THE Hilot Pavilion allows one to enjoy the pleasures of a traditional treatment amid the sound of flowing water.

NESTLED in a five-hectare property on Mactan Island, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort is one that is heavily steeped in Filipino tradition. The seven dolphins that serve as its symbols hark back to ancient folklore, none other than the meeting of Maktan chieftain Lapu-Lapu and his most trusted aides, the dolphins.

Yet when one tires from the resort’s numerous activities offered, such as water sports like jet skiing, wakeboarding and so on, those keen to take a breather will enjoy the tempting selection of spa treatments available at the resort’s newly-opened Amuma Spa wing. Its name is derived from a Visayan/Cebuano term, which means “to pamper” or “to indulge with every attention.”

While most spas found in the country offer traditional European therapies and modalities originating elsewhere in the region, Maribago’s Amuma spa opts to emphasize an authentic Filipino therapeutic experience. Of these techniques, perhaps none is as exotic and surprisingly pleasurable as the hilot, one of the country’s modalities of traditional healing.

Local folklore surrounding its origins lend to its mystique because only a few can actually claim ownership of this inherent skill. Originally used to heal specific areas of the body that needed it, hilot concentrates on specific body parts that require the therapeutic touch of the manghihilot. It is widely believed that the art survives today through a manghihilot, passing his or her skill and knowledge to an apprentice. Deeply embedded in traditional healing, it eventually evolved into therapeutic maneuvers that embody both an ancient art and modern science.

“It’s very Filipino,” says Julie Alegrado-Vergara, owner and general manager for Almont Hotels which runs Maribago Resort. “In every province that you go to, there is a manghihilot.”

At Amuma, the hilot techniques and maneuvers are reinvented to create a unique path to relaxation as the spa’s signature treatment. Though the entire process has been modified to indulge guests in a unique and luxurious spa experience, Amuma’s hilot still stays true to the healing art’s roots. It employs the use of indigenous materials like banana leaves, coconut oil, herbal leaves, herbal tea, tree barks and plant roots. The banana leaves are used as hot compress to relieve aches and pains, and soften frozen muscles and regulate body temperature. The oil and herbs are incorporated to supplement the treatment. These materials are coupled with the comforting and instinctive method of touch designed to provide psychological and physical benefits.

Amuma’s design exudes a natural and earthy feel. Commissioned to define the architectural experience for the spa, noted designer Benjie Reyes evidently put his knowledge of fine furniture design into play in creating it. The extensive use of wood, natural stones, tropical fauna and flowing water features provides the calming feel inherent of luxe spas. Mike Cacnio’s sculpture, depicting a tree of life, sets the mood for a synergy of elements and body. Just outside the spa is the Amuma Café, which features a tasty menu of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, other cool refreshing drinks and a healthy cuisine that is light and low on salt and fat.

Not far from it is the Hilot Pavilion, where the treatments can also be availed. It is accentuated with large natural stones right beside the clear calm of the lagoon-style swimming pool.

Enriching the spa experience are a number of activities such as a lesson in tai chi, or a class in meditation or yoga. Also available is an exciting lesson in arnis. Though devoid of its combative aspect, the martial art form aids in coordinating the body and keeping it in harmony.

The entire process is revamped by lifting the finest hilot maneuvers practiced in 42,000 villages across the country through their spa consultant, Massage for Life, led by Katherine Moynihan-Rodrigo.

The spa offers a wide range of massage treatments and, while in the spa wing, allows guests to immerse themselves in a truly relaxing atmosphere. While it may be just a small part of Maribago has to offer, the Amuma Spa is as visual as it is a physical experience for guests.

For more information: www.bluwater.com.ph.

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