The Philippines proudly joined over 190 countries in celebrating World Wellness Weekend (September 19–21, 2025), marking its very first inaugural celebration at Bacau Bay Resort Coron. The nationwide advocacy was supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines, and the Department of Health (DOH) under the leadership of Dr. Emmie Liza Perez-Chiong, DOH Undersecretary and Director Oversight of the Philippine Medical Health & Wellness Tourism Program, who delivered an inspiring keynote message in support of this nationwide celebration. Her words highlighted the importance of making wellness accessible to every Filipino and underscored the Philippines’ role in advancing global health and wellness tourism.
Spearheaded by World Wellness Weekend Co-Ambassadors Cybille Barcebal and Marla Ramos, the three-day event inspired Filipinos to pause, prioritize self-care, and join a worldwide call for well-being. Communities across the country were encouraged to block the weekend and take part in free wellness activities, while brands, companies, and local government units were called to action to make wellness more accessible not just during the celebration, but year-round.
The official opening ceremony at Bacau Bay Resort Coron highlighted the resort’s vision of becoming a premier international wellness destination. Ms. Cybille Barcebal, Corporate Wellness Manager at Araw Hospitality Group, shared:
“Bacau Bay Resorts is positioning itself not only as a premier local retreat but as an international wellness destination, where nature, culture, and holistic healing converge. With its serene setting in Coron, Palawan, the resort is elevating the wellness experience through the enhancement of dedicated wellness areas, the launch of innovative wellness treatments, and the curation of diverse wellness activities such as meditation, yoga, aqua fitness, sound bath healing, and herbal workshops. By blending world-class service with authentic Filipino warmth, Bacau Bay Resorts offers a sanctuary where guests can rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and nurture the spirit—making it a sought-after destination for global wellness travelers.”
Mr. Ed Franco, General Manager of Bacau Bay Coron, further emphasized the resort’s commitment to positioning Coron as a wellness hub in alignment with the Philippines’ tourism development goals.
The three-day celebration brought together over 70 locals, with meaningful wellness activities offered to the community—from physical exercises, free massages, and inspirational wellness talks led by Ms. Cybille Barcebal to a sound healing journey led by Ms. Marla Ramos—culminating in the final day dedicated to Bacau Bay’s very own staff, recognizing their vital role in bringing wellness to guests and locals alike.
Closing the celebration, Bacau Bay Coron shared a heartfelt message of gratitude:
“As we close this year’s World Wellness Weekend here at Bacau Bay Resorts Coron, I want to thank each of you—our guests, employees, and community—for making this celebration truly meaningful. Wellness is more than an event; it’s a way of life that connects people, nature, and culture. May we carry with us the balance, joy, and vitality we’ve shared this weekend. On behalf of Araw Hospitality Group and Bacau Bay Coron, thank you for being part of this global movement. We look forward to celebrating wellness with you again.”
This milestone marks just the beginning of the Philippines’ journey in the global wellness movement. The success of the 2025 celebration is a nationwide triumph, setting the stage for an even bigger World Wellness Weekend in 2026. Filipinos are encouraged to invite their favorite wellness providers, brands, and communities to join next year’s global celebration of health, balance, and vitality.
The event was made possible through the generous support of Bacau Bay Resort Coron and World Wellness Weekend, with support from Philippine Star, When In Manila, and Manila Standard. Adding to the spirit of collaboration, the celebration was proudly supported by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Health, with wellness partners including Joyful Wellness PH, Live Forever Summit, and Raya Clinic—all coming together to make this nationwide celebration a true success story.
