendance included:
- PCCI Regional Governor Engr. Fulbert Woo
- Department of Health Western Visayas Director Helen Tobias
- Department of Tourism Western Visayas Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez
- PCCI Iloilo External Affairs Vice President Jose Francisco Gerona
- JCI Iloilo President Rogie Joan Villasis
This gathering of leaders highlights the multi-sectoral support for the city's wellness tourism vision.
Extensive Exhibitor Participation Showcases Diverse Services
The fair features an impressive array of booths from leading health providers and fitness organizations, demonstrating the city's robust wellness infrastructure. Participants include:
- Iloilo City Health Office
- Borough Lasik Center
- Iloilo Spa Association
- Movement Space
- Iloilo City Sports and Development Office
- Mental Health Organization
- Iloilo Medical Society
- The Medical City
- Healthway Qualimed
- Medicus Medical Center
- Galenx
- Skinetics
- MORE Power
- Anytime Fitness & Decathlon
These exhibitors offer a wide spectrum of health, wellness, and lifestyle services, from medical consultations to fitness programs and spa treatments.
Educational Seminars and Panel Discussions Enrich Day One
The first day of the fair included a seminar on the "Wellness Hub in Iloilo City and Province," presented by City Councilor Miguel Treñas and Philippine Councilors League Province of Iloilo President Jo Jan Paul Peñol. This was followed by a panel discussion on wellness lifestyles, moderated by Dr. Candice Tupas, executive assistant for Health and Wellness. Panelists featured:
- Dr. Kristy Garganera, Cardiologist at The Medical City Iloilo
- Lucy Lynette Uycongco from LPU Kids Ibike and IPaddle
- Marie Joy Alonte, General Manager of Belmont Hotel Iloilo
- Dr. Malbar Ferrer from the Hyperbaric Oxygen Team
These sessions provided valuable insights into integrating wellness into daily life and the city's strategic plans for health tourism.
The fair is expected to attract thousands of visitors, further solidifying Iloilo City's reputation as an emerging destination for those seeking health and wellness experiences. With its focus on holistic well-being, this event sets a new standard for community health initiatives in the region.
