Building on Bohol’s global recognition as the country’s first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh), led by Gov. Aris Aumentado, continues to advance tourism initiatives that promote sustainability, holistic well-being, and inclusive growth, reinforcing the province’s position as a destination that nurtures both people and place.
This commitment was underscored as the PGBh joined the soft launching of the Health and Wellness Tourism Association, Inc.’s (HWTA) “Nurturing Bohol: A Hub for Global Wellness and Sustainable Tourism” on January 6, 2026, at the Bellevue Resort.
During the activity, HWTA-Bohol Vice President Johnny II Ferniz highlighted the association’s vision of transforming Bohol into a healing destination—one that offers visitors experiences capable of positively influencing lifestyles, well-being, and personal growth beyond leisure travel.
The HWTA program centers on developing Bohol as a wellness hub by integrating health, nature, culture, and community-based tourism. It promotes partnerships among government agencies, private stakeholders, and local communities to support wellness services such as mindfulness retreats, nature immersion, preventive health programs, and sustainable hospitality practices, while ensuring environmental stewardship and inclusive local development.
For her part, Officer-in-Charge of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office (BPTO) Joanne Pinat emphasized the timeliness of positioning Bohol as a wellness hub, noting the growing global demand for health and well-being tourism. She cited the Philippines’ hosting of an international health and wellness conference in 2024, followed by Bohol’s rise in 2025 as a trending destination and an emerging Asian hub for wellness and well-being tourism.
Adding an international perspective, Her Excellency Ambassador Anna Ferry of Sweden to the Philippines expressed optimism about the initiative, noting that establishing a wellness hub in Bohol has strong potential to attract visitors who prefer longer stays, deeper engagement with local communities, and meaningful contributions to the local economy.
The event also highlighted Bohol’s rich natural assets, tranquil landscapes, and community-oriented culture as strengths that complement its UNESCO Global Geopark status and align with global standards for wellness tourism.
Also in attendance were Board Member Lucille Lagunay, Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (BEDIPO) Head Ma. Fe Dominise, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Bohol Head Vierna Ligan, and other private sector stakeholders.
The soft launching marked a collaborative step toward aligning public and private efforts in shaping a tourism model that balances economic growth with health, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
The activity aligns with the Capitol’s Strategic Governance Roadmap, particularly under the focus area of Sustainable Tourism, which promotes responsible, resilient, and value-driven tourism that benefits both visitors and Boholano communities. (PIMO/JFP)
